Question: What is the proper way to wear a BP892x, BP893x or BP894x headworn microphone?

Answer: You will find many today in the public speaking area (ministers, teachers, presenters, actors and so on) who want the flexibility of using a headworn microphone or, more specifically, an earworn microphone such as the BP892x, BP893x or BP894x. These are not the headworn microphones you are used to seeing on pop stars of the ’90s with the heavy frame and large ball on the end. These are lightweight, durable, adjustable, virtually invisible microphones that sound fantastic and are available in either a wired or wireless version. They are also available in two colors: black or beige. When using one of these microphones it is important to wear it properly to ensure comfort and good sound, and to make sure it remains stationary on the side of your face.

The flexible design of the BP892x, BP893x and BP894x MicroSet microphones enable them to be worn on either the left or right ear.

Bend a gentle upward curve in the microphone’s boom, then hook the lightweight contoured loop around the back of your ear so that the boom extends from the bottom of your ear. Remember: gently bend the boom. Dramatic, sharp bends will damage the microphone. (Note: the boom adjustment applies only to the BP892x and BP894x; you do not need to bend the 0.2" boom on the BP893x.)

Adjust the boom as needed to follow the contour of your face, positioning the microphone near the corner of your mouth. The microphone has a large acoustical sweet spot; experiment with placement near the corner of your mouth for optimal performance.

Please note that the BP894x features a unique 180-degree rotating capsule housing, which must be adjusted when moving the microphone from one ear to the other. A talk-side indicator shows you which way to turn the capsule housing for your desired position. Simply locate the white dot on the capsule housing and rotate the capsule until the white dot faces your mouth.

One very important step that is often missed when fitting these microphones is using the cable clip, which is provided for strain relief, allowing the microphone to remain securely in place without the weight of the cable pulling on the headset. To use the clip, slip the cable into the clip’s cable-holding groove, then attach the clip to your clothing, leaving enough slack in the microphone cable to allow for free, comfortable motion. A good method to follow is this:

• If wearing on the right ear, turn your head all the way to left. Attach the cable to your collar on the right side of you neck.
• If wearing on the left ear, turn your head all the way to right. Attach the cable to your collar on the left side of you neck.

Now, as you move your head there is a small amount of slack behind your head and the weight of the cable will not tug at the microphone.

There may be situations where it is desirable to have the microphone secured to both ears. The AT8464x dual-ear adapter kit is provided to allow this. Proper installation and fitting of that device will be discussed in a follow-up Question of the Week.

If you have further questions regarding the BP892x, BP893x or the BP894X, please contact the Audio Solutions Department.