Are you tired of the mediocre audio quality from your iPhone 12’s built-in microphone? Do you want to take your mobile content creation to the next level? Using an external microphone with your iPhone 12 can make a significant difference in the quality of your audio recordings. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of external microphones compatible with the iPhone 12, the necessary adapters and accessories, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to use an external microphone with your device.
Choosing The Right External Microphone For Your IPhone 12
When it comes to selecting an external microphone for your iPhone 12, there are several options available, each with its unique characteristics, advantages, and price points. Here are a few popular types of external microphones that are compatible with the iPhone 12:
Lavalier Microphones
Lavalier microphones, also known as lapel microphones, are small, clip-on microphones that are designed to capture high-quality audio in a variety of settings. They’re popular among content creators, podcasters, and videographers due to their ease of use, compact size, and excellent sound quality.
Shotgun Microphones
Shotgun microphones are designed to capture audio from a specific direction, making them ideal for recording in noisy environments or when trying to isolate a specific sound source. They’re commonly used in film, television, and live events.
USB Microphones
USB microphones are plug-and-play devices that connect directly to your iPhone 12 via a USB adapter. They’re popular among podcasters, voiceover artists, and musicians due to their high-quality audio and ease of use.
Necessary Adapters And Accessories
To connect an external microphone to your iPhone 12, you’ll need a few adapters and accessories. Here are some of the most common ones:
Lightning To 3.5mm Adapter
The Lightning to 3.5mm adapter is a must-have for connecting any external microphone with a 3.5mm audio jack to your iPhone 12. This adapter converts the digital signal from your iPhone 12 to an analog signal that your microphone can understand.
USB-C To USB Adapter
If you’re using a USB microphone, you’ll need a USB-C to USB adapter to connect it to your iPhone 12. This adapter allows you to connect your USB microphone to your iPhone 12’s USB-C port.
Microphone Windshield Or Pop Filter
A microphone windshield or pop filter can help reduce wind noise and plosive sounds when recording outdoors or in a studio. These accessories can make a significant difference in the quality of your audio recordings.
A Step-by-Step Guide To Using An External Microphone With Your IPhone 12
Now that you’ve chosen the right external microphone and have the necessary adapters and accessories, it’s time to start recording. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use an external microphone with your iPhone 12:
Step 1: Connect Your External Microphone To Your IPhone 12
Connect your external microphone to your iPhone 12 using the necessary adapters and accessories. If you’re using a lavalier microphone, clip it to your shirt or collar. If you’re using a shotgun microphone, position it to capture the desired sound source.
Step 2: Open The Voice Memos App Or Your Preferred Recording App
Open the Voice Memos app or your preferred recording app on your iPhone 12. Make sure that the app is set to use the external microphone as the default audio input.
Step 3: Start Recording
Start recording by tapping the record button in the app. You should see the audio levels moving on the screen, indicating that the app is capturing audio from your external microphone.
Step 4: Monitor Your Audio Levels
Monitor your audio levels to ensure that they’re not too high or too low. You can adjust the gain on your microphone or in the app to optimize the audio levels.
Step 5: Stop Recording And Review Your Audio
Stop recording by tapping the stop button in the app. Review your audio to ensure that it’s clear and free of any background noise or distortion.
| Microphone Type | Adapter Required | Audio Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Lavalier Microphone | Lightning to 3.5mm Adapter | High-quality audio with good noise rejection |
| Shotgun Microphone | Lightning to 3.5mm Adapter | High-quality audio with good directionality |
| USB Microphone | USB-C to USB Adapter | High-quality audio with low noise floor |
In conclusion, using an external microphone with your iPhone 12 can significantly improve the quality of your audio recordings. By choosing the right microphone, adapters, and accessories, and following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can unlock professional audio on your iPhone 12 and take your mobile content creation to the next level.
What Is The Benefit Of Using An External Microphone With My IPhone 12?
