Microphone Questions/Advice Thread

[thegadgetdude]

Hey guys,

I'll be getting a camcorder with a mic input soon, and I already know the obvious advantages of an external mic, and may even do the DIY boom poll.

Question is what should I be looking out for in a microphone (e.g. frequency, make, type). I don't think I'm on the kind of budget for a Sennheiser mic, so I need something that's good value. And maybe where to get them (although I'm in the UK) so I've only really checked on ebay.

Thanks,
Dale

[justin]

I got a shotgun mic off of eBay for about $30, and then a whole bunch of mini-extender cord at Radio Shack. It was a generic brand, but really, ANYthing besides your on-camera mic will make a world of difference.

Erik's a big fan of the one he mentions in this episode (http://www.indymogul.com/episode/QE_091307).

[thegadgetdude]

Ok Justin thanks for the info, onto ebay I think. I'll check out that episode as well.

[Whole Milk Productions]

Yep. I'm getting the same kind Erik uses, about 70 bucks including shipping

[Erik Beck]

Yep. I'm getting the same kind Erik uses, about 70 bucks including shipping

I thought they cost less. These are great mics as long as you use them up close and personal. I might be buying a new one soon since I got some fake blood in the switch on my old one.

[Whole Milk Productions]

I got some fake blood in the switch on my old one.

I assume from filming Blood Freak?


Also, this was on eBay not from a dealer or anything.

[nooneimportant77]

hey! i've found that any old mic will do pretty good, of course a shotgun mic is preferable
but for the boom

i think an even better way to do the boom (though it might not extend as far) is to buy a mic stand and take the base off of it and you've got an extendable boom pre threaded to fit your shock mount

also you'll need an impedance converter to go from mic to camera, i'm looking into one, i've found some cheap ones but nothing i've found really does it for me just yet.

[SWRULS]

hey how about this mic its around 50 bucks at Frys:
http://shop3.outpost.com/product/4923001;jsessionid=nohp4STEqseJW0btL2q93g**.node2? site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG

[nooneimportant77]

well i'm sure that mic does its job but what you really want is to seperate the mic from the camera so you can put it wherever you want so you can really get good audio, right up close. you could even re record it in a "studio" which is what most pros do for perfect audio.

[thegadgetdude]

I've got my eye on a real cheap audio-technica on ebay, think I'll go ahead and get it if it's at the right price.

[Pauliophonic]

I'm looking for a good shotgun microphone for a good price. I've read good things about the Rode NTG-1.

Suggestions?

[Erik Beck]

We're looking to review some microphones in the $150-$250 range. What is the range your looking for?

[Spleg]

I was just about to post the same question. It would be really handy if you could do a shotgun round-up. I'd be in the range of anything up to £100.

[Pauliophonic]

We're looking to review some microphones in the $150-$250 range. What is the range your looking for?

That's exactly the range. The Rode NTG-1 is $250 everywhere I've looked. I'm leaning toward that one so far.

[nooneimportant77]

if you're setting up a small studio for voice overs a shotgun mic is not what you want, you want a nice condenser mic.

shotgun mics are prefered for making moveis because they are very directional and depending on the mic and settings, can be set to do things like ONLY pick up things RIGHT infront of them. however, that dosn't mean that other mics wont do for making moives you can use just about anything as long as you do it well.

[dangleeno]

Well, im poor. And I want a cheap video camera, but I also want good sound. I know this is kind of weird, but is it possible to hook up a good shotgun or boom mic to a small digital camera. FYI, the camera is the
Aiptek AH-D HD Camcorder.

Help is wanted!

[benjaming]

The Aiptek AH-D HD Camcorder has no mic jack. But I think if you want a hardrive type cam you shoud go with a JVC. The cheap ones do not have mic jacks but you not have to buy tapes :P

[nooneimportant77]

^^ well said,

we all know that there is no such thing as a microphone called a "boom mic" right? a boom mic is just the shotgun mic on a boom pole for better placement.

[dangleeno]

Yes, but considering I have seen people say "boom mic" and I wanted all the help I could get, I didnt want people saying, "What the heck is a shotgun mic? I cant help him."

[tonz0phun]

If you can't find a boom mic anywhere Radio Shack sells the wireless lapel mics for about $50 in the store. They're pretty decent if you can find a place to hide the battery packs and the mic. Just be careful the mic doesnt rub against any clothes. god thats a terrible sound.

[spicysmoke]

I just bought a shotgun mic and i love it, havnt made a movie with it yet but filming starts in a few days! Definetly a good investment. It adds great sound and makes you feel and look more proffesional, so important.

[SyxxGage]

If you can't find a boom mic anywhere Radio Shack sells the wireless lapel mics for about $50 in the store. They're pretty decent if you can find a place to hide the battery packs and the mic. Just be careful the mic doesnt rub against any clothes. god thats a terrible sound.


Stay away from Radio Shack unless you have no other options. They over charge you for every thing, and have little knowledge of anything you might actually need.

Radio Shack. You have questions, we have dumb looks.

[fadedxmasfilms]

On the sound episode, the chip guy, (sorry i can't remember ur name, dude), says to get this shotgun mic-

http://cgi.ebay.com/Camera-Condenser-Shotgun-Microphone-Mic-ATR55-NEW_W0QQitemZ140160562945QQihZ004QQcategoryZ15198Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem#ebayphotohost ing

now is this the best value and quality of a shotgun mic for ebay?

[nooneimportant77]

yeah thats as good as it gets
the quality wont be MIND BLOWING but it'll sound fine, and its damn cheap

[fadedxmasfilms]

there r cheaper ones, should i get this 1 or one of the cheaper ones

[fireflametv]

I'm thinking about getting the Rode VideoMic and recording the sound seperate. (when filming on film)

[spicysmoke]

woah you record on film? i could never be bothered with that

[Imbender]

Looking simply at stats the ATR 25 looks beter then 55. They have the same sensetivity, the 25 has a lower Impedance (600 vs 1000 Ohm), stero vs mono and it's cheaper ($35 vs $50). From what I hear a lot of people cringe when you suggest these mics unless you use it on a boom pole (or a modified painters extension pole) to get the mic close to the subject. The Rode videomic is very popular (im working on getting one.) but will run you $150.

[nooneimportant77]

I'm thinking about getting the Rode VideoMic and recording the sound seperate. (when filming on film)

you record on film?

what have you shot?

[CDB]

How important is it to buy a shotgun mic over simply a condenser mic? The price difference is huge, but I wonder how much better a shotgun mic is over the condenser.

Also, what about a telescopic mic?

Thanks for any help you can give.

[Peter the Bohemian]

Now that I have a consumer DV camera that gives good quality video (PV-GS300 (http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/Panasonic-PV-GS300-First-Impressions-Camcorder-Review/Audio--Playback--Connectivity.htm)), I want audio to match. The built in microphone is pure crap and after doing some research, I've realized that I want to buy a shotgun microphone.

