Best DSLR Microphone For Video in 2024: 14 Top DSLR Mics

DSLR video has come a long way in the last decade. With their low light capabilities and high-resolution sensors, DSLRs are great for creating both stills and video.

Unfortunately, most DSLR’s come with built-in microphones that are not very good at producing quality audio.

Some of these cameras don’t even have a 3.5mm audio jack, so if you want to record audio with your camera it has to be via the internal microphone or built-in hot shoe mount.

The second option is okay if you are only needing to record the camera operator, but if you need to capture quality audio of your subject, then you will need to invest in an external microphone.

This can be challenging because there aren’t many external microphones that work well with cameras that do not have a 3.5mm audio jack.

If you are looking for an affordable external microphone for video then you have probably come across the Rode VideoMic. The Rode VideoMic is one of the most popular microphones on the market thanks to its price and performance.

But that’s not your only option! Let’s take a look…

 

 

Best DSLR Microphone For Video

So let us jump right into this list of the best DSLR microphones for video.

1. Rode VideoMic Pro+

Superior Audio Quality and Versatility

The Rode VideoMic Pro+ lives up to its reputation by delivering top-notch audio recording quality suitable for both amateurs and professionals.

One of its most commendable features is the true shotgun pattern, which accurately captures sound from the front while minimizing noise interference from the sides and rear.

This ensures that the primary audio source remains crisp and clear, a trait invaluable for interviews, vlogging, and ambient recordings.

Further elevating its performance, the microphone integrates a high-pass filter, which efficiently reduces low-frequency noises such as traffic, air conditioners, and other environmental hums.

User-Friendly Design with Advanced Features

Rode has gone the extra mile to ensure that the VideoMic Pro+ is both intuitive for beginners and feature-rich for seasoned professionals.

Its digital switching not only offers a quick and easy way to adjust audio levels and settings but also houses advanced features like the high-frequency boost, which can enhance clarity and detail in recordings.

The detachable 3.5mm TRS cable and the integrated Rycote Lyre shock mounting make for an ergonomic design, preventing handling noises and providing flexibility in mounting options.

Long-lasting Battery and Power Options

Powering the VideoMic Pro+ is a breeze, thanks to its multiple power solutions.

The microphone comes with a rechargeable LB-1 lithium-ion battery, which offers extended battery life, ensuring uninterrupted recording sessions.

However, if one finds themselves without the means to recharge, the mic can also be powered by two AA batteries.

Additionally, the Rode mic showcases its versatility by incorporating a built-in battery door, ensuring quick battery changes, and a micro USB port, allowing continuous power during longer shoots.

The Rode VideoMic Pro+ establishes itself as an essential tool for any content creator looking for premium sound quality in a compact, easy-to-use design.

Its superior audio capture, combined with user-friendly features and flexible power options, justifies its standing in the industry as a top-tier on-camera microphone.

Whether you’re a vlogger, a documentary filmmaker, or a casual shooter, the VideoMic Pro+ is a worthy investment for pristine audio capture in diverse recording scenarios.

2. Sennheiser MKE 600

Pristine Sound in Diverse Environments

Sennheiser’s MKE 600 is a shotgun microphone designed specifically to cater to the demands of video journalists and filmmakers. Its primary strength lies in its ability to capture clear and focused sound, even in noisy environments.

The microphone’s super-cardioid/lobar pick-up pattern ensures that it zeroes in on the audio source, suppressing unwanted ambient noise.

This makes the MKE 600 particularly useful in situations where background noise is unavoidable, such as bustling urban settings or windy outdoor locations.

Robust Design and Practical Features

Built with the challenges of field recording in mind, the MKE 600 boasts a rugged and durable all-metal housing.

This ensures that the microphone can withstand the rigors of on-location shoots and challenging weather conditions.

Additionally, the microphone is equipped with a switchable low-cut filter that minimizes wind noise, further enhancing audio clarity.

Its versatility extends to its power options as well; the MKE 600 can be powered by an AA battery or with 48V phantom power, accommodating both camera-mounted and external recording setups.

