Phasmophobia: Mastering the Parabolic Microphone

In Phasmophobia, a variety of equipment is available to help you track down even the most elusive ghosts, and one of the most effective tools is the Parabolic Microphone. If you haven't used it before, this guide explains how to unlock and use the Parabolic Microphone during your investigations.

How to Unlock the Parabolic Microphone in Phasmophobia

The Parabolic Microphone is classified as Optional Equipment in Phasmophobia, so it isn't part of your default gear. To add it to your inventory, you must reach the required minimum level and purchase it from the in-game Shop.

Similar to other equipment in Phasmophobia, the Parabolic Microphone comes in three tiers, with each successive tier offering improved quality and reliability. The first tier becomes available at Level 7. Once you reach this level, head to the shop to equip it in your loadout.

Unlocking the second-tier Parabolic Microphone requires reaching Level 31 and paying $3,000 for the upgrade. The third tier unlocks at Level 72 and costs $5,000 to upgrade.

After unlocking these tiers, you can select any Parabolic Microphone level for your investigations. You can carry up to two units in your loadout, regardless of your party size.

Keep in mind that if you choose to Prestige your character, your progress will reset to Level 1. This means you'll need to unlock each tier of the Parabolic Microphone again, along with all other equipment.

Related: Phasmophobia 2025 Roadmap & Preview

How to Use the Parabolic Microphone in Phasmophobia

To use the Parabolic Microphone during contracts in Phasmophobia, make sure it's included in your loadout via the Shop. This ensures it will be available in the truck. Note that in Challenge Mode, the preset loadout may not include the Parabolic Microphone.

Once at the location, pick up the Parabolic Microphone from the equipment wall in the truck, just as you would with any other item. Turn it on or off with the assigned button. If you have the tier 3 version, you can also identify the direction of sounds using the integrated radar display.

On medium or large maps in Phasmophobia, the Parabolic Microphone can significantly help in locating the ghost by detecting sound cues, offering an alternative to relying only on the thermometer or EMF Reader.

This tool helps detect any noises the ghost makes, such as objects being thrown, doors moving, or the ghost's voice. Besides helping pinpoint the ghost's location, you may also receive an Optional Objective to capture the ghost's voice with the microphone, making it a valuable asset.

Additionally, certain ghost types like the Deogen or Banshee produce distinct sounds that are only detectable with the Parabolic Microphone. Identifying these unique audio cues can help you determine the ghost's identity.

That covers everything you need to know about using the Parabolic Microphone in Phasmophobia. For more guides and updates, check out The Escapist, including information on all achievements and trophies in Phasmophobia and how to earn them.

Phasmophobia is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.