Dahua Camera Microphone Not Working? Here's the Fix
Capturing audio with your video surveillance can provide critical context and detail, but it's a common source of frustration when it doesn't work as expected. If you're having trouble with the microphone on your Dahua security camera—whether there's no sound at all or the quality is poor—this guide is here to help.
We'll walk you through the common settings and troubleshooting steps in a professional, easy-to-understand way, using British English, to get your camera's audio recording properly.
## Step 1: Confirm Your Camera's Audio Capability
Before you begin troubleshooting, it's essential to confirm two things:
- Does your camera model have a built-in microphone? Many Dahua cameras do, but many professional models do not, instead featuring 'Audio In' ports for external microphones. Check the product's datasheet on the official Dahua website to be certain.
- Are you legally permitted to record audio? Be aware of local laws and regulations regarding audio recording, which are often much stricter than for video. Always ensure you are compliant.
## Step 2: Enabling Audio in the Dahua Interface
In most cases, the microphone is simply disabled by default in the camera's settings. You will need to log into your Dahua NVR, DVR, or the camera's direct web interface using a browser to change this.
### Enabling Audio via Web Interface
- Find your camera's IP address and enter it into a web browser (Internet Explorer was traditionally required for full plugin compatibility, but newer models work with other browsers).
- Log in with your username and password.
- Navigate to the Setting tab, then go to Camera > Audio.
- Here you will find the main audio settings. Make sure the 'Enable' checkbox is ticked for the audio stream.
- Select the Audio Input type. For built-in mics, this is usually a fixed option. For external mics, choose 'Line In' or 'Mic In'.
- Set the Audio Compression to AAC. This generally offers better quality than G.711a or G.711u.
- Click Save.
### Enabling Audio via NVR/DVR Interface
- Log into your NVR or DVR using a connected monitor and mouse.
- Go to the main menu and select CAMERA.
- In the camera list, find the channel you want to modify and click on the 'Encode' or 'Modify' icon.
- Click on the 'More Settings' button.
- You will see options for both the Main Stream and Sub Stream. Tick the 'Audio Enable' box for both.
- Ensure the Audio Source is set correctly (it may be 'HDCVI' for coax cameras or 'Local' for the NVR's own inputs, ensure you select the camera's IP channel).
- Click OK and then Apply or Save to confirm the changes.
## Step 3: Checking Live View and Playback
After enabling audio, you must also ensure it's activated in your viewing software.
- In the Live View: Look for a small speaker icon on the individual camera's window or on the bottom toolbar of the app or software. If it has a cross through it, click it to unmute the audio.
- During Playback: The same speaker icon is usually present during playback. Make sure it is unmuted to hear the audio from your recordings.
- Mobile App (iDMSS/gDMSS): When viewing a camera, tap the screen to bring up the options and press the speaker icon to enable sound.
## Step 4: Troubleshooting Poor Audio Quality
If you have enabled audio but the sound is distorted, quiet, or has static, consider the following:
- Firmware Updates: Outdated firmware is a common cause of bugs. Check the Dahua website for the latest firmware for your camera and NVR/DVR model and follow the instructions to update it.
- Environmental Factors: Is the camera exposed to high winds or heavy rain? Is it near a noisy air conditioning unit? These can all degrade audio quality. Consider a more sheltered location or using a directional external microphone.
- Check Connections: If you are using an external microphone, double-check the physical connection to the 'Audio In' port on the camera. Ensure the microphone is powered if it's an active (powered) type.
- Reboot the System: A simple reboot of both the camera and the NVR/DVR can often resolve temporary glitches affecting audio processing.
By following these structured steps, you can systematically diagnose and resolve most microphone and audio issues with your Dahua security system.