However, I have no idea about which shotgun microphones are good. Here are two shotgun microphones that I found at Amazon.com that have the highest average customer review scores:

Audio Technica ATR-55 Condenser Shotgun Microphone
(http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATR-55-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00006J04Z/ref=sr_1_7/002-3843336-3844030?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1191049752&sr=1-7)(This was the microphone that popped up in the audio edition of "Weekend Extra" btw)

or

High-performance (SMX-10) Stereo Condenser Microphone (http://www.amazon.com/High-performance-SMX-10-Stereo-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B000GE403I/ref=sr_1_3/002-3843336-3844030?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1191049752&sr=1-3)

Which one of these two microphones would you recommend OR do you know of any good quality shotgun microphones that are below $80?

[nooneimportant77]

i would go with the second one, its sterio so you'll get a more dimensional sound.

[New Spark Films]

I know that this is dumb, but eBay has a bunch of shotgun mics for like $10.

What's the deal with this???

[ciwi286]

did you check the postage and packaging....sometimes its ridiculously overpriced so people just think there getting a good buy.... post a link!

[New Spark Films]

http://cgi.ebay.com/10-83-Inch-NEW-Camera-Camcorder-Shotgun-MIC-Microphone_W0QQitemZ330173165901QQihZ014QQcategory Z83857QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Alright, not as cheap as I had thought, but it's still like $30 total, which seems scammish.

[Kevinaz]

It could very well be a scam. It's not un-common on e-bay. (like some moron selling "ken griffey jr. game used bubble gum" for over $2g. Wow).

[Imbender]

Nah, I think its just really sh*tty mics. The impedence as is says is 1k Ohm for short and 2.3k Ohm for long range. (lower is better) 1k Ohm = 1000 Ohm I assume. The ATR is 600 I believe wich is a low end mic. The Rode Videomic is around 200 Ohm i believe. You do get what you pay for... Notice how it doesn't state the maker of the mic (sounds like a Chinese nock off of a cheap mic).

[ciwi286]

naw...check out where its coming from...hong kong which is a short train ride from shenzen on mainland china and trust me , ive been there ...you can drive for over an hour and see nothing but factories.... these are probably being sold straight from the factory...your getting it a wholesale price but you dont have to buy in bulk!

Edit: the post above me was written while i was writing this, your right the chinese people prefer to buy fakes! Its probably not a name branded mic and may not be good quality...thats why its good to check its specs and compare and (thanks to the forums) ask people who know to look at the specs.

[daydreamer1]

I found a lot of them on Ebay,but does anyone know which is the best I should go for?

[felix78]

Erik spent 40 dollars on hes!

[SyxxGage]

These cant be any good I wouldnt think. Sometimes buying thing so cheap will cost you more in the end. You may end up wasting some shots that were really good. In the end you will probably buy yourself a better one anyway and wish you still had that 10 bucks to pay the pizza guy.

[New Spark Films]

Erik spent 40 dollars on hes!

Yeah but shipping is $12 so thats like $50-$60.

[SPARC]

http://cgi.ebay.com/10-83-Inch-NEW-Camera-Camcorder-Shotgun-MIC-Microphone_W0QQitemZ330173165901QQihZ014QQcategory Z83857QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Alright, not as cheap as I had thought, but it's still like $30 total, which seems scammish.


Here's something ya gotta watch out for;
"Load batteries properly according to the “+” “-” polarities marked on the microphone battery shell."

When I see wording like this, I think NO POLARITY PROTECTION, which means if you insert the batteries backward, the mic is toast. So always check the battery polarity/orientation. I had a friend who borrowed my light meter. It didn't have polarity protection (not a cheap meter either, $450 back a few years) and he went to replace the 9V battery which was dead. He didn't pay attention and got the battery in backward and it killed the meter. It was cheaper to find a replacement meter on eBay than to fix it. This meter, a Gossen Ultra-Pro, doesn't have the snap style 9v connector that we are used to here in the States, you just drop the battery in and close the cover, very easy to get the polarity reversed, so watch out.

[17thletterfilms]

I just bought this microphone (http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATR-55-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00006J04Z/ref=pd_bxgy_MI_text_b/104-6460885-4231936?ie=UTF8&qid=1192401836&sr=8-20)! It should be here soon.

[ciwi286]

sweet.... let us know how that goes!

[17thletterfilms]

Will do! I'll probably make a quick clip to test it out when I get it, but I'll just upload it to my youtube channel.

[ninjabros]

You have an A/V input on your camera...? you better check.

[flipsproductions]

its a good mic for the price. i like it its not to big but its big enough to get a good pick up with. go out to radioshack and pick up a mono to stereo adapter though otherwise you will have to make it stereo in post editing and truthfully who wants to do that for something that only costs another few bucks. also just be careful about leaving it on, theres no power indicator

[17thletterfilms]

Thanks for the tip flips.

And ninjabros, no I'm just gonna hook it into my laptop and record audio seperately.

[SanitySource]

Alright, so yuo've already read that i am looking to buy a shotgun mic, but i know very little about them.
here are some questions that i have...
1. what makes a shotgun mic good quality? (any stats)

2. does it come with a tone of cord ? ( so i can make boom pole?)

3. how cheap is too cheap for i shotgun mic?

4. i live in Canada, where is a good place to go for a good microphone?

5. why buy a shotgun mic?

6. for making a boom pole, erik says and go online and buy this adapter. only problem is i cant do internet shopping too easily. do any stores carry them? (maybe henrys or a music store?)

7. does it come with the foam heads?

8. my camera doesnt have a holder for a shotgun mic. any DIY things for this?

THANKS EVERYONE:hayguyz:

[SanitySource]

nobody?

[nooneimportant77]

there are dozens of things that make a microphone good quality, but the easiest thing to go by is price. its not always the best way to go, but its the most general understading of quality

no it does not come with a ton of cord (in almost all situations)

idk i'm not in canada, a pro audio store i'm guessing.

yes music stores might have that adaptor, but you might not need it.

sometimes it comes with a wind screen but probably not

if you're buying a shotgun mic i'd suggest not putting it on your camera, but having someone hold it, you dont NEED a boom pole, you can just have someone off camera holding it. and an even faster way to make a boom pole is to just go buy a microphone stand and take the base off, and TA DA an extendable boom pole !

keep in mind you dont NEED a shotgun mic. just about any external microphone will make your audio sound much better, camera companies make cameras, not microphones...most of the time.

[daydreamer1]

Which is the best boom mic I can get?

[Davage]

how much do you want to spend?

[daydreamer1]

I'll take anything for cheap...and depending hwo much I can get out of the bank or from my parents.

[nooneimportant77]

first off there's no such thing as a boom mic.

second, if you're willing to spend 200 bucks, go for it!

get something like this
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/R0DE-VideoMic-Shotgun-Condenser-Microphone?sku=271598

if not this simple kit will do you FINE
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/AudioTechnica-ATR-55-UniDirectional-Condenser-Shotgun-Microphone?sku=270603

[SanitySource]

willing to spend 100$, if it dont come with a tone of cor how do you make booom pole?

