5 Tips to Enhance the Microphone Quality on Your S21

Have you ever been on a call and your voice was muffled or distorted? It can be frustrating, especially if you’re trying to have a professional conversation. If you have a Samsung Galaxy S21, there are a few things you can do to improve the microphone quality.

First, make sure that the microphone is not blocked. The microphone is located at the bottom of the phone, so if you’re holding the phone with your hand, you may be covering it. Make sure that your hand is clear of the microphone so that your voice can be heard clearly.

Second, try using a different microphone app. The default microphone app on the Galaxy S21 is good, but there are other apps that may offer better sound quality. Some popular microphone apps include Apogee MetaRecorder and ShurePlus MOTIV. These apps offer a variety of features that can help improve the sound quality of your recordings, such as noise reduction and EQ presets.

Optimizing Microphone Settings in Android System

The Android operating system offers several customizable settings to enhance the performance of the microphone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to optimizing these settings for improved sound quality:

Microphone Settings Within Android

The Android system incorporates various microphone settings that allow users to tailor sound input. Access these settings by navigating to the “Sound” section in the device settings menu. There, you’ll encounter the following key configuration options:

Setting	Description
Microphone Input	Adjust the volume of the microphone input, ensuring it’s appropriate for different environments and applications.
Noise Reduction	Enable this option to suppress background noise, improving the clarity of speech recordings.
Automatic Gain Control (AGC)	AGC automatically adjusts microphone input levels, preventing audio distortion in varying sound conditions.

Fine-tuning these settings based on your specific needs can significantly improve the microphone’s performance, whether for video calls, audio recording, or other applications.

Additional Tips for Microphone Enhancement

Besides customizing Android settings, consider the following tips to further enhance microphone quality:

Clean the Microphone: Regularly remove dust and debris from the microphone opening to avoid muffled audio.
Position the Microphone Correctly: Ensure the microphone is facing the sound source and at an appropriate distance to capture clear audio.
Use a Microphone App: Explore third-party microphone apps that offer additional features and customization options for sound enhancement.
Avoid Background Noise: Record audio in a quiet environment to minimize interference from external sounds.

By implementing these measures, you can maximize the performance of the S21 microphone, ensuring optimal sound quality for your recordings and calls.

Enabling Bixby Voice Wake-up for Improved Microphone Responsiveness

Bixby Voice Wake-up is a feature that allows your S21 to respond to voice commands even when the screen is off. This can be helpful for controlling your phone hands-free, especially when you’re in a noisy environment or when your hands are full.

To enable Bixby Voice Wake-up, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app.

2. Tap on “Advanced Features”.

3. Tap on “Bixby Voice Wake-up”.

4. Toggle the switch to the “On” position.

Once Bixby Voice Wake-up is enabled, you can wake up your S21 by saying “Hi Bixby”. You can then use voice commands to control your phone, such as:

Command	Action
“Turn on the flashlight”	Turns on the flashlight
“Set an alarm for 7am”	Sets an alarm for 7am
“Play some music”	Starts playing music

Calibrating the Microphone Using a Dedicated App

If you find that your S21’s microphone is still not delivering the sound quality you desire, consider utilizing a dedicated microphone calibration app. These apps employ sophisticated algorithms to analyze your device’s audio input and adjust the microphone settings accordingly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using such an app:

Step 1: Install a Microphone Calibration App

Visit the Google Play Store and search for “microphone calibration” or similar keywords. Select an app with positive user reviews and download it.

Step 2: Run the Calibration Routine

Open the app and follow its on-screen instructions. Typically, you’ll be asked to speak or sing into the microphone at varying volumes. The app will analyze the audio input and create a customized calibration profile for your device.

Step 3: Apply the Calibration Profile

Once the calibration is complete, the app will provide you with a calibration profile. Save the profile and apply it to your device. You may need to restart your phone for the changes to take effect.

Here’s a table summarizing the steps involved in using a dedicated microphone calibration app:

Step	Description
1	Install a microphone calibration app from the Google Play Store.
2	Run the calibration routine as directed by the app.
3	Apply the calibration profile generated by the app to your device.

Adjusting Microphone Sensitivity for Optimal Audio Capture

The microphone sensitivity setting on your Samsung Galaxy S21 smartphone plays a crucial role in determining the audio quality of your recordings. By optimizing this setting, you can enhance the clarity and volume of your voice during calls, videos, and other audio applications.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Microphone Sensitivity

Open the Settings app on your S21.
Navigate to Sounds and vibration.
Tap Advanced sound settings.
Scroll down and select Microphone sensitivity.
- Low: Reduces background noise but may make your voice sound softer.
- Medium: Balances background noise reduction and voice volume.
- High: Amplifies your voice but may also capture more background noise.
- Adaptive: Automatically adjusts the microphone sensitivity based on the surrounding noise levels.

Note: For most situations, the Medium or Adaptive settings are recommended as they provide a good balance between reducing background noise and capturing your voice clearly.

