This is EXACTLY what I needed. I am an audio guy so I need my videos to sound great. Everyone focuses on the minor differences in hue between cams, but you sir were great in doing the audio teste. Thank YOU!
I was using a 600watt Arri light in a soft box. Near the end, I brought in a small led light to fill the shaded side of my face a bit. I was shooting in wide mode, 1080p30, but I used a filter in Magic Bullet Looks to reduce the fisheye in post. I used lots of tricks to make the footage look better than it does coming off the camera.
thanks Chad. I just ordered it. You are 100 percent correct. Buy it right the first time and it will save you from buying it again because it wasn't the best you could get. I give the same advice for folks doing still photography. It is always about the glass. Buy the best glass no matter what it costs and you will have it forever no matter what camera you buy in the same brand.
a very thorough and well organised review that covers a lot of ground, so big thank you there. Unfortunately it's not so helpful to me because I record live music in the course of making semi-pro video, and a mic that is acceptable for speech doesn't necessarily make the grade for music because sonically it's much more demanding, covering a much more complex range of pitch dynamics and subtle harmonics, so poor or indifferent sound quality is a complete no go for my purposes. Having said that, you obviously have a well tuned ear, and I wonder if you'd consider making a music based review of this camera
I got rid of my Hero 3 years ago. I would not try to use this camera to record anything really, especially music. Dialog would be OK if this was the only camera, but GoPros have evolved so much in the years since this video was made. I wouldn't bother recording music without a stereo mic. If I'm at a show, I put a Stereo VideoMicX on my Gh5 with the 10db pad and I get a decent sound. In reality I'm a pro though, and I use a separate recorder with multiple tracks. I have a shotgun on top of my camera only for reference, or some dialog if I'm standing right next to the person talking. Take care!
Thanks mate I liked the mini shotgun pro best but just checked out price and its dearer than the camera. I really appreciate your help.Saved me a lot of time.
Thank you so much for posting this video! We're buying the Hero 3, and were wondering which mic would sound best. I think we're going with the Que Audio Mini Shotgun. Excellent video!
I haven't tried any hand held mics. Those are usually dynamic mics, and would be much less sensitive and come out as very low on the recording. However, if you used a hand held mic along with a wireless set-up, and hand held will do.
Pretty much the Sennheiser G3 wireless is the cheapest you want to go, and that averages 600.00 for the transmitter/receiver and a ME-2 lav. On the B&H site right now I see a "Sennheiser ew 112-p G3" for 579.00 after rebate. It's the kind of thing you buy once and then it just works for the next 20 years. I strongly suggest you don't cheap out here, because you can't fix drop outs and static in post, and you can't monitor in the GoPro to tell if you get static, which is common in cheaper units.
Yes, the camera normally keeps the audio at a good solid level, especially if you're right up on it talking. You can hear how it sounded in this video. You most likely have a defective unit. Bummer, but it looks like you should send it back, or if you just bought it, take it back to the store and exchange.
A good all around mic would be the Rode VideoMicPro, but for sit down stuff, you do not leave the mic mounted on the camera. You get a mic stand and put it over your head, about 12"-18" away - the closer the better. Just out of frame. Search my channel for "VideoMic Pro" for examples. The other rout you could go is a lav mic. There is the Rode Lav, which can be pricey, but you can also get the SmartLav for 60.00 and plug that into an iPhone using RodeRec to capture audio, then align it in post.
Great video Chad. Thanks for sharing. I agree, the Que audio mini shotgun pro sounds best. My next question is how do we go about temporarily mounting this mic to the camera OR the frame. Any ideas?
It's probably that the camera is badly shielded. I really only tested this out in my studio. Normally I'm flying my Hero3 on a quadcopter, and I don't use the audio. I did notice in my "Remove Jello on GoPro Hero3 w/ ND Filter:" video at 4:45, AFTER I flew the camera and did my post flight talking, there was an odd noise. Maybe static electricity buildup? There was noise at the beginning of that vid, but it was (I think) a fan on the quad that was running. Made that demo vid and send to GoPro.
This was a very handy set of reviews. I understand that it is difficult to get really good quality with recording without spending quite a bit of money, but have you considered testing a few of the more "affordable" options out there in another video. Call it the Go Pro "Cheap Mic" test and review, if you will. The Audio-Technica ATR6550 or it's little cheaper stereo brother the 6250 come to mind for small and cheap alternatives.
I'll put something together and post it. Trying to get action cams sorted has been a challenge for me. I had the original Hero through the 3... and it's always been a love-hate thing. My 3 Hero3s all have an audio problem, but it's varying intensity between them. I'm trying to decide if it's something I can fix in post. There's a higher pitched tone that comes and goes while a low hum (like RF) is constant. I've swapped everything around trying to find the source, cables, G3s, etc. No dice.
No worries! Thanks for taking the time to answer! I've checked both of those retailers without luck. I'm guessing the Mk200 is fairly new mic, which is where the difficulty stems from. Assuming that's the case, do you have any idea on when the Mk200 will release to US audiences?
It's hard to say what is causing the static noise. It could be that you're in an environment with lots of RF in the air. It's best to test the Rode VMP on other devices to hear of you get the same sound.
You need a little "rig" to allow you to mount mics and lights, or wireless. I have a Norbert Sport that works great, but there are some cheaper ones from JuicedLink. Look at my recent video "Shootout of the Mini Shotguns 2! - Hähnel MK200 - Que MSG-Pro - VideoMicPro - MKE400" where you will see shots of the mics mounted. Go to B&H hand look up camera rigs. K-Tek even has a little one just for the GoPro. A rig also gives you something to hold onto for more stability in your image. Cheers!
