Wireless audio fails for boring reasons: the wrong connector, too few receivers, a mic built for speech used for singing. Answer these five questions first and the right kit usually picks itself.

1. How many people are talking?

One speaker needs one transmitter. Interviews and two-host shows need two. Kits with two transmitters cost little more and give you a spare.

2. How many devices are recording?

This is the question most people skip. If a phone and a camera both need audio, you need a receiver for each — or a kit like the LARK M3 Combo (2TX + 4RX) that ships with four USB-C receivers.

3. What does your device plug in with?

USB-C receivers plug directly into modern phones, many cameras and computers without adapters. Check your device before you order; we are happy to check it for you.

4. Speech or music?

Lavalier-style transmitters are made for voice. For singing, live streaming music, or recording vocals, a handheld studio system like the MELO P1 Solo, MELO P1 Combo or MELO P1 Ultimate Combo gives you mixing and real-time monitoring.

5. Do you need to hear yourself?

For performers, monitoring is how you stay on pitch. The MELO P1 Combo and Ultimate Combo include a TWS monitor earphone so you hear your mix as you perform.