Security Cameras with Audio

Security Cameras with Audio

Security Cameras with Audio either have a built-in microphone on the camera or an audio-input connector to connect an add-on microphone. Regardless of whether the mic is built-in or external, security camera microphones are sensitive enough to pick up sounds from a 40ft radius when in a quiet room. Although results vary based on ambient noise, these security cameras are a great way to record both video and audio. Choosing a camera for your security camera system depends on whether you need an analog security camera, or IP camera

All of CCTV Camera World's surveillance cameras with built-in microphones allow an easy connection to a compatible security camera recorder. Analog security cameras with a built-in microphone send audio combined with the video signal. You simply need a HD Siamese Cable or a roll of RG59 Siamese Coax to transmit the signal along with power. For IP cameras with a built-in mic, the audio/video/power signals are carried over one network cable.

We do carry PoE cameras with optional line-in audio inputs that allow the use of an external security camera microphone. To connect the add-on mic you'll need a RCA coupler to attach the mic to the camera, and a 12VDC power supply to provide power to the mic next to the camera. Once the mic is connected to the camera, audio is combined with the video signal and sent over the cable back to a NVR. We explain the process in greater detail in our guide on how to connect a microphone to an IP security camera.

Learn More about security cameras with audio Lastly, some of the cameras below offer optional two-way audio capabilities. The PoE cameras with audio have an audio line-in and line-out that is compatible with our security camera two-way audio kit. For more information on how to connect the kit to our cameras, be sure to read our two-way audio setup guide.

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Learn more about Surveillance Cameras with Microphone

Types of Security Cameras with Audio

There are 3 types of security cameras that record audio: built-in microphones, microphone  inputs, and two-way talk or intercom cameras.

Built-in Microphones

Security cameras with built-in microphones are the easiest to use. Simply connect the camera to your recorder and make sure the audio stream is enabled. Generally cameras with built-in microphone are not as weather resistant so they are best installed in a sheltered area or under eaves. Some cameras with built-in audio can only be used indoors.

Microphone Inputs

There are also cameras that have connections available for audio equipment. Depending on the camera model the audio hookup can be found on the pigtail, or the inside of a dome camera. Using compatible connectors you can connect an external microphone to capture audio. Some cameras also include a speaker output connection to enable two-way audio. Keep in mind that external microphones and speakers also need a power source. To learn more check out our article on How to add a microphone to an IP Camera.

Two-way Audio

Two-way audio cameras feature a microphone and speaker to achieve intercom communication. Intercoms are useful because they allow the person in front of the camera and the person monitoring the camera to talk to one another. Two-way audio cameras are useful for front porches, front offices, and for speaking with customers or employees.

What is the best security camera with audio?

Indoors

All of our indoor audio cameras are worth looking at. We have a range of built-in microphone and two-way audio cameras that are great fits for living rooms, lobbies, and offices. Depending on what you’re trying to accomplish we recommend our IPSDIR3X4M PTZ camera with built-in microphone or for two way audio our popular IP4MPA Two-Way Audio Security Camera.

Outdoors

For outdoor use we recommend complimenting audio with excellent video quality from one of our 4K security cameras. All of the cameras are rated to be IP66 weather resistant. As long as you do not wash the cameras with a pressure washer they are suitable for outdoor use without cover. For example we recommend our regular series IPC4K15ED 8MP 4K Security Camera Dome with Mic, or for the best video quality our Ultimate series IPC4KMZED 8MP 4K IP Dome Camera, Built-in Mic, 4X Zoom.

What do you mean by 2-way audio security cameras?

Two-way Audio Security Cameras contain a microphone and speaker (or connections for both) to provide intercom back and forth communication. When thinking of two way audio we like to use the example of a walkie talkie. Using the smartphone app or PC software (with a headset) users can listen to, and talk to people who are in front of their 2 way audio cameras.

Are their laws about home security cameras recording audio?

We are not lawyers and this is not legal advice. Always check for laws and regulations with local law enforcement or town clerks before enabling any type of audio recording.

Laws for recording audio vastly differ depending on where you are located. Generally speaking, phone recording laws also apply to recording audio for security purposes. On a federal level audio recording is considered a “one-party” consent law. One-party consent means as long as you know you are recording audio with your system then anyone can be recorded by your security cameras.

However, some states, counties, cities, and towns have strict “two-party” consent laws. Two-party consent means that both the person recording and the person being recorded must be aware of and consent to audio being recorded. In some areas there are ways to comply with local two party consent laws, such as putting up a security camera warning sign. As a general rule it is best to not record audio at all in places where two-party consent is required.

Do I need additional cable or accessories to record audio?

Purchasing additional cable or accessories for recording audio is only necessary for cameras that have microphone inputs or connectors. Add-on security camera microphones usually require power, and RCA tipped wire to send audio back to a security camera recorder. Cameras that are sold with built-in microphones do not require any additional cable or accessories and send audio mixed directly with the video stream regardless of whether it is an IP camera or Analog Security Camera.

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