[RobertHimler]

I had this setup on my Panasonic DVX100B

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/149/399135218_12eeca3b23.jpg


Azden Shotgun Mic
25' foot XLR cord (for boom use)
1' XLR cord (for camera mount)
boom pole

^^Got all of that on eBay for $180.

[nooneimportant77]

i use a microphone stand as a boom pole, all you need.....is a mic stand! they cost about 12 dollars

[NaziActionFigure]

I think you should use ebay. You can get a shotgun mic, boom, windsock, and cables here (http://cgi.ebay.com/ATR55-Shotgun-Microphone-Fur-Windsock-Boom-Pole-ShockMt_W0QQitemZ160069180588QQihZ006QQcategoryZ33 19QQtcZphotoQQcmdZViewItem). Also, it's the exact same mic Erik uses.

[fadedxmasfilms]

im getting mine off ebay

[dahlroth!]

any way to adapt from an A/V in/out jack to be able to plug a microphone into it?

[SanitySource]

which model does erik use?

[cubes]

I'm a bargain shopper, Audio Technica ATR55 about $55, and a knock off for about $ 30 on ebay, with cord, adapters, and windscreen.

[doid]

Hello everyone,

i was wondering what type of microphone to get for my camera. Its standard microphone sucks and i was thinkg of getting two lapel microphones or a "shot gun mic".

Also if you can find a decentshot gun microphone for under 40$ that would be greatly appreciated!

[sandmanfvr]

In one of the episodes, Eric shows you his mic he got on ebay for $40.

[NaziActionFigure]

I have the exact same mic. Its the Audio Technica ATR-55.

[sandmanfvr]

On ebay, $50 or so for new ones! You would need this:

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2102967&cp=&sr=1&origkw=1%2F8+cable&kw=1%2F8+cable&parentPage=search

because the mic comes with only 3 feet of cable. I think we will get one of these.

[Apocalypse WOW!]

Like this?
http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-14-37-Inch-Camera-Camcorder-Shotgun-Mic-Microphone_W0QQitemZ330184239510QQihZ014QQcategory Z83857QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Is there any creditability to this? It might be straight from the manufacturer...help?

[samthemusicman12]

I don't know. Ten dollars is pretty cheap. I wouldn't buy it.

[Skuzz]

Why not? Looks good and if it turns out to sound like mudd, what's 10 dollars compared to a couple hundred?

What if it turns out great and even better than expected? Go for it.

[joshmckeehen]

No, it is 36 after shipping. The price is just there to make you look. If you want to know if a microphone is good or not, search for reviews on websites like bhphotovideo.com. That is how you can tell if something is going to be a good buy or not.

EDIT: If you can't find the product name, I would avoid it. Plus it is 14" That is a long barrel for an on board camera microphone. That should really be mounted on a fish-pole.

[LightWavePro]

Im with Skuzz on this one I think its worth the risk plus I like that its an XLR mic...but thats just me.

~Josh

[Westcroft]

heh... I have that one :P It's not the best, but not the worst... I'm not sure what the *bleep* the normal function is but the tele setting works good. It also comes with two shockmounts so that's good... one is the the regular threaded size and the other is this crazy small size. I'd probably buy a more expensive one next time, but for the 40 bucks with shipping it could be a lot worse.

[Imbender]

<-- I found a rodevideo mic for 100 bucks with shipping and it sounds amazing. Usually goes for about 150 though.

[etentertainment]

Hmmmm..I would get it since I really need
a shotgun mic....but the XLR wire looks pretty weird...
maybe poor quality. But I agree with Skuzz
and LightWavePro.


Get it!!

[Mcbentleson]

they're offering this:
http://www.frontendaudio.com/SM_Pro_Audio_EM9600_Telescopic_Shotgun_Microphone_ p/3346.htm

I picked up one to rent out to students and as a back up in case one of my other mics craps out. It isn't the greatest mic, but worth $36.

[Apocalypse WOW!]

thanks guys, yea im getting it, but a 10 inch one instead of 14

[3amigosproductions]

SCAM, SCAM, SCAM SCAM SCAM

[dangleeno]

Not sure if I would trust this. Then again, its only ten bucks. Hard call.

[dangleeno]

Where would be a good website to buy from then?

[biohazard]

i could suggest amazon, i'm not sure if they overprice or not, but the customer reviews are incredibly helpful. also ebay. both are your friend

[DeltaPotato19]

i havent been able to find any panasonic mics, do they even exist? lol, and for purchasing id go with crutchfield.com or even BH (but im also a n00b)

[spicysmoke]

Woah man, you bought this thread back from the dead, its old as. I dont think there are ne pansonic mics, not sure though

[DeltaPotato19]

lol yeah im just lookin for shit to talk about lol, but yeah i didnt see any, quite sad =(

[dangleeno]

I didnt see any either. :(

[biohazard]

Ok so i just got a shotgun microphone, and when i tested it on my camera, it only recorded sound to one speaker. The other side just got this annoying buzz sound. plus the sound on the one side(left i think) that did work was very quiet. The Mic is an ATR55 (made by Audio Technica) and my camera is a Canon Elura 100. Any help would be appreciated, thank you.

[NaziActionFigure]

Well, your problem is that your camera records stereo sound, but the ATR55 is mono, so you need a mono to stereo adapter from radio shack or something. It won't be stereo, it will only record one signal to both tracks, but it should get rid of the buzz.

[biohazard]

ok thanks

[biohazard]

If i get a stereo mic, it should work, right???

[trspballer7]

I have a sony hdd camera, and on the top it has a for lack of a better word, chunk that you can take out. I know you can connect a shotgun mic into it rhough there, but I do not know what adapter i need to get it to fit. It is not just a 1.5 mm hole or w/e its this thing that you need an adaptor for lights or a boom mic...can anyone give me a link to where i can get one of these?

[NaziActionFigure]

Are you talking about a hot shoe?

[etentertainment]

Post a picture of your camera, or model # or something.

[AlienWaveFilms]

when you buy your shotgun mic, it should come with the input converter...

[nooneimportant77]

the hot shoe usually isn't where you'll plug the mic in, there'll be a small jack like one for headphones that will say MIC on it thats where the mic goes.

[Scamp]

Hey, I'm a musician and I'm going to be recording some youtube quality acoustic videos in the near future. I'm looking for suggestions for a fairly cheep microphone with a decent sound that I can plug into my computer.

thanks.

[dimaxx]

dynamic t.bone 58.beta mic - copy of shure 58.beta
thou it's copy, it has great quality.