Additional Tips for Improving Microphone Quality

Speak clearly and close to the microphone.
Reduce background noise by closing windows and doors.
Use a noise-canceling headset or microphone.
Regularly clean the microphone hole to remove any debris.

By following these steps and tips, you can optimize the microphone sensitivity on your Samsung Galaxy S21 and enjoy improved audio capture quality.

Utilizing External Audio Recording Devices for Enhanced Quality

Elevate the audio quality of your S21’s recordings by incorporating external audio recording devices. These devices can harness more sophisticated microphones and advanced features to achieve superior audio capture.

Options for External Audio Recorders

Explore a range of external audio recorders tailored to different needs:

Recorder Type	Applications
Handheld Recorders	Portable, suitable for interviews, podcasts, and field recordings
Lavalier Microphones	Unobtrusive, ideal for close-up recording and vlogging
Shotgun Microphones	Directional, excellent for capturing distant sources or reducing background noise
Bluetooth Microphones	Wireless, convenient for hands-free recording and minimizing interference

Selecting the Right Microphone

Consider the following factors when selecting an external microphone:

Frequency response: Determines the range of audible frequencies the microphone captures.
Polar pattern: Indicates the directionality of the microphone, with different patterns suitable for specific applications.
Sensitivity: Measures the microphone’s ability to capture low-level sounds.
Size and weight: Important considerations for portability and application.
Connection type: Ensure compatibility with your S21.

Connecting and Configuring

Connect the external audio device to your S21 as follows:

Plug the device into the headphone jack or USB port using an appropriate adapter.
Select the appropriate input source in your audio recording app.
Adjust input levels to prevent distortion and ensure optimal recording quality.

Optimizing Microphone Placement

Position the microphone strategically for optimal audio capture:

Close to the sound source, but not touching it.
Off-axis from the source to minimize sibilance and other artifacts.
In a reverberant environment, consider using a more directional microphone.
Shield the microphone from wind and other noise sources.

Preventing Background Noise Interference for Clear Audio

Background noise can significantly interfere with microphone performance, making it challenging to capture clear audio. Several effective techniques can minimize background noise and improve the quality of your recordings.

**1. Use a directional microphone:** Directional microphones focus on sound coming from a specific direction, reducing noise from other sources.

**2. Position the microphone close to the speaker:** The closer the microphone is to the speaker, the less background noise it will pick up.

**3. Record in a quiet environment:** Choose a recording location with minimal background noise, such as a soundproof room or a quiet corner of a room.

**4. Use a noise-canceling microphone:** Noise-canceling microphones actively reduce background noise using advanced algorithms and technologies.

**5. Utilize a pop filter:** Pop filters block plosives, such as “p” and “b” sounds, which can create unwanted noise in recordings.

**6. Dynamic Noise Reduction:** Dynamic Noise Reduction (DNR) algorithms analyze audio in real-time and selectively reduce background noise without compromising the clarity of the speech. The following table summarizes the different levels of DNR available in the S21:

DNR Level	Description
Low	Minimal noise reduction, suitable for environments with a moderate amount of background noise.
Medium	Moderate noise reduction, effective in environments with a significant amount of background noise.
High	Aggressive noise reduction, best suited for environments with extreme background noise.

By carefully considering the microphone type, placement, recording environment, and noise reduction techniques, you can effectively prevent background noise interference and significantly improve the clarity of your audio recordings.

Cleaning the Microphone Aperture for Improved Signal Transmission

The microphone aperture is a small hole located at the bottom of the S21. It is responsible for capturing sound and transmitting it to the phone’s internal microphone. Over time, the microphone aperture can become clogged with dirt and debris, which can lead to muffled or distorted sound quality.

To clean the microphone aperture, you will need a soft cloth or a cotton swab. Gently wipe away any dirt or debris from the aperture. Be careful not to damage the aperture, as this could permanently affect the phone’s sound quality.

Here are some additional tips for cleaning the microphone aperture:

Use a soft cloth or a cotton swab that is slightly damp. Do not use harsh chemicals or cleaners, as these could damage the aperture.
Be gentle when cleaning the aperture. Do not apply too much pressure, as this could damage the aperture.
If the aperture is particularly dirty, you may need to use a toothpick or a similar object to gently dislodge any stuck debris.
Once you have cleaned the aperture, test the phone’s sound quality to make sure it has improved.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Solution
Muffled or distorted sound	Clogged microphone aperture	Clean the microphone aperture
No sound	Damaged microphone aperture	Take the phone to a qualified technician for repair

Repairing Microphone Hardware for Optimal Function

Identifying Hardware Faults

Examine the microphone for any physical damage, such as cracks or dents. Check the microphone jack and ensure it’s clean and not loose.

Cleaning the Microphone

Use a soft cloth or brush to gently remove any dust or debris from the microphone. Avoid using liquids or harsh cleaning agents.

Tightening the Microphone Jack

If the microphone jack is loose, tighten it gently using a small screwdriver. Avoid overtightening, as this can damage the jack.