Optimized for Cameras but Versatile for All Setups

While the Sennheiser MKE 600 is optimized for use on cameras with its integrated shock mount and foam windshield, it’s by no means limited to such setups.

The microphone’s exceptional sound quality, combined with its adaptability, makes it suitable for a plethora of recording scenarios beyond on-camera use.

Be it interviews, film shoots, or capturing ambient soundscapes, the MKE 600 ensures that audio fidelity is never compromised.

The Sennheiser MKE 600 emerges as a stalwart in the realm of professional shotgun microphones.

Its impeccable sound quality, coupled with practical design features, make it an invaluable tool for those seeking audio excellence in their recordings.

Whether you’re filming in a controlled studio environment or out in the unpredictable wild, the MKE 600 stands out as a reliable companion ensuring that your audio is as compelling as your visuals.

3. Shure VP83F LensHopper

Exceptional Audio Capturing Capabilities

The Shure VP83F LensHopper is more than just a microphone; it’s a compact audio recording solution specifically tailored for DSLR and camcorder users.

Standing out in the crowd, the VP83F captures detailed, high-definition audio with its super-cardioid polar pattern.

This ensures that the desired sound source is captured with clarity while minimizing background noise.

Its wide frequency response and sensitivity mean that whether you’re recording intimate interviews or the subtle sounds of nature, the VP83F captures it all with precision.

Integrated Flash Recording

What sets the VP83F LensHopper apart from many competitors is its built-in flash recording feature.

This allows users to record 24-bit/48 kHz WAV audio files directly to a MicroSD card, offering a backup and freeing videographers from syncing audio in post-production.

The 3.5mm output, on the other hand, facilitates real-time headphone monitoring or camera connection.

This integration ensures that you not only capture superior audio but also have an immediate, high-quality backup.

Rugged Construction with User-friendly Interface

Durability is a hallmark of Shure products, and the VP83F is no exception.

It boasts an all-metal construction that not only lends it a premium feel but also ensures it stands up to the rigors of on-field recording.

Complementing its robust build is the intuitive user interface.

The backlit LCD screen displays audio and battery metering, while one-touch controls make adjustments a breeze.

Given its compact size, Shure has managed to pack in features without making the device feel cluttered or complicated.

The Shure VP83F LensHopper positions itself as an indispensable tool for videographers seeking impeccable audio quality without the bulk of traditional recording equipment.

Its integrated flash recording, combined with its exceptional audio capturing capabilities and user-friendly interface, ensures that filmmakers no longer have to compromise on sound when shooting with DSLRs or camcorders.

Whether you’re a professional or an enthusiast, the VP83F promises to elevate the audio aspect of your visual creations.

4. Audio-Technica AT875R

Tailored for Video Production

The Audio-Technica AT875R is a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering top-tier audio solutions for videographers.

This short shotgun microphone is explicitly designed for video production, broadcasting, and sound capturing in the field or on set.

Thanks to its short length, it doesn’t appear in the frame even when mounted on compact cameras or smaller camcorders.

Its design ensures that it remains unobtrusive, making it an ideal companion for those on-the-go filming sessions.

Focused Sound Pickup

One of the main challenges when recording audio in dynamic environments is ensuring the clarity and isolation of the desired sound source.

With its narrow-angle area of sensitivity, or line + gradient polar pattern, the AT875R excels in picking up sound from a targeted area while suppressing ambient noise.

This ensures that dialogues or specific audio sources are captured with utmost clarity, even in noisy environments or challenging conditions.

Durable Design with Impressive Frequency Response

The rugged build of the AT875R ensures longevity, making it an investment for the long haul. It’s resistant to moisture, which means a little rain or humidity won’t impede its performance.

Sound-wise, its frequency response is tailored to capture voice with a natural tone, ensuring that dialogues sound authentic and clear.

The low-end frequencies are slightly reduced to counteract the proximity effect and reduce the pickup of handling noise, further ensuring a clean output.

The Audio-Technica AT875R is an invaluable tool for videographers, broadcasters, and sound professionals seeking a compact yet powerful audio solution.

