LAV mics all have some things in common.
They solve the biggest microphone issue in cinematography which is how to hide the boom arm and cover a large or wide group, but are universally disliked by sound techs as technically problematic and less natural sounding than booms.
My gripe with them is time and over complication. I can aim a shotgun mic at a group of people and just film, something a LAV setup would be too complicated for. Quality differences are situational, so really hard to quantify or qualify.
If it turns out I need a LAV setup though, maybe for individual presentations or interviews over long distances, then what would I get?
Thinking it was basically an expensive road to Rode, or possibly DJI, possibly a cable reliant set of cheap Boya mics run to my camera or to the F1/H1n’s and later synched, or just use hand held mics, I was surprised to find that the world of wireless worn mics (LAV seems too specific) has opened up a lot.
The two that are on my radar are the Hollyland Lark M1 pair, probably in white to match most shirts and just look generally less “there” than the black ones, or the Smallrig W60 set.
I just like these, especially compared to the semi-retro W60.
Sound quality and range of both seems fine (for LAV’s), which I am ok with, still intending to go with any other system of mics as often as possible. The W60 has the added advantage of taking LAV plug-ins, two of which I have, which may be the more versatile option.
Features compared;
Range and quality (Both). They seem in the same ball park, reviews having to many variables to be sure. If pushed, I think the M1 based on the few direct comparisons.
Smaller when worn (M1). The W60 look like old tech.
Sexier/nicer to look at (M1). See above.
Plug in LAV option instead of worn (W60). The smallest possible foot print.
Easier to just use (M1). Tough call, the lack of options on the M1 make it simpler.
Extra charges held in travel case (M1). 2x8hr which is impressive.
Smaller kit overall (M1). The W60 kit is about twice the size like a glasses case compared to a cigarette box.
Wind proofing with fluffy (M1). M1 seems easier to install and very efficient, one reviewer was quite uncomplimentary about the W60 wind shield.
Volume readout and linear controls on master unit (W60). M1 has high/med/low.
Cheaper (W60). By about $35 at the moment.
Comes in colours (M1). The white is my choice if there is one.
Solid build (W60). Still some plastic, but chunkier.
Attachment (W60). Another tough one, the M1’s are lighter and smaller (and prettier), but the LAV option and magnetic connecter give the W60 options.
Low pass (W60). The M1’s have simple application, but the W60’s are deeper here.
My heart and head say the M1’s, my gut is going with the W60, just for the LAV options.
I will let this percolate and see if there is actually a need.