That's odd Mat. I have a buddy in Australia who shoots stuff on Hero3 with his kid, using the camera naked, and it sounds fine except for wind noise. When using a mic, as you heard the Hero3 sounds pretty good. My sweet spot is with a 10db boost like the Que Mini Shotgun Pro has. The 20db of the Rode VMP makes the AGC clamp down a bit, but overall it sounds good to me. Could your cables be the culprit? Maybe you're in a high RF area? Will you do a test and show me what you are hearing?
I tried the JuicedLink DT214, but it was too hot. I couldn't use the lavs because they require pug-in power. I did not try the AGC defeat though. My purpose was to find the most simple way to get a mic into the camera. If I had a preamp in the mix that would be too cumbersome. Preamps are bigger than the camera.
Also search "gopro rambo" to find a good forum where I go to get answers, or at least see if anyone else has the same issues I do. Rambo runs the sight and knows a lot about what is and isn't normal for the camera. I've had them since the HeroHD too, and there's always SOMETHING that bugs me. Now there are issues with the MicroSDHC cards not always writing fast enough in protune. If your camera starts freezing, put another card in, or get out of Protune. And get the latest firmware!
Is there any chance you are using the waterproof case? If you are then that's the issue. Since no water can get in, no sound can either. Try the open back on and it will be better, or buy the skeleton housing at B&H Photo. That has holes in the sides for access to the USB port, and will let in more audio.
Hi Chad, - Thanks for a very enlightening demo of the different Microphones on the Hero3 black. I own a variety of Mics, Rode Stereo Vidmic old model and the newest pro. Also the Rode Vidmic old model. I also have their new Lavalier Mic. now a skeleton housing for the Gopro 3. - I looked up the Sansheir g3. Wow. 700.00 smackers. Is their a decent lower priced wireless that you might recommend. Right now I prefer hard wire, but once in a while need wireless. Hate the usb connection.
I haven't used the WiFi. It's pretty useless for me, but I wouldn't be surprised if tome noise came through. I think the wiring inside isn't shielded very well.
Duke I really would not recommend the GoPro for any kind of music recording even with a nice mic. The AGC (Auto Gain Compensation) will ruin the fidelity, and even worse in loud music situations. At best the Hero3 can handle dialog like in this test. I strongly suggest you look into a portable recorder like the Tascam DR100MkII, Zoom H4n or the Sony D-50. Then you can match the video to the audio files while editing. Ask more questions on the Audio farea of the DVXuser forum. Cheers!
I use the tripod mount they sell for 7 busck (or so) and another accessory they sell called "the Frame" which holds the camera, and has access to the usb, but offers no protection. They are on the Gopro site.
Hey Chad great video. Does the USB mic adapter record stereo? I am wanting to use it as a line-in to record music from a mixing desk live with the video footage.
Hey Chad, I've been looking for a shotgun mic to use along with my Hero2 for all uses. I plan on using it along with the GoPro as a webcam, part of my setup for short films, et cetera. I liked the neutrality sound of the Hahnel Mk200 but I cannot seem to find a vendor in the states - I was wondering where/how you purchased yours. On a side note, all your shotgun mic videos were extremely helpful to me - I can't thank you enough for making these. Having the side-by-side comparison is invaluable!
Great Elliot! We think alike. Hey you may want to google "Sennheiser G3 frequency range" and read that thread that comes up from the DVXuser forum. There are different ranges the Senn G3 comes in, and one may be better for your area. Or ask someone at B&H over the phone. Cheers! Now, when you get tired of the ME-2 lav, I suggest the Rode Lav or PinMic. Check my Lav Shootout to hear!
Hey thanks for the tests, very useful information. Have you run into any static sound issues with using in-camera mic while the wi-fi is on? I seem to get some funky static and was wondering if it was just me.
Maybe you should make a video demonstrating these sounds. It could be old mics. If the mis is not bery sensitive (too quiet) the GoPro's AGC will try to pump up the volume, and you will hear more noise. It's hard to say. All I know is that al my mics did not have any buzz or hum happening. Could you be in a spot with RF interference? Could just be cheap mics.
The one I liked best for the GoPro was the Que Audio Mini SHotgun Pro, but the Rode VideoMic Pro is no slouch. The MKE400 is only 200.00. Anything cheaper is just a waste of time. I'd have him listen to these and decide what sounds best. The Hahnel MK200 is nice and cheaper, but I'm not sure it's available in the US yet. Set a budget, and have him chip in if 200.00 - 300.00 is too much.
i see, the gopro does need a 3 pole mic (L,R, GND). this one has got 4. If i will find a fitting 3 to 4 pole adapter, do you think it won't sound as well ( or even better ) as the other mics? Measurement mic quality should be best , isn't it? Price of the Rode mic is the double.
Hi Chad. The video is very useful so thank you for your effort. I am looking for an external mic to buy for my boyfriend for his GoPro Hero 3. Do you have any suggestions for something affordable? I haven't found much and what I find is either super cheap or super expensive. Any help? :)
I doubt the card would have anything to do with this sound. I was shooting in ProTune too, and I also don't think that would make a difference. I suspect the frame is amplifying internal sounds the camera makes, since it's got more surface area touching the camera all the way around. It's really odd.
Yeah they sound pretty bad in the case, but what I don't get is that weird noise that happens when you put it in "the Frame". It's just thin plastic that holds the camera in the mount, and has ports for sound to hit the mics, and it allows access to the USB port too. I don't understand what causes that noise I demonstrated early in the video. I wanted to wear it on my head and have good audio w/ no mic since my mouth would be so close, but that noise effs everything up!
