In video production, audio quality is not just an addition; it’s a critical component that can make or break your content. The GoPro Hero 10 Black, renowned for its crisp visuals, also demands superior sound to match its high-grade footage. This powerhouse camera, along with the Hero 9, supports a range of microphones, differing mainly in their external chips.
Yet, it’s crucial to note that to harness the power of an external microphone with your GoPro Hero 10 Black, you’ll need the following accessories.
- Media Mod for HERO10/9 Black: Tailored specifically for the larger build of the HERO10 Black, this mod wraps around the camera body. It connects through the USB-C port and boasts a built-in directional mic and a 3.5mm mic port, making it an ideal choice for adding external mic capabilities.
- GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter: A simpler alternative to the Media Mod, this adapter directly connects a 3.5mm microphone to the HERO10 Black’s USB-C port. It’s a straightforward solution for those seeking to enhance their audio input.
- USB Pass-Through Door for HERO10 Black: Addressing the issue of battery displacement when accessing the USB-C port, this accessory replaces the standard door. It allows users to connect their mics without worrying about the battery coming loose, ensuring uninterrupted recording.
These accessories are necessary to attach external GoPro microphones and ensure smooth audio quality with a professional video content-capturing experience.
| Feature/Spec | RØDE VideoMicro | Hollyland Lark M2 | DJI Mic | Movo VXR10-PRO | Sennheiser MKE 200 |
| Type | On-camera Directional Microphone | Wireless Lavalier Microphone | Wireless Lavalier Microphone | External Video Microphone | Directional On-Camera Microphone |
| Weight | 42gm | 9g (390g complete package) | 30g | 60g | 45.3g |
| Dimensions | 8 x 2.1 x 2.1 cm | 13.5 x 10.4 x 8.7 cm | 4.7 x 2.3 x 2 cm | 22.5 x 16.6 x 7.5 cm | 23.8 x 11.5 x 7.11 cm |
| Frequency Response | 100Hz – 20kHz | 20 Hz – 20 kHz | 50 Hz – 20 kHz | 20 Hz – 18 kHz | 40 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Maximum SPL | 140dB SPL | 115dB SPL | 114dB SPL | – | 126 dB SPL / 118 dB SPL (Max Gain) |
| Power Source | Plug-in power (no battery) | Battery (10h, 40h with case) | Battery (15h with case) | Battery-free | Plug-in power (no battery) |
| Pros | Lightweight, no battery needed | Long battery life, wide range | Long-range & battery life, 8GB storage | Clear audio, sturdy build | Enhanced audio, stylish design |
| Cons | Limited to devices with 3.5mm TRS | Manual pairing for receivers | A pricey adapter may be needed | It may require an adapter to pick up noise | It may pick up the reverb, but sound quality varies by preamp |
1. RØDE VideoMicro Compact On-camera Directional Microphone:
Elevate your video production with the RØDE VideoMicro Compact On-camera Directional Microphone. This compact powerhouse is a game-changer for filmmakers seeking top-notch audio quality. Its broadcast-grade cardioid condenser capsule ensures that your recordings focus on the sound in front of the camera, minimizing distractions from the sides. The VideoMicro’s lightweight build, at just 42gm, makes it a perfect companion for on-the-go shooting. It requires no batteries, drawing power directly from your camera or audio interface.
Key Features:
- Acoustic Principle: Pressure Gradient
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Range: 100Hz – 20kHz
- Sensitivity: -33dB re 1V/Pa
- Maximum SPL: 140dB SPL
- Output: 3.5mm TRS mini-jack
- Weight: 42gm
- Dimensions: 8 x 2.1 x 2.1 cm
Pros:
- Exceptional sound clarity
- Directs focus to audio in front of the camera
- Lightweight and portable
- No battery is required, uses plug-in power
Cons:
- Limited to devices with a 3.5mm TRS input, and you might need a TRS to TRRS converter for other applications.
- It is only effective up to 1.5 meters.
Personal Opinion: The RØDE VideoMicro goes beyond expectations, especially for avid filmmakers using GoPro 10. Its sound quality stands out, bringing professional-grade audio to your videos. The directional design is a boon in noisy settings, ensuring your subject’s voice remains clear. Its compact size, robust build, and hassle-free setup make it a top pick. With versatile compatibility and durable construction, this microphone is a solid investment for any filmmaker aiming for professional audio in their productions.
2. Hollyland Lark M2 Wireless Microphone:
The Hollyland Lark M2 Wireless Microphone is a remarkable tool for GoPro Hero 10 users seeking studio-grade sound quality in a tiny package. This mic captures every nuance of sound with its 48kHz/24-bit audio format, ensuring your recordings are clear and detailed. The Lark M2 stands out with its extended battery life and impressive 300m stable transmission range, making it perfect for various recording scenarios.
Key Features:
- Weight: 9g (390g for the complete package)
- Audio Format: 48kHz/24-bit
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
- Maximum SPL: 115dB SPL
- Noise Cancelling: One-click operation for clear audio
- Battery Life: 10 hours (40 hours with charging case)
- Transmission Range: Up to 300m (1000ft.)
- Dimensions: 13.5 x 10.4 x 8.7 cm
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality
- Lightweight and easy to attach
- Long battery life for extended use
- Wide compatibility with various devices
Cons:
- The size may need to be bigger for some preferences.