Its ability to hone in on the desired sound source while reducing unwanted ambient noise is impressive, ensuring that the audio quality complements the visuals.

Whether used for interviews, film shoots, or broadcasting, the AT875R promises reliability and performance, living up to Audio-Technica’s revered reputation in the audio industry.

5. Rode NTG2

Versatile Design and Use

The Rode NTG2 stands out as a versatile shotgun microphone, adept for both indoor studio recordings and challenging outdoor environments.

Tailored primarily for film, television, and broadcasting, its lightweight design (only 161g) ensures it won’t become a burden during extended handheld operations or when mounted on a boom pole.

Moreover, its ability to function using either an AA battery or P48 phantom power makes it adaptable for a wide range of setups and situations.

Superior Sound Capture

With a super-cardioid polar pattern, the NTG2 is adept at focusing on sound sources directly in front of the microphone and minimizing sounds from the sides and rear.

This directionality ensures that dialogue or other primary audio sources are captured with clarity, while ambient noise is effectively minimized.

The frequency response, which ranges from 20Hz to 20kHz, ensures a full-bodied sound, capturing both the depth and nuances of the audio source.

Additionally, its low self-noise (18dBA) means that recordings are free of unnecessary background noise.

Durability and Convenience

Rode has always been associated with robustness, and the NTG2 is no exception.

With its rugged metal construction, it is built to withstand the demands of rigorous filming schedules and various recording conditions.

Additionally, its moisture-resistant design means environmental factors like humidity won’t degrade its performance.

The inclusion of a windscreen in the package aids in reducing wind noise, making it an even more valuable tool for outdoor recordings.

The Rode NTG2 offers a perfect balance of sound quality, durability, and flexibility.

Its design considerations ensure that it’s not only apt for capturing crisp and clear audio but also for enduring the challenges of field recordings.

Whether you’re an indie filmmaker, a broadcast professional, or someone seeking a reliable microphone for interviews and dialogue capture, the NTG2 promises performance that will elevate the audio quality of any project.

6. Deity V-Mic D3 Pro

Innovative and User-Friendly Design

The Deity V-Mic D3 Pro stands out in the crowded microphone market with its unique design attributes that cater to the modern content creator.

At the core of its design is the adjustable gain dial, allowing users to fine-tune their input levels directly on the microphone, eliminating the need for post-production adjustments.

This feature is especially useful when the recording device lacks the necessary gain control options.

Additionally, the microphone’s Smart 3.5mm TRRS connector seamlessly adapts to a multitude of devices, from DSLRs and camcorders to smartphones and laptops.

Superior Audio Quality

In terms of audio performance, the V-Mic D3 Pro excels with its super-cardioid polar pattern, ensuring that the sound source directly in front of the microphone is captured with utmost clarity.

This directional capture minimizes ambient noise, ensuring that dialogues or primary sound sources are pristine.

The frequency response, spanning from 50Hz to 20kHz, captures a broad spectrum of sounds, ensuring richness and depth in the audio output.

The internal lithium battery not only ensures long-lasting performance, but the microphone also boasts an impressive standby time, making it ready for use anytime.

Rugged and Ready for Field Use

Understanding the challenges of on-field recordings, Deity has constructed the V-Mic D3 Pro to be robust and resilient.

The all-metal build speaks of its durability, making it resistant to minor shocks and bumps.

Further enhancing its outdoor usability is the included Rycote shock mount, which diminishes handling noises, and the foam windscreen, effective in reducing unwanted wind interference.

The Deity V-Mic D3 Pro is a compelling offering for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

With its combination of innovative features, superior audio capture, and a rugged build, it addresses the real-world challenges faced by content creators.

Whether it’s vlogging, indie film production, or capturing interviews, the V-Mic D3 Pro emerges as a versatile and reliable companion, ensuring that audio quality is never compromised.

7. Tascam TM-2X

Tailored for DSLRs and Mirrorless Cameras

Tascam’s TM-2X is specifically designed to meet the audio needs of today’s DSLR and mirrorless camera users.