That's got an iPhone connection with 3 rings, and it's only a measurement mic. Looks liket it will be sticking out the side too. You just need a Rode VideoMic Pro with a Rycote softie over it.
thank you so far! best would be i find this adapter and try it out. what do you think about hähnel mk 100 ? this one would be little cheaper. and is it worse than the mk200?
Nice video Chad.. Lately Paul has been doing the filming so i will leave it up to him but i really like the sound from the wireless under the shirt mic.. Hope your hero 3 recovers :(
(Cont.) I have been doing pro audio for a decade, and advising people in the audio section at DVXuser forums, and there really isn't anything else as good or better under 1,000.00 than the Senn G3 stuff. I can't emphasize enough to go the extra mile with audio gear. Mics too! Stretch a little bit now, and you'll thank yourself every time you use it. It's more expensive to buy cheap and spend hours re-shooting or fixing in post. Cheers!
Thanks for the review chad. I'm interested to know how you got the Rode Pinmic to work as I thought it required phantom power that the GoPro adaptor doesn't provide? Many thanks in advance.
Though that may be true, my goal with the GoPro is to find the most simple setup (plugged into the GoPro directly) that sounds good, and with this the Rode Lavs are probably best. The COS11D is a tad too bright. I find myself grabbing the Rod lavs more, and using the COS11D when I need to hid the lav under clothes. If you want "the best" you won't be using a GoPro anyway.
Mr. Chad "Not Ochocinco" Johnson - I want to record live shows and practices of our band using my GPH3Blk - which microphone would you recommend that will be stereo and can handle SERIOUSLY LOUD music? I like to keep as much frequency response as possible (not too much high, not too low and boxy) so, on that note, got any ideas? Thanks!
Chad, I just bought a GoPro Silver and I'm having some audio issues. I can take the case off and have my face right in from of the camera and when I put the video on my computer I can turn the volume up all of the way and barely hear my voice recording. Any ideas what the problem can be? I'm using a class 10/64MB SD card. Spoke with GoPro and they seem to think that I have a defective unit. Just wondering if you had any suggestions. Thanks, great video.
For a loud concertyou may as well just use the regular GoPro built-in mics. It's going to sound bad any way you do it. But with a mic you would probably want one with a -10db cut. In my opinion the GoPro is a bad choice for concert audio.
What a great review! Thanks! I want to set up my Gopro with a lapel microphone for using while making fishing videos. Gopro will be attached to a chest harness. What all will I need to get decent sound? I'm hoping to keep it simple and not overly expensive, suggestions please?
hey. all mics sounded really good here. what about recording car sounds like the exhaust or the engine siund inside the engine bay. would you use the go pro mic input or not not bother and use an external audio recorder?
If I was going to the trouble if recording something specialized lime soundFX, I would not waste my time with GoPro audio. This is just a way to get cleaner dialogue into the camera. The sound quality is not worth the trouble for music or anything else because you have no level control. It's just auto, which sucks. You can do much better with a 99.00 Zoom H1 with wind protection over the mics, or better yet, plug in a nicer mic.
Try run the sound through Juicedlink AR 333, AGC OFF at Juicedlink ar 333. Røde video mic Pro into Juicedlink ar 333. Then into the Go Pro. Would it work to turn the AGC go pro ?
@@ChadWork1 I am fixing up an old 1983 Suburban and wanted to document it. I got the Gopro for $40. I did see some other cheap ones on Amazon. $250 for a new one was a little steep.
Thanks for the video... one thing I really wish is that you put on music, especially with drastic changes in volume so I could hear the full frequency response plus could hear the gain control. I need to know if the Hero 3 can be used in musical settings. thnx
The GoPro is a bad choice for musical settings, which is why I didn't bother. It's best for dialog only. If you are trying to capture music, use a separate recorder.
The way I record good audio with my gopros is I use voice memos on my ipod hooked up to the new apple earpods with microphone before I make a run mountain biking with my gopro I turn start recording my audio by having the mic stick out of my pocket. Once Im done recording I just send the recording to myself through gmail then mach it up with my video in the movie editer
Great review. If I wanted to place a GP & Mic discreetly close to a bride and groom to get some video and quality sound when they were doing their vows would you recommend the Que Audio Mini Shotgun Pro and would you leave it plugged into the GP or place it in a stand. Thanks.
None of those options. To get vows you need a lav mic on the groom. I do it with a Rode Lav and a Sennheiser G3 Wireless unit, HOWEVER - You can get a $60.00 Rode SmartLav and plug that into an iPhone and put the iPhione in the groom's pocket. Record the audio with the free Rode Rec app. I would never risk someone's wedding audio trying to capture it with a crappy GoPro.
Sharing good ideas I can add it is also possible keeping the case (the smaller 3+) and using external microphone/composite/power with a solution similar to this GoPro Hero3 + Black - DIY external mic adapter cable to fit inside case (waterproof)
Sorry, I only work with the mics I own. I consider the mics I used "cheap" mics. Audio is actually MORE important in video than video. The main thing you want is a mic to have a 10db boost, or at least be very sensitive. Any more than that makes the compression clamp down, and any less makes for a quiet recording with more noise. Best to just test out whatever mic you are interested in. I wouldn't suggest a stereo mic though. You want mono for dialog and more intelligibility.
Chad... either you got lucky or I got UN-lucky. I have 3x Hero3 and ALL 3 have HORRIBLE on-cam audio. I bought the GoPro mic adapter cable for each cam and nope... crap. A one-man band shoot with multiple cams and also running location sound is nearly impossible. I was happy to think that I'd have passable location sound for each wireless tied to each cam, but ALL 3 cams are barely good enough to use for scratch track. As a sound guy I'm seriously bummed.
