If your security camera recordings or live view contain distorted, buzzing, or unusually low audio, the issue is often related to app configuration, audio settings, or the environment in which the camera is used. Follow the steps below to troubleshoot and improve sound quality during playback and live view.
Check Audio Settings in the Camera App
- Open the camera app and tap the Settings icon.
- Navigate to Audio Settings.
- Ensure both Live Audio Recording and Video Audio Recording are enabled.
- Set the recording volume to the highest level available.
These settings directly affect the audio captured during both live view and video recordings.
Enable Audio During Live View
- Open Live View in your camera app.
- Tap the Sound icon located beneath the video window.
- Confirm that the icon appears active and is not muted.
If the sound icon is disabled, you won’t hear any audio during live view even if recording is active.
Verify Phone Audio and App Permissions
- Ensure your phone’s media volume is turned up and not muted.
- Confirm that notification sounds and media playback are enabled in your device settings.
- Go to App Permissions and verify that the app has access to your device’s microphone and speaker.
Address Audio Feedback or Distortion
If you're hearing squealing, echo, buzzing, or other unwanted noise:
- Increase the distance between your phone and camera when using two-way audio.
- Reduce the speaker volume on your phone.
- Avoid using the camera in enclosed or echo-prone environments such as narrow hallways or small rooms.
- If using two-way audio, mute the microphone on one end when not speaking.
Restart and Update
- Power off the camera and turn it back on.
- Force close and reopen the camera app.
- Confirm that the camera has a strong and stable Wi-Fi connection.
- Update the camera app to the latest version.
- Clear the app’s cache from your phone’s system settings.
Test the Audio Function
Once the above steps are completed:
- Stand in front of the camera and speak clearly.
- Record a short video using the app.
- Play back the recording and evaluate the sound quality and volume.
This helps verify whether the adjustments have resolved the issue.
Observe the Camera Startup Sound
Some cameras play a startup chime or voice prompt when powered on. This can help confirm whether audio playback is functioning as expected.
- Power off the camera completely.
- Turn it back on and listen for the startup sound.
- The presence or absence of a startup sound may help determine whether audio output is functioning normally.
Note: Not all models include a startup sound. Refer to your device’s user manual for confirmation.
Consider Environmental Interference
- Outdoor wind, rain, traffic, or mechanical noise can affect recorded audio.
- Enclosures such as bird feeders or weatherproof cases may block or muffle the microphone.
- Dust, dirt, or moisture buildup near the microphone opening can cause distortion or low volume.
If the camera is used outdoors, inspect the microphone area for potential obstructions.