Don't buy External Microphones Before You Read this!
10 Best Mic Recommendations for DSLR Cameras.
Beginning from the camcorders era, now people are starting to use DSLR or mirrorless cameras to record videos. Better image qualities are the reason why People are starting to change their devices. Unfortunately, audio quality from the internal microphone in the DSLR camera is not very good.
The use of an external microphone will help you to get a better sound recordings. Therefore, we review and recommend the best microphone for DSLR cameras and how to choose them. There are several well-known brand in the world such as Audio-Technica, Sennheiser, and Røde, to choose according to your needs.
How to choose a mic for DSLR cameras?
The following are points that should be considered when choosing an external microphone for your DLSR camera. Hopefully you can find the most suitable products in this article.Choose based on the polar pattern.
Each microphone has a different polar pattern. Polar pattern is the term to describe the direction of the sound captured by the microphone. This pattern is grouped into four types, namely cardioid, super-cardioid, bidirectional, and omnidirectional.Here are the differences of each pattern:
- Cardioid: capturing sound only from front direction.
- Super-cardioid: capturing sound from a single direction, with sharper and better direction.
- Bi-directional: capturing sound from both front and back directions. This pattern will blocks sound coming from the right or left side.
- Omnidirectional: captuirng sounds from all directions. This pattern is widely used in DSLR internal microphones.
Choose a microphone with a pattern that suits your video needs. For example, if you want to listen only to the sound from the stage during a concert, it is recommended to choose a super-cardioid microphone.
However, if you want to capture the entire atmosphre of the concert, choose a cardioid or omnidirectional microphone.
Bi-directional microphones are more difficult to use than the other patterns. This type of microphone is usually used to capture music recording in the studio.
Choose a microphone based on its charging type and duration.
When recording videos, your DSLR camera might be turns on for hours, even days! Therefore, it will be troblesome if you use a microphone with a small battery power.The microphone might be running out of power during your recording. If that happens, your video will end with a truncated audio. Therfore, don't forget to pay attention to the maximum duration and charging type of your microphone.
There are several types of chargers used in microphones for DSLR cameras, i.e.: 9 volt, AAA, AA, and plug-in systems. Among the four types, AAA and AA batteries are the most durable.
For high mobility purposes, the model plug-in microphone is more suitable. This type of microphone does not require dedicated batteries because it will withdraw currentdirectly from the microphone jack of your camera.
Choose a microphone which can reduce noise.
When recording with an autofocus lens, the sound of the motor when adjusting the focus can be recorded by the microphone and become anoise. In addition, camera shake can also be heard and it will interfere with the audio.Nowadays there are several microphones with an anti-noise feature that can minimize the slightest sound. Not even the sound of wind and breath will be heard.
For those who want clear audio without any noise, choose a mic that is equipped with an anti-noise features.
Using a tripod or stabilizer will reduce shocks and noise. However, these two items cannot help you when taking videos while walking. If you plan to record video while moving, we recommend to choose a microphone equipped with a shock mount feature.
10 Best Microphone recommendations for DSLR cameras.
Now that you know what features to look for when choosing an external microphone, we will recommend ten external microphone for DSLR Camera to choose.10. Sony Gun Zoom Microphone ECM-GZ1M
Spy objects with a zoom microphone.
If you are a Sony camera user, you can choose the Sony Gun Zoom Microphone. This microphone has two main modes, i.e.: shotgun and zoom mode. Shotgun mode captures sound that is focused in one direction, while zoom mode will capture sound according to camera zoom.
In addition to DSLR cameras, Sony Gun Zoom Microphone ECM-GZ1M can also be installed to all models of mirrorless cameras and camcorders produced by Sony. However, the camera must be equipped with a multi interface shoe, not an active interface shoe. You need a zoom capable microphone if you want to maximize the zoom feature on DSLR.
Polar pattern: Super-cardioid
Charging type: Plug-in (without battery)
Maximum usage duration: Not mentioned
Anti-noise equipment: Foam windscreen
9. Audio-Technica Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphone ATR3350IS
Can be used on a smartphone!
Audio-Technica's microphone has a polar pattern that can capture sound from all directions. Its placement is very flexible, you can pin it to your clothes or other object. Therefore you don't have to worry about noise that can be caught.
Because of its small shape, this product is suitable for you who want to use a microphone while on the move. Suppose you are an aerobic instructor and want to record video and audio simultaneously. This product is the best solution.
Not only for DSLR cameras, this microphone is also equipped with an adapter so that it can be plugged directly into your smartphone! The best of he two world.
Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
Charging type: LR44 battery
Maximum usage duration: Not mentioned
Anti-noise equipment: Foam windscreen
8. Takstar SGC-598 Camera Recording Microphone
Cheap, but not cheap!
Takstar Camera Recording Microphone SGC-598 comes with a design that looks professional. The sound it produces is very detailed and clear. To block the noises, this product offers sensitivity up to 200Hz and +10 dB.
Promising stable sound, this microphone is equipped with foam windscreen to reduce wind noise. Although considered as a low-budget products, this microphone is still suitable for professional users.
Polar pattern: Cardioid
Charging type: 1.5V AA battery
Maximum usage duration: 100 hours
Anti-noise equipment: Shock proof, foam windscreen
7. Røde Microphones VideoMic GO
Free recording without fear of running out of battery.