As video capabilities of these cameras have advanced, so has the demand for high-quality audio to match the visual.

The TM-2X addresses this by being a plug-and-play solution, fitting effortlessly into the camera’s shoe mount and connecting via a stereo mini plug. Its design ensures it stays out of frame, even when shooting with wide-angle lenses.

Stereo Sound with Flexible Positioning

What sets the TM-2X apart is its stereo capabilities. The XY stereo pattern captures audio in a manner that resonates with the way we perceive sound naturally, providing depth and spatial characteristics.

The two mic capsules can be rotated over a wide angle, allowing users to match the audio capture to their frame.

This is especially useful when recording immersive environments or capturing ambient sounds to accompany visual narratives.

Noise Isolation and Sound Quality

Tascam has integrated a number of features in the TM-2X to ensure clean sound capture.

The included floating support structure reduces handling and lens operation noise, a common issue when recording with on-camera mics.

There’s also a switchable low-cut filter which helps to reduce unwanted rumble or wind noise.

To handle loud sound sources, the TM-2X is equipped with a sensitivity switch, ensuring distortion-free recordings even in challenging environments.

For videographers using DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, the Tascam TM-2X emerges as a valuable tool in their kit.

It provides a significant upgrade over built-in microphones, capturing stereo sound with depth and clarity.

With its user-friendly design and features aimed at ensuring pristine sound quality, it’s a solution that’s both convenient and effective.

Whether it’s for vlogs, travel videos, or short films, the TM-2X ensures that the audio dimension of the content is as compelling as the visual.

8. Rode VideoMicro

Compact Design with Big Sound

The Rode VideoMicro stands out as an ultra-compact microphone tailored for creators who prioritize mobility without compromising audio quality.

Weighing just 42 grams and measuring a mere 80mm in length, this microphone is ideal for on-the-go videographers, vloggers, and mobile journalists using DSLRs, camcorders, and smartphones.

Despite its small footprint, the VideoMicro boasts a high-quality cardioid condenser microphone capsule that captures directional audio, ensuring your subject is clear and pronounced against ambient noise.

Durable Build with No Batteries Required

One of the standout features of the Rode VideoMicro is its no-battery design.

This means it’s always ready to record, drawing its power from the camera, ensuring an uninterrupted workflow.

Its all-metal microphone body, combined with the thermoplastic suspension structure, ensures durability while minimizing handling noises.

The included synthetic furry windshield, affectionately dubbed the “DeadCat,” further ensures clean recordings in windy environments.

Universal Compatibility with Rycote Lyre Shock Mount

The VideoMicro comes with the Rycote Lyre shock mount, renowned for its excellence in minimizing vibrations and handling noises.

This suspension structure is made from a hard-wearing thermoplastic, which remains effective even in challenging climates.

Furthermore, the microphone’s universal shoe mount and 3.5mm TRS output ensure compatibility with a vast array of devices.

From DSLRs and camcorders to smartphones (with appropriate adapters), this microphone integrates seamlessly.

The Rode VideoMicro is an embodiment of the phrase “good things come in small packages.”

Its compact design does not deter its ability to produce rich, clear, and directional audio.

For content creators who are always on the move and for those who need a plug-and-play solution without the fuss of batteries or complex setups, the VideoMicro is an attractive proposition. Its durability, performance, and versatility make it a worthwhile addition to any filmmaker or vlogger’s kit.

9. Zoom ZDM-1

Tailored for Podcasting and Broadcast

In the realm of affordable yet high-quality dynamic microphones, the Zoom ZDM-1 stands tall, particularly for podcasting and broadcasting scenarios.

The microphone’s supercardioid polar pattern is designed to hone in on the speaker’s voice while effectively rejecting off-axis noise.

This ensures that whether you’re recording in a studio or a less controlled environment, the focus remains on the vocal clarity and richness.

Robust Construction and Intuitive Design

Durability is one of the Zoom ZDM-1’s strong suits. Its all-metal body promises longevity, ensuring it withstands the rigors of regular use.

