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Guides

Get the most from your TRUETAM L1

Seven short guides to attaching, connecting and looking after your microphone — and what to do when the sound isn't quite right.

01

How to attach the TRUETAM L1 correctly

Microphone placement makes a big difference to the sound. As a rule of thumb: 15–20cm below the chin, centred on the chest.

  • Clip onto a firm edge of fabric — a collar, lapel or zip placket holds best.
  • Angle the capsule slightly upward toward your mouth, rather than laying it flat against your clothing.
  • Avoid loose, baggy fabric — it creates extra friction noise when you move.
  • After attaching it, speak for a moment to test and adjust the position if needed.
02

Using the windscreen properly

The included foam windscreen should be used for any recording outside a closed room.

  • Slide the windscreen fully over the capsule until it's snug.
  • For studio recordings you can remove it — it barely changes the sound.
  • In strong wind, position the microphone as sheltered as possible, for example under a collar.
  • Check it regularly for dirt and clean it gently by hand if needed.
03

Connecting the TRUETAM L1 to your smartphone

If your smartphone has a 3.5mm port, connect the microphone directly.

  • For devices without one, use a suitable USB-C or Lightning adapter.
  • Do a quick test recording before the real thing and check volume and sound.
  • Most camera and recording apps detect the external microphone automatically — if not, select it manually in the app's settings.
04

Connecting the TRUETAM L1 to a camera or recorder

The 3.5mm jack fits the microphone input on most cameras, camcorders and audio recorders.

  • Use the camera's microphone input, not the headphone output.
  • Check the recording level before you start and reduce it if it's peaking.
  • Route the cable so it doesn't rub against clothing or equipment — that avoids extra noise.
05

Clean sound for interviews on the go

Street interviews bring their own challenges — wind, background noise and a moving cable.

  • Always fit the windscreen, even in seemingly calm weather.
  • Keep the cable loose rather than taut, so movement isn't transferred straight to the capsule.
  • If your interviewee talks a lot, ask them to wear the microphone near the collar rather than the lapel.
  • During several interviews in a row, check now and then that the clip is still secure.
06

Looking after the cable and microphone

A lavalier microphone is a delicate tool — a little care makes it last much longer.

  • Coil the cable loosely after use, with no tight kinks or sharp bends.
  • Store the microphone dry and dust-free, ideally in a small pouch or case.
  • Avoid damp conditions and direct sunlight.
  • Check the plug for dirt or dust before connecting it.
07

Fixing common sound problems

Most unwanted noise can be fixed with a few small adjustments.

  • Scratching when you move: route the cable more loosely and secure it with a second clip on your clothing.
  • Friction against clothing: attach the microphone to a firmer part of the fabric rather than soft, loose clothing.
  • Level too quiet: check the input volume on your recording device and increase it if needed.
  • Wind noise: fit the windscreen and choose a more sheltered position.