Are you a content creator looking to improve your social media videos? One important factor that can make a big difference is the audio quality. Even if your camera has great video features, the built-in microphone might not give you the professional sound you’re after. That’s where external microphones come in handy. This article is a buyer guide to the social media microphone, exploring:
- Why do you need it for social media?
- What are the types?
- How to choose the best one for YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, etc.?
- What is the best one you can find in SYNCO?
Why do you need a microphone for social media?
The built-in microphones on most devices are generally adequate for basic use but often fall short when it comes to high-quality audio. That’s why you need an external one to enhance the professionalism and appeal of your social media videos. Here are some key benefits:
It offers improved audio quality compared to internal mic
It ensures high sound quality, a key factor in keeping your viewers engaged and making your content look professional. While high video quality is important, bad audio can turn viewers away, even if the visuals are perfect. A good microphone delivers clear sound, minimizes background noise, and captures all the details of your voice or surroundings. Whether you’re recording in a studio, vlogging, or streaming, choosing the right microphone for your needs can greatly improve the overall quality of your content.
Social media microphone ensures focus on your sound with noise reduction function
It typically comes with features like directional pickup patterns and noise reduction technology. These can help reduce background noise and highlight the sounds you want to capture.
It is versatile for recording different content on various social media platforms
It is available in many types and designs, offering flexibility for various recording situations. Whether you require a microphone for interviews, music sessions, or outdoor recordings, you can find one that meets your requirements.
Mini microphone for social media is available for adding fun and portability
Mini microphones have become popular on TikTok and other social media for a few reasons. They look cute and engaging, making videos more enjoyable to watch. They also improve sound clarity by amplifying the user’s voice. Their small size makes them easy to carry, perfect for recording on the go. However, while they work great for short social media clips, they might not be the best option for professional audio.
What are the types of social media microphone?
Before we get into our top recommendations, let’s take a look at the different types available. Knowing these options will make it easier to select the one that best meets your unique requirements.
Lavalier microphones: Compact and clip-on design, ideal for close-range recording in social media
Also called lapel mics, these compact, clip-on types can easily attach to your clothing. They allow for hands-free use, making them great for presentations, interviews, and vlogs where capturing clear, close-range audio is essential.
Shotgun microphones: Directional pickup pattern, perfect for recording in a noisy environment
They are highly directional and designed to capture sound from a specific angle while reducing background noise. They’re ideal for filming in noisy settings or situations where focusing on a particular subject or voice is necessary.
Wireless microphones for social media: Cable-free design, great for dynamic shooting
Wireless lavalier microphones offer the convenience of moving freely without cables. Consisting of a transmitter and receiver, they allow you to record audio from a distance while maintaining sound quality, making them ideal for interviews, vlogging, and performances that require flexibility and mobility.
How to choose the best microphone for creating content on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, etc.?
Here are some factors to keep in mind before shopping for a microphone to record your videos in YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, etc. :
Budget: Get the microphone for social media within your budget based on your experience level
“How much are you willing to invest in a new microphone?” This should be your first consideration before buying. There are options available across various price ranges that can provide satisfactory to excellent audio quality. Generally speaking, the more you spend, the higher the audio quality you can expect.
However, if you’re just starting out, you shouldn’t feel pressured to spend $1,000 on a microphone. While it’s not a bad idea, opting for a lower or mid-range microphone allows you to save money and figure out what works best for you. As your channel grows, you can always upgrade to a higher-quality (and more expensive) one.
On the other hand, if you’re an established YouTuber, you likely have an audience that anticipates a certain level of video quality. In this case, it makes sense to invest a bit more in a microphone. By this stage, you’ll have a better understanding of the features you need and how they relate to the content you create.
Content: Decide on the right type based on your video content
You should select the microphone type largely depends on the content you intend to create. For instance, the mic suitable for recording your singing in a booth will differ from the one needed for vlogging your road trip. Similarly, the model required for a one-on-one podcast will vary from the one used for conducting public interviews.
Where you record: Choose a social media microphone that performs well in your recording environment
The location where you film your social media videos is important when selecting a microphone, as different models are designed for specific settings. Some perform well in enclosed spaces, while others are more effective for recording on the go. For instance, shotgun mics excel in studio recordings but may not be ideal for vlogging, whereas Lavalier options are perfect for portable use but may not deliver high audio quality in a controlled environment like shotgun models do.
Features: Consider the essential features that suit your recording environment and connection needs
Before making an online purchase or heading to a music store, familiarize yourself with the various features available to help you effectively choose the microphone for social media. For instance, if you plan to record outdoors, look for models equipped with built-in pop filters and noise reduction capabilities to minimize unwanted background sounds. Conversely, when recording in a studio, built-in features may be less critical since you can manage background noise with external solutions like shock mounts and pop filters. If you need to monitor audio quality during post-production, select a microphone with a headphone jack. Additionally, determine how you'll connect the microphone to your other equipment, such as an audio interface, and decide between a USB or XLR model.
Best microphone for social media: 3 SYNCO picks for different budgets
Whether you are a beginner with a limited budget or a professional creator, there is a social media microphone at SYNCO that best meets your needs. Here are three excellent products for you to review:
SYNCO P1S: Mini microphone for solo social media recording at $69
If you’re just starting out with social media videos and need a simple microphone for solo recording, the SYNCO P1S is a great budget-friendly option. It comes in two versions: the P1SL with a Lightning connector for iPhones and the P1ST with a Type-C connector for Android devices. Its compact design makes it discreet and perfect for video recording, live streaming, and interviews. It has a one-button noise reduction feature to make your audio clearer and can transmit sound from up to 150 meters away. Using it is easy—just take it out of the charging case, press the button for three seconds, and plug the receiver into your phone.
SYNCO G2(A2): Wireless microphone for two-person recording on social platforms at $139
The SYNCO G2(A2) is a microphone for social media perfect for recording interviews or collaborative videos. This wireless system comes in two transmitters and one receiver, allowing you to switch between mono and stereo modes. With a transmission range of up to 492 feet and a secure 2.4GHz frequency, you’ll enjoy stable audio quality. Its TFT display shows recording modes, battery life, and audio levels, while features like a low-cut filter and gain control enhance sound clarity. Lightweight and portable, it offers up to 8 hours of operation on a single charge, making it an ideal choice for dynamic recording sessions.
SYNCO D2: Shotgun mic for professional content creators at $199
If you are a professional content creator and require superior audio quality, you should consider the SYNCO D2 social media microphone. With a super-cardioid pickup pattern, it captures sound from specific directions while minimizing off-axis noise, ensuring clear audio in your social video. Its sturdy brass body provides excellent durability and resistance to interference, making it perfect for outdoor use. Featuring an ultra-low self-noise level of 24dB and a signal-to-noise ratio of 80dB, the D2 also excels in film production and music recording. Its flat frequency response from 20Hz to 20kHz delivers natural sound reproduction. The gold-plated XLRM connector ensures reliable signal transmission, making it the perfect choice for broadcast and video projects.
* Note: The price is from the Moman PhotoGears Store.
Conclusion
When making engaging social media videos, having good audio is just as important as having good visuals. Investing in a microphone for social media can greatly improve the sound quality of your videos, helping your content stand out and grab your audience’s attention. Whether you choose a lavalier mic for hands-free use, a shotgun model for focused sound, or a wireless one for easy movement, there are plenty of options that fit your needs and budget.