The best sound is close to the source
Headworn microphones, whether on one ear – earset – or two ears – headset, are popular because of their ease of use, amazing sound and flexibility. Once placed on the performer, the headset microphone sits securely and unobtrusively close to the sound source and allows the user to move freely about without having to hold a microphone in the hand or have a lavalier mic clipped on the shirt.Headset mics remove the disadvantage of changing color of the sound as the head moves around.
... we had to contend with wind and rain noise, as well as large audiences who inevitably created background noise. However, the DPA 6066 Headsets were brilliant and delivered exceptional audio quality, despite their tiny size. We had plenty of level to play with and it was very easy to reproduce a natural sounding voice with these mics because they’re so controlled throughout the frequency range.”
– Toby Chevis, Director of UK live events company Patch Productions
Ear- and headset microphones are commonly seen used in theaters, houses of worship, at conferences, on TV broadcasts and many other events.Things to consider when choosing a headset or earset are:
Loud setting vs. quiet space
Cardioid mics are best in settings where a lot is happening, for example on some theater stages. A cardioid microphone adds isolation to the sound source and is great at avoiding feedback on a loudspeaker-amplified set. On the other hand, cardioids are more sensitive to pop-noise (the P-sounds for example produce high plosive noise) and handling noise. In a quieter setting, or when only one person is performing, perhaps an omnidirectional microphone is preferred.
Stability vs ease and quickness
The choice of a single- or dual-ear mount headmics allows the talent to select the best version for their specific type of performance. Earset variants are the quickest to put on and often the best choice when miking needs to be easy. The dual-ear variant is ideal for more active situations, when secure mounting is required, as it sits snugly on the neck and is virtually invisible. Like its single-ear counterpart, it is unobtrusive and so comfortable that users forget they are wearing it. There are even in-ear headset microphones that merge the mic solution with convenient in-ear communication. Earset models tend to be more comfortable and are quicker to put on and take off.
Small or really small
DPA's 5 mm capsule styles are small and inconspicuous, our flat capsules are slightly smaller and harder to see and our newest 3 mm capsules are the smallest of all – barely visible in many applications.
In addition, the color that best compliments the performers’ skin tone and the correct boom length to ensure proper headworn mic placement at the corner of the smile, are important to consider. Finally, if you need to use in-ear monitors, for broadcast or on stage, there is a range of versions available as well.
Small and elegant headset mic design
DPA Microphones offers a wide range of earset and headset microphones that can be used in a wide range of settings. Make sure to choose the perfect headworn microphone for your needs.
DPA's Headset Microphones are ideal for public speakers, broadcast professionals, actors, singers and musicians who place more importance on superior voice reproduction, comfort and easy setup, than concealment. These headset microphones come in a range of variants that can meet your special needs. Common to all of them is their superior sound quality, flexibility and durability.
Features of DPA earset and headset microphones
- Open and natural sound
- Unequalled flexibility and stability
- A durable package
- Flexible adapter system
A durable package
DPA headset and earset mics are designed to withstand the toughest of conditions. Our unique Double Vent Protection System allows for a great resistance to humidity and sweat. With a gold-treated diaphragm and microphone housing plus a Kevlar-core cable, our headset microphones are made to endure.
“Durability and ease of use were key factors in our choice of DPA [4288]. These microphones will be used for up to five hours every night, across the entire six month summer season, so they need to be tough and robust to withstand that kind of use."
– Matt Spence, head of AV for tedgroup
A solution that fits any need
DPA earset and headset microphones allow you to meet a wide range of users' needs. You can choose different boom lengths to match the needs of the specific talent. Short booms are often best for louder speakers or situations where the mic needs to be less obtrusive. The flexible headset mounts, available on many variants, will fit any head and ear size. Just by rotating the boom and the adjustable ear-hook, the headworn microphone can be moved from left to right ear, or into the optimum position. DPA headset and earset mics also feature detachable cables for easy replacement.
Flexible adapter system
The adapters for wireless systems give you flexible, simple and affordable possibilities. DPA earset and headset microphones work with all leading wireless mic solutions, such as Lectrosonics, Sennheiser, Shure, Sony, Wisycom, Zaxcom and many more. Our ingenious adapter system is one of a kind in the industry. It protects your investment in fantastic sound for years to come.
See all the wireless systems and brands our adapters are compatible with.
Almost endless possibilities
A huge selection of accessories are available for our headset mics. The variety of accessories available for our headset microphones ensures that you can put together the absolutely perfect headset to meet your specific needs. Choose between different styles, colors, boom lengths, earhooks, headset mounts and more.
Omni headsets
Directional headsets
Other solutions
Learn more
Our omnidirectional headset microphones
6066 Headset Subminiature Mic
A 3 mm (0.12 in) capsule mounted on our most unique and flexible headset. This solution combines the need for exceptional audio with a secure, comfortable all-day professional headset solution. This is an ideal solution for theatre, broadcast and conference / event use.
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4466 Omnidirectional Headset Mic
The 4466 CORE Omnidirectional Headset Microphone combines DPA’s renowned 5 mm capsules with CORE by DPA technology and the Red Dot award-winning headset.This omni mic offers clean and transparent sound quality with lots of headroom.
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4066 Omni Headset Mic
This mic offers clean and transparent sound quality with lots of headroom. For years, this has been the chosen headset mic for broadcasters as well as theaters on Broadway and London's West End.
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4166 and 4266 Omni Flex Headsets and Earsets
The 4166 and 4266earset and headset mics combine the legendary sound of the 4066 with the lightweight and flexible headset system. This condenser mic is easy and fast to adjust and it offers clean and transparent sound quality.
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Our directional headset microphones
4488 Directional Headset Mic
The 4488 CORE Directional Headset Microphone offers an open and natural sound making it ideal for both spoken word and vocal performance applications. It provides excellent off-axis rejection in high-SPL situations.
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4088 Directional Headset Mic
This is the industry standard in professional headset mics. It offers an open and natural sound making it ideal for both spoken word and vocal performance applications.
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4188 and 4288 Directional Flex Headsets and Earsets
The 4188 and 4288 Headsets and Earsets combines the legendary sound of the 4088 Directional Capsule with the lightweight and flexible headset system, these mics are ideal for both spoken word and vocal performance applications.
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Other headset mic solutions
4560 Binaural Headset Microphone
The 4560 CORE Binaural Headset Microphone is, in its essence, a pair of 4060 CORE Miniature Omnidirectional Microphones that are mounted on two earhooks. The actual headset is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably and easily. It adjusts to fit any ear size and head shape while at the same time it mounts securely and is hardly visible.
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...best of all, even microphone-apprehensive users were captured consistently and clear; hand a microphone to the same group of users, or stand them in front of a spot or a podium, and I guarantee the results won’t be that consistent or nearly as usable.
Godspeed: A Rock Opera calls on DPA to support extreme sound levels
I expected problems, but DPA’s headset microphones provided 12 channels of pristine lead and background vocals. Many audience members believed we were running playback harmonies, but it was all live.
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