How to Improve Your GoPro Sound Quality Recordings

Does GoPro Record Sound?

How to Improve the Audio Quality from GoPro Cameras

While video recording with GoPro is simple and efficient, the same can’t be said for the sound quality.

Here are a couple of tips to help you enhance the quality of the action video camera:

Manage External Noise

 

The most common reason for external noise in GoPro is wind noise. Well, GoPro has a wind noise suppression feature to eliminate this issue.

This feature is available on nearly all GoPro models. All you have to do is find it under Protune > Wind Noise Reduction.

That’s not all, but background noise is significantly common in all video recordings, regardless of the type of camera you’re using.

For this reason, you might need to pay attention to your recording environment. For starters, using pop filters and wind filters will enhance the clarity of your audio in real time.

Furthermore, you should avoid recording in noisy areas unless you have an external microphone and significant post-processing.

Properly Set Up Your GoPro Camera

Setting up and using your GoPro as a handheld or wearable is as straightforward as it gets. Still, there are a few mistakes you might be making that affect your audio quality.

The first thing that people pay attention to is getting the perfect shot for their action video. Yet, audio quality is an afterthought.

That’s why a lot of beginners end up with muffled audio, as the built-in GoPro microphones are blocked. So, make sure the top part and the sides of the camera are clear.

Moreover, waterproof housing blocks moisture as well as sound. Accordingly, replacing the waterproof housing with a skeleton cage housing will positively impact the sound of your GoPro.

If you’re still getting noisy recordings, there’s only one answer: Get close to the GoPro.

GoPro cameras pick up even the slightest background noise. If you want your voice to be prominent, keep the built-in microphone as close to you as possible and far away from unwanted sounds.

As for the best GoPro settings to maximize audio quality, enable ProTune (a setting available on all the best GoPro cameras) and select the appropriate microphone mode based on your shooting conditions: Standard, Wind, and Stereo.

If you’re shooting in windy conditions, enable the Wind mode in ProTune to reduce wind noise interference.

Some GoPro models allow you to adjust the audio sensitivity. Experiment with different sensitivity levels to find the best one for your situation.

Use External Microphones

Since GoPro isn’t designed to give you studio-grade quality, you might want to invest in an external microphone if sound quality is one of your priorities.

The best part about getting a wireless microphone for your GoPro is that you’ll expand the usage of the action camera.

Depending on the type of external mic you’re using, your GoPro can capture music, speaking voices, ambient sounds, or even ASMR.

Setting up an external mic is relatively easy. While GoPro doesn’t have a specific port for microphone connections, it does have a USB-C port.

That said, you might need to get a USB adapter to connect most jack microphones. The most popular external microphones compatible with GoPro include Rodeo and Sennheiser.

• Best action camera microphone attachments

Employ Double-Audio System

Alternatively, you might also invest in double-system audio. This process involves recording the video on your GoPro and recording the audio simultaneously using a separate device.

This can be a condenser microphone or even your favorite camera.

The main problem you’ll face with double-system audio is the lagging or leading of the audio, making it hard to sync the audio and the video.

You can overcome this issue by using audio references when editing your content. Upload the audio recorded by your GoPro and match its waveform to the final track.

In contrast, you can use a visual sync point, such as a film clapper, or clap with your hands!

Post-Production

 

GoPro cameras can be pretty pricey. Naturally, you don’t want to buy external microphones, pop filters, or other audio accessories.

GoPro video files can be uploaded to almost any audio and video editing software. This way, you can manipulate the audio quality to your liking, record voice-over, and remove excess noise.

Unfortunately, GoPro Studio, GoPro’s editing software, is no longer supported nor included in the installation package. Still, some alternative video editing software includes:

• GoPro Quik
• iMovie
• Video Pro Vlogger
• Adobe Premiere Pro
• DaVinci Resolve 18

GoPro Models With the Best Sound Quality

If you’re a beginner videographer, spending all this time and effort to improve the sound quality of your GoPro might seem like too much of a hassle.

For this reason, you’ll want to invest in a GoPro with the best sound quality.

Here are the available GoPro models with the best audio recording capabilities:

1.   GoPro Hero 12 Black

Not only does the GoPro Hero 12 Black top the GoPro camera list, but it’s also one of the best action cameras on the market.

The built-in microphone in the GoPro 12 black might be unchanged compared to previous models. However, what sets this camera apart is its superb connection features.

To start, the action camera supports almost every external microphone. Your favorite feature will probably be the Bluetooth connection, though.

That’s because you can connect your headphones, microphones, or even earbuds to this GoPro. Then, the camera will pick up the audio without needing expensive audio accessories.

2.   GoPro Max

GoPro Max is an all-rounder action video camera. Though it’s best for capturing 360 video clips, it also offers one of the best sound qualities.

The reason is that GoPro Max overcomes many audio issues with other cameras.

For starters, you won’t need a waterproof case, which will muffle the sound. GoPro Max is waterproof without a case!

The camera also has great stabilization as well as integrated mounting clips. Accordingly, you won’t have to worry about setting up the camera incorrectly.

All these reasons make the GoPro Max the best camera for action-packed adventures, vlogging, and even recording music.

3.   GoPro Hero 11 Black

Before the GoPro Hero 12, the GoPro Hero 11 Black camera was on the top of every list as the best action camera.

Still, if you can’t get your hands on the newer Black models or are on a budget, GoPro Hero 11 Black is an excellent option.

This model might not have as many audio connection options, but it’s as multipurpose as an action video camera can get. The reason is that you can capture numerous aspect ratios, all with superb qualities.

Then, when it comes to editing, the GoPro Quik app offers numerous features, such as allowing you to output your final file directly to the application of your choice. This way, there’ll be minimal audio distortion.

4.   GoPro Hero 11 Mini

If you’re looking for the same standard features as the GoPro Hero 11 Black at a fraction of the price, then the GoPro Hero 11 Mini is for you.

This camera has decent sound quality and great video resolution. While GoPro compromised a couple of features to reduce the weight and size of the camera, you’ll barely be able to tell the difference between content shot on the GoPro Hero 11 Black and GoPro Hero 11 Mini.

Here’s the kicker: The small size of this camera means you can mount it anywhere, including on your helmet.

Yet, you won’t encounter any wind noise or muffled sound, as the built-in microphone is in a convenient position.

5.   GoPro Hero 12 Black Creator Edition

Last but definitely not least is GoPro Hero 12 Black Creator Edition.

This GoPro camera is practically identical to the GoPro Hero 12 Black. That said, GoPro employed additional features that make for an immersive recording experience.

This creative toolkit allows you to shoot and share without going through any editing or output that might compromise audio quality. Yet, you’ll also enjoy extra editing features on the GoPro Quick app.

Moreover, the Creator Edition has all the external accessories you’ll need to shoot content. So, there’s no need to buy any pop filters, shock mounts, or audio adapters.