VideoMic GO is a microphone from Røde Microphones which is affordable. Even so, this product is still wrapped with quality materials, the same as other shotgun microphones made by Røde.
Because using a plug-in system, you no longer need to worry about running out of battery int the middle of your recording. The microphone is also good in reducing mechanical noise of the camera, wind, or other sounds. If you intend to record traveling videos, this microphone can be selected.
Polar pattern: Super-cardioid
Charging Type; Plug-in (without battery)
Maximum usage duration: Not mentioned
Anti-noise equipment: Foam windscreen, shock mount
6. Røde Microphones VideoMicro
Small in size, good sound quality.
Røde VideoMicro is mini in size with a length of only 8 cm. Although small, the microphone design still looks sturdy. Røde Microphones VideoMicro is equipped with a shock mount to reduce noise caused by mechanical camera shake.
Inside this microphones, there is a windscreen that removes the sound of the wind. This product is perfect for those who don't need special specifications other than sound clarity.
Polar pattern: Cardioid
Charging type: Plug-in (without battery)
Maximum usage duration: Not mentioned
Anti-noise equipment: Furry windscreen, shock mount
5. Audio-Technica Stereo/Mono Camera-Mount Microphone AT8024
Choose mono or stereo, it's up to you!
Lightweight and sturdy design is offered by Audio-Technica Stereo/Mono Camera-Mount Microphone. This mic is equipped with complete features. It provides two choices of modes that you can choose to record video. Select mono mode for single sound or stereo to capture the sound dimension.
The choice of modes gives you flexibility as a video maker. Apart from that, you can also adjust its sensitivity from -10 dB, 0 dB, to +10 dB. Even loud sounds can be captured properly without distortion.
Polar pattern: Line-cardioid, stereo LR
Charger type: 1.5V AA battery
Maximum usage duration: 80 hours
Anti-noise equipment: Foam and fuzzy windscreen, switchable low-frequency roll-off feature
4. Sennheiser EW 100-ENG G3
Free your movements with a wireless microphone.
Sennheiser EW 100-ENG G3 is a wireless microphone that is very flexible when used. You only need to attach the receiver to the camera and connect it. This device will then automatically scan for the sync frequencies and synchronize the transmitter and receiver. If you are a journalist, this microphone is perfect for you.
This product has a small size and a light weight, but can produce crystal clear sound, both when used indoors and outdoors. The combined weight of the transmitter and receiver is only 316 grams. The flexibility will make you free to work anywhere and anytime.
Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
Charging type: AA battery
Maximum usage duration: 8-10 hours
Anti-noise equipment: Not mentioned
3. Sennheiser MKE 400
Very efficient in dealing with noise.
This product is famous for its efficiency in handling noise. You can adjust the microphone sensitivity as needed. This microphone is also capable of capturing sound clearly from close and far distances.
The solid design makes this product resistant to impact, making it suitable for those who love traveling and vlogging. Making vlogs will be more comfortable thanks to its small and compact size. If you are a professional vlogger, Sennheiser MKE 400 is a must try!
Polar pattern: Super-cardioid
Charging type: AAA battery 1.5 V
Maximum usage duration: 300 hours
Anti-noise equipment: Foam windscreen, shock mount, switchable wind noise filter feature
2. Sennheiser MKE 600
Running out of battery? Relax, there's the phantom power!
This microphone from Sennheiser is the right choice for documentary video makers. The sound is very clear and it can represent both weak or strong voice very well. This shotgun type microphone has a frequency range between 40-10,000 Hz.
With the low batt indicator, you don't need to be afraid running out of power. Even when there is no battery, you can use the phantom power to operate it. Very practical isn't it?
Polar pattern: Super-cardioid
Charging type: 1.5V / 1.2V AA battery and phantom power
Maximum usage duration: 150 hours
Anti-noise equipment: Foam windscreen, shock mount, switchable "low cut" filter noise feature
1. Røde Microphones VideoMic Pro
Easy to use Microphone.
You will find it so easy when using VideoMic Pro from Røde Microphones. Various settings such as sensitivity and sound range are integrated into the microphone body. You no longer need to bother adjusting it via the camera menu.
VideoMic Pro sensitivity can be set to -10db or + 20db. In addition, this microphone provides a high-pass feature to ward off various noise, ranging from the traffic to the air conditioners sounds! With its specifications and toughness, this product is perfect for amateur film makers.
Polar pattern: Super-cardioid
Charging type: 9V battery
Maximum usage duration: More than 70 hours
Anti-noise equipment: Foam windscreen, shock mount, two step high pass filter feature
Also read the Best Fix Lens Recommendations.
To complement the microphone that we have discussed, DSLR lens cameras are certainly very interesting to have. To make it easier for you to find the right product, please refer to the full review on this site!
Conclusion
An external microphone is needed to improve the audio quality of the video. You can get clearer and more realistic sounds and also minimize the noise. There are so many types of microphones on the market, so you need to choose the one that suits your needs. Know in advance the polar pattern, the anti-noise feature, and the charging of the external microphone that you will choose.
0 comments:
Post a Comment