God Is in the Details: Concealers for Hidden Microphones

Mick Sawaguchi 

Fellow, AES/IPS

UNAMAS-Label & Surround Terakoya 

Introduction

As filming techniques have evolved, there has been a rise in dynamic footage utilizing tools like Steadicams, drones, and large mobile cranes. This shift has created a need for greater mobility and immediacy in dialogue recording—moving beyond traditional boom microphone setups—leading to the widespread adoption of fitting individual performers with compact wireless microphones.

 In this article, I explore the practical use of "Concealers"—accessories specifically designed to ensure that hidden microphones deliver high-quality, usable audio. While manufacturers of compact lavalier microphones offer concealers tailored to their own models, specialized concealer manufacturers are introducing innovative products designed to address a wide range of specific situations with impressive ingenuity.

1 Goal for Concealed Microphone Setup

*   Preventing fabric-rubbing sounds and handling noise

*   Suppressing cable noise caused by the thin cables of lavalier microphones

*   Selecting compact, high-quality microphones

*   Preventing wind noise and breath pops

*   Using adhesives that ensure a secure hold even on small surface areas

*   Using medical-grade tape to prevent skin irritation when attaching directly to the skin

*   Preparing tape in colors that blend in discreetly with the clothing

2. Parts Suitable for Mounting

Here, we introduce the parts of the body where equipment can be mounted.

To illustrate how to mount usable audio gear in these locations, It present specific examples using "Concealers" from Babblbee and URSA—brands trusted by many production sound mixers. A visit to their respective websites reveals the truly extensive range of accessories available.

3. Specific Examples of Concealment Techniques

⚫️ Concealers to Prevent Clothing Rustle

While using a clip to create a gap is a simple method, there are other ways to create space between the microphone and the clothing using accessories such as faux fur, soft covers, or soft wrap tape.

⚫️ Shirt mounting and noise prevention: 

The cable is looped once to prevent cable noise—a technique likely born from practical field experience.

Here, It wrap the cable once before attaching it to provide wind protection and suppress cable noise.

⚫️ Adhesive tape for mounting lavalier microphones and clips to prevent the rustling of clothes

 

This clip—also found on products from other companies—is designed to create a gap that prevents the microphone from coming into direct contact with skin or clothing.

Due to the microphone's small surface area and its silicone rubber material, standard adhesive tapes tend to provide a weak bond. Adhesive tapes designed for concealment are characterized by their ability to hold firmly even on small surface areas. Here is an example of a setup where the microphone is attached to a sweater using this type of adhesive tape along with a clip designed to prevent friction noise from clothing.

⚫️ Attaching to Neckties or Bow Ties

Attach it to the knot of a necktie or bow tie. It is designed so that it rarely rubs against the fabric, making it unlikely to cause friction-related wear.

⚫️ Buttonhole

It is mounted in the gap of a buttonhole. Microphones such as the DPA-6060 or Countryman B-6 are ideal for this type of placement due to their ultra-compact size.

 ⚫️ Direct-to-Chest

Medical-grade tape is used, as it is applied directly to the skin.

Fur or a protective cover is also attached here to prevent chafing against clothing.

⚫️ Cable treatment Tape

Since the cable connecting to a wireless microphone transmitter is often surprisingly long, "Invisible Tape" is ideal for keeping it out of sight while ensuring it stays securely in place.　 

⚫️ Transmitter Pouch

The transmitter is carried in a belt pack, and there are some innovative products available for this purpose.

 Since the activity involves vigorous movement, the unit is secured to the torso with a belt.

 Secure to the thigh

 

 Ankle strap that secures around the ankle

 NOTE:

Although URSA is a British manufacturer, its founder was originally a production mixer; consequently, the company's defining characteristic is a lineup of concealer products designed with the various real-world scenarios the founder himself wanted to address.