CCTV Camera with Audio: Buying Guide for Microphone & Sound Cameras (and How to Find a Reliable CCTV Dealer Near Me)
Video alone cannot tell the whole story. During a shop-counter argument, a dispute over a delivery at your gate, or a suspicious conversation outside your home, sound can often be the deciding factor. That is why many choose a CCTV camera with audio instead of a video-only camera.
This guide explains how CCTV cameras with microphones work, what to look out for before you buy, and how to find a reliable CCTV dealer near you.
What Is a CCTV Camera with Audio?
A CCTV camera with audio features a built-in microphone and sometimes a speaker, recording not only the video but also the audio information. This kind of camera may also be referred to as a CCTV camera with sound or a CCTV camera with microphone. There may also be a surveillance camera with audio. All of them imply a camera recording both what it sees and hears.
There are two common variations:
- One-way audio: the camera only listens or records audio information.
- Two-way audio: the camera also has a speaker, allowing one to speak to whomever the camera faces, from their phone. This is useful for speaking with a delivery person or confronting an intruder.
How Does a CCTV Camera Microphone Work?
There are two ways to record audio using a CCTV camera.
Built-in Microphone
Many CCTV cameras now have a built-in microphone. The microphones pick up sounds from their vicinity (up to a few metres) and transmit it to the DVR/NVR along with the video. This is the easiest option because it requires no additional hardware or cabling.
External Microphone
An external mic can be connected to camera or on the audio input of the DVR/NVR. This allows to place the mic where it can capture the sound better (on the counter for example) which may be crucial for larger facilities.
It is important to note that for recording audio (for both options above) the recorder (DVR/NVR) needs to be able to receive and process the audio input. Make sure that your DVR/NVR can pick up and process audio before buying.
Where Is a CCTV Camera with Audio Most Useful?
Shops and Showrooms
A lot of people install CCTV cameras at the billing counter of any shop or showroom. Having a microphone at the billing counter helps in determining the exact price offered by the shopkeeper and also helps in preventing customer disputes about the price being charged. A bullet camera such as the CP Plus 2.4MP HD bullet camera is a popular choice for shop counters and entrances.
Homes and Apartments
A camera with two-way audio at your front door or gate allows you to communicate with anyone at the door or gate remotely.
Offices and Reception Areas
Audio records conversations at the reception counter with clients, including any misunderstandings or arguments.
Baby Rooms and Elder Care
Sound picks up crying and any calls for help, allowing you to attend to their needs even when away.
Warehouses and Workshops
Sound picks up alarms, voices of people present, and malfunctioning equipment.
Important: Audio Recording Laws and Privacy
While it is standard practice to record videos in your own premise using cameras, the same laws do not apply to private conversations. When considering buying a camera with audio, you should first:
- Post a notice stating that conversations may be recorded, for instance, “CCTV with audio recording in operation”
- Record audio only at permitted locations, for instance, at a counter or at the front gate
- Do not install microphones in private places like bathrooms and changing rooms
- Consult legal experts on the laws in your area if in doubt
This way, you are assured of a legal and effective recording system, without getting into trouble with privacy laws.
What to Consider When Buying a CCTV Camera With Microphone
- Audio type: two-way or one-way depending on whether you want to respond or just listen
- Resolution: at least 2MP for decent quality imaging, 3MP to 5MP is ideal for facial recognition
- Night vision: as important as audio
- Recorder compatibility: Ask if your recorder (DVR or NVR) can support audio recording. Get a stand-alone WiFi camera that comes with a microS card slot.
- Mobile app: live viewing, listening and playback on your phone are extremely handy.
- Storage: audio adds to file size, so choose a larger hard disk or memory card.
- Warranty and bill: buy only genuine products with manufacturer warranty.
WiFi vs Wired CCTV Camera with Audio
WiFi Cameras with Sound
They are easy to install and work well for homes and small shops, and are easily movable. They require a stable internet connection and a power point.