Inspecting the Microphone Cable

Check the microphone cable for any damage or kinks. Replace the cable if it’s damaged or worn.

Testing the Microphone

Plug the microphone into a different device or audio jack to test if the problem persists or is specific to a particular device.

Using Third-Party Apps

Install a microphone calibration or noise-canceling app to enhance microphone performance and reduce background noise.

Updating Device Drivers

Ensure that your device’s audio drivers are up to date. Outdated drivers can cause microphone issues.

Visiting a Repair Professional

If all else fails, consider visiting a qualified repair technician to have the microphone hardware inspected and repaired if necessary.

Exploring Alternative Microphone Options for Specialized Needs

When the built-in microphone on the Samsung Galaxy S21 doesn’t quite meet your needs, consider exploring alternative options:

1. Wireless Lavalier Microphone

Clip-on miniature microphones offer mobility and versatility, allowing you to capture audio from your subject’s close proximity, reducing background noise.

2. Shotgun Microphone

These directional microphones are ideal for capturing audio from a specific target while minimizing ambient sounds, making them perfect for interviews or outdoor recordings.

3. Boundary Microphone

Discreet and easy to mount on flat surfaces, boundary microphones are suitable for conferences, meetings, or stage performances where capturing clear speech is essential.

4. USB Microphone

Connect a USB microphone to your S21 for enhanced audio quality, especially for podcasting, voiceover work, or streaming applications.

5. External Stereo Microphone

Expand the stereo capabilities of your S21 by connecting an external stereo microphone, enabling you to capture wider and more immersive audio for music recording or videography.

6. DSLR Microphone Adapter

Use a DSLR microphone adapter to connect professional XLR microphones to your S21, enhancing audio quality for advanced filmmaking or broadcast applications.

7. Smartphone Camera Microphone

Invest in a dedicated smartphone camera microphone that attaches directly to your S21’s camera module, improving audio quality specifically for video recordings.

8. Windscreen for Microphone

Reduce wind noise and improve audio clarity by using a windscreen or fur cover specifically designed for your external microphone.

9. Smartphone External Microphone Audio Interface

Connect external microphones to your S21 via a dedicated audio interface that provides phantom power, additional inputs, and improved audio control, offering professional-grade audio recording capabilities:

Model	Features	Pros	Cons
Rode SC6-II	2 input channels, phantom power, headphone monitoring	High-quality audio, compact design	Pricey
Saramonic SmartRig+	3 input channels, gain control, headphone jack	Versatile, budget-friendly	Limited phantom power
iRig Pro Duo I/O	2 input channels, MIDI interface, 96kHz sampling rate	Professional-grade, high audio quality	Requires additional power supply

Troubleshooting Common Microphone Issues for Timely Resolution

1. Check the Microphone Settings

Ensure the microphone is enabled and the correct input device selected. Check the “Sound” settings in the Control Panel and adjust the microphone level if necessary.

2. Inspect the Microphone

Visually inspect the microphone for any damage or debris. Clean the microphone gently with a soft cloth or brush to remove any obstructions.

3. Update Microphone Drivers

Outdated microphone drivers can cause issues. Visit the manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers for your specific microphone.

4. Disable Noise Suppression

Some audio software includes noise suppression features that may interfere with microphone performance. Disable these features to improve audio clarity.

5. Use an External Microphone

If possible, use an external microphone with better quality and noise reduction capabilities. This can significantly improve audio performance for video calls and recordings.

6. Check Microphone Permissions

Grant microphone permissions to the applications that need them. Go to the “Privacy” settings in your operating system and ensure the microphone is enabled for specific apps.

7. Restart the Device

Restarting the device can resolve temporary glitches that may affect microphone functionality. Restart the computer or mobile device and try using the microphone again.

8. Disable Other Audio Devices

If multiple audio devices are connected, disable unused devices to eliminate potential conflicts. Go to the “Sound” settings and ensure only the desired microphone is selected.

9. Contact the Microphone Manufacturer

If all else fails, contact the manufacturer of your microphone for technical support. They may be able to provide specific troubleshooting steps or repair options.

10. Table of Common Microphone Issues and Solutions

Issue	Solution
Microphone not working	Check settings, inspect microphone, update drivers, grant permissions
Microphone distorted	Disable noise suppression, adjust microphone level, clean microphone
Microphone too quiet	Increase microphone level in settings, use an external microphone
Microphone picking up background noise	Quiet your environment, use a noise-canceling microphone

How To Make The S21 Mic Better

The Samsung Galaxy S21 has a great camera, but the microphone could be better. Here are a few tips on how to make the S21 mic better:

Use a high-quality external microphone. This is the best way to improve the sound quality of your recordings.
Position the microphone correctly. The microphone is located at the bottom of the phone, so make sure to point it towards the sound source.
Use a noise-canceling app. This will help to reduce background noise and make your recordings more clear.
Record in a quiet environment. This will also help to reduce background noise.
Edit your recordings. You can use a software program to edit your recordings and remove any unwanted noise.