Guide: Enabling Audio on Hikvision DVR or NVR

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for enabling and configuring audio on your Hikvision DVR or NVR to enhance your security system with sound monitoring.


Step 1: Verify Hardware Compatibility

  1. Check the DVR/NVR

    • Ensure your DVR/NVR model supports audio input. Look for audio-in ports on the back panel of the device.
  2. Check the Cameras

    • Verify if your connected cameras have built-in microphones or an audio input port for an external microphone.
  3. Connect Audio Devices

    • If using an external microphone, connect it to the audio input port on the DVR, NVR, or camera.

Step 2: Enable Audio in the DVR/NVR Settings

  1. Log in to the DVR/NVR

    • Access the interface via a connected monitor or web browser.
  2. Enable Audio on Specific Channels

    • Navigate to Configuration > Camera > Video/Audio Settings.
    • Select the channel you want to enable audio for.
    • Under the Audio section, tick Enable Audio.
  3. Set Audio Encoding

    • In the same menu, choose the audio encoding format (e.g., G.711ulaw, G.711alaw, or AAC).
    • Save your settings.

Step 3: Configure Live View and Recording Audio

  1. Enable Audio in Live View

    • Go to Configuration > Live View.
    • Tick the option for Audio Output to enable audio during live view.
  2. Enable Audio Recording

    • Navigate to Configuration > Recording > Schedule Settings.
    • Select the channel and ensure Audio Recording is enabled for the desired schedule.

Step 4: Enable Audio Playback

  1. Go to the Playback tab on your DVR/NVR interface.
  2. Select a recorded video that includes audio.
  3. Ensure the audio icon (speaker icon) is enabled in the playback controls to listen to the recorded audio.

Step 5: Enable Audio on the Hik-Connect App

  1. Open the Hik-Connect App

    • Log in and navigate to the live view for your connected cameras.
  2. Enable Audio Output

    • Tap the speaker icon on the live view screen to enable audio for the selected channel.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • No Audio in Live View or Playback:

    • Ensure the microphone or camera with audio is properly connected to the DVR/NVR.
    • Check that Audio Recording and Enable Audio are activated in the settings.
  • Poor Audio Quality:

    • Verify the microphone placement and quality.
    • Adjust the audio encoding settings for better clarity.
  • Audio Not Playing in Hik-Connect App:

    • Ensure the app has permission to access your device's microphone and speaker.
    • Check that the audio icon in the app's live view is enabled.

By following this guide, you can enable and optimise audio functionality on your Hikvision DVR or NVR, providing enhanced situational awareness and a more comprehensive security solution.

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