The official mic adapter for the GoPro Hero 12 is crafted to enhance audio quality by enabling the connection of an external microphone to your camera.

However, there are effective alternatives available. Are you certain it’s a necessity for you?

This article will delve into why a mic adapter is crucial for using an external microphone with your GoPro Hero 12 and explore the alternative options you have.

 

Understanding the GoPro Hero 12 Mic Adapter


A GoPro mic adapter is an accessory designed to connect an external microphone to your GoPro camera, enhancing audio capture.

3.5mm GoPro Pro Mic Adapter

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  • Enables high-quality audio capture when using a pro-level external mic.Mounting Type:...
  • USB-C power and data extension with 90° connector
  • Connects a wide range of external 3.5mm mics

External microphones surpass the camera’s built-in mics in sound quality, noise cancellation, and the ability to record directionally. The go-to official GoPro mic adapter is the Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter, retailing for about $50 USD. It features a USB-C connector for the camera, a 3.5mm jack for the microphone, and an additional USB-C port for charging or data transfer. It boasts a 106dB stereo analog-to-digital converter for superior audio recording.

Utilizing a Mic Adapter

Follow these steps to use the GoPro mic adapter effectively:

  1. Connect the adapter’s USB-C connector to your camera’s USB-C port.
  2. Attach the 3.5mm jack of the adapter to your microphone or its cable.
  3. Power on your camera and navigate to Preferences > Audio Input > Standard Mic (or Standard Mic+ for powered microphones).
  4. Begin capturing your video with significantly enhanced audio quality.

 

Alternatives to the GoPro Mic Adapter


The GoPro Hero 12 lacks a traditional 3.5mm audio jack for directly connecting an external microphone. Instead, it requires the use of its USB-C port. However, it’s important to note that not all USB-C devices will work with the GoPro Hero 12; a specific GoPro-designed mic adapter is necessary.

I’ve explored several alternatives for connecting an external microphone to the GoPro Hero 12:

USB C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter UGREEN

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One cost-effective alternative is the Ugreen Adapter. To use this adapter with your GoPro, follow these steps:

  1. Plug the adapter’s USB-C connector into the camera’s USB-C port.
  2. Connect the 3.5mm jack of the adapter to your microphone or its cable.
  3. Turn on the camera, navigate to Preferences > Audio Input, and choose Standard Mic or Standard Mic+ for powered microphones.
  4. You’re now ready to record videos with enhanced audio quality.

GoPro Hero 12 Media Mod

GoPro Media Mod (HERO11...
3,431 Reviews
GoPro Media Mod (HERO11...
  • Built-in directional mic highlights voice audio and reduces ambient noise
  • Tough, weather-resistant construction withstands the elements
  • 2 cold-shoe mounts to attach your favorite lights, mics or LCD screens

Another option is the Media Mod, a versatile accessory that equips the GoPro Hero 12 with a built-in directional microphone, a 3.5mm audio jack, an HDMI port, and two cold shoe mounts. Priced at approximately $80 USD, the Media Mod not only improves audio capture but also expands mounting and accessory attachment possibilities.

To set up the Media Mod, follow these instructions:

  1. Remove the camera’s battery and side doors.
  2. Insert the camera into the Media Mod and secure it using the latch.
  3. Connect an external microphone to the Media Mod’s 3.5mm audio jack.
  4. Power on the camera and adjust the audio input settings to Standard Mic or Standard Mic+ for powered microphones.
  5. You can now begin recording with significantly improved audio quality.

 

Why To Get a GoPro Hero 12 Mic Adapter


There are several key reasons why a mic adapter is essential for your GoPro Hero 12. Let’s delve into these reasons.

Truthfully, the audio quality of GoPro’s built-in microphones doesn’t quite hit the mark. Here’s an explanation of why this is the case.

