Audio CCTV Cameras
These audio CCTV cameras record sound as well as video. Some have a built-in microphone only, others have a mic and speaker so you can talk through the camera from your phone (two-way audio). Use the Audio filter to show just the type you need.
On IP cameras the audio runs down the same network cable as the video. On HD over coax cameras you'll need a DVR that supports Audio over Coax (AoC) to record it.
Mic only or two-way audio?
A built-in mic just records sound alongside the video, which is useful for hearing what was said at a till or reception desk. Two-way audio adds a speaker, so you can talk to a delivery driver at the door or warn someone off while it's happening.
What you need for audio to work
IP cameras need an NVR that supports audio. One thing that catches people out is that many cameras ship with the stream type set to video only, so change it to Video & Audio in the recorder's camera settings or no sound gets recorded.
HD over coax cameras need a DVR with Audio over Coax (AoC) support. Older DVRs without it won't pick up the sound.
To talk through the camera from your phone, you need a camera with a speaker and a recorder with an app that supports it. On Hikvision and HiLook recorders that's Hik-Connect.
Is it legal to record audio on CCTV?
Yes, but audio is treated as more intrusive than video, and mics often pick up sound well beyond what the camera can see. If you're recording anything outside your own property, like the street or a neighbour's garden, UK data protection law applies to you.
Only switch audio on where you have a clear reason, keep mics pointed away from boundaries, and put up a sign saying sound is being recorded. Businesses should be particularly careful about recording staff. Our CCTV buyers guide covers the rules in more detail.