Just listen to the mics in this video, and buy the one you like the best! Get a rig to mount your GoPro and Mic on. Maybe a Norbert Sport from KTek. I think they have an even smaller one for GoPros. Maybe do a search on the B&H web site.
Great video! It helped me a lot! So, just one question. As I can see, with the built-in mic, I can make a nice video blog in my place. Is there right? Thanks in advance for your answer!
Using the built in mic would be the worst choice for your video blog. That's the worst audio option. You need to get a mic close to you, within 2 feet. Otherwise you hear too much of the room and your voice sounds far away. That's unprofessional. I don't even thing a GoPro is a very good camera for a video blog. I had to color correct this to make the video look decent. The Gopro is best for outdoor action video where the sound isn't that critical. If you're just going to point and shoot with no consideration for sound, you'd be better off using an iPhone.
Hi chad.. How come im hearing a static noise with my rode video mic pro hooked on hero3 silver. I tried boosting it up to +20 db to mask it but i can still hear the static/hissing sound. I have it on skeleton case with lcd bacpac. Any idea to solve this problem?
I'm having trouble recording with a cam caddie cause it causes so much noise you can't hear anything!!!! so please tell me the best mic but i need it to sit on the go pro... But i also got the lcd back for the screen. So i need a casing that works please just help me out if possible.
Hi I am looking at the gopro hero 3. I think it is my go to kinda Camera because I can use it for all kinda stuff not to mention still shots. But I am a musician and am hopping it will be a solution for recording higher quality video than that of my web cam. Also the most important part of music being the sound I was wondering if you thought this camera would be an ideal (for the money) camera to use for that and if so what microphone would you recommend to use for just acoustic and vocals I'm thinking the que audio +10 db shotgun.
The Que Mini SHotgun Pro is a good mini shotgun for dialog, but the GoPro isn't so great for recording music. You'd be better off getting something like the Zoom H1, then syncing up the audio and video of whatever camera you use later when you edit.
Chad, first let me say, You are the Man! Loved your video and appreciate the info. Two questions, what mic were you using in the last 50 seconds of the video? That sounded really good to me. Have you been able to get your hands on the GoPro4? I know it isn't out yet but you never know who has the connections to test stuff before release. I'll be buying the 4 when it comes out, thankfully I have the cash to buy the best one! Going to Belize to get married and will be there for almost 3 weeks. A buddy of mine is bringing his quadcopter and we will be shooting some amazing video on and over the ocean. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with all of us and I can't wait to hear your response.
Hey VOM. I'm pretty sure that I still had on the Sanken COS11D going through my Sennheiser Wireless for the last 50 sec. I don't have plans to get a Hero 4 immediately. My hero 3+ is working well, and lately I'm flying with my NEX-5r, which trounces the GoPro for quality, and it's only 550.00! Less now that it's discontinued and replaced by the Sony A5100. I'm holding out for a GH4 though... Anyway, be careful over the water with your new camera!
Thank you, I've been looking for a quality wireless mic for the go pro to eliminate the noise coming from brushless gimbal motors vibrating giving off horrible static crackling noise. I hope one of those wireless laws will work alongside the video being balanced with gimbal.
Yeah it's hard to tell until you get a particular solution tested with your particular setup. Generally speaking, the GoPro isn't a good way to capture audio since there aren't any audio controls. Best to use a separate recorder, but I understand one wants to keep it simple.
I purchased the Sena wireless audio pack for the gopro a couple years ago and I used it several different times, only because the bluetooth headset I got didn't produce stereo quality, only mono. I'm thinking of just purchasing one of Sena's stereo bluetooth helmet headsets, something that won't break the bank. I was hoping by now they would have a bluetooth wireless headset anyone can wear just in their ear that would be compatible with the Sena bluetooth go pro audio pack. I plan on using it for more action shots while riding on my skateboard in the near future.
Line in would be too hot. It's a mic level input. And really, with the AGC and crappy preamp in the GoPro you should avoid trying to get music recorded. This is best for dialog, Use a separate stereo recorder or your computer to get the drums, and just clap for a slate at the beginning and line up the audio when you edit.
Thank you for this nice review!
This is EXACTLY what I needed. I am an audio guy so I need my videos to sound great. Everyone focuses on the minor differences in hue between cams, but you sir were great in doing the audio teste. Thank YOU!
Glad I could help Charles!
From those of us that have to deal in audio and video in crazy areas, THANK YOU!! Great test!!
+Tricia Allen Glad I could help Tricia!
Thanks for posting this! Had some trouble finding info about audio quality and mic options on the GoPro.
I was using a 600watt Arri light in a soft box. Near the end, I brought in a small led light to fill the shaded side of my face a bit. I was shooting in wide mode, 1080p30, but I used a filter in Magic Bullet Looks to reduce the fisheye in post. I used lots of tricks to make the footage look better than it does coming off the camera.
Thanks Chad. Very nice review.
Christopher Lord Thanks Christopher!
thanks Chad. I just ordered it. You are 100 percent correct. Buy it right the first time and it will save you from buying it again because it wasn't the best you could get. I give the same advice for folks doing still photography. It is always about the glass. Buy the best glass no matter what it costs and you will have it forever no matter what camera you buy in the same brand.
a very thorough and well organised review that covers a lot of ground, so big thank you there. Unfortunately it's not so helpful to me because I record live music in the course of making semi-pro video, and a mic that is acceptable for speech doesn't necessarily make the grade for music because sonically it's much more demanding, covering a much more complex range of pitch dynamics and subtle harmonics, so poor or indifferent sound quality is a complete no go for my purposes. Having said that, you obviously have a well tuned ear, and I wonder if you'd consider making a music based review of this camera
I got rid of my Hero 3 years ago. I would not try to use this camera to record anything really, especially music. Dialog would be OK if this was the only camera, but GoPros have evolved so much in the years since this video was made. I wouldn't bother recording music without a stereo mic. If I'm at a show, I put a Stereo VideoMicX on my Gh5 with the 10db pad and I get a decent sound. In reality I'm a pro though, and I use a separate recorder with multiple tracks. I have a shotgun on top of my camera only for reference, or some dialog if I'm standing right next to the person talking. Take care!