Personal Opinion: The Hollyland Lark M2 is a game-changer for GoPro Hero 10 Black users, offering a barely-there feel with top-notch sound quality. Its effective noise cancellation and innovative magnetic mounting system provide comfort and clarity. It’s the ideal, versatile microphone you’ve sought for your projects.
3. DJI Mic, Wireless Lavalier Microphone:
The DJI Mic is an excellent GoPro microphone option, redefining convenience and quality in audio recording for the GoPro Hero 10 Black. It’s an all-in-one package featuring pre-linked, chargeable transmitters and a receiver, all neatly housed in a portable charging case. The discreet magnetic attachment and an intuitive 0.95-inch OLED touchscreen on the receiver add to its user-friendly design. Some of its standout features are:
Key Features:
- Range: 250m (820 ft.)
- Operating Frequency: 2400 – 2483.5 MHz
- Maximum SPL: 114dB SPL.
- Battery Life: 15 hours with charging case
- Attachment: Magnetic and back clip
- Storage: 8GB (internal)
- Compatibility: Receive has USB-C, lightning, and 3.5mm TRS ports
- Weight: 30g
- Dimensions: 4.7 x 2.3 x 2 cm
Pros:
- Ultra-portable and easy to use
- Long-range and battery life ideal for extended shoots
- Discreet, secure magnetic attachment
- Direct, intuitive control via OLED touchscreen
Cons:
- It may be considered pricey
- Potential need for an adapter or converter for international use
Personal Opinion: The DJI Mic is a worthwhile investment, after the Hollyland Lark M2, for your GoPro Hero 10 Black. Its clean sound quality, minimal background noise, and absence of white noise are impressive. Intuitive controls, combined with the dual functionality of each mic as a recorder, enhance its appeal. The build quality is top-notch, ensuring durability, while the battery life and quick charging are incredibly convenient.
4. Movo VXR10-PRO External Video Microphone:
The Movo VXR10-PRO External Video Microphone is a standout GoPro microphone designed to elevate your GoPro Hero 10 Black’s audio quality. This professional-grade shotgun mic offers crisp, clear audio capture, significantly enhancing your video content. It’s battery-free, drawing power directly from your camera, and has a Rycote Lyre shock mount to minimize vibrations and handling noise.
Key Features:
- Professional-grade shotgun mic with super-cardioid polar pattern
- Mounting: Rycote Lyre shock mount
- Design: Battery-free design, compatible with 3.5mm TRS/TRRS ports
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 18 kHz
- Sensitivity: -36dB
- Signal to Noise Ratio: 78dB
- Dimensions: 22.5 x 16.6 x 7.5 cm
- Weight: 60g
Pros:
- Delivers high-quality, clear audio
- Sturdy build with metal and plastic components
- Versatile performance, effective at various distances
- Comprehensive accessory kit, including cables for phone and camera
Cons:
- It may require an adapter for international use.
- It may make some noise in highly noisy environments.
- Some users might find the mount slightly bulky.
Personal Opinion: The Movo VXR10-PRO is another reliable choice for anyone using a GoPro Hero 10 Black. Its sturdy build and consistent performance make it a valuable tool in any filmmaker’s kit. Its audio quality is clear and professional, even at a distance, ensuring your subjects are always heard. With its versatile mount and array of accessories, this mic is not just an investment but a comprehensive solution for superior audio capture.
4. Sennheiser Professional MKE 200 Directional On-Camera Microphone:
The Sennheiser Professional MKE 200 is a top-tier directional on-camera microphone, enhancing the GoPro Hero 10 Black with superior audio capture. Designed for vloggers and videographers, its compact and stylish structure integrates advanced features for clear sound. The mic’s adeptness in minimizing noise and versatile connectivity options make it a favorite among professionals.
Key Features:
- Directional microphone with super-cardioid polar pattern
- Sleek, compact design with built-in wind protection
- Connectors: Interchangeable 3.5mm TRS and TRRS connectors
- Frequency Response: 40 Hz to 20 kHz
- Max Sound Pressure Level: 126 dB SPL / 118 dB SPL (Max Gain)
- Self Noise (A-weighted): 20dB
- Dimensions: 23.8 x 11.5 x 7.11 cm
- Weight: 45.3g
Pros:
- Delivers isolated and enhanced audio
- Stylish and portable design
- Effective noise reduction features
- Versatile connectivity for cameras and mobile devices
Cons:
- Can pick up reverb in echo-prone rooms
- Sound quality may vary based on the preamp quality of the recording device
Personal Opinion: The Sennheiser MKE 200 shines outdoors and in sound-treated spaces, offering sound quality that rivals top-end microphones. While optimal for outdoor use, be mindful of its performance in echo-prone indoor settings. The versatility to connect to various devices, including the GoPro Hero 10 Black, adds value. Although it excels with high-quality preamps, its performance remains robust even when connected directly to a camera. This GoPro microphone is a solid choice for those seeking professional audio in their productions.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, enhancing your GoPro Hero 10 Black with one of these five stellar microphones transforms your videos from good to exceptional. Whether it’s the crisp clarity of the RØDE VideoMicro, the versatility of the Hollyland Lark M2, the all-in-one convenience of the DJI Mic, the professional-grade Movo VXR10-PRO, or the directional precision of the Sennheiser MKE 200, each microphone brings its unique strengths to elevate your audio recording experience.
