Spontaneous street interviews and event conversations provide authentic content and increase audience engagement. But without clear audio, even the most compelling statement sounds unprofessional. A well-designed dual-mic setup solves this problem and fits in any bag. Here's how to set it up.
The ideal equipment package
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Two wireless microphones from the MagicMic series
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A receiver in the smartphone or camera
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Windscreen for outdoor shooting
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Replacement batteries or power bank
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A magnetic vacuum phone holder for stable shots
With this kit, you can switch from selfie mode to interview mode in seconds.
Preparation, level and position
Position your interview microphone approximately 20 centimeters in front of the interviewee's mouth. Hold your own microphone at a similar distance. Open the level meter in your recorder app and speak the loudest sentence you expect. The reading should be in the yellow zone, never in the red. Lower the volume if necessary.
Controlling outdoor shots, wind and background noise
For street interviews or festival clips, attach foam windscreens to both microphones. Position yourself with your back to the wind, facing the other person. Use buildings or vehicles as sound barriers to reduce traffic noise. Optionally, you can activate the microphone's noise cancellation function, which removes low-frequency rumble.
Tips for spontaneous interview situations
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Always carry a spare hand adapter so you can quickly transform the clip mic into a handheld device.
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Use short headline questions so that the answer gets straight to the point.
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Show agreement nonverbally, nod or smile to mute your own microphone and emphasize only the guest's voice.
Workflow step by step
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Start recording on both mics, clap loudly once for later synchronization.
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Ask the first question, hold your microphone under your chin, and as soon as the guest answers, move your microphone out of the frame.
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When asking a new question, change the microphone positions again.
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End the conversation with a clear thank you, then stop the recording.
This back-and-forth keeps your take dynamic and requires minimal editing.
Post-production, quickly optimize the audio track
Import the file into an editing program, apply a compressor with a ratio of three to one to even out volume fluctuations. Then use a light noise reduction filter if any ambient noise is audible. Finally, normalize the signal to -12 LUFS; this will ensure your interview sounds balanced on both headphones and smartphone speakers.
Conclusion: More impact through clear sound.
A mobile dual-mic setup increases your flexibility and ensures professional audio quality, whether you're interviewing at a trade fair, in the park, or on the subway. With good preparation, clean levels, and simple windscreen tricks, every conversation sounds broadcast-ready, keeping the audience engaged until the very last sentence.
👉 Pack your MagicMic set, follow the tips and collect authentic voices for content that truly connects.