The built-in shock absorption system further minimizes handling noise, a crucial feature for podcasters and interviewers.

Its high SPL (Sound Pressure Level) handling ensures that even if the subject’s volume spikes suddenly, the ZDM-1 captures it without distortion.

Moreover, the included windscreen plays a pivotal role in reducing plosive sounds, ensuring a cleaner vocal capture.

Plug-and-Play Simplicity

For creators who want to get up and running without navigating complex setups, the Zoom ZDM-1 shines.

The microphone requires no phantom power, which means it can be plugged directly into interfaces, mixers, or even portable recorders without the need for external power sources.

The XLR connection guarantees compatibility with a broad range of audio equipment, making it versatile and adaptable to various recording setups.

The Zoom ZDM-1 has positioned itself as a go-to microphone for podcasters and broadcasters on a budget, but it doesn’t skimp on quality.

With its focus on vocal clarity, robust construction, and plug-and-play simplicity, it caters effectively to its target audience.

For those venturing into the world of podcasting or looking for a reliable broadcast microphone without breaking the bank, the Zoom ZDM-1 is a worthy contender to consider.

10. BOYA BY-MM1

Upgrading your audio game is crucial for any filmmaker and the BOYA BY-MM1 is an excellent microphone that packs a punch well above its weight class.

Often praised for its compact size and affordability, it’s a go-to for many beginners and professionals alike.

The BY-MM1 is a cardioid microphone designed specifically for smartphones, DSLRs, and consumer camcorders.

The plug-and-play design means there’s no battery required, making it incredibly convenient for those on-the-go shoots and reducing downtime significantly.

Robust and dependable, the BY-MM1 comes with an aluminum body which provides a level of durability that’s quite reassuring.

It fits perfectly into our mission of providing practical solutions for filmmakers who demand efficiency without sacrificing quality.

Crystal-clear audio capture is essential, and the BY-MM1 doesn’t disappoint with its ability to record high-quality sound even in noisy environments.

This is thanks to its shock mount which reduces unnecessary vibrations and handling noise.

• Features Include – – Cardioid pickup pattern – No battery required – Aluminum construction – Shock mount included

In a market where options can overwhelm, the BOYA BY-MM1 distinguishes itself as a user-friendly and reliable option for filmmakers who need quality sound without the complexity or cost of more advanced setups.

It’s evident that its design is geared toward enhancing the filmmaker’s toolkit with an emphasis on portability and performance.

11. Audio-Technica AT8024

For those of us dedicated to capturing superior quality audio for videos, the Audio-Technica AT8024 is a standout choice.

It’s a versatile microphone well-suited for DSLR video work due to its ease of use and excellent sound fidelity.

The AT8024 comes with an integrated shock mount that greatly diminishes vibrations and handling noise.

This feature is crucial when we’re on the move and need our footage to be as smooth as possible.

What makes this microphone particularly appealing for filmmakers is its selectable line-cardioid mono or mid-side stereo modes.

This adaptability allows us to adjust our audio capture methods to suit our project’s specific needs.

Key features of the Audio-Technica AT8024 include:

• Selectable modes for mono or stereo recording
• Integrated shock mount to minimize unwanted noise
• Lightweight design that doesn’t weigh down our cameras

The microphone’s build is robust, designed to withstand the rigors of field production.

With an aluminum alloy construction, the AT8024 promises to be a durable addition to our audio equipment collection.

Battery life is another factor we can’t overlook.

The AT8024 uses a single AA battery and provides us with dependable performance throughout our shooting sessions.

When considering the overall sound quality, the AT8024 impresses with clear, concise, and full-bodied audio.

It captures the nuances of dialogue and the subtle sounds of our environment, essential for creating an immersive viewing experience.

Operating this microphone is straightforward, making it a suitable option for both seasoned professionals and those newer to video production.

Its user-friendly interface ensures that we’ll spend less time fiddling with settings and more time focusing on capturing great footage.

12. Sennheiser MKE 400

The Sennheiser MKE 400 is a compact shotgun microphone designed specifically for the needs of filmmakers using DSLR cameras.

