microphone attachments

Action cameras have become increasingly popular, especially for those who enjoy capturing adventurous moments. However, the built-in microphone of action cameras often needs to capture the desired audio quality. This blog will discuss enhancing your action camera videos with a microphone attachment.

Why do you need a microphone attachment for your action camera? 

The built-in microphone of an action camera is usually designed to capture audio within a specific range, which may not be sufficient for recording audio in noisy environments. You can capture audio with better clarity and reduced background noise with a microphone attachment. It also enables you to capture audio from a distance or in a specific direction, which is impossible without a built-in microphone.

Choosing the proper microphone attachment: 

Various types of microphone attachments are available in the market, including shotgun microphones, lavalier microphones, and wireless microphones. Choosing a microphone attachment based on your specific requirements would be best. For example, a shotgun microphone is ideal for recording audio in a noisy environment. A directional microphone would be suitable if you need to record audio from a distance or in a specific direction.

How to attach the microphone to your action camera: 

Attaching a microphone to your action camera is a straightforward process. Most microphone attachments come with a mount that can be attached to the camera’s hot shoe. It would be best to connect the microphone to the camera’s audio input jack, which is usually located on the side or back of the camera. Once the microphone is attached, you need to adjust the audio settings on your camera to ensure that the audio is being recorded from the external microphone.

Benefits of using a microphone attachment for your action camera:

1. Better audio quality: The primary benefit of microphone attachment is improved audio quality. The built-in microphone of an action camera often captures unwanted background noise, which can be eliminated with an external microphone.
2. Professional results: A microphone attachment can achieve professional-level video audio quality. That is especially important if you use the footage for professional purposes, such as creating content for your blog, vlog, or YouTube channel.
3. Versatility: Microphone attachments come in various shapes and sizes, offering versatility to users. You can capture audio from a specific direction or distance depending on the microphone attachment type.
4. Compatibility: Most microphone attachments are designed to be compatible with a wide range of action cameras, including GoPro, DJI, and Sony.

Tips for using a microphone attachment with your action camera:

1. Use a windscreen: If you plan to use your microphone attachment in windy conditions, consider using a windscreen to minimize wind noise.
2. Monitor audio levels: Monitor the audio levels on your action camera to ensure that the audio is captured appropriately. Too low, and you won’t be able to hear anything; too high, and the audio may become distorted.
3. Test before recording: Always test the microphone attachment to ensure everything works correctly.
4. Position the microphone correctly: Depending on the type of microphone attachment, it may need to be positioned in a specific way to capture the best audio. Make sure to read the instructions for your specific microphone attachment and position it accordingly.

Top microphone attachments for action cameras:

1. Rode VideoMicro: The Rode VideoMicro is a compact and lightweight shotgun microphone that can be attached directly to your action camera. It offers directional audio recording and a frequency response range of 100Hz-20kHz.
2. Sennheiser MKE 400: The Sennheiser MKE 400 is another popular shotgun microphone that can be attached to your action camera. It offers a frequency response range of 40Hz-20kHz and is designed to minimize wind and handling noise.
3. Movo PM10 Deluxe Lavalier Lapel Clip-on Omnidirectional Condenser Microphone: This Lavalier microphone is designed to clip onto your clothing and capture high-quality audio in any direction. It offers a frequency response range of 35Hz-18kHz and comes with a long cable that can be connected to your action camera.
4. Rode Wireless GO: The Rode Wireless GO is a wireless microphone system that can be attached to your action camera. It offers a range of up to 70m and features a compact transmitter and receiver that can be easily carried in a pocket.
5. Zoom H1n Handy Recorder: The Zoom H1n Handy Recorder is a portable audio recorder that can be attached to your action camera. It offers high-quality stereo recording and features a built-in X/Y stereo microphone. It can also be used as a USB microphone.

Conclusion: 

A microphone attachment is essential for those who use action cameras for video recording. It enhances the audio quality of your videos and makes them more professional. You can capture high-quality audio even in noisy environments with the proper microphone attachment. Investing in a microphone attachment is wise if you want to take your action camera videos to the next level.