As its name suggests, a 3.5mm microphone is an audio recording device that can be connected to the 3.5mm jack on your recording devices. It usually comes in two types, one is a single capsule or wired microphone featuring 3.5mm connector, the other is wireless one that connects to the device via 3.5mm microphone cable. It seems easy to connect it. However, there are also differences among various kinds of devices. If you want to capture high-quality audio, the following tips may play a role.
How to connect 3.5mm microphone to computer?
Nowadays more and more activities are conducted online such as conference, teaching. And a increasing number of people use their computer to shoot varied videos. And how to connect an external mic to the computer is frequently asked. It seems that the connection is as simple as plugging the mic in the jack, why does it need to be discussed? To use the microphone 3.5mm for better audio, you need to consider the followings.
1. Make sure the mic features TRRS connector
Actually, the first step is to make sure your mic can work for your computer. There are two types in 3.5mm connector, and the one that fits computer is called TRRS. But how to tell it? TRRS here stands for “tip, ring, ring sleeve”, and you can recognize it by three black rings on it.
Once make sure the 3.5mm microphone is with TRRS connector or cable, then you can directly plug it into the audio input socket of the computer. Usually, the socket it on the side and marked by a earphone icon. And now can we start recording? The answer is no.
2. Set it up as default recording device
To ensure the computer to capture sounds from the 3.5mm computer microphone, you need to set up and test the mic. And here are the tips for Windows 10 user.
- Check the physical connection, make sure the mic is plugged firmly.
- Find the Settings gear, select System and then go to the setting of Sound.
- Go to Input zone, select the microphone you want to use as the default device in the Choose input device list.
3. Test the mic
In addition, you can test the mic in advance so that your recording can go smooth. You can follow the tips below.
- Find the Settings gear, select System and then go to the setting of Sound.
- Go to Input zone, under Test your microphone you can see a bar beside. If the blue bar goes up and down as you speak, your mic is under working.
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Tips on connecting microphone to DSLR
Generally speaking, using 3.5mm microphone with DSLR is the easiest. And it is favored by audio beginners. Most DSLR camera features 3.5mm port, so you can simply plug your mic into the 3.5mm microphone audio jack. And you can follow the steps.
1. Use the mic with TRS connector
Like using the mic for computer, you should also assure that it features TRS connect or cable that fits the camera jack. TRS refers to “tip, ring, sleeve” and has two black rings, making it simple to identity.
2. Remember to turn off AGC
Also, to record better audio, simply connecting the mic is not enough. No matter what you record with the camera, it is of importance to turn of the Automatic Gain Control, or AGC in short.
It enables the audio volume to be automatically adjusted by the camera. Perhaps you believe it is a good idea because it eliminates the need for manual monitoring and adjustment. However, this may make your post production in trouble.
Why? Because the camera will increase the level before you talk, making the background noises appear incredibly loud. The level will then be drastically reduced as soon as you begin speaking, making the first few syllables uncomfortably loud and distorted in relation to the rest of your voice.
As a result, to make your mic the best 3.5mm microphone for streaming and other shooting, it's a good idea turn off the setting and adjust the audio level by yourself.
Tips to connect it to smartphone
Like mentioned above, you need to have a 3.5mm microphone with TRRS connector or cable and then you can directly plug it into the earphone jack.
But what if you have a 3.5mm microphone for mobile that you want to use with phones that have other jacks? An adaptor is dispatched to assist.
But, with so many different types of adapters on sale, how can you pick the right one? It relies on your cellphone's microphone output and audio input. For example, if you have an Android phone with a Type C connection, a TRRS to Type-C converter is an excellent option for using an external microphone with your phone.
If you want to know more about connection issue, you can check the article How to connect external cell phone microphone?