[dimaxx]

but if you have phantom 48v power sourse - then try something like MXL or RODE

[DeviousTom]

Hey I'm getting a mic today also lol. I would say go to a store and talk to a sales representative. As long as it is at least 100 dollars it should be good quality and last hopefully for life

I know you said fairly cheap but when it comes to music.. I feel as though it is a waste not to get a great quality microphone

[dimaxx]

here is nice cardoid mic for 99$ http://www.boyntonproaudio.com/product-p/perception%20100.htm
and dynamic one (if you dont have 48v phantom) http://www.boyntonproaudio.com/product-p/i5.htm

[Scamp]

Thanks for the help, but I'm looking for something a lot less expensive. I don't need professional quality, just something that records better than my camera's on-board mic.

[dimaxx]

think about good mic! think twice! because it's great investment. someday you anyway will need sudio quality mic.
here is a great test - http://youtube.com/watch?v=KXSFPGzzjHs
thou he speaks danish language, just hear difference between dynamic and condenser mics.

[Scamp]

I also should mention that I plan on using just 1 mic to record vocals and instrument (either acoustic guitar or piano, depending on the song) simultaneously

[dimaxx]

better to use 2 mics. or record first music and then vocals. in any editor you can simply edit all together. for that i would recommend Sonar. it has snap feature and streatching with correct pitch

[Scamp]

how do you feel about the
Samson C01U Condenser USB Microphone

its the only one I found that connects with a usb, and I don't want to have to buy an expensive connection interface after buying an expensive mic

[etentertainment]

Shure SM57

[trspballer7]

Yea its an Active interface shoe....but i need an adapter or something because there is no direct port for the mic and headphones...anyone know where i can get an adaptor or what not?

p.s. Merry XXX-MAS

[DeviousTom]

Uh possibly radio shack? I don't use a shotgun mic so I wouldn't know but I suppose one day I will encounter this when I do invest in a quality shotgun mic. For now all I do is use my music mics and put them on stands then have them on set.

[Mr.Jowee]

A few years ago Sony eliminated the jack on it's low-end cameras, and changed the shape of the hot-shoe to only work with specific Sony accessories. You can get a shotgun-style mic that will work with your camera.

This is what a hot-shoe looks like:
http://homepage.mac.com/swannman/hotshoe.jpg

[nooneimportant77]

and mircophones dont plug into that

[RobsWorld247]

Yea its an Active interface shoe....but i need an adapter or something because there is no direct port for the mic and headphones...anyone know where i can get an adaptor or what not?

p.s. Merry XXX-MAS

I was looking for he same thing. This is whay your looking for.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/479976-REG/Sony_VMCK100_VMC_K100_Microphone_Adapter_Cable.htm l

in case that link dies google " Sony VMC-K100 Microphone Adapter for Camcorder Hot Shoes "

That should help. But i'm unsure if you could buy it at a local store.

[Mr.Jowee]

and mircophones dont plug into that

No, but microphone adapters do. ;)

[Mr.Jowee]

and mircophones dont plug into that
http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=11035747&tab=Features
http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=11038016&tab=Features

:learn: They do on Sony cameras. :learn:

[nooneimportant77]

^^hm. my sony has a mic in. but its an older one.

[Mr.Jowee]

^^hm. my sony has a mic in. but its an older one.

Most low-end Sony's don't come with a mic input anymore. They stopped that when the HC20 came out (I think), which was maybe 4 or 5 years ago. I think it's a conspiracy. My HC21 has this symbol where the mic in should be; any idea what it is?

http://www.freemasoninformation.com/art/ordo.gif

[nooneimportant77]

haha i hope you're kidding

i'm using a DCR-TRV900

[trspballer7]

Thank you so much...I was about a week away from buying one of the sony only shotgun mics. Thank you so much!

[Fox_rider]

If you camcorder has a microphone input but not a head phone jack will there still be good audio.

[DeviousTom]

yeah u just won't hear it till after

[Sam_rocks321]

Hey guys i was looking for a new shotgun microphone any reccomendations? I want one with a minijack. I was thinking the Rode Videomic or thre Audio Technitia ATR55 but i am open to suggestions

[GreenFeather]

The ATR55 is like 50$ at amazon, and the atr25 is 35$. just wanted to let u kno
im getting the atr25 soon!

[bubblefax]

O found this one on Amazon for 50$ and it comes with lots of other things here is the link i am going to get that one soon. http://www.amazon.com/Technica-ATR-55-Condenser-Shotgun-Microphone/dp/B00006J04Z/ref=pd_bbs_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1200065573&sr=8-1

[Sam_rocks321]

Take the tv cord with the rca outputs and get a y adaptor that has l/r inputs that go to a 1/8 female thats what I do with me ZR800

With 2 couplers like this http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2102665&cp=&sr=1&origkw=RCA+coupler&kw=rca+coupler&parentPage=searchand

Email me with questions

[007brett]

yah it will still be good quality

[yuloveme537]

yeah it will be fine, as long as you know how to use a mic right.

[Sam_rocks321]

Like Robsworl said I used this too before i got a newone http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/479976-REG/Sony_VMCK100_VMC_K100_Microphone_Adapter_Cable.htm l

[Sam_rocks321]

I have a Senheiser MK66 and an adzen shotgun mic and I wanted to make them work with my newer ZR800 should I get the Beachtech adaptor or a mini mixer? the Shotguns will be on homemade boompoles.

[Jimmy Dean]

Hi. I have a Sony DCR-SR200, the video quality is great but the sound quality is ok, but i need to improve it, People tell me I can plug in a microphone, so which one should i get? I want one large enough to hold in my hand, I am not sure Erik's mic. will work on my camera..
So what im asking is

[Jimmy Dean]

Ok the last one was screwed up... I have a Sony DCR-SR200 I want to get an external microphone, but im not sure which ones will work, and which ones are good, could some one help me... thanks! :geeeee:BALLIN

[Sam_rocks321]

Get this and you can use any mic with 1/8 inch mini plug

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/479976-REG/Sony_VMCK100_VMC_K100_Microphone_Adapter.html

[ShadowPhoenix]

Howdy,

I have a Sony HDRHC7 camcorder and I was looking to get an external shotgun microphone for it. Now, I know Sony offers one for it, but it has to be connected to the camera's power supply. I'm looking for one similar to what Erik and them use. I want something on a cord so I can attach it to a boom pole, hand it to an actor to use, attach to the side of the camera, etc. etc. Any suggestions?

Keep in mind, I do have a smaller budget (I blew my budget on the camera :D). I'm looking for something between $80 to $100, preferably.


And if Erik, or any of the Indy Mogul crew, happen to read this, what brand is your microphone and where did you get it?

