External Mic For Gopro Hero 8: The Ultimate Guide

Introduction

GoPro Hero 8 is an excellent action camera for capturing stunning footage, but its built-in microphone may not be enough to capture high-quality audio. That’s why you need an external mic for GoPro Hero 8. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about external mics and how to choose the best one for your needs.

Why Use an External Mic for GoPro Hero 8?

The built-in microphone of GoPro Hero 8 is decent, but it has some limitations. It picks up a lot of wind noise, and the audio quality may not be good enough for professional use. An external mic can help you capture clearer, more precise audio, and reduce background noise.

Types of External Mics for GoPro Hero 8

There are different types of external mics for GoPro Hero 8, such as shotgun mics, lavalier mics, and USB mics. Shotgun mics are directional and can pick up sound from a specific direction. Lavalier mics are small and can be clipped to your clothing, making them ideal for interviews or vlogs. USB mics are easy to use and can be plugged directly into your GoPro Hero 8.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an External Mic for GoPro Hero 8

When choosing an external mic for GoPro Hero 8, there are several factors to consider, such as the type of mic, the directionality, the frequency response, and the sensitivity. You should also check if the mic is compatible with your camera and if it comes with any accessories, such as wind protection or shock mounts.

Top External Mics for GoPro Hero 8

Here are some of the best external mics for GoPro Hero 8:

1. Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone

The Rode VideoMicro is a compact and lightweight shotgun mic that can be attached to your GoPro Hero 8. It has a directional pickup pattern that reduces background noise and captures clear audio. It also comes with a shock mount that isolates the mic from vibrations and handling noise.

2. Sennheiser MKE 400 Shotgun Microphone

The Sennheiser MKE 400 is another shotgun mic that works well with GoPro Hero 8. It has a compact and rugged design and can be powered by your camera’s battery. It also has a switchable sensitivity that allows you to adjust the audio level depending on your environment.

3. Rode SmartLav+ Lavalier Microphone

The Rode SmartLav+ is a high-quality lavalier mic that can be connected to your GoPro Hero 8 via a TRRS connector. It has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, which means it can capture a wide range of sounds. It also comes with a foam pop shield that reduces wind noise and plosives.

Tips for Using an External Mic with GoPro Hero 8

Here are some tips to help you get the best results when using an external mic with GoPro Hero 8: – Use a wind protection device to reduce wind noise and other unwanted sounds. – Position the mic close to the sound source to capture clear audio. – Use a shock mount to reduce handling noise and vibrations. – Adjust the audio levels on your camera to avoid clipping or distortion. – Test your mic and settings before recording to ensure everything is working correctly.

Conclusion

An external mic can significantly improve the audio quality of your GoPro Hero 8 footage. By considering the type of mic, directionality, frequency response, and sensitivity, you can choose the best one for your needs. With the right external mic and some tips and tricks, you can capture high-quality audio and take your GoPro Hero 8 videos to the next level.