Thanks mate I liked the mini shotgun pro best but just checked out price and its dearer than the camera. I really appreciate your help.Saved me a lot of time.
Thank you so much for posting this video! We're buying the Hero 3, and were wondering which mic would sound best. I think we're going with the Que Audio Mini Shotgun. Excellent video!
Thanks! The Que is the mic I liked the best in this test - set to +10db.
The Rode lavalier should be here tomorrow. Ordered it the other day.
Thanks again.
I haven't tried any hand held mics. Those are usually dynamic mics, and would be much less sensitive and come out as very low on the recording. However, if you used a hand held mic along with a wireless set-up, and hand held will do.
Sure. The camera supplies "plug in power" too, so if you have a mic that runs off that like most lavs, they will work.
That was a great video. Thanks mate!
Pretty much the Sennheiser G3 wireless is the cheapest you want to go, and that averages 600.00 for the transmitter/receiver and a ME-2 lav. On the B&H site right now I see a "Sennheiser ew 112-p G3" for 579.00 after rebate. It's the kind of thing you buy once and then it just works for the next 20 years. I strongly suggest you don't cheap out here, because you can't fix drop outs and static in post, and you can't monitor in the GoPro to tell if you get static, which is common in cheaper units.
Cool! That 20db boost really helps with camera noise.
thanks man, yeah just discovered that the hard way. Out to get a portable recording device now.
Yes, the camera normally keeps the audio at a good solid level, especially if you're right up on it talking. You can hear how it sounded in this video. You most likely have a defective unit. Bummer, but it looks like you should send it back, or if you just bought it, take it back to the store and exchange.
A good all around mic would be the Rode VideoMicPro, but for sit down stuff, you do not leave the mic mounted on the camera. You get a mic stand and put it over your head, about 12"-18" away - the closer the better. Just out of frame. Search my channel for "VideoMic Pro" for examples. The other rout you could go is a lav mic. There is the Rode Lav, which can be pricey, but you can also get the SmartLav for 60.00 and plug that into an iPhone using RodeRec to capture audio, then align it in post.
Great video Chad. Thanks for sharing. I agree, the Que audio mini shotgun pro sounds best. My next question is how do we go about temporarily mounting this mic to the camera OR the frame. Any ideas?
It's probably that the camera is badly shielded. I really only tested this out in my studio. Normally I'm flying my Hero3 on a quadcopter, and I don't use the audio. I did notice in my "Remove Jello on GoPro Hero3 w/ ND Filter:" video at 4:45, AFTER I flew the camera and did my post flight talking, there was an odd noise. Maybe static electricity buildup? There was noise at the beginning of that vid, but it was (I think) a fan on the quad that was running. Made that demo vid and send to GoPro.
Thanks for watching! Glad I could help.
This was a very handy set of reviews. I understand that it is difficult to get really good quality with recording without spending quite a bit of money, but have you considered testing a few of the more "affordable" options out there in another video. Call it the Go Pro "Cheap Mic" test and review, if you will. The Audio-Technica ATR6550 or it's little cheaper stereo brother the 6250 come to mind for small and cheap alternatives.
I'll put something together and post it. Trying to get action cams sorted has been a challenge for me. I had the original Hero through the 3... and it's always been a love-hate thing. My 3 Hero3s all have an audio problem, but it's varying intensity between them. I'm trying to decide if it's something I can fix in post. There's a higher pitched tone that comes and goes while a low hum (like RF) is constant. I've swapped everything around trying to find the source, cables, G3s, etc. No dice.
No worries! Thanks for taking the time to answer! I've checked both of those retailers without luck. I'm guessing the Mk200 is fairly new mic, which is where the difficulty stems from. Assuming that's the case, do you have any idea on when the Mk200 will release to US audiences?
It's hard to say what is causing the static noise. It could be that you're in an environment with lots of RF in the air. It's best to test the Rode VMP on other devices to hear of you get the same sound.
You need a little "rig" to allow you to mount mics and lights, or wireless. I have a Norbert Sport that works great, but there are some cheaper ones from JuicedLink. Look at my recent video "Shootout of the Mini Shotguns 2! - Hähnel MK200 - Que MSG-Pro - VideoMicPro - MKE400" where you will see shots of the mics mounted. Go to B&H hand look up camera rigs. K-Tek even has a little one just for the GoPro. A rig also gives you something to hold onto for more stability in your image. Cheers!
That's odd Mat. I have a buddy in Australia who shoots stuff on Hero3 with his kid, using the camera naked, and it sounds fine except for wind noise. When using a mic, as you heard the Hero3 sounds pretty good. My sweet spot is with a 10db boost like the Que Mini Shotgun Pro has. The 20db of the Rode VMP makes the AGC clamp down a bit, but overall it sounds good to me. Could your cables be the culprit? Maybe you're in a high RF area? Will you do a test and show me what you are hearing?
I tried the JuicedLink DT214, but it was too hot. I couldn't use the lavs because they require pug-in power. I did not try the AGC defeat though. My purpose was to find the most simple way to get a mic into the camera. If I had a preamp in the mix that would be too cumbersome. Preamps are bigger than the camera.