[Sam_rocks321]

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/479976-REG/Sony_VMCK100_VMC_K100_Microphone_Adapter.html

get that and you can use the ATR55 like indy ,mogul

It totally costs about $100 at bh

[speekerphone]

ebay, ebay, ebay

[Sam_rocks321]

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/479976-REG/Sony_VMCK100_VMC_K100_Microphone_Adapter.html

get that and a ATR55 about 100 bucks at B&H

[ShadowPhoenix]

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/479976-REG/Sony_VMCK100_VMC_K100_Microphone_Adapter.html

get that and you can use the ATR55 like indy ,mogul

It totally costs about $100 at bh

Do I need that if my camera already has a microphone input on the side? Or does that provide power for the microphone to work?

And through my looking around, the ATR55 looks like my best bet. But is there a 1/8" plug extension cord so that the cord is longer than 3'?

EDIT: Nevermind, I thought that I had a microphone input, but I don't.

EDIT EDIT: Ok, nevermind again. There is a microphone input, it was on the front, not on the side where I thought it was. So, again, if I have that, do I need the interface shoe accessory?

[ShadowPhoenix]

Does anyone know if the Azden SGM-X comes with a 1/8" stereo plug or a 1/8" mono plug?

http://www.azdencorp.com/shop/customer/product.php?productid=93301&cat=22&page=1 (http://www.azdencorp.com/shop/customer/product.php?productid=93301&cat=22&page=1)

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/257751-REG/Azden_SGM_X_SGM_X_Shotgun_Mic.html#goto_itemInfo

[Sam_rocks321]

Nope, if you have a mic input just get the ATR 55 or the RODE videomic, and you can go about 20 ft and pick up no noticable hum or buzz, the limit is about 50 ft for me,

[etentertainment]

You can extend the cable for it, you don't need a wireless one.

[Jimmy Dean]

Thanks sam:hayguyz:

[ugman77]

i got my shotgun mic, the exact same one erik has (auido technica atr55) on ebay for 40$, i got 12ft of extention cord for it to put it on my boom for about 5$ on amazon. you can get this all going for cheap if you search around well

[ugman77]

btw, if you are going to make a boom like the one in weekend extra, just buy the pole, you can easily attach one of the spare mic holders your mic will come with to the pole with duct tape. mine works great

[censorme]

After seeing the shotgun mic recommended was in fact the one that I was so happy to have bought a few years ago but haven't used in ages, I was very happy.

But I dug it up and put it in my Panasonic PV-DV 402 mini-dv camera and something weird happens... Even with a fresh battery, It feeds a good sound level for about fifteen seconds, then slowly fades away to nothing.

What the heck is this, and is there anything I can do?

I haven't found anyone else on the whole dern interweb that's had this problem, so I'm hoping someone here has? is that bad to wish ill on someone?

[ugman77]

mabye you should put a cord interferance reducer on it, its that little cylinder that goes around the cord. mine didnt work well until i put one on

[etentertainment]

.....I was so happy to have bought a few years ago but haven't used in ages....

But I dug it up.....


They're old and something happened to them over the years?

[jburas]

First, try it in another camera or some kind of recorder and see if you get the same problem. If you do, it's the microphone. If there is no problem with a different recorder, it's your camera. It sounds suspiciously like a problem with the auto audio gain in the camera, but do a test first.

[censorme]

thanks peoples!

I plugged it in and it worked fine into my computer, so I knew it was the camera (of course the more expensive of the two pieces of equipment).

I don't know what it means but there are two audio modes on my camera, 12-bit and 16-bit. What I noticed was that 16-bit forces a mono signal (from the mic itself) into a stereo output, so I changed it to 12-bit and it's working fine!! god how relieved am I...

I guess instead of just copying the signal onto the other channel it was actually trying to draw twice as much signal from the mic so to speak. That or something else that I have no idea about anyway.

Thanks guys.;)

[Yale-afilmmaker]

Hey guys I was recently looking for a shotgun mic. I was wondering if this is a good deal.

http://www.amazon.com/Technica-ATR-55-Condenser-Shotgun-Microphone/dp/B00006J04Z

[Yale-afilmmaker]

and what is the exact name for the extension cord that goes to these mics?

[redtail5]

male or female xlr i think

[DocHoliday8403]

3.5mm mini extension cable

[MiniMogul27]

From what I've read the ATR-55 is a good buget shotgun. And DocHoliday is right about the cable. The XLR one would be useless.

[ciwi286]

I have it...Its a great mic, and Erik says its the best $50 he ever spent.

as for the extention its not XLR but 1/8" or 3.5mm

[redtail5]

a non xlr shot gun! now im DEFINANTLY buying an ntg2

[toppie34]

i would buy it thats why im also going to this weekend

[A.D.H.D. Prod.]

dose anyone know where t he best place to get a ATR55 shotgun mic. is?:)

[ilikecookies]

EBAY!!!!!!!!!!!

[A.D.H.D. Prod.]

I dont trust ebay any more i bought a wii for christmas and turns out i just payed 300 dollers for a pic. of a wii :(

[nassersays]

I dont trust ebay any more i bought a wii for christmas and turns out i just payed 300 dollers for a pic. of a wii :(

holy shyt wtf?!

pic of a wii?!!? $300 !?!!??!

explain!!!

[A.D.H.D. Prod.]

it said it was a wii but when i opened the box it was just a picture!

[Egg Dude]

I dont trust ebay any more i bought a wii for christmas and turns out i just payed 300 dollers for a pic. of a wii :(

Look at the users feedback in more detail next time! Also, look at the description veeery carefully next time.

[KMProductions]

I dont trust ebay any more i bought a wii for christmas and turns out i just payed 300 dollers for a pic. of a wii :(
hahahahahahaha oh man, I'm sorry but that is funny. But still that sucks. I would kill someone. You could probably sue them though for false advertising.

[BinBinProductions]

it said it was a wii but when i opened the box it was just a picture!

yah did you pursuit in getting them in trouble?

[Bones]

Anyone know of a decent shotgun mic to purchase for a Sony HDR FX1 ?

Bones

[ciwi286]

The audio techinca atr-55 telemike is awesome. Its what Erik uses and says its the best $50 he ever spent.....Amazon have a half price sale righ now
http://www.amazon.com/Technica-ATR-55-Condenser-Shotgun-Microphone/dp/B00006J04Z/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1204306052&sr=8-1

[ciwi286]

Wow that sucks...did you alert ebay, try to get your money back?

Anywho amazon are selling them half price
http://www.amazon.com/Technica-ATR-55-Condenser-Shotgun-Microphone/dp/B00006J04Z/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1204306052&sr=8-1

[mopman]

ebay sucks don't use it, amazon or newegg are the best places for electronics. tiger direct is good too

[ciwi286]

Excuse you! eBay kicks ass!

[Vaughn Whynot]

my cam does not have a mic plug in so what options do i have to record from a boom

[The_Count]

they did a weekend extra audio which discussed that problem. from what i remember i think they said use a minidisc recorder. there's some tips in the vid aswell ie clapping to help sync up your audio and video.

check it out, hope that helps you

[Dasleah]

I've been hearing good things about the Zoom H4. And it does look sexy.

