We compare built-in mics and traditional mics for professional work that is noise-free as we dive into the fascinating world of microphones. As content creators, you know the importance of clear, sharp audio for your audience.
When you’re podcasting, streaming, or making videos, how clear your voice is can make or break the material. The often-overlooked built-in microphones are the focus of today’s article. Technology has dramatically increased their noise cancellation and audio quality, making them a good choice for professional audio work.
Our goal isn’t just to compare but also to help you pick the best microphone for your content creation needs, with a focus on how well-built-in mics get rid of background noise. Stay tuned as we talk about the features and help you make the choice that will work best for your artistic projects!
Definition of Built-In Mics And Traditional Mics
What is a built-in microphone?
The purpose of built-in microphone is to record sound without needing external mics. They are found in many electronic products. People often find these speakers in smartphones, computers, tablets, and cameras. One of the best things about built-in mics is that they make recording or talking on the phone easy and quick.
For example, the microphone built into an app or a device makes it easy to conduct messages, take voice notes, or give commands by voice.
However, depending on the device, the sound of the built-in microphone in the device can be different. Premium smartphones and computers often have more advanced microphones to pick up sounds better and eliminate background noise. This makes the total sound quality better for both recording and talking.
What is a traditional microphone?
Casual microphones, often used with everyday devices like smartphones, laptops, and gaming headsets, are designed for general use rather than professional audio capture. While they offer the convenience of being readily available and easy to use, they have some downsides.
The sound quality of these microphones typically doesn’t match that of professional-grade mics, often resulting in less clear or crisp audio. They could be more effective at filtering background noise, which can be problematic in noisy environments. Also, casual microphones usually need more adjustability regarding sensitivity or directionality.
This makes them less versatile for audio recording or communication needs. Finally, the durability of these built-in microphones might differ from that of standalone, casual microphones, potentially leading to shorter lifespans or performance issues over time.
Features of Built-In Mics And Traditional Mics
In this part, we will show you the features of built-in and traditional mics so you can understand them properly. It will help you to choose the right one for your professional work. Let’s check, then!
built-in microphone features
Built-in mics have several features that make them easier to use and better at what they do. These are some essential things:
Noise Cancellation:
Many built-in microphones come with AI noise-cancellation technology, which helps reduce background noise, thus improving the clarity of the captured audio.
Voice Isolation:
Built-In mics are designed to isolate the speaker’s voice from other sounds, instrumental in noisy environments.
Automatic Gain Control (AGC):
AGC automatically adjusts the microphone’s sensitivity based on the loudness of the sound source. This helps in maintaining a consistent audio level.
Frequency Response:
This refers to the range of frequencies a microphone can pick up. A more comprehensive frequency response range is beneficial for capturing a broader range of sounds.
Integration with Software:
Built-in microphones often work seamlessly with the device’s software, allowing for features like voice commands, digital assistants, and automatic transcription.
Compact and Unobtrusive Design:
Being built-in, these microphones are designed to be compact and blend in with the device, making them discreet and convenient.
Low Power Consumption:
They are typically designed to consume minimal power, which is crucial for battery-powered devices.
Directional Recording Capabilities:
Some built-in microphones are designed to focus on sound coming from a specific direction, which is helpful in targeted audio recording.
Traditional microphone features
Traditional microphones are also necessary tools for audio work; let’s have a look at the potential features you need to know:
Transducer Type:
Dynamic microphones are robust and can handle high sound pressure well, but they may need condenser mics’ sensitivity and broader frequency response. Condenser mics offer better sound but need extra power (phantom power) and are more affected by their surroundings.
Polar Patterns:
The cardioid and super-cardioid patterns are great for separating sound sources, but they can be affected by the proximity effect, which makes bass frequencies louder when the sound source is close. Omnidirectional mics pick up sound from all directions, which can be problematic in places with a lot of noise.
Frequency Response:
Some microphones have a flat frequency response that records sounds accurately, while others may only have a small range that makes sounds less clear, especially at the low or high ends.
Sensitivity and SPL Handling:
Mics with high sensitivity can pick up detailed sounds but may have trouble handling noise and be sensitive to plosives, making records sound like they’re popping.
Connectivity:
Most mics have XLR ports for substantial, balanced audio transfer, but this can make them less portable and easier to use than mics with digital connections like USB.
Build Quality and Design:
Professional mics are usually strong enough to use in the studio or on stage, but they can be hard to carry around because they are big and need extras like stands and pop filters.
Accessories and Mounting Options:
These add-ons are necessary to get the best sound quality and reduce background noise, but they make the whole thing bigger and take longer to set up.
Built-In Mics And Traditional Mics: What is the right pick for professionals?
First, built-in microphones, like the ones in your smartphone or laptop, are super convenient. They also can be installed on your device from the Play Store or other app stores. They’re always with you, ready to go at a moment’s notice.
You don’t need to set up any extra equipment, which can save time and hassle, especially when moving or capturing something spontaneously. They’re like the handy notebook you carry around for jotting down ideas instead of setting up a whole desktop for writing.
Now, it’s true that traditional microphones used to offer good sound quality – they’re designed for that. But let’s not underestimate the power of modern built-in mics. They’ve come a long way in terms of quality, and for many tasks like quick voice recording or even quality content creation, they do a surprisingly good job.
Plus, with the right environment and some clever tricks of using a mic (like using a quiet room and speaking close to the mic), you can boost the quality of your recordings.
In a world where ease and speed often matter, built-in mics offer a smooth, hassle-free solution. They’re like the Swiss Army knife of microphones – they are incredibly versatile and always there when you need them.
Of course, a traditional microphone was to be the king for genuinely professional work where audio quality is paramount. But the latest AI technology made the built-in microphone the king for more pro-level audio work.
What about the expense?
If you think about it this way, the microphone that reduces noise is already on your device when you open an app. It’s not an extra cost; it’s like getting a free complimentary dish with your meal.
A standard microphone, on the other hand, is like going to a specialized store to buy a specific satisfying element. It may be expensive, depending on what you want.
However, The built-in microphone is a cheap option for many users, especially those new to audio work or just needing a microphone for everyday use. For instance, an excellent standard microphone costs at least $100, but the noise-canceling built-in microphone costs more than ten times less.
My device’s built-in mic is not of good quality; what do I do?
It’s a common problem that the built-in microphone might be distracted depending on your device’s quality. Instead, imagine discovering an integrated microphone solution that could deliver top-notch service on every device type. Interesting right? It’s time for an audio noise reducer app. There’s a built-in microphone with noise-canceling capabilities, and the app installation only takes up a little space. So, enjoy the quality audio with less effort.
Conclusion
The main point of the topic that you now have the answer to is built-in mics and traditional mics. No matter how experienced you are, choosing a built-in mic is smart. This method saves time and money and produces better sound than regular mics. Starting today, use built-in mics to make your audio work easier. They are easy to use and work better compared to traditional mics.