Also search "gopro rambo" to find a good forum where I go to get answers, or at least see if anyone else has the same issues I do. Rambo runs the sight and knows a lot about what is and isn't normal for the camera. I've had them since the HeroHD too, and there's always SOMETHING that bugs me. Now there are issues with the MicroSDHC cards not always writing fast enough in protune. If your camera starts freezing, put another card in, or get out of Protune. And get the latest firmware!
Is there any chance you are using the waterproof case? If you are then that's the issue. Since no water can get in, no sound can either. Try the open back on and it will be better, or buy the skeleton housing at B&H Photo. That has holes in the sides for access to the USB port, and will let in more audio.
Hi Chad, - Thanks for a very enlightening demo of the different Microphones on the Hero3 black. I own a variety of Mics, Rode Stereo Vidmic old model and the newest pro. Also the Rode Vidmic old model. I also have their new Lavalier Mic. now a skeleton housing for the Gopro 3. - I looked up the Sansheir g3. Wow. 700.00 smackers. Is their a decent lower priced wireless that you might recommend. Right now I prefer hard wire, but once in a while need wireless. Hate the usb connection.
Great test! Looks like the GoPro Hero 3 has pretty good AGC
I haven't used the WiFi. It's pretty useless for me, but I wouldn't be surprised if tome noise came through. I think the wiring inside isn't shielded very well.
Duke I really would not recommend the GoPro for any kind of music recording even with a nice mic. The AGC (Auto Gain Compensation) will ruin the fidelity, and even worse in loud music situations. At best the Hero3 can handle dialog like in this test. I strongly suggest you look into a portable recorder like the Tascam DR100MkII, Zoom H4n or the Sony D-50. Then you can match the video to the audio files while editing. Ask more questions on the Audio farea of the DVXuser forum. Cheers!
I use the tripod mount they sell for 7 busck (or so) and another accessory they sell called "the Frame" which holds the camera, and has access to the usb, but offers no protection. They are on the Gopro site.
Hey Chad great video. Does the USB mic adapter record stereo? I am wanting to use it as a line-in to record music from a mixing desk live with the video footage.
Hey Chad, I've been looking for a shotgun mic to use along with my Hero2 for all uses. I plan on using it along with the GoPro as a webcam, part of my setup for short films, et cetera. I liked the neutrality sound of the Hahnel Mk200 but I cannot seem to find a vendor in the states - I was wondering where/how you purchased yours.
On a side note, all your shotgun mic videos were extremely helpful to me - I can't thank you enough for making these. Having the side-by-side comparison is invaluable!
I think the Que MSG Pro is a good choice for the Hero 3! Try it at +10db.
Nice work Chad. Im just wonder: is it not better (in general) to set less sensitivity like -30db an more out like 0db on ew112-instead opposite?
Great Elliot! We think alike. Hey you may want to google "Sennheiser G3 frequency range" and read that thread that comes up from the DVXuser forum. There are different ranges the Senn G3 comes in, and one may be better for your area. Or ask someone at B&H over the phone. Cheers! Now, when you get tired of the ME-2 lav, I suggest the Rode Lav or PinMic. Check my Lav Shootout to hear!
Hey thanks for the tests, very useful information. Have you run into any static sound issues with using in-camera mic while the wi-fi is on? I seem to get some funky static and was wondering if it was just me.
With the Hero3 I think I like the Que Mini Shotgun Pro set to +10 db. But the Hahnel at +10 isn't bad.
Thanks for all the tests Chad.
Maybe you should make a video demonstrating these sounds. It could be old mics. If the mis is not bery sensitive (too quiet) the GoPro's AGC will try to pump up the volume, and you will hear more noise. It's hard to say. All I know is that al my mics did not have any buzz or hum happening. Could you be in a spot with RF interference? Could just be cheap mics.
Thanks. Took it back today and got another and having the same issue. Maybe it's the SD card or my computer...time for further trouble shooting.
The one I liked best for the GoPro was the Que Audio Mini SHotgun Pro, but the Rode VideoMic Pro is no slouch. The MKE400 is only 200.00. Anything cheaper is just a waste of time. I'd have him listen to these and decide what sounds best. The Hahnel MK200 is nice and cheaper, but I'm not sure it's available in the US yet. Set a budget, and have him chip in if 200.00 - 300.00 is too much.
Are you referring to the lav mics? You can wear them anywhere, especially when you have furrys for wind protection.
i see, the gopro does need a 3 pole mic (L,R, GND). this one has got 4. If i will find a fitting 3 to 4 pole adapter, do you think it won't sound as well ( or even better ) as the other mics? Measurement mic quality should be best , isn't it? Price of the Rode mic is the double.
hey good video, i just wanted to know which one you recommend for loud concerts, and is the most economical
Hi Chad. The video is very useful so thank you for your effort. I am looking for an external mic to buy for my boyfriend for his GoPro Hero 3. Do you have any suggestions for something affordable? I haven't found much and what I find is either super cheap or super expensive. Any help? :)
I doubt the card would have anything to do with this sound. I was shooting in ProTune too, and I also don't think that would make a difference. I suspect the frame is amplifying internal sounds the camera makes, since it's got more surface area touching the camera all the way around. It's really odd.
Yeah they sound pretty bad in the case, but what I don't get is that weird noise that happens when you put it in "the Frame". It's just thin plastic that holds the camera in the mount, and has ports for sound to hit the mics, and it allows access to the USB port too. I don't understand what causes that noise I demonstrated early in the video. I wanted to wear it on my head and have good audio w/ no mic since my mouth would be so close, but that noise effs everything up!