Wired Cameras with Microphone
They are more reliable for shops, offices and larger buildings. A wired camera with audio, connected to a DVR or NVR, provides continuous recording independent of WiFi strength.
How to Find the Best CCTV Dealers and Shops Near Me
Searching for CCTV dealers near me, CCTV shops near me or a CCTV store near me will give you multiple results, not all of which are reliable. Here are some tips to choose a good CCTV dealer.
Look for a Real, Visible Store
A proper CCTV camera store will have a physical shop where you can see products, ask questions and return for support. Check the Google Maps listing, photos and reviews.
Ask for Genuine Brands and a Proper Bill
Reputable dealers sell recognized brands such as CP Plus, Hikvision and Trueview, and give a GST bill with warranty. Avoid sellers who refuse to give a bill.
Check Whether They Install and Support
Good dealers don’t just sell the box, but survey your site, install the cameras and set up mobile viewing. They are also available when something stops working.
Compare Retail Dealers, Suppliers and Distributors
These terms are often mixed up:
- CCTV dealer or shop: sells to home and business customers, usually with installation.
- CCTV camera supplier, on the contrary, provides different kinds of cameras and accessories in bulk to companies, educational facilities, and contractors.
- A CCTV camera distributor purchases goods from manufacturers and sells them to dealers and installers.
Thus, if you need only one or two cameras, a local dealer will be the best option. However, if you need multiple cameras for your project, contact a CCTV camera supplier and find out a wholesale price.
Read Reviews and Ask Questions
Be sure to read recent reviews about the company in question and ask if they have been on the market for a while, what warranty do they offer and to whom service claims are addressed.
Common Mistakes When Buying CCTV with Audio
- Assuming every camera records sound, when many only capture video
- Buying a camera with a mic but using a DVR that does not record audio
- Mounting the camera far from where people talk, so that the sound is faint
- Ignoring background noise from fans, traffic or machines
- Choosing the cheapest unbranded camera with no warranty
- Skipping the privacy notice
Quick Tips for Better Audio Quality
- Mount the camera or mic close to where conversations happen
- Keep it away from fans, air conditioners and road noise
- Use an external microphone for larger rooms
- Test the sound after installation and reposition it
- Update the camera firmware and change the default password
Buy CCTV Cameras with Audio from Revanagiri Computers
Revanagiri Computer & Security Systems is a local CCTV store, supplying genuine CCTV cameras with microphone and audio, WiFi cameras, DVRs, NVRs and hard disks. Our own technicians are on hand to visit your site, advise on the right camera and perform the installation. Every product has manufacturer warranty and local support.
Browse our CCTV cameras or call 9535059254 to talk to us directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all CCTV cameras record audio?
No, a lot just record video. Make sure it has a built in microphone, and that your recorder can handle audio.
What’s the difference between a CCTV camera with audio and a normal camera?
A camera with sound has a microphone which records audio while recording a picture. A regular camera simply takes pictures.
Can I talk through a CCTV camera?
Yes. If it has 2 way audio. It has a built-in microphone and speaker, and is controlled via the mobile app.
How far can a CCTV camera microphone hear?
Most built-in microphones will capture clear audio up to a few metres. An external mic will allow you to capture sound at a greater distance.
Is it legal to use a surveillance camera with audio?
The laws about the use of surveillance cameras are gray at best and in most areas it is illegal to record private conversation without consent. Use these devices with caution and always advertize your intent by displaying a sign that your premises are under surveillance. Just listen to what you need to listen to and know today’s law.
How to Find a Legit CCTV Dealer Near You?
Ask for a physical store address, look for reliability, check for brand authorization, GST bill, warranty, and on-site support, and check the reviews.
Need Help Choosing the Right Camera?
Tell us where you want to install the camera and what you want to record, and we’ll suggest the right model. Call 9535059254 or view our CCTV range.