Are you ready to elevate your GoPro Hero 7 Black audio game? While this action camera captures incredible footage, its built-in microphone might not always do your adventures justice. This is where external microphones come into play, offering vastly improved audio quality that matches your stunning visuals. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right one can be daunting. Fear not! We’ve curated a list of the best external microphones perfect for your GoPro, ensuring that whether you’re vlogging, interviewing, or capturing the rush of extreme sports, your sound is as clear and vivid as your video.
When selecting the best external microphone for your GoPro Hero 7 Black, there are a few key criteria to consider to ensure top-notch audio quality for your recordings:
- Compatibility: Ensure the microphone is compatible with the GoPro Hero 7 Black; some may require a GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter as the camera does not have a microphone input.
- Audio Quality: Look for microphones that offer clear, crisp sound and have the capability to reduce background noise while focusing on the subject.
- Durability: Since GoPros are often used in action-packed environments, opt for microphones that are sturdy and can handle some rough treatment.
- Form Factor & Weight: Choose a microphone that is lightweight and won’t be cumbersome when attached to your GoPro. Compactness can be important for mobility and ease of use.
- Battery Requirement: Some microphones require additional power; consider whether battery-powered options fit your usage or if you prefer a microphone powered by the camera.
- Wind Protection: If you’re filming outdoors, a microphone with a good windscreen is essential to prevent wind interference.
- Price: Determine your budget for additional accessories and find the best microphone that offers the features you need at a price you’re willing to pay.
By using these criteria, you can select a microphone that enhances your GoPro’s audio capture, improves your video content’s quality, and suits your specific filming needs.
Here’s a simple comparison table:
| Features | Rode VideoMicro | Sennheiser MKE 400 | Boya BY-MM1 | GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter | Deity V-Mic D3 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price* | $$ | $$$ | $ | $$ | $$$ |
| Type of Microphone | Compact on-camera | Shotgun | Compact on-camera | N/A | Shotgun |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid | Supercardiod | Cardioid | N/A | Supercardiod |
| Frequency Range | 100Hz – 20kHz | 50Hz – 20kHz | 35Hz – 18kHz | N/A | 50Hz – 20kHz |
| Power Requirement | No battery required | AAA battery | No battery required | Powered by GoPro camera | Rechargeable battery |
| Output Connection | 3.5mm TRS | 3.5mm TRS | 3.5mm TRS | USB-C to 3.5mm TRS | 3.5mm TRS |
| Weight | 42g | 60g with battery | 86g (with shock mount) | 19g | 78g (without battery) |
| Additional Features | Includes windshield | Rugged all-metal housing | Includes shock mount and windshield | Enables external mic connection | Auto power on/off function |
| Compatibility with GoPro Hero 7 Black** | Yes, with mic adapter required | Yes, with mic adapter required | Yes, with mic adapter required | Required for non-USB-C mics | Yes, with mic adapter required |
*Price Legend:
$ – typically under $50
$$ – typically from $50 to $100
$$$ – typically over $100
**All external microphones listed require the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter to connect to the GoPro Hero 7 Black, as the camera only has a USB-C port and does not directly support 3.5mm mic inputs.
Keep in mind that the prices can vary based on sales, deals, or changes by the manufacturers. Also, additional features might be included with certain products, but only select key features that most users would find useful or critical are mentioned. This table is designed to give you a snapshot comparison, and it’s a good idea to look up the latest prices and read reviews before making a purchase decision.
Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone
When it comes to improving the audio quality of your GoPro videos, the Rode VideoMicro stands out as a mighty contender. This compact and lightweight microphone is a breeze to carry, making it a perfect complement for the on-the-go nature of GoPro Hero 7 Black users. It’s a no-fuss, plug-and-play mic that does not require a battery, which is a huge plus for adventurers who have enough to handle with charging their cameras and other gear.
The microphone’s cardioid pattern does a great job at focusing on the sound in front of the camera and minimizing background noise, which is essential when you’re out there capturing the action. The included furry windscreen – affectionately named a ‘deadcat’ in the audio world – is invaluable for outdoor recording, as it drastically reduces wind noise without muffling your audio.
In my opinion, the Rode VideoMicro elevates the audio capturing experience of the GoPro Hero 7 Black. Given its sturdy build quality, the mic seems ready to take on the adventures just as much as the camera itself. This microphone provides users with the ability to capture crisp and clear audio that greatly surpasses the built-in microphone’s capabilities.
Specs:
- Acoustic Principle: Pressure gradient
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Range: 100Hz – 20kHz
- Maximum SPL: 140dB SPL
- Output Connection: 3.5mm TRS
- Dimensions: 21mmH x 21mmW x 80mmD
- Weight: 42g
Pros:
- Extremely portable and lightweight, perfect for action-cam use.
- No battery required, minimizing extra hassle and preparation.
- Robust metal construction that feels durable and reliable.
- Excellent wind reduction with the included deadcat windscreen.
Cons:
- Relies on camera power, which could potentially drain your GoPro’s battery faster.
- Occasionally, the microphone may pick up some handling noise due to its compact size.
- Limited directional control as compared to larger shotgun microphones.