[Vaughn Whynot]

how about under 20 or 30 bucks

[Dasleah]

A cheap-o MP3 recorder? They're a dime a dozen, although you'd have to do a bit of experimentation in order to find one that has the right Mic inputs, sound quality, and battery life.
Or, if you have a laptop, they all come with microphone inputs these days, and they're pretty quiet. Sit it on some foam to quiet out the fan and battery, just to make sure.

[Vaughn Whynot]

kinda of hard when your skaten around and doing chase scenes lol
it is my last resort tho

[thepie]

So i need a good long shotgun, and i found this on Amazon. It doesnt have any reviews, but i love audio technica. Normally i would go with sennheiser, but my budget isnt that high anymore. If this isnt good, any others in a similar price range?

http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT8035-Shotgun-Microphone/dp/B000ZLOGCC/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=musical-instruments&qid=1204510167&sr=1-5

ps. I dont want the god damn ATR-55, its not that great, please don't post telling me to get that.

Im also willing to go to about $400 for the mic, but no more than that.

[MiniMogul27]

You can buy a sennheiser me67 for under $400.

[thepie]

yeah but thats a capsule so i would have to buy the k6 powering unit?

[gcubedproductions]

What about an ATR-55? THEY'RE AWESOME!

[mopman]

wow that really adds alot to the discussion, well I have heard pretty good things about the mic. But I have no first hand experience so keep waiting and wescog or someone will post their insanely detailed analysis of it.

[Jobless in Cleveland]

Thepie,

I'm not sure where you live. Do you have a pro shop near you? Chicago, LA, NY, Toronto, Van Couver? In most major city, even Cleveland, there should be a rental house where you can get high end equipment. You can call and talk to the rental clerk fo their opions.

I don't want to insult indymogul, but I believe higher-end gears it really out of the league of most of us here in terms of price & sophistication. It is likely that none of use have experience with such nice equipment.

www.bhphotovideo.com <---- they are the most trusted mail order company out there. They are located in NY. They aswered any questions I got. They are not the cheapest mail order place; but, they are the most honest place one can deal with. Their pricing is just a tiniest bit under full MSRP. They can't compete with ebay but they been around longer and with best reputation. After I'd ordered a roll of film (100ft rolls, not 'a roll'), they sent me this HUGE telephone book (about 3in thick!) of a catalog.


Check them out, they may have deals on used equipment.

[Harris Bros. Videos]

well if you have some money to spend, I've heard the Rode Videomic is a nice shotgun mic that has its own shockmount with it. around $150 (eBay)

[stevens]

I hear good things about the microphone ciwi286 posted, However, I am in the market for a cheap yet decent microphone that hooks up via XLR.

Any suggestions? Am looking to spend under $120...

[google550]

The audio techinca atr-55 telemike is awesome. Its what Erik uses and says its the best $50 he ever spent.....Amazon have a half price sale righ now
http://www.amazon.com/Technica-ATR-55-Condenser-Shotgun-Microphone/dp/B00006J04Z/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1204306052&sr=8-1

I use it. AND IT IS AMAZING.

[mopman]

I heard it doesn't record in stereo though, will that cause problems if you're computer has two speakers???

[thepie]

I currently use a http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000ZLOGCC/ref=wl_it_dp?ie=UTF8&coliid=I1SL4U1VLZ91B8&colid=25JLLH5UV7YYD

Its really great, although i plan on upgrading to the Sennheiser me67 with the K6 power. The AT mic might be a little over your budget, and the sennheiser definitely will be, but they are both EXCELLENT mics.

[Westcroft]

A use a RODE NTG2, it's one of the best prosumer mics out there that won't break the bank.

You can get one of these to adapt the XLR to 1/8" input
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/423360-REG/Hosa_MIT_156_MIT_156_Low_to_High.html

I know for sure that this adapter makes the signal stereo.

or you can get a Beachtek
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/335809-REG/Beachtek_DXA2S_DXA_2S_Dual_XLR.html

I'm not sure if it's stereo or not, but I'd assume so, or for something better than the Beachtek stuff, you could go with Juicedlinks http://www.juicedlink.com/ (it's basically the beachtek but with a Preamp, which will help increase the sound quality and be useful if you're using a lot of XLR cable with a boompole).

If you're not looking for something that expensive and you decide to go with the ATR55 for it's cheaper and you're worried about the mono signal, you can pull a Macgyver and buy these cables:

1/8" female > RCA splitter dual female (splits into two ends)

RCA dual male > Stereo 1/8" Male

Connect the ATR55 to the female 1/8", this will split the signal into two and then send both back into a 1/8" stereo signal... which will basically replicate stereo recording, but really it's the same thing on both sides, just duplicated.

If you're using the ATR55 on a boom pole, don't use 1/8" cord for the extension, it'll cause a lot of noise and interference, I'd recommend adding RCA cable to the list:

Perhaps
1/8" female > RCA Male
A long run of RCA Male > RCA Male cord (best quality on your budget)
RCA Female > RCA Female Splitter
RCA Male > 1/8" stereo

[rooster.237]

g'day mates listen to the bloke that knows what he's talking a bout, erik beck

[ArmedSaint]

try this mic its about 70$ http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B000GE403I/ref=pd_bbs_olp_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1204816577&sr=8-1
Amazon is the place to got to find cheap stuff

[A.D.H.D. Prod.]

help!!!!!!!!!!!!:confused:how do i fix it?

[A.D.H.D. Prod.]

anybody know why??

[nooneimportant77]

does it take a battery?

[MiniMogul27]

We need more info please.

[A.D.H.D. Prod.]

Yes and I replaced it many times to make shore.I tried it with difrent speakers and stereos and amps. But its still isn't working!!!!

[Dasleah]

Then if you've established that it's the microphone itself, and not any other hardware, that's at fault then I'm afraid that it's probably dead. Or at least dead enough to force you into having to purchase another one.
Microphones are sensitive. That's kind of how they pick up sound. It's also, unfortunately, the main reasoning behind why they break often.

[Jobless in Cleveland]

did you test the mic on a differnt device? on your computer's mini-jack input?

Assuming you did, assuming it is the Mic, I would open it up. If it's just a loose wire, then you're 'fine'. it's easy to fix. You have nothing to loose since this mic is out of warrenty (it's out of warrenty, right?). If it's in warrenty, you could send it back.

A real business that repairs electronic equipment will want hunderds of dollars to repair things. The company wil charge for labour...20-100.00/hr. Parts will be charged (wire, bits of solder, tape, etc...every excuse to mark up the profit). The company needs to make their profit, too. They'll want to double their expense (labour and parts and paper work) and charge you that cost.

Using point-n-shoot cameras for an example... When I worked at the local camera place, I will quote the price that was given to me by Nikon, Canon, Fuji, Casio, Sony, Olympus, etc, etc, etc... "For the cost of repairing this camera, you can buy any new one that's around 150.00 to 200.00. Labour time is expensive." .....and they mark up the price on parts, too.