Using an external microphone with your iPhone 12 can significantly improve the audio quality of your recordings. The built-in microphone on your iPhone is designed to pick up a wide range of sounds, but it can also pick up background noise and interference. An external microphone, on the other hand, can be positioned to capture high-quality audio from a specific source, such as a person’s voice or a musical instrument.
By using an external microphone, you can achieve professional-sounding audio that is perfect for a variety of applications, including podcasting, voiceovers, and music recording. Additionally, many external microphones are designed to be compact and portable, making them easy to take with you on the go.
What Type Of External Microphone Is Best For My IPhone 12?
The type of external microphone that is best for your iPhone 12 will depend on your specific needs and preferences. There are many different types of microphones available, including USB microphones, Lightning microphones, and wireless microphones. If you’re looking for a simple and easy-to-use option, a Lightning microphone may be the best choice. These microphones plug directly into your iPhone’s Lightning port and are easy to set up and use.
If you’re looking for a more advanced option, a USB microphone may be the way to go. These microphones offer higher sound quality and more features, such as multiple pickup patterns and adjustable gain. However, they may require a separate power source and a Lightning-to-USB adapter to connect to your iPhone.
How Do I Connect An External Microphone To My IPhone 12?
Connecting an external microphone to your iPhone 12 is a relatively simple process. If you’re using a Lightning microphone, simply plug it into your iPhone’s Lightning port. If you’re using a USB microphone, you’ll need to use a Lightning-to-USB adapter to connect it to your iPhone. Make sure to purchase an adapter that is compatible with your iPhone and microphone.
Once you’ve connected your microphone, you’ll need to select it as the input device in your recording app. This is usually done by going to the app’s settings menu and selecting the microphone as the input device. You may also need to adjust the gain and other settings to get the best sound quality.
What Recording Apps Are Compatible With External Microphones On The IPhone 12?
There are many recording apps that are compatible with external microphones on the iPhone 12. Some popular options include GarageBand, ShurePlus MOTIV, and Filmic Pro. These apps offer a range of features, including multiple tracks, effects, and editing tools. When choosing a recording app, consider what features are most important to you and look for an app that meets your needs.
In addition to these apps, there are many other recording apps available that are compatible with external microphones. Be sure to read reviews and do your research before choosing an app to ensure that it meets your needs and is compatible with your microphone.
Can I Use An External Microphone With Other IPhone Apps, Such As FaceTime And Skype?
Yes, you can use an external microphone with other iPhone apps, such as FaceTime and Skype. However, you may need to go into the app’s settings menu and select the external microphone as the input device. This will vary depending on the app, so you may need to experiment to find the right settings.
Using an external microphone with video conferencing apps can greatly improve the audio quality of your calls. This is especially important if you’re using these apps for business or professional purposes. By using a high-quality external microphone, you can ensure that your voice comes through clearly and professionally.
How Do I Troubleshoot Issues With My External Microphone On My IPhone 12?
If you’re experiencing issues with your external microphone on your iPhone 12, there are several things you can try to troubleshoot the problem. First, make sure that the microphone is properly connected to your iPhone and that the volume is turned up. You should also check the app’s settings menu to ensure that the external microphone is selected as the input device.
If you’re still experiencing issues, try restarting your iPhone or closing and reopening the app. You can also try using a different microphone or a different app to see if the problem persists. If none of these solutions work, you may want to contact the manufacturer of your microphone or iPhone for further assistance.
Are There Any Additional Accessories I Need To Use An External Microphone With My IPhone 12?
Depending on the type of microphone you’re using, you may need additional accessories to use it with your iPhone 12. For example, if you’re using a USB microphone, you’ll need a Lightning-to-USB adapter to connect it to your iPhone. You may also need a stand or mount to position the microphone correctly.
Additionally, you may want to consider using a windscreen or pop filter to reduce wind noise and plosives. These accessories can help improve the sound quality of your recordings and reduce the risk of distortion. Be sure to research the specific accessories that are compatible with your microphone and iPhone.