The GoPro Hero 12 is equipped with four internal microphones capable of capturing stereo or surround sound.

gopro build in mic

Limitation of Build-in Mic

Nonetheless, relying on these internal mics comes with its set of challenges and limitations:

  • Susceptibility to Interference: The built-in mics often capture unwanted ambient noises, including wind, water splash, and handling sounds, which can detract from the quality of your audio.
  • Influence by Camera Settings: Certain camera settings, like Protune or the Media Mod, can impact the performance of the internal microphones.
  • Limited Sensitivity: In environments with a lot of background noise or in situations where the sound source is far from the camera, the internal mics may struggle to capture sound clearly due to low sensitivity or volume levels.
  • Compromised Sound Quality: The internal microphones may not deliver the best sound clarity, particularly in challenging lighting conditions or indoors, leading to subpar audio quality in your recordings.

Pros of External Microphone

To address these audio challenges and enhance your sound quality, consider using a GoPro mic adapter to attach an external microphone to your camera.

An external microphone can provide:

  • Enhanced sound quality and clarity, making it ideal for capturing voice or musical performances.
  • Improved noise reduction and cancellation capabilities, crucial for minimizing background noise in windy conditions or underwater recordings.
  • Focused directional recording, particularly beneficial for conducting interviews or creating vlogs.
  • Greater flexibility and control to adapt to various recording situations and personal preferences.

There are various external microphone options available, including lavalier, shotgun, condenser, and wireless microphones, each designed for specific recording needs and environments.

 

Top External Microphones for the GoPro Hero 12


The GoPro Hero 12 is compatible with a wide range of external microphones, provided they come with a 3.5mm connection. Some microphones may need extra accessories or batteries to function optimally.

Below are some top picks for external microphones suited for the GoPro Hero 12:

Rode VideoMicro

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  • Compact microphone designed to improve the audio quality of your videos - only 80...
  • No battery required (powered by camera plug-in power - min 3V)
  • Includes Rycote lyre shock mount and deluxe furry windshield

This compact shotgun microphone delivers outstanding directional audio, ensuring your recordings are clear and focused – perfect for content creators, vloggers, and filmmakers on the move. It comes equipped with a shock mount for stable recordings, a furry windshield to reduce wind noise outdoors, and a coiled cable for added flexibility. Best of all, it operates without batteries, offering a plug-and-play solution for hassle-free recording.

Rode Wireless GO II

RØDE Wireless Go II Dual Channel...
  • Ultra-compact and easy-to-use dual-channel wireless microphone system for filmmaking,...
  • Analogue and digital USB outputs that are compatible with cameras Windows and MacOS...
  • Transmitters have over 40 hours of on-board recording function to ensure flawless...

Dive into the world of audio flexibility with this wireless microphone system, featuring two transmitters and a receiver. The transmitters have built-in omnidirectional microphones that can also be used as clip-on lavalier mics, capturing high-quality sound from any direction.

The receiver connects effortlessly to your GoPro via a mic adapter or the Media Mod, integrating smoothly into your setup. With up to 7 hours of battery life and support for 24-bit/48kHz audio, this system delivers professional-grade sound clarity and depth, ideal for content creators and filmmakers seeking top-notch audio on the go.

Saramonic SR-XM1

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  • Unidirectional design focuses on the sound in front of the microphone, while...
  • Built-in swivel provides 180˚ positioning and 360˚ rotation in 3.5mm input, and...

Embrace simplicity without sacrificing audio quality with this mini omnidirectional microphone. Designed for direct connection to your GoPro’s mic adapter or Media Mod, this small but mighty microphone captures pristine sound for all your projects.

Its flexible gooseneck design allows for easy positioning, ensuring your audio is captured exactly as intended. No need for batteries—just plug in and start recording. This microphone is a fuss-free solution for enhancing your GoPro’s audio capabilities, perfect for adventurers and content creators alike.

 

Is It Essential?


Utilizing a GoPro mic adapter enables the connection of an external microphone, enhancing audio quality, reducing noise, offering directional recording capabilities, and granting greater control over audio adjustments.

Yet, from my perspective, the official GoPro Hero 12 mic adapter may not be the optimal choice due to the extra expense, bulkiness, and complexity it introduces to your setup.

I lean towards the GoPro Media Mod instead. Although it comes at a higher price, it incorporates an external microphone and facilitates the use of additional accessories with your GoPro Hero 12, like the light mod and display mod.

 

 

Thank you for reading this guide!

I hope that it was helpful in teaching you everything you need to choose the best GoPro Hero 12 mic adapter 🙂

Don’t forget to share this article on social media with your family and friends.


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