topspin 0 Posted November 14, 2009 How do I connect a mic on a dvr? I have a dvr with an rca input for the microphone. Do I need a special mic? Does it have to be amplified? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Soundy 1 Posted November 14, 2009 How do I connect a mic on a dvr? I have a dvr with an rca input for the microphone. Do I need a special mic? Does it have to be amplified? Any *dynamic* mic should work without an amp, although you may find an amp is required depending on the sound level you're trying to record. Avoid condenser mics, as they need to be powered, which most often means using a battery - last thing you need is to be replacing a mic battery every few months. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
scorpion 0 Posted November 14, 2009 If you are using a "regular" microphone then you may need to get an inexpensive DJ mixer to plug the mic into, and to allow it to be the preamplifier that the mic needs, and then plug the output of the mixer in to the dvr. You can use this as it has a preamplifier built in as do most cameras with built in mics http://www.eclipsecctv.com/ECL-MIC_microphone.html http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000972KQG Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
topspin 0 Posted November 14, 2009 How about this one? http://www.grant-security.com/product.php?productid=16605&cat=339&page=1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
topspin 0 Posted November 14, 2009 Or this one? http://www.allelectronics.com/make-a-store/item/MIKE-200/DYNAMIC-MICROPHONE/1.html Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ak357 0 Posted November 15, 2009 How do I connect a mic on a dvr? I have a dvr with an rca input for the microphone. Do I need a special mic? Does it have to be amplified? Any *dynamic* mic should work without an amp, although you may find an amp is required depending on the sound level you're trying to record. Avoid condenser mics, as they need to be powered, which most often means using a battery - last thing you need is to be replacing a mic battery every few months. If I remember correct DVR Audio In (Input) is at Line Level Meaning dynamic mic will need Amp Line level is usually between -10 to +4 dbm in strength while MIC levels are normally -60 dbm. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Soundy 1 Posted November 15, 2009 ^Yeah, good point, that input is likely line-level; the only mic that would drive it directly would be an old-style carbon or crystal mic (along with terrible sound quality). Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
hardwired 0 Posted November 15, 2009 I know I'm going to hear about recommending anything from these guys, but this one actually works very well. http://www.supercircuits.com/Microphones/PA3 .. or you could go with the Louroe stuff, at ten times the price. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Soundy 1 Posted November 15, 2009 There's always your friendly neighborhood Radio Shack... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
scorpion 0 Posted November 15, 2009 How about this one? I vote this one!!!! http://members.cox.net/n4jk/d104.htm Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
WRS_Mark 0 Posted November 15, 2009 How about this one? I vote this one!!!! http://members.cox.net/n4jk/d104.htm A thing of beauty. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dvrtiger 0 Posted November 15, 2009 Use condenser microphones with built in phantom power supply and preamp...don't use dynamic mic, because they are usually directional with short range, used in PA. Condenser are better for human voice on longer range and are far more sensitive. If price is not an issue, use AKG. Or, if it is, use cheep electrec ones with DIY electronics. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
scorpion 0 Posted November 15, 2009 Perhaps this one has merit? http://www.louroe.com/mics.asp?model=amic Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dvrtiger 0 Posted November 15, 2009 Oh, yes, I like it's dome style housing, almost as a fire alarm detector! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites