How to Connect External Mic to iPad

Owning an iPad may solve many of your problems, but getting a top-notch recording experience is not one of them. For this particular reason, people prefer external microphones that can record any sound, sometimes even multiple sound sources. But what are these devices and which one to choose? To solve this problem, we are going to talk about everything you may need to know  for how to connect external mic to iPad! 

You can also read: Cool Things to Do with AirPods

What is an Audio Interface? 

The market is filled with numerous external microphones that you can purchase. But the external microphone is not your only concern. For the connection, you need several other devices so you can record anything.

The connection depends on what device you use for adding an external microphone with your iPad. An audio interface is the most popular when it comes to recording. 

Well, an audio interface takes care of every recording of you. The main function is to convert the captured audio signal into a digital signal. This is done by an A/D converter which transforms the sound into signals that can be expressed via 0 and 1. Then it is stored or it can be even edited by you.

When you need to hear the sound, this digital signal converts once again. This time the process is reversed and it is called D/A conversion. These interfaces can not only add external microphones but can also add guitar cables. You can hear the recordings anytime via your earphones or speakers.

Now, audio interfaces can vary depending on your purpose. There are multiple types of audio interfaces. Some of these are perfect for everyday use such as podcasts, vlogging. However, if you need to record audio tracks that need to have clear smooth audio then you need interfaces that support professional recording.

Which Type of Audio Interface Should I Choose?

First, you need to realize how many audio sources you need to record. For example, if you are only working with a single sound source or one particular instrument, you can choose Focusrite Scarlett Studio 3rd Generation.

The Scarlett 3rd Gen Interface also offers audio interfaces that are a little bit advanced. For example, Cusrite Scarlett 2i2 is for capturing multiple sources. This particular audio interface also features air mode that gives the best quality audio.

Is There Any Other Option Available?

Another option that you can choose for connecting an external microphone is field recorders. Field recorders can be a substitute for an audio interface. Moreover, field recorders offer an added advantage where you do not need any power supply.

So if you are outdoors, for example, if you’re camping or hiking, you can choose field recorders. That’s why they are named field recorders so you can capture even the sound of nature, without any problem.

However, even though people need additional AC power with audio interfaces, audio interfaces are more popular and preferred by people.  

What Do I Need for Connecting an External Mic to iPad?

• Audio interface or field recorder, depending on your usage. We suggest an audio interface
• Microphone. Any external microphone will work. However, the quality depends solely on you.
• The cables depend on your port. Depending on your port you will either need USB-C to USB-C cable or Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter.
• Powered USB Hub for power so they can function. You also need headphones so you can listen to your recording and identify any errors if they occur.

How Do I Connect My External Microphone?

• For an iPad that Features USB-C Port

The adapter will depend on your audio interface. If the audio interface can work with USB-C cable then buy a USB-C to USB-C cable.

However, for audio interfaces that do no support such configuration, you will require a USB to USB-C adapter. Then, add the audio interface with your iPad via your adapter or cable.

• For an iPad that Features Lightning Port

You will require a lightning to USB-3 camera adapter for connecting an external mic to your iPad. Add the audio interface with your iPad via your adapter or cable.

Remaining Connection

After this connection, you need to add the external mic with your audio interface. Your connection has been complete! Now you can use this to record almost anything you want. Add a headset so that you can hear your recording after. 

This is actually an amazing way to ensure you get to record anything through your iPad. Once you realize the process, you can purchase any type of external microphones for high-quality audio. 

You can also use your iPad to stream anything anywhere, also as we mentioned before. 

You need to use a Powered USB Hub for supplying power to your audio interface. The device can send warning messages which indicate these additional connections require a power supply.

For this purpose, a Powered USB Hub needs to be added to any power source. Then add the Powered USB Hub with your iPad and connect it with your audio interface. You can use the Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter for this purpose.

Though you may connect the external microphone correctly, sometimes they may not function. So you need to do an error check. For this purpose, check if the microphone is muted or if the cables are loosely plugged. Moreover, check if the powered USB Hub is functional too.

Sometimes due to this, the external microphone does not record. There should also be a recording indication on your iPad which you can check. 

However, if none of these work, check your settings. If you are recording for some app then check if your settings allow microphone access to these apps known as third-party apps. 

Final Thoughts 

Hopefully, we have been able to answer every question of yours.  So, the audio interfaces also change depending on your need and the cables vary depending on your port. So the first step of connecting your external microphone is understanding what you need. Do not purchase something that cannot be supported by your iPad. Finally, follow our simple instructions step-by-step for a hassle free connection. Best of luck!