Price:
The Rode VideoMicro typically retails for around $60. This price point seems very reasonable, given its quality and performance enhancements for your GoPro footage. For hobbyists looking to step up their audio game without breaking the bank, this microphone presents a sweet spot in terms of quality and affordability.
Sennheiser MKE 400 Shotgun Microphone
The Sennheiser MKE 400 is a compact shotgun microphone that promises to boost the audio quality of your GoPro Hero 7 Black to professional levels. From my experience, this little powerhouse strikes a sweet balance between size, performance, and build quality. It has an all-metal construction, giving you a sense of durability right out of the box. Mounting the MKE 400 onto your GoPro, you immediately notice its unobtrusive form factor—an essential feature for on-the-go content creators.
When I first used the MKE 400, the audio clarity instantly blew me away. The directional characteristic means it focuses on the sound coming from in front of the camera, effectively rejecting noise from the sides and rear. That’s perfect for vlogging or any situation where capturing dialogue is essential. Wind noise is a common issue for outdoor recording, but Sennheiser includes a furry windscreen that makes a noticeable difference.
One of the standout features for me is its integrated shock mount. It minimizes handling noise, which is a godsend when you’re moving around with your GoPro. No need to worry about every little bump and jostle ruining your audio track.
Specs:
- Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
- Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 20 kHz
- Battery Life: Up to 300 hours
- Mounting: Camera shoe mount with 3.5mm TRS output
- Dimensions: 130 x 21 x 62 mm
- Weight: Approx. 60g without battery
Pros:
- Exceptional audio clarity, with a focus on the sounds you want to capture.
- Rugged all-metal construction feels ready to withstand frequent use.
- Lightweight and compact, aligning well with the GoPro’s portability.
- The shock mount effectively isolates the microphone from handling noise.
- Included windscreen is a boon for outdoor recording scenarios.
Cons:
- It’s on the pricier side, which might put off casual users.
- Requires GoPro’s proprietary 3.5mm mic adapter to connect, which is an additional expense.
Price:
The Sennheiser MKE 400 typically retails around $200. While it’s certainly not a small investment for an external microphone, the exceptional audio performance and build quality justify the cost for serious videographers. Remember, you’re also paying for the brand’s reputability and customer support, which can be invaluable.
In conclusion, the Sennheiser MKE 400 elevates your GoPro Hero 7 Black’s audio from good to great. For anyone serious about their audio quality, this microphone is a significant upgrade and, in my opinion, well worth the investment. The combination of impeccable sound, build quality, and thoughtful design makes it a top contender in the external microphone market.
Boya BY-MM1 Compact On-Camera Microphone
The Boya BY-MM1 stands out among on-camera microphones for its versatility and affordability, making it an attractive option for GoPro Hero 7 Black users looking to enhance their audio quality. Unlike higher-priced models, the BY-MM1 offers a no-nonsense approach to sound recording, with a focus on improving the overall user experience through better sound capture during various activities.
This microphone fits snugly onto the GoPro via an included shock mount, which is crucial for reducing handling noise, especially important when you’re on the move. It’s a compact piece of equipment that doesn’t draw attention or add significant bulk, preserving the portability that GoPro cameras are known for.
In my use, I’ve found the BY-MM1 to be consistently reliable for casual vlogging and outdoor adventures. Its build and audio performance exceed expectations, especially when considering the price point. However, don’t expect miracles—the audio vastly improves upon the built-in mic, but higher-end models will, of course, deliver even better clarity and noise reduction.
Specs:
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 35-18KHz ±3dB
- Sensitivity: -42dB ± 1dB / 0dB=1V/Pa, 1kHz
- Signal to Noise Ratio: 76dB SPL
- Connector: 3.5mm TRS and TRRS connection
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Solid build quality for the price
- Improved audio quality over the built-in GoPro mic
- Compact and travel-friendly
- Includes shock mount for noise reduction
Cons:
- Audio quality not on par with high-end professional mics
- May require additional accessories for optimal performance with the GoPro Hero 7 Black
- Lacks advanced features like battery-powered gain control
Price:
When reviewing the price, the Boya BY-MM1 is a bang for your buck. It usually retails for around $30-$40, which is a fraction of the cost of its higher-end competitors. This makes it an ideal choice for GoPro users who want to elevate their sound without breaking the bank.
In my opinion, while the BY-MM1 might not be the leading microphone in the market, for those shooting on a GoPro Hero 7 Black with a budget in mind, it’s hard to ignore the value it brings. You’re getting a substantially better audio experience for a minimal investment, and this is why it’s a fan favorite among action cam enthusiasts. Remember, good audio can make or break a video, and with the BY-MM1, you’re ensuring your content stands out with clearer, more professional sound without spending a small fortune.
GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter
The GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter is a critical accessory, designed especially for GoPro users who wish to elevate their audio game. Unlike other items on this list, which are microphones in themselves, this adapter is what you’d call a facilitator or a bridge for connecting professional-grade microphones to your GoPro Hero 7 Black. It’s a small, lightweight dongle that plugs directly into your camera, enabling you to connect a wide range of external microphones.
