How to Integrate External Audio Mixers with PTZ Camera Streaming Systems

PTZ cameras have become fairly common in the broadcasting space, and some setups rely on them for video capture while using an external mixer to handle the audio space. So ideally we want to be able to have an integrated system where both of these pieces of technology work together in tandem. So let’s go over how to make these two “talk” to each other and tackle some potential problems that you might run into with this setup. 

Step 1: Decide Where Audio Will Enter the System

We can tackle this in two ways:

Option A: Send the Mixer Audio Directly Into the Streaming Encoder or Switcher

This is the most common and for the most part most reliable one to pick.
It’s recommended to use this approach when:

• Your encoder or switcher supports dedicated audio inputs
• You want audio to remain independent from the camera
• You need control over sync delay

Option B: Feed the Mixer Audio Into a PTZ Camera’s Audio Input

This is the simpler method but it can also lead to some unwanted electrical interference in some cases.
It’s recommended to use this approach when:

• Your camera embeds audio over HDMI, SDI, or IP
• You want a single unified connection to the switcher
• You prefer minimal cabling

Step 2: Choose the Right Cable and Signal Type

Typically most audio mixers will end up outputting a balanced line-level.However,  PTZ cameras and switchers can differ and they might accept mic-level, line-level, or in some cases both. It’s absolutely vital that you match these carefully:

• Use XLR or TRS cables for balanced audio runs
• Reduce to 3.5 mm only if your camera requires it
• Know your device’s input level to avoid distortion

If your camera will only accept mic-level input, then you should either use:

• A mixer output with switchable mic-level, or
• An inline attenuator to reduce the signal safely

Step 3: Set Proper Levels on the Mixer

The very first thing you should do before you decide to connect to a camera or switcher is to get your levels correct:

1. Set microphone trim so peaks hit around –6 dB.
2. Adjust faders to unity gain.
3. Keep master output between –12 dB and –6 dB.
4. Ensure no clipping occurs at any stage of the signal path.

Getting a consistent gain ensures that your embedded audio will remain clean and distortionless.

Step 4: Configure the Camera or Switcher

Once you have connected your audio:

• Select the correct input (mic-level or line-level).
• Disable automatic gain control (AGC) if present.
• Enable phantom power only when using a condenser mic directly—not when using a mixer.
• Check meters to confirm the camera or switcher is receiving a clear, strong signal.

Step 5: Sync Audio with Video

It’s not uncommon for your audio to potentially arrive faster than your video feed. This can sometimes be due to camera processing. In order to fix a sync issue:

• Measure the offset visually or with a clapper.
• Add audio delay in your mixer, switcher, or encoder.
• Typical PTZ workflows require 50–150 ms of delay.

If your device supports delay on the millisecond-level, then you should apply a delay until speech (or instrument sound etc.) align naturally.

Step 6: Monitor the Final Output

Don’t forget to verify audio in your actual broadcast feed, not just locally on the mixer.

You should also check for:

• Latency drift
• Channel imbalance
• Distortion
• Ground loop hum
• Unexpected AGC behavior

So you should also be listening at the encoder to ensure an accurate read!

Conclusion

As you can see it’s not actually all that difficult to get your audio and video integrated together, even when you’re using an external mixer! Just follow the steps above and if you’re still running into issues then don’t hesitate to call us for help!