Which external cameras have audio...?
Which external cameras have built-in audio recording ability...? I'm looking for the quality of a NestCam in terms of video and audio.
Thanks,
Robert
Thanks,
Robert
Comments
Not many external cameras have built-in microphones (due to the waterproof nature of the housings), but a few do - see our list of compatible cameras to find them.
More common with external cameras is audio-input ports, so that you can connect a separate (powered) microphone, so this is another option.
Thanks,
Robert
You'll need a powered mic that outputs a line-level signal. There are many that are designed for CCTV purposes, that accept a 12v input (so can be powered from the same source as the camera). With PoE cameras, you'll either have to run separate power for the mic, or make sure to find a camera that outputs 12v to power the mic (e.g. some Sunba cameras have this feature).
Where possible, it's easier to use cameras with built-in microphones.
I have several 3MP and 4MP cameras that I've got from various sources. I've got the Dahua IPC-HDW4431C-A from Amazon for sub $100 many times and had good luck. Buyer Beware: Amazon isn't a supported reseller by Dahua so if anything goes wrong you're out of luck (you could end up with a Chinese firmware or an underperforming camera). If you want something officially supported, I'd recommend a similar Dahua from B&H Photo (search DH-IPC-HDW44A1EN). They run around $185.