This article is all about answering the question, “Do I need a speaker with my microphone?” People setting up a sound system for the first time often ask us this as they figure out what equipment they need. Keep reading for the answer.

Quick Answer: Yes, you do need a speaker with your microphone. The microphone’s job is to capture sound, and the speaker’s job is to reproduce that sound at a higher volume. 

The Job of A Microphone

Shure SM58 Dynamic Microphone

A microphone’s job is to capture acoustic energy. It takes sound waves moving through the air and converts them to an electric signal.

However, the microphone has no way to reproduce that electric signal as sound in a way that’s louder for your event. The microphone’s job is purely to capture sound for recording or for amplification at a live event.  

In either situation, you will need a speaker at the other end of the microphone to hear playback of what you have recorded or to make your speeches, announcements, band, or other live audio louder.

Other Microphone-Speaker Examples

Chances are, you have a microphone and speaker in your pocket or resting somewhere near you right now. Mobile phones have a microphone to capture voice, but it’s the phone speaker that allows the person to hear you on the other end of the line.

Megaphones are another great example; you talk into the microphone, and your amplified voice comes out of the speaker. Without the speaker, it just wouldn’t work.

Do I Need A Speaker With My Microphone? Prices & Specs

Do I Need A Speaker With My Microphone Topics