The sound quality of your Instagram Live sessions can significantly impact their success. A microphone for Instagram Live is crucial for delivering a polished and captivating broadcast, whether hosting a Q&A, introducing a product, or interacting with your audience in live events. In this guide, we'll explore the importance of improving your audio, the key features to consider, and recommend the top microphones for Instagram live streaming.
Why do external microphones matter on Instagram Live?
The built-in microphone on your streaming device may suffice for many situations. However, if you're looking to cut down on background noise and gain better control over your sound quality, adding an external microphone to your setup is a smart choice. Using an external microphone for Instagram Live offers several benefits:
- Improve Engagement: Crisp, clear audio makes it easier for your audience to hear you, leading to more interaction and longer viewing times.
- Reduce Distractions: A high-quality microphone minimizes background noise, keeping the focus on your voice.
- Enhance Professionalism: Using a top-tier mic shows your commitment to your content, helping to establish trust and authority with your viewers.
What factors to consider when making a purchase?
When choosing the best microphone for Instagram Live, keep these important factors in mind:
Content style: The type of content you're streaming will significantly influence the types of microphones you choose to buy. For instance, a creator selling products live has different audio requirements than a fitness instructor. For fixed setups like tutorials or interviews, a wired lavalier or condenser mic provides clear, high-quality sound. For more mobile or active sessions, such as outdoor vlogs, a wireless Lavalier or shotgun mic is ideal for greater flexibility and ease of movement.
Audio quality: A microphone equipped with noise-cancellation or wind protection features (like a windshield or pop filter) will ensure your voice is captured clearly, even in noisy or outdoor settings. Additionally, a broad frequency response range delivers a more natural and full sound.
Connectivity: Choose microphones that easily connect to your smartphone, whether through Lightning, USB-C, or wireless options. Some models provide plug-and-play functionality, allowing you to start streaming right away.
Portability: For on-the-go recording, a lightweight and compact microphone (such as many wireless lavaliers) is perfect. These models attach to your clothing and allow for unrestricted movement without the hassle of tangled cables.
Battery life and range: For wireless microphones, pay attention to the transmission range and battery life. A mic with several hours of battery life ensures you can stream without interruptions.
What to invest in: 3 picks of wireless microphone for Instagram Live at Moman
Here are 3 popular Moman wireless microphone choices ideal for Instagram Live. They come with different features and are suitable for live streamers with different budgets. Read on to find the one for you.
Best budget: Moman CP1(C) microphone for Instagram Live on Android phones and newer iPhones, at $39.99
Click the image to buy Moman CP1(C)
The Moman CP1(C) is a compact, wireless lavalier microphone designed for hassle‐free, high-quality audio capture. It operates on a 2.4GHz wireless frequency and features an intelligent noise reduction chip, ensuring clear sound even in noisy environments. Its plug-and-play design makes it exceptionally user-friendly—simply plug the receiver into your Type-C device, clip on the transmitter, and you're ready to go.
Key features include:
- Hands-free operation: Its lightweight, clip-on design lets you focus on your content without being tethered by cables.
- Reliable connectivity: With stable, interference-resistant transmission, you can broadcast live without audio dropouts.
- Ease of use: No additional apps or complex setups are needed—just a simple on/off button and you're set.
Whether you're streaming a casual chat or a more professional live session, the Moman CP1(C) provides a significant upgrade in audio quality, making your Instagram Live broadcasts sound more professional and engaging.
Best long-lasting: Moman CP2 Instagram live microphone with charging case, at $65.99 or $69.99
The Moman CP2 is a compact, dual-channel wireless Lavalier microphone system designed for mobile creators who need clear, reliable audio on the go. With its plug-and-play design and compatibility for both iPhone (Lightning) and Android (Type-C) devices, it’s especially suited for Instagram Live sessions where mobility and ease of use are key.
Key features include:
- Dual-channel recording: Two transmitters enable the recording of two speakers simultaneously—ideal for interviews or co-hosted live sessions.
- Wireless charging case: The innovative charging case not only stores the receiver but also provides extra battery life, ensuring you can stream uninterrupted for hours.
- Noise cancellation & low latency: Intelligent noise suppression and latency of ≤20ms help deliver studio-quality sound even in challenging environments.
- Plug & play setup: No apps or drivers are required. Simply plug the receiver into your smartphone, clip the transmitter to your collar, and start streaming.
These features make the Moman CP2 a strong candidate for Instagram Live, where high-quality audio can significantly boost viewer engagement. If you're looking to upgrade from your phone's built-in mic, the CP2 offers a user-friendly and effective solution to enhance your live-streaming audio quality.
Best all-around: Moman C2 wireless microphone for live streaming on different devices with TFT screen, at $109
The Moman C2 is a versatile microphone for Instagram Live designed for high-quality audio recording across various platforms, including Instagram Live. It operates on the 2.4GHz band, ensuring stable, interference-free transmission up to 200 meters in optimal conditions.
Key features include:
- Broadcast-quality sound: The Moman C2 delivers clear and crisp audio, with one-button noise cancellation and 6-level gain control.
- User-friendly design: It features a bright TFT screen for monitoring audio levels and battery status, making it easy to manage during live streams.
- Compatibility: The system works seamlessly with smartphones, cameras, and tablets, thanks to its included TRS/TRRS cables and digital type-C output.
- Portability: Lightweight and compact, it’s easy to carry and set up, making it ideal for on-the-go content creation.
- Long battery life: With up to 8 hours of operation on a single charge, it’s reliable for extended live sessions.
For Instagram Live, the Moman C2’s reliable performance and easy integration with smartphones mean you can move freely while maintaining excellent audio quality, ensuring your audience hears you loud and clear.
Tips on how to go live on Instagram on your phone
Besides going on Instagram Live with external microphone to get good audio, it is also important to start your live and interact with views properly. Follow these steps if you are new to Instagram Live.
Step 1: Set up your live post
Launch the Instagram app and sign in. Then, press the “+” (plus) icon at the bottom.
Step 2: Start your live stream
- Choose "Live" from the menu at the bottom.
- To add a title, tap the top 'lines' button on the left sidebar.
- If you want to plan ahead, use the calendar icon to schedule your live stream.
- Next, adjust your audience by clicking “Followers”—you can restrict it to close friends, all followers, or use it for practice.
- Finally, hit the large button at the bottom to begin your live session.
Step 3: Bring a guest into your Instagram Live
To include a co-host or guest speaker in your live stream, tap the two-person icon in the bottom right. Search for their username or choose from the "Suggested" list below. Then, hit the blue “Invite” button to send them a request. Once they accept, both of you will appear live. Tapping the screen lets you switch between views.
Step 4: Engage with your audience during your Live
Make your broadcast interactive by using filters, responding to comments, and answering questions in real time.
- Apply filters: Tap the three-star icon in the top right to browse and select different effects
Interact with viewers: Type responses in the "Add a comment..." box - Answer questions: Select the question mark icon in the bottom right corner
- Add guests: Press the video-plus icon in the bottom right menu to invite callers
Step 5: Wrap up and share your Live
To finish your broadcast, tap the "X" in the top corner and confirm by selecting "End now." You'll then have the option to either delete the recording or post it to your Stories for all followers to view.