For any major companies, Repair/service/support department is a seperate to the factry...they 'sell' parts from the factory to their repair shop. It's marked up.

A great example of it is Sony Music was at war with Sony hardware/computer/portable music devices. Sony music tried to stop Sony Computers from having any involvement with the MP3 phonomenon (spelling?) 6 (7, 8?) years ago. They needed to resolve their believe that hardware/personal music devices/computers were 'encouraging' illegal music. Seperate devisions; same company.



You could always try to find a really friendly and really bored radio shack employee to look at your stuff. Personally, if I worked at radio shack and it's a slow day, I would open up your mic and see if I can fix it. It could be as simple as a loose wire, broken off at the solder point. One touch of the soldering iron, you're back in business.


goodluck

[MiniMogul27]

Yup, the mic is probably dead. Is it within its warrenty?

[trspballer7]

same thing happened to me, I called them and they told me to ship it to them in Stow Ohioh, I got it back on friday intime for my movie, and it works now.

I was so pissed when it happened to me, I tried many batteries and femal inputs, and none worked, but just ship it and they will return it working for free.

[redtail5]

that mic is cheap. jsut buy a nother one. if you had a rode ntg2, thas difetant

[yuloveme537]

that mic is cheap. jsut buy a nother one. if you had a rode ntg2, thas difetant


I'm sorry, WHAT!?

[TheJoker]

Ok, if I wanted to attach the Rode VideoMic to a boom pole then I would need an extension cable. However, I hear that using extension cables with unbalanced mics such as this one are prone to pick up buzz and interference. Is this true? And is there a way to prevent it.
I was going to buy an XLR adapter to hook up to my camcorder but in addition to an XLR mic, lead, boom pole, shockmount etc. the overall price rises considerably :ohsnoes:

Help & Suggestions Appreciated :)

[rooster.237]

Hey Joker bravo on getting a mic I'm still looking for one
http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/561/hooray2th7.gif
and as for your buzzing and interference problems why not just try it and see what happens, if it doesn't work at least thats one question you can tick off your list?

[jburas]

You are correct, unbalanced cables are prone to noise/interference. Short of getting a new microphone, there's little you can do. It might work perfectly with no interference, or there might be loads of interference. An XLR adapter won't fix it. Give it a try.

A few tips:
* Run you camera off of battery power
* Stay away from power lines, phones lines, and radio towers
* Turn off every electrical device in the area
* Use headphones

[beaucomix]

i just use a old computer mic with a adator and it gets great quity and is small. im not sur if itll work but works great for me

[Brian Boyko]

Ok, if I wanted to attach the Rode VideoMic to a boom pole then I would need an extension cable. However, I hear that using extension cables with unbalanced mics such as this one are prone to pick up buzz and interference. Is this true? And is there a way to prevent it.
I was going to buy an XLR adapter to hook up to my camcorder but in addition to an XLR mic, lead, boom pole, shockmount etc. the overall price rises considerably :ohsnoes:

Help & Suggestions Appreciated :)

Yes, you will pick up buzz and interference by using an unbalanced mic, especially if there are any cellphones in the area.

There are a number of options.

First, you could use a wireless transmitter (a good one will cost you around $500, a bad one will cost you around $100 and will pick up more interference than the original cable) to send the waves. This has the added bonus of being able to not worry about your boompole guy tripping over cables.

Second, and I would recommend this option, is buy a XLR-based shotgun mic like the Rode NTG-2 ($250), an XLR cable ($?) that reaches, and a Beachtek XLR-to-1/8th adapter ($200.)

The Beachtek adapter's a pretty good value as it works both as an adapter and a two-channel mixer.

There is a third option: Buy a field recorder like the Samson Zoom H2 ($200) and place it on the boompole with the Rode Videomic, and then sync up the sound in post. This is difficult and time intensive, but it's only $200 compared to around $500.

The only other option is to make sure no cellphones are allowed on set, (have a box for 'em, and keep 'em 20 feet away from cast and crew) and just listen for static and interference over a long unshielded cable. This would not be an option for me - I do documentaries - but if you're making a short film, it's probably enough.

[michaelbak]

The rode video mic is great and you can get one in the UK for 75 pounds i think or $150 US.

[: ) sMILES Films ( :]

I'm a starting out filmmaker who records films on a camcorder that's under $1000. I invested in the Panasonic SDR-H200, and it was the perfect price and it records video great!
But, every time I record there is annoying, unwanted noise in the audio track! Is there anyway I can improve audio quality with its built-in mic? Or is there any Shotgun mics that can be hooked up to this camcorder? Thank you for any help!

[Vaughn Whynot]

if you have the right plug ins on the camera
http://www.twenty20camera.com/images/connection_diagram2.gif

[toppie34]

ok its probally someting working in there but i read it has no mic jsck so you vcould have better invested in the hv20 or hv30

[: ) sMILES Films ( :]

so mine only has an A/V output...what are some alternatives to producing good sound quality without dubbing the entire film?

[Vaughn Whynot]

mini disc recorder...

[: ) sMILES Films ( :]

i'm new to this, so what is a mini disc recorder, and how would i get it to sinc with the video?

[jburas]

A minidisc recorder is a portable audio recording system made by Sony. You can also get generic digital recorders.

You record audio separately from your camera. To get it to sync, you do what they do with celluloid film: use a clapboard slate (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clapperboard), and with your editing program you match up the clapping sound in the audio with the snap of the slate in the video. You can also just get someone to clap their hands. It's tedious, but it's cheaper than getting a new camera.

[Giark]

i'm new to this, so what is a mini disc recorder, and how would i get it to sinc with the video?

Check out the Zoom H2. It's a digital recorder that records directly to SD cards, so no tape/disc noise at all. Around $200 but the audio from it is perfect.

The only drawback to using any external recorder for sound is that you'll need to get a slate or at least have someone stand in front of the camera and bang stuff together to give you something to sync your audio and video with.

That clap of the slate (that striped scissor thingy) or hand clap or whatever gives you an easy place to line up the audio and video so they match perfectly.

[mopman]

yeah that will work but using a shotgun mic is SOOOO MUCH easier

[: ) sMILES Films ( :]

Thanks! So if i get this recorder, can I plug in a shotgun mic to it, or will i just be getting the same quality sound that comes from the built-in mic?

[Vaughn Whynot]

if you get the right recorder you be able to plug any mic into

[toppie34]

Thanks! So if i get this recorder, can I plug in a shotgun mic to it, or will i just be getting the same quality sound that comes from the built-in mic?
yes you can plug it in and then bam! you have good sounding videos (lol)

[: ) sMILES Films ( :]

Thanks for everything guys! You are all AWESOME ON A STICK! lol

[Westcroft]

Check out the Zoom H2. It's a digital recorder that records directly to SD cards, so no tape/disc noise at all. Around $200 but the audio from it is perfect.