With its rugged, all-metal housing, this mic is built to withstand the rigors of on-location shooting.

Its impressive noise rejection capabilities make it ideal for capturing crystal-clear dialogue and audio even in noisy environments.

The MKE 400 features a super-cardioid pickup pattern which focuses on the sound in front of the camera while minimizing background noise.

Key features of the Sennheiser MKE 400 include:

• Super-cardioid pickup pattern for focused audio recording
• All-metal housing for enhanced durability
• Integrated shock mount to minimize handling noise
• Long battery life with up to 300 hours of operation on a single AAA battery

Ease of use is one of the MKE 400’s strong suits.

It boasts a 3-stage sensitivity switch and a low-cut filter to ensure optimal sound recording in various situations.

also, this microphone doesn’t just complement video work; it excels at it.

Audio quality is paramount in film production, and the MKE 400 delivers with a balanced sound that enhances in-camera audio without requiring extensive post-production work.

Our experience with the MKE 400 has shown that it truly stands out for DSLR video enthusiasts who prioritize portability without sacrificing audio quality.

Its battery efficiency is particularly notable, requiring only a single AAA battery for hours of reliable operation, a feature that film crews appreciate during extended shooting sessions.

13. Rode VideoMic Go

If simplicity and effectiveness are key in your filmmaking journey, the Rode VideoMic Go is an ideal companion for your DSLR.

It offers a no-fuss, plug-and-play experience, perfect for capturing clear audio on the go without the hassle of complex setups.

Attaching effortlessly to your camera’s hot shoe, this lightweight mic that won’t weigh down your rig.

The VideoMic Go is renowned for focusing on the audio that’s directly in front of it, thanks to its cardioid polar pattern.

Featuring an integrated Rycote Lyre shock mount, this microphone expertly minimizes vibrations and handling noise.

It’s an excellent choice for video enthusiasts who want smooth, reliable audio in a variety of shooting environments.

A standout quality of the VideoMic Go is its power design – it’s energized by your camera’s external microphone input, eliminating the need for batteries.

This feature alone can be a lifesaver during extended shooting sessions where power management is crucial.

Here are some compelling reasons to consider the Rode VideoMic Go for your DSLR microphone needs:

• Ease of use – no battery required, just plug in and start recording.
• Portability – its lightweight design makes it perfect for run-and-gun shooting.
• Integrated shock mount – reduces handling noise to produce cleaner audio.

The Rode brand is widely recognized for its dedication to quality audio products, and the VideoMic Go is no exception.

If you’re looking for high-quality sound that complements the visual aspect of your projects, this microphone should be high on your list.

It ensures your audience hears every word and nuance in your story, just as you intended.

14. Azden SMX-30

When looking to capture high-quality audio for your video productions, we consider the Azden SMX-30 a top contender in the realm of DSLR microphones.

Versatility is this microphone’s middle name – offering both mono and stereo recording capabilities.

The mono mode is perfect for capturing dialogue with clarity, while the stereo mode adds ambiance to your scenes, making it ideal for a wide range of filmmaking scenarios.

Azden has integrated a +20dB gain booster in the SMX-30 to ensure your audio is loud and clear.

This feature is particularly useful when recording in noisy environments or when the subject is at a distance from the camera.

Noise reduction is also a key aspect of this microphone – it houses a low-cut filter that effectively minimizes rumble and wind noise.

We appreciate Azden SMX-30’s unique design feature – a shock-absorbing shoe mount that mitigates handling noise to produce cleaner audio tracks.

Here are some key features that make the SMX-30 stand out:

• Dual recording modes for mono and stereo
• +20dB gain booster for increased audio clarity
• Low-cut filter for noise reduction

Besides, the Azden SMX-30 is equipped with an LED indicator that shows battery status at a glance, which is critical during a full day of shooting.

As for power, it runs on two AA batteries and boasts an impressive battery life, allowing us to focus on capturing the moment without worrying about power supply interruptions.

Durability is not an issue either thanks to its all-metal construction giving it the resilience needed for on-location shoots.