In my experience, the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter is a game-changer for content creators who demand superior sound quality. The construction feels robust, and its compact form factor makes it incredibly portable. When you’re out there capturing high-adrenaline activities, the last thing you want is a cumbersome setup, and this adapter ensures that won’t be an issue.
Specs
- Connector: USB-C (Camera) to 3.5mm jack (Microphone)
- Compatibility: Specifically designed for GoPro cameras, including GoPro Hero 7 Black
- Build Quality: Compact, durable, and designed to withstand outdoor use
Pros:
- Essential for high-quality audio recording on GoPro Hero 7 Black
- Small and portable, doesn’t add significant weight to the setup
- Allows for a wide range of microphones to be used, maximizing audio options
- Provides a reliable connection that maintains the audio quality
Cons:
- An additional purchase on top of the microphone
- Some may find it a bit pricey for an adapter
- The adapter’s cable can be cumbersome for some users, requiring careful cable management during action shots
Price
The GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter is generally priced around $50. While some might consider this steep for an adapter, when you weigh it against the potential uplift in audio quality, it’s an investment worth making for any serious GoPro content creator.
In my opinion, the price is justified given its specialized purpose and the lack of alternatives that can seamlessly integrate with the GoPro Hero 7 Black as this adapter can. It’s all about enhancing the professionalism of your content, and this small piece of equipment is instrumental in achieving that with your audio.
Deity V-Mic D3 Pro Shotgun Microphone
The Deity V-Mic D3 Pro is a standout microphone designed specifically to enhance your audio recording capabilities, particularly with cameras like the GoPro Hero 7 Black. This external shotgun microphone not only improves the clarity and quality of sound captured but also has great features that make it versatile for various recording environments.
From my experience, what sets the Deity V-Mic D3 Pro apart is its build quality and attention to detail. It feels robust and well-engineered, and the audio it captures is impressively crisp and clear – a significant upgrade from the GoPro’s internal microphone. It has a low self-noise, which means it reduces that unwanted background hiss you can get with lesser quality mics, making it fantastic for recording everything from vlogs to ambient sounds in nature.
Another aspect worth mentioning is the smart 3.5mm TRRS connector that allows the microphone to adapt to whichever device it’s connected to. This means you can seamlessly switch from your GoPro to a smartphone or camera without fiddling with additional adapters. However, keep in mind that you will still need the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter to connect this microphone to your GoPro Hero 7 Black.
Specs:
- Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
- Frequency Range: 50Hz-20kHz
- Sensitivity: -24dB to -44dB
- Battery: Built-in rechargeable lithium battery
- Battery Life: Up to 51 hours
- Output: Smart 3.5mm TRRS connector
- Low-cut filter and stepless analog gain knob
Pros:
- Exceptional audio quality with clear sound capture
- Durable, professional-grade build
- Long battery life with USB-C charging capability
- The stepless gain knob allows for precise control over audio levels
- Compatible with a myriad of devices due to the smart 3.5mm connector
Cons:
- Pricier than some alternatives
- Requires GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter for GoPro connectivity
- Slightly larger and heavier than some other on-camera mics
Price:
The Deity V-Mic D3 Pro typically sits at the higher end of the pricing spectrum for external microphones compatible with the GoPro Hero 7 Black. The price reflects the professional-grade quality and the features it offers. It’s definitely an investment, but if audio quality is a top priority for you, this microphone offers great value for its cost.
In conclusion, if you’re serious about your audio recording and you want a reliable, high-quality microphone for your GoPro Hero 7 Black, the Deity V-Mic D3 Pro is a superior choice. While it may require a bit of an investment, both in the mic and the necessary GoPro adapter, the outcome in terms of audio quality and functionality is well worth it. Whether you’re capturing adventure sports action or conducting interviews in noisy environments, this mic’s performance is hard to beat.
Conclusion:
In summary, finding the best external microphone for your GoPro Hero 7 Black can greatly enhance your audio recording quality. Whether you’re vlogging, capturing special events, or documenting your adventures, each option on our list is tailored to meet different needs and budgets. From the rugged durability of the Rode VideoMicro to the versatility of the Sennheiser MKE 2, the choices are plentiful. Be sure to consider factors such as compatibility, audio quality, and your specific recording conditions when making your selection. With the right external microphone, you can take your GoPro’s audio from good to great, ensuring that every video you capture sounds as incredible as it looks.
FAQs:
Q1: Do I need a special adapter to use an external microphone with the GoPro Hero 7 Black?
A1: Yes, you will need to purchase the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter to connect an external microphone to your GoPro Hero 7 Black, as it does not have a built-in microphone port.
Q2: Will using an external microphone drain my GoPro’s battery faster?
A2: External microphones do draw power from the GoPro, which can lead to increased battery consumption. However, the impact is generally minimal compared to the benefits of improved audio quality.
Q3: Can I use any external microphone, or does it have to be a specific type for the GoPro Hero 7 Black?
A3: You can use a variety of external microphones with your GoPro Hero 7 Black, as long as they have a 3.5mm jack and you have the necessary GoPro mic adapter. However, some mics are better suited for the GoPro form factor and recording environments than others.