The only drawback to using any external recorder for sound is that you'll need to get a slate or at least have someone stand in front of the camera and bang stuff together to give you something to sync your audio and video with.

That clap of the slate (that striped scissor thingy) or hand clap or whatever gives you an easy place to line up the audio and video so they match perfectly.


I'd suggest the zoom H4, it's got XLR inputs and phantom power.

[: ) sMILES Films ( :]

Ok, so i'm trying to find the difference between MIC, XLR, AV, and HOTSHOE inputs on a video camera, and how they differ with what kind of mics can be plugged into them? Thanks for any help!:hayguyz:

[Westcroft]

Seeing how this is the second very general mic thread you've started recently, I would just say "look into it". Using the search function will help prevent multiple threads littering the forum. This is also a very easy question to find out yourself, just google it.

In the end though, XLR is the best quality sound you'll want, especially when running a long cable for boom poles and what not. MIC, I'm assuming, is referring to microphones with 1/8" stereo jack and these are usually found on cheaper mics like the ATR55. They'll probably be low quality microphones and depending on the mic, it could cause hissing and fuzz.

It really depends on the mic itself, I'm sure there are microphones that connect with a long 1/8" cable that sound alright and there are XLR mics that suck. You have to go out and look into the specific microphone.

[: ) sMILES Films ( :]

hey thanks! sorry for the probably amaturish questions, i'm not trying to annoy anyone. But would the ATR55 be a lot better than a built-in mic?

[toppie34]

hey thanks! sorry for the probably amaturish questions, i'm not trying to annoy anyone. But would the ATR55 be a lot better than a built-in mic?
way better build mic is like poo and atr 55 is like cake covered with an ice cream dessert

[Sam_rocks321]

THe NTG-2 is a really good mic. I would get it.

[raid168]

I am thinking to get a digital voice recorder to record the sound separately, I need a external mic as well. I saw they have cheapter shot-gun mic on ebay around $25,does it work well with digital voice recorder? any good digital voice recorders?

[xjakknifex]

Ya know, I have a really cheap shotgun mike that I purchased on eBay (for a 3.5mm jack) for like 9.99 and it works as great as my Audio Technica XLR microphone that I paid $44 for... and in fact it works as good as my Canon hot-shoe shotgun mike on my GL2... I'd say if you aren't able to invest a lot of cash, go with it.

[elscottomagnifico]

Does your cam have an mic input?
Also, what exactly is your budget?

Moving to separate recording with a cheap mic and recorder won't necessarily be better than getting a nicer mic to plug into your cam with the money you'd spend on the recorder and mic separately.

[raid168]

Ya know, I have a really cheap shotgun mike that I purchased on eBay (for a 3.5mm jack) for like 9.99 and it works as great as my Audio Technica XLR microphone that I paid $44 for... and in fact it works as good as my Canon hot-shoe shotgun mike on my GL2... I'd say if you aren't able to invest a lot of cash, go with it.

oh,really? can you give me a link about $9.99 shot-gun mic plz?

[raid168]

Does your cam have an mic input?
Also, what exactly is your budget?

Moving to separate recording with a cheap mic and recorder won't necessarily be better than getting a nicer mic to plug into your cam with the money you'd spend on the recorder and mic separately.

my cam doesn't have mic input jack,only one build-in mic. my budget is around $50 :)

[17thletterfilms]

Just go to froogle.google.com then type in Microphone then click on a price range. Look up reviews on Amazon.com or epinions.com or just Google the mics you find in froogle.google.com.

[bubblefax]

So last year in April i got a Sony handy cam i was naive and got a camera that didn't have a mic input so i was looking on the Sony website and found this is this a good mic


http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=11038016&tab=Features

[Doctor Webley]

Shouldn't this go in "Suggestions and Tips"?

[bubblefax]

Sorry no it's a question if you look at the last 4 words it is a question sorry i didn't punctuate.

[xjakknifex]

oh,really? can you give me a link about $9.99 shot-gun mic plz?

I'll search it up. It was on eBay (not buy it now, it started at 9.99 and nobody but me bidded).

http://cgi.ebay.com/10-83-Inch-NEW-Camera-Camcorder-Shotgun-MIC-Microphone_W0QQitemZ280218361004QQihZ018QQcategory Z83857QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

I think that's the one I have, well one of the few I have.

It's from Japan, which means a little steeper shipping.

[xjakknifex]

Here's one for 10.99- it will probably be bidded up. It comes with a shock mount as well.

http://cgi.ebay.com/CALRAD-SHOTGUN-MICROPHONE-MICROPHONE-NEW_W0QQitemZ350048181526QQihZ022QQcategoryZ100229 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[bubblefax]

Please i need a answer cause i might buy it soone and i don't want to by a bad mic

[Vaughn Whynot]

what kind of sony
if your camera has a hot shoe it should
if not your f'd
i have a sony handy cam and mine does not have a input
i don't think the handy cams even have inputs

[toppie34]

yeah i didnt here the best reviews on that one but its not the worst either

[bubblefax]

it says it is compatible with my camera the dcr-sr200

[Vaughn Whynot]

Active Interface Shoe: There is an Active Interface Shoe on top of the camcorder, which can provide power to various optional accessories such as a video light, flash, or microphone.
thats what it has...so yes you can hook a mic or light to it

[trspballer7]

my cam doesn't have mic input jack,only one build-in mic.

then how do you think we can help you?

[Vaughn Whynot]

my cam doesn't have mic input jack,only one build-in mic. my budget is around $50 :)
do you plan on buyin a mini disc recorder to record the sound
because with out a jack you are screwed

[bubblefax]

OK thanks but I want to know if it is any good if it is worth 60 bucks or whatever


Sorry if i am being a idiot.

[Vaughn Whynot]

i would look around 1st
its sometimes good to be a window shopper

[raid168]

I'll search it up. It was on eBay (not buy it now, it started at 9.99 and nobody but me bidded).

http://cgi.ebay.com/10-83-Inch-NEW-Camera-Camcorder-Shotgun-MIC-Microphone_W0QQitemZ280218361004QQihZ018QQcategory Z83857QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

I think that's the one I have, well one of the few I have.

It's from Japan, which means a little steeper shipping.

thanks a lot:)

[bubblefax]

Got it.

[raid168]

do you plan on buyin a mini disc recorder to record the sound
because with out a jack you are screwed

yes,maybe a digital voice recorder,any recommendations?

[MitchellStafiej]

I bought an ATR55 for my Canon HV20. So far I haven't had any problems and the sound is wonderful!

Mitch

[schmindy]

i need a great at shotgun mic for sub $50
Thanks:)

[WorkedOverProductions]

http://www.amazon.com/Technica-ATR-55-Condenser-Shotgun-Microphone/dp/B00006J04Z

[ciwi286]

http://forum.indymogul.com/showthread.php?t=6926

Same Mic but president bridger is organising a discount for mogulers if you sign up!