That's got an iPhone connection with 3 rings, and it's only a measurement mic. Looks liket it will be sticking out the side too. You just need a Rode VideoMic Pro with a Rycote softie over it.
thank you so far! best would be i find this adapter and try it out. what do you think about hähnel mk 100 ? this one would be little cheaper. and is it worse than the mk200?
I never used ew 112. however I just did test for AGC GH3 and I found -45 to -30 works best.
Nice video Chad.. Lately Paul has been doing the filming so i will leave it up to him but i really like the sound from the wireless under the shirt mic.. Hope your hero 3 recovers :(
Awesome work as always, Chad!
Hey Nims, I just got word that B&H will be carrying the Hahnel MK200 soon! Sorry it took so long.
The best audio test I've seen, thank you Chad! One question,what's a good handheld mic to use with the GoPro3?
This helped soo much, thank you. It allowed me to use it as a blog camera! Sub Added!
(Cont.) I have been doing pro audio for a decade, and advising people in the audio section at DVXuser forums, and there really isn't anything else as good or better under 1,000.00 than the Senn G3 stuff. I can't emphasize enough to go the extra mile with audio gear. Mics too! Stretch a little bit now, and you'll thank yourself every time you use it. It's more expensive to buy cheap and spend hours re-shooting or fixing in post. Cheers!
Thanks for the review chad. I'm interested to know how you got the Rode Pinmic to work as I thought it required phantom power that the GoPro adaptor doesn't provide? Many thanks in advance.
Though that may be true, my goal with the GoPro is to find the most simple setup (plugged into the GoPro directly) that sounds good, and with this the Rode Lavs are probably best. The COS11D is a tad too bright. I find myself grabbing the Rod lavs more, and using the COS11D when I need to hid the lav under clothes. If you want "the best" you won't be using a GoPro anyway.
Mr. Chad "Not Ochocinco" Johnson - I want to record live shows and practices of our band using my GPH3Blk - which microphone would you recommend that will be stereo and can handle SERIOUSLY LOUD music? I like to keep as much frequency response as possible (not too much high, not too low and boxy) so, on that note, got any ideas? Thanks!
Chad, I just bought a GoPro Silver and I'm having some audio issues. I can take the case off and have my face right in from of the camera and when I put the video on my computer I can turn the volume up all of the way and barely hear my voice recording. Any ideas what the problem can be? I'm using a class 10/64MB SD card. Spoke with GoPro and they seem to think that I have a defective unit. Just wondering if you had any suggestions. Thanks, great video.
For a loud concertyou may as well just use the regular GoPro built-in mics. It's going to sound bad any way you do it. But with a mic you would probably want one with a -10db cut. In my opinion the GoPro is a bad choice for concert audio.
What a great review! Thanks! I want to set up my Gopro with a lapel microphone for using while making fishing videos. Gopro will be attached to a chest harness. What all will I need to get decent sound? I'm hoping to keep it simple and not overly expensive, suggestions please?
hey. all mics sounded really good here. what about recording car sounds like the exhaust or the engine siund inside the engine bay. would you use the go pro mic input or not not bother and use an external audio recorder?
If I was going to the trouble if recording something specialized lime soundFX, I would not waste my time with GoPro audio. This is just a way to get cleaner dialogue into the camera. The sound quality is not worth the trouble for music or anything else because you have no level control. It's just auto, which sucks. You can do much better with a 99.00 Zoom H1 with wind protection over the mics, or better yet, plug in a nicer mic.
What ended up being your favorite?
Well, the price seems way to much for a cable; If I bought the adapter from GoPro, do you know if I could use a battery powered lavaliere?
Chad... What lighting are you using? Also which setting on the hero 3 for lens.. Medium?
I liked the que audio mic shotgun pro +10db gain very muc. Do you know where I could purchase the mic? any online sites
Try run the sound through Juicedlink AR 333, AGC OFF at Juicedlink ar 333. Røde video mic Pro into Juicedlink ar 333. Then into the Go Pro. Would it work to turn the AGC go pro ?
Excellent video, just bought a used gopro 3+
@@briandaugherty2588 cool. That’s a 10 year old model though. Not even 4k. Couldn’t you find something newer?
@@ChadWork1 I am fixing up an old 1983 Suburban and wanted to document it. I got the Gopro for $40. I did see some other cheap ones on Amazon. $250 for a new one was a little steep.
Thanks for the video... one thing I really wish is that you put on music, especially with drastic changes in volume so I could hear the full frequency response plus could hear the gain control. I need to know if the Hero 3 can be used in musical settings. thnx
The GoPro is a bad choice for musical settings, which is why I didn't bother. It's best for dialog only. If you are trying to capture music, use a separate recorder.
The way I record good audio with my gopros is I use voice memos on my ipod hooked up to the new apple earpods with microphone before I make a run mountain biking with my gopro I turn start recording my audio by having the mic stick out of my pocket. Once Im done recording I just send the recording to myself through gmail then mach it up with my video in the movie editer
nice review.
My pleasure! Glad I could help.
Great review. If I wanted to place a GP & Mic discreetly close to a bride and groom to get some video and quality sound when they were doing their vows would you recommend the Que Audio Mini Shotgun Pro and would you leave it plugged into the GP or place it in a stand. Thanks.
None of those options. To get vows you need a lav mic on the groom. I do it with a Rode Lav and a Sennheiser G3 Wireless unit, HOWEVER - You can get a $60.00 Rode SmartLav and plug that into an iPhone and put the iPhione in the groom's pocket. Record the audio with the free Rode Rec app. I would never risk someone's wedding audio trying to capture it with a crappy GoPro.
Hi, do you have any experience with the GoPro 3 + MicW i436 ? Should be a very good mic, but when i plug it in, there is no audio at all.
