What is a defining feature of a low-profile boundary microphone?

A defining feature of a low-profile boundary microphone is that it lays flat. This design is intentional, allowing the microphone to be unobtrusive and easily placed on surfaces like conference tables, stages, or other flat areas where sound pickup is needed. The low-profile design serves to reduce visibility and minimize any disruption in the environment where it is used, making it ideal for settings like meetings or performances where aesthetics and space efficiency are considerations.

In contrast, other options do not represent the characteristics of a low-profile boundary microphone. For instance, being large and bulky would contradict the purpose of a low-profile design, which emphasizes minimalism and compactness. While some boundary microphones may require batteries, many are designed to operate using phantom power supplied through a mixer or audio interface, making battery use not universally applicable. Flexible necks are typically features associated with handheld or stand-mounted microphones for adjusting positioning, but low-profile boundary microphones generally do not have such movable parts, as their function is to remain in a fixed, flat position.