When filming videos, the microphone for phone video is equally as crucial as the camera lens. This is because the built-in microphones on most smartphones are optimized for voice calls, not for capturing high-quality audio, making it challenging to achieve professional-grade sound. Fortunately, this article explores the benefits of using a microphone for phone video, offers recommendations from SYNCO, and provides practical steps and tips on how to use them.
Why do you need a microphone for phone video?
To make sure your videos come across loud and clear, having a microphone for cell phone video is a must. This handy tool boosts your audio quality big time, plus it gives you extra perks for different recording situations. It cuts down background noise and takes your videos to the next, professional level. Here are the key advantages of using this device.
Improving audio clarity: Smartphone built-in mics are typically designed for general sound capture, leading to poor audio quality, particularly in loud settings. Conversely, an external one can deliver superior audio with greater detail and richness, making it perfect for recording podcasts, interviews, and various other content.
Gaining greater control: It grants you more control during the audio recording process. You can adjust settings like gain and directional sensitivity to capture audio precisely as you envision.
Minimizing background noise: The microphone for cell phone video frequently features directional pickup patterns and integrated noise reduction technology, which can help reduce ambient noise and focus on the desired sound.
Adapting to diverse scenarios: These devices come in diverse types and designs, making them highly adaptable for various recording situations. Whether you need a microphone for interviews, field recordings, or music recordings, there’s an external option tailored to your needs.
What is the best microphone for phone video: 3 top picks from SYNCO
SYNCO is dedicated to enhancing your audio experience and has launched a range of microphones for better phone video to meet various needs. Below, we highlight three selected models to help you make the best choice.
SYNCO P1X: Best ease-of-use wireless microphone for phone video
The SYNCO P1X is a fantastic option for anyone looking to easily improve the audio quality of their phone videos. It features automatic pairing and connects directly to your phone via Type-C or Lightning. Its advanced noise reduction effectively filters low-frequency sounds, delivering broadcast-level audio quality within 150 meters. With up to 50dB gain control and a one-touch mute function, you can easily manage your recordings during filming or live streaming. There's no need to learn complex operation techniques—this is a plug-and-play microphone that you can use straight out of the box.
SYNCO P2S: Best value microphone for phone video with a wireless charging case
The SYNCO P2S is the most valuable mobile microphone, featuring an additional transmitter and a charging case. It offers the same functionality as the SYNCO PX and connects directly to iPhones or Android devices as a wireless microphone. With two transmitters included, you can easily record dialogue scenes, such as interviews or conversations, without any hassle. The five-hour battery life, combined with the charging case, eliminates any worries about running out of power. If you’re looking for the best value option, the SYNCO P2S is definitely worth considering.
SYNCO U3: Best compact shotgun microphone for phone video
As a professional shotgun microphone, the SYNCO U3 features the most compact mini design. Despite its small size, it boasts powerful functionality. Utilizing interference tube technology and a cardioid pickup pattern, it effectively eliminates background noise while focusing on sounds from the front. The low-cut options at 75Hz and 150Hz, along with a continuously variable gain control of 0-15dB, ensure clear audio quality. With a built-in lithium battery that supports up to 40 hours of use, it comes with a metal plate that securely attaches to your phone, ensuring you won’t miss any exciting moments.
How to record video on phone with microphone？
Now that you understand the importance of the microphone for smartphone video recording, you must be eager to learn how to use it. Here are the steps and tips you can follow to improve your phone recordings:
Steps to set up it as an external microphone
The key to recording high-quality phone videos starts with properly setting up your microphone. However, there’s no need to feel overwhelmed. Here are the steps to help you set it up easily:
1. Check microphone compatibility
The compatibility of the microphone determines whether you can use it with your phone. There are a variety of types, including dynamic, condenser, and USB models. Ensure that you select the right one that is compatible with your phone.\
2. Connect your microphone
The method of connecting a microphone for phone video varies depending on the ports available on your smartphone.
If your phone has a USB-C or Lightning port, you can use a model with either output directly or connect a mic with a 3.5mm output via an adapter.
For smartphones with a 3.5mm headphone jack, any option with a 3.5mm output will work. Since most phones use a TRRS jack, make sure your microphone has a TRRS connector or use a TRS to TRRS adapter.
Once it is connected, proceed to the “Settings” menu on your phone and ensure that the external device is selected as the input source.
3. Adjust the microphone setting
After connecting the microphone, customize the settings to suit your needs. You can use the microphone app provided by your smartphone or a third-party application to tweak parameters such as the directional sensitivity, gain, and other configurations.
4. Do a quick test recording
Before diving into your recording, give your microphone a quick test run to ensure it’s functioning smoothly and the sound quality meets your standards. You can simply record a short audio snippet and replay it to verify that the microphone is picking up sound accurately.
Tips to use it for improving sound quality
After learning the basics of how to use it, you’ll need to pick up some practical tips to boost your audio quality even more. Here are the tips to help you harness the full potential of your existing equipment.
1. Perfect microphone positioning: Position your microphone close to the sound source to keep background noise from stealing the spotlight. When using a lavalier model, clip it securely to your chest for stable and crisp recordings.
2. Optimize audio settings: Adjust the audio gain in your audio app to avoid distortion, and record in a quiet environment for cleaner audio.
3. Enhance with post-production: Post-processing can work wonders! Use audio editing software to reduce background noise and boost your sound quality. Add a sprinkle of equalizer effects to make your recording clearer and more immersive.
4. Ensure device compatibility: Stay updated! Regularly update your phone device and apps to ensure seamless compatibility with your microphone for phone video. If you keep hitting compatibility snags, consider upgrading your mic or using a different recording device.
5. Maintain your microphone: Keep your microphone in tip-top shape by cleaning it regularly, especially if you often shoot outdoors. And, when not in use, store it in a protective case to shield it from dust and damage.