Sharing good ideas I can add it is also possible keeping the case (the smaller 3+) and using external microphone/composite/power with a solution similar to this GoPro Hero3 + Black - DIY external mic adapter cable to fit inside case (waterproof)
Sorry, I only work with the mics I own. I consider the mics I used "cheap" mics. Audio is actually MORE important in video than video. The main thing you want is a mic to have a 10db boost, or at least be very sensitive. Any more than that makes the compression clamp down, and any less makes for a quiet recording with more noise. Best to just test out whatever mic you are interested in. I wouldn't suggest a stereo mic though. You want mono for dialog and more intelligibility.
Very well done, very helpful review!
Chad... either you got lucky or I got UN-lucky. I have 3x Hero3 and ALL 3 have HORRIBLE on-cam audio. I bought the GoPro mic adapter cable for each cam and nope... crap.
A one-man band shoot with multiple cams and also running location sound is nearly impossible. I was happy to think that I'd have passable location sound for each wireless tied to each cam, but ALL 3 cams are barely good enough to use for scratch track.
As a sound guy I'm seriously bummed.
Just listen to the mics in this video, and buy the one you like the best! Get a rig to mount your GoPro and Mic on. Maybe a Norbert Sport from KTek. I think they have an even smaller one for GoPros. Maybe do a search on the B&H web site.
Interesting results!
Is there a way I could get a different adapter than the one that is available from gopro?
That's an impressive little camera! Merry Xmas Chad! :-)
Do you mean -45 Sensitivity on the Transmitter? Please be specific so everyone is clear.
Great video! It helped me a lot!
So, just one question.
As I can see, with the built-in mic, I can make a nice video blog in my place. Is there right? Thanks in advance for your answer!
Using the built in mic would be the worst choice for your video blog. That's the worst audio option. You need to get a mic close to you, within 2 feet. Otherwise you hear too much of the room and your voice sounds far away. That's unprofessional. I don't even thing a GoPro is a very good camera for a video blog. I had to color correct this to make the video look decent. The Gopro is best for outdoor action video where the sound isn't that critical. If you're just going to point and shoot with no consideration for sound, you'd be better off using an iPhone.
ok, tks!
Hi chad.. How come im hearing a static noise with my rode video mic pro hooked on hero3 silver. I tried boosting it up to +20 db to mask it but i can still hear the static/hissing sound. I have it on skeleton case with lcd bacpac. Any idea to solve this problem?
I'm having trouble recording with a cam caddie cause it causes so much noise you can't hear anything!!!! so please tell me the best mic but i need it to sit on the go pro... But i also got the lcd back for the screen. So i need a casing that works please just help me out if possible.
Hi I am looking at the gopro hero 3. I think it is my go to kinda Camera because I can use it for all kinda stuff not to mention still shots. But I am a musician and am hopping it will be a solution for recording higher quality video than that of my web cam. Also the most important part of music being the sound I was wondering if you thought this camera would be an ideal (for the money) camera to use for that and if so what microphone would you recommend to use for just acoustic and vocals I'm thinking the que audio +10 db shotgun.
The Que Mini SHotgun Pro is a good mini shotgun for dialog, but the GoPro isn't so great for recording music. You'd be better off getting something like the Zoom H1, then syncing up the audio and video of whatever camera you use later when you edit.
Chad, first let me say, You are the Man! Loved your video and appreciate the info. Two questions, what mic were you using in the last 50 seconds of the video? That sounded really good to me. Have you been able to get your hands on the GoPro4? I know it isn't out yet but you never know who has the connections to test stuff before release. I'll be buying the 4 when it comes out, thankfully I have the cash to buy the best one! Going to Belize to get married and will be there for almost 3 weeks. A buddy of mine is bringing his quadcopter and we will be shooting some amazing video on and over the ocean. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with all of us and I can't wait to hear your response.
Hey VOM. I'm pretty sure that I still had on the Sanken COS11D going through my Sennheiser Wireless for the last 50 sec. I don't have plans to get a Hero 4 immediately. My hero 3+ is working well, and lately I'm flying with my NEX-5r, which trounces the GoPro for quality, and it's only 550.00! Less now that it's discontinued and replaced by the Sony A5100. I'm holding out for a GH4 though... Anyway, be careful over the water with your new camera!
Thank you, I've been looking for a quality wireless mic for the go pro to eliminate the noise coming from brushless gimbal motors vibrating giving off horrible static crackling noise. I hope one of those wireless laws will work alongside the video being balanced with gimbal.
Yeah it's hard to tell until you get a particular solution tested with your particular setup. Generally speaking, the GoPro isn't a good way to capture audio since there aren't any audio controls. Best to use a separate recorder, but I understand one wants to keep it simple.
I purchased the Sena wireless audio pack for the gopro a couple years ago and I used it several different times, only because the bluetooth headset I got didn't produce stereo quality, only mono. I'm thinking of just purchasing one of Sena's stereo bluetooth helmet headsets, something that won't break the bank. I was hoping by now they would have a bluetooth wireless headset anyone can wear just in their ear that would be compatible with the Sena bluetooth go pro audio pack. I plan on using it for more action shots while riding on my skateboard in the near future.
Great job Chad just Subbed to your tube from watching Dave's tube Thanks.
My pleasure!
Wonder if the new frame fixed this problem. Also have you tried line in with the go pro. just bought a go pro today and would like to record my drums.
Line in would be too hot. It's a mic level input. And really, with the AGC and crappy preamp in the GoPro you should avoid trying to get music recorded. This is best for dialog, Use a separate stereo recorder or your computer to get the drums, and just clap for a slate at the beginning and line up the audio when you edit.
Chad Johnson Sounds complicated to a noob.