Introduction
In today’s hybrid workplace, where meeting rooms, huddle spaces & even digital cafeterias facilitate seamless communication, choosing the appropriate microphone configuration can make or break the audio quality in your meeting space. With so many possibilities, should you choose beamforming mics or continue with standard ones?
This blog will explain the essential distinctions, benefits and ideal use cases for both beamforming and traditional microphones, allowing you to make the best choice for your meeting rooms.
What Are Beamforming Microphones & How Do They Work?
Beamforming microphones use numerous microphone parts to capture sound from a precise direction while reducing background noise. These smart microphones employ digital signal processing (DSP) to improve voice quality & eliminate unwanted noise. Video conferencing systems benefit greatly from beamforming microphones by ensuring clear communication & enhanced audio quality.
Advantages of Beamforming Microphones –
- Superior Noise Reduction – Reduces background noise & echoes for clearer audio.
- Automatic Speaker Tracking focuses on active speakers without requiring manual modifications.
- Wider coverage – Recorded numerous voices in a conference room environment.
- Minimal Setup – Requires fewer physical microphones, making installation simpler.
Traditional Microphones: Types & Use Cases
Traditional microphones exist in a variety of styles, each suited for a specific purpose in meeting rooms. These microphones pick up sound from fixed places & may require further processing to eliminate background noise. Many AV solutions incorporate traditional microphones with additional processing to enhance audio clarity.
Common Types of Traditional Microphones –
- Boundary microphones are placed on tables to capture group discussions.
- Goose neck microphones work best on podiums or in fixed speaking positions.
- Handheld microphones are ideal for presenters & dynamic speakers.
- Individual speakers use lavalier microphones, which are clipped to their clothing.
Traditional microphones provide flexibility, but they may necessitate extra noise reduction techniques.
Comparison between Beamforming & Traditional Microphones
- Sound Quality & Noise Reduction
- Beamforming microphones provide superior noise suppression & are perfect for big meeting spaces with several presenters.
- Traditional microphones are effective, but they may require extra DSP solutions for background noise reduction.
- Installation & Maintenance
- Beamforming microphones require minimum wiring, which reduces installation complexity.
- Traditional microphones: Multiple units & sophisticated wiring may be required, increasing setup time.
- Cost considerations.
- Beamforming microphones: Higher initial expense, but less need for additional equipment.
- Traditional microphones are initially less expensive, however they may require extra DSPs & mixers.
What Microphone Type Is Best for Your Meeting Room?
The ideal decision depends on your meeting room’s size, use & budget:
- For large conference rooms with several presenters, use beamforming microphones for optimal coverage & automatic tracking.
- For small conference rooms or single speakers, traditional microphones are a cost-effective option.
- For rooms with strong background noise, consider beamforming microphones to improve clarity.
- For budget-conscious installations, consider using traditional microphones with external DSP solutions within an AV system to optimize performance.
Conclusion
Both beamforming and traditional microphones have their uses in conference room arrangements.
If you need high-quality audio with minimum setup, beamforming microphones are a great option. Traditional microphones, on the other hand, continue to be a reliable solution for smaller spaces or low-budget projects. AV consultants can help you choose the best audio solution tailored to meet your specific needs.
Need assistance designing the ideal Audio system for your meeting room? Contact us today to learn more.
