In one embodiment, a gain redistribution application restructures gains associated with multiple microphones included in a head-worn audio system to minimize near field noise. In response to a sound generated by a sound source, the microphones generate input signals. The gain redistribution application performs mixing operations on the input signals to generate an output signal that mitigates near field noise associated with the same side of the head as the sound source. Subsequently, the gain redistribution application transmits the output signal to a speaker that targets the same side of the head as the sound source. Advantageously, by reducing the gain associated with an input signal received via a microphone located on the same side of the head as the sound source, the gain redistribution application reduces near field noise transmitted to the user during operation in a more comprehensive fashion relative to conventional designs.