Why This Matters
People will forgive grainy video. They won’t forgive terrible audio. In user-generated content, your voice is the message—and mic placement makes or breaks it. You don’t need a fancy microphone to sound pro, but you do need to use what you have correctly. This tip fixes 80% of bad audio issues in one move.
The UGC Garage Fix: Keep That Mic Close
Whether you're on a built-in laptop mic or a $200 USB upgrade, this rule holds: distance is the enemy of clarity.
Closer mic = clearer voice.
Further mic = more room noise.
🎯 Jonathan’s Rule of Thumb: Keep the mic about a fist-length from your mouth—off to the side, not blocking your face.
What To Use
Built-in mic? It'll work—but bring your laptop closer.
USB mic? Great! Now mount it on:
A desk arm (for flexible, adjustable placement)
Or a simple tabletop stand (just keep it slightly off-center to avoid covering your mouth or getting too much sibilance)
The gear is secondary. Placement is everything.
Most Common Mistakes
❌ Mic across the table
❌ Talking at a laptop from 4+ feet away
❌ Letting the mic block your mouth or face and putting it too close
❌ Thinking your expensive mic will “fix it” if it’s still too far
Action Steps
✅ Do a quick test: record your voice from 3 distances and hear the difference
✅ Bring your mic closer—aim for fist-length
✅ Keep it off to the side of your mouth, not in front
✅ Try a mic arm or stand for steady framing & comfortable positioning
Final Takeaway
Audio is your first impression. Don’t waste it. A $20 mic placed well will beat a $200 mic placed poorly. Before your next video, move the mic closer—and watch your content sound better instantly.