Filmmakers who juggle with dynamic shooting situations might find the Azden SMX-30 to be an invaluable companion for their audio recording needs.

Best DSLR Shotgun Microphones

If you have been shooting with a DSLR camera, it is time to get the most out of it. Using the right gear, like the best DSLR shotgun microphones, you can do that.

A shotgun microphone is one of the most important gears that you will need if you want to capture high-quality sound.

Finding the best shotgun microphone for your DSLR may seem like a difficult task due to the numerous options available in the market.

However, if you know what you are looking for and how to use your camera and microphone together, finding the right shotgun microphone will be easy.  

When looking for a good shotgun microphone, it should first consider its compatibility with our cameras.  

Different brands have different connectors and jacks, so it is important to know which kind of connector fits your camera.

You can also use an adapter to make sure that your mic fits your camera.  

If you are unsure which adapter or connector to choose, do not worry because some manufacturers also include these in their packages.

Best Cheap Shotgun Mic For DSLR

There are many different microphones, but the shotgun mic is most often used for professional filmmaking.

This microphone is so popular among filmmakers because it is omnidirectional (meaning it picks up sounds from all directions) and relatively inexpensive compared to other types of microphones.

For example, filmmakers commonly use a condenser microphone that can cost anywhere from $200-$3000. Shotgun mics are typically around $100-$300.

When choosing a shotgun mic for your DSLR video camera, there are several factors you need to consider, such as:

• price,
• durability,
• quality, and
• compatibility with your camera.

I will be reviewing five different shotgun mics that have done well in these areas and can be purchased on Amazon for less than $100!

Below are my top 5 picks for the best cheap shotgun mic under 100 dollars:

Rode VideoMic Pro Compact On-Camera Shotgun Condenser Microphone

This microphone has a built-in shock mount and pop filter to prevent unwanted noise or “pops” while filming. It also has a low-cut filter to eliminate rumble or wind noise while recording audio outdoors. 

This microphone runs on 2 AA batteries.

Best Handheld Mic For DSLR

The best handheld microphone for your DSLR is what you can afford, and that fits your needs. Like DSLR cameras, there are several handheld microphones available on the market. 

Even though they were not specifically made for DSLRs, they all work great with a DSLR camera.

I am trying to decide which one is the best for you? The choice depends on what you will be using it for and your budget. 

To make this decision easier, I created a list of five of the best handheld microphones for DSLRs in 2013.

Rode VideoMic Pro- This microphone is very high quality and works great with any DSLR camera. 

It comes with an adjustable tripod to be attached to any camera or tripod, and it is small enough to fit into any camera bag.

It also has a headphone jack to monitor audio during filming. 

It even comes with a silent on/off switch to record in extremely quiet situations and avoid unwanted noise during filming.

Sennheiser ME2- This mic also comes with an adjustable tripod, a headphone jack, and a silent on/off switch. 

It runs on 2 AA batteries or phantom power, making it extremely versatile.

 

Microphone Jargon Explained

There is a lot of microphone jargon. 

Some of the words and phrases used to describe microphones and their applications are confusing if you are just beginning to understand microphones.

Single Pattern, Omnidirectional

It is the most widely used pattern for general recording.

 The mic picks up sound from all directions equally with no preference. 

It is ideal for speech, musical instruments, and ambient room sounds.

Single Pattern, Bidirectional

This pattern picks up sound equally well from the front and rear but has a major drop-off in sensitivity from the sides.

It is ideal for close-miking instruments such as drums, guitar amps, or pianos with minimal leakage from other devices or speakers.

Single Pattern, Cardioid

This pattern is most sensitive to sounds originating at 90˚ directly in front of the microphone while picking up less sound from the sides and rear.

The cardioid is ideal for close miking musical instruments or voices while reducing undesirable leakage into other microphones in a multi-microphone setup.

Multi-Pattern, Hypercardioid

This pattern rejects off-axis sounds more than any other directional microphone pattern.

Hyper Cardioids are often used for studio vocal recording because they produce.