Ultimate Guide to Use Mini Microphone On Android

February 13, 2024

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Using an external mic on your Android phone may seem straightforward. Just connect a mic wired or wirelessly and you’re good to go.

Sadly, the reality is a bit more complex than that.

The process involves careful consideration of factors such as device compatibility, connection options, and software support.

In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about using a mini microphone on your Android device.

Compatibility Check

If you haven’t purchased a mini microphone, read this section carefully. On the other hand, just hope that the one you’ve bought is compatible.

When using a mini microphone on your Android device, it’s important to ensure compatibility for both the devices. Although most mini microphones are designed to work seamlessly with a range of devices, it’s always a good practice to check the product specification.

You can also consult the manufacturer or their support team to ensure that their mic is fully compatible with your Android device.

Connecting the Microphone

Depending on the model of your Android device and mini microphone, you can connect it via the headphone jack or USB-C port.

Headphone Jack Connection

Most microphones with a 3.5mm jack like the Rode Lavalier GO use a TRS plug. This won’t work if you plug it directly to your Android phone, which uses a TRRS port.

To connect the mini microphone, you’ll need a splitter with a male TRRS plug. This should split the input for the microphone and earphones.

USB-C Connection

If you’re using a mini microphone with a USB-C plug like the Sennheiser Pro XS, you can plug it in directly to your phone’s USB-C port.

Your Android device should automatically detect the external microphone once plugged in.

Adjusting Settings

Once your mini microphone is connected, tweaking your audio settings is important to maximize performance and sound quality.

Access your device’s settings and find the Sound/Audio section.
From there, find the input or microphone settings, where you can select the external microphone as the default input device.
If available, you can also adjust extra sound settings such as gain, sensitivity, noise cancellation, echo, and more.

Note

Some mini microphones come with their own application to tweak audio quality and access additional features.

Testing the Microphone

After connecting and adjusting settings, it’s time to check whether your mini microphone is working.

Open the default recorder app on your Android device.
Start recording and speak into the microphone.
Play the recording.

Check for recording quality issues like distortion, noise, and clarity.

Troubleshoot Tips

Microphone Not Detected – If your microphone is not being detected, check your permissions and ensure that it’s allowed to access your device. If you’re using a 3.5mm jack, make sure that it’s connected to your Android device via a TRRS connector.
Poor Audio Quality – Try changing your sound settings. Adjust the gain, try a different recording app, and ensure there are no physical obstructions that can affect the microphone’s performance.
Interference Issues – If you encounter background noise and interference while recording, check for potential sources of interference like electronic devices, Wi-Fi routers, and other gadgets that can send wireless signals. Transferring to a quieter environment or adjusting the mic’s position can help minimize this.
Software Issues – Check if there are any firmware updates for your Android device and microphone. Outdated firmware can cause compatibility issues that can cause your microphone to malfunction.
Stutters – If your sound recording is stuttering or choppy, it might be due to faulty audio jack.

Conclusion

Despite having class leading cameras, some Android devices come with mediocre microphones, which ruins the entire footage. With the use of mini microphones, you can elevate the quality of your videos, providing clear and high quality audio.

With mini microphones, you’ll also sound better on your memos, during phone calls, meetings, and others.

FAQs

How to Connect a Mini Microphone to an Android Device?

You can connect a mini microphone to your Android device using a headphone jack or USB-C cable. On some Android devices, you’ll also need to select the external microphone as the default recording device before you can use it.

What Are the Best Mini Microphones for Android Phones?

Some of the bet mini microphones for Android phones include SYNCO P2T,

Moman C2, Rode VideoMicro, and Shure MV88

How to Ensure Compatibility of a Mini Microphone with Your Android Device?

The best way to know whether a mini microphone is compatible with your device is if it uses the audio input your Android device supports. For instance, a mini microphone with a 3.5mm jack won’t work with a device that only has a USB-C input.

Can I Use a Mini Microphone for Video Recording on Android?

Yes. With a mini microphone, you can enhance the audio quality of video recordings. After connecting an external microphone, make sure that it is selected as the default recording device in your camera’s settings.

What Apps Support External Mini Microphones on Android?

Most recording applications like Cinema FV-5, Otter, Dolby On, and Easy Voice Recorder support external mini microphones.

How to Improve Audio Quality with a Mini Microphone on Android?

You can improve audio quality of mini microphones by experimenting on sound settings. You can adjust the microphone’s gain, use a dedicated recording app, or move to a quieter environment during recording.

Why Isn’t My Mini Microphone Working with My Android Phone?

If your mini microphone is not working, check your settings and ensure that your mini microphone is selected as the default recording device. You should also check the connection and ensure the 3.5mm jack or USB-C cable is connected properly.

How to Use a Mini Microphone for Podcasting on Android?

Simply connect the mini microphone to your Android device, adjust audio settings, and fire up a podcasting app. Check in-app settings to ensure that your external microphone is selected as the default recording device.

Are There Any Special Settings for Using a Mini Microphone on Android?

Depending on the mini microphone, some manufacturers offer a dedicated app that allows you to control sound effects, input gain, echo, and other options. You can also use third-party recording apps with audio settings for better sound quality.

How to Record Music with a Mini Microphone on an Android Device?

Make sure that your external microphone is connected and detected by your Android device. Open your preferred recording app (BandLab, Dolby On, FL Studio) and start recording. Adjust your sound settings based on your preference.

Can I Use a Mini Microphone for Live Streaming on Android?

Yes. Mini microphones can be used for live streaming on apps like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch. Simply connect the mini microphone to your device, adjust the settings, and start streaming.

What Are the Power Requirements for Mini Microphones on Android?

Most mini microphones are powered by the Android device itself when connected through the headphone jack or USB-C. On the other hand, wireless microphones come with built-in batteries that need to be charged.

How to Securely Attach a Mini Microphone to Your Android Phone?

Mini microphones come with their specific mounts or clips that securely attach them to your Android device.

Do I Need a Special Adapter to Use a Mini Microphone on Android?

It depends on what connector your mini microphone is using. If your using a 3.5mm jack with a TS connected, you’ll need a splitter for input and output that comes with a male TRRS jack.

How to Clean and Maintain Your Mini Microphone for Optimal Performance on Android?

You can use a dry cloth to wipe your microphone or compressed air to blow away dirt and debris from the mic hole or grill. Avoid using liquids to clean your microphone and store it in a protective case or box when not in use.