Find Your Perfect DSLR Microphone: Top 10 Recommendations for Crystal-Clear Sound

DSLR microphones are essential for capturing high-quality audio when recording video with cameras or camcorders. Without a quality microphone, your video may suffer from poor sound quality, which can be a major turn-off for your viewers.

In this guide, we'll explore the benefits of using a DSLR microphone and provide tips for choosing the best option for your needs. Plus, we'll share our top 10 recommendations for the best DSLR microphones on the market today.

What Is a DSLR Video Camera Microphone?

A DSLR video camera microphone is a type of microphone that is designed to be used with a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera. DSLR cameras are becoming increasingly popular for video production, as they offer high-quality video at a relatively low cost. DSLR video camera mics are designed to provide high-quality, even broadcast quality audio for these cameras.

Why You Should Buy a DSLR Camera Microphone?

1. Onboard Mic vs. External Mic

There are two main DSLR microphones: onboard microphones and external microphones. Onboard microphones are usually of poor quality and pick up a lot of unwanted noise, such as the sound of the camera's autofocus motor. For this reason, many videographers use an external microphone with their DSLR camera.

Photo by Christian Wiediger on Unsplash

External microphones are not built into the camera and must be plugged into the camera's microphone input. External microphones are usually much higher quality than onboard microphones and are a better choice for videographers or vloggers who want to capture high-quality audio.

2. Audio Quality

When recording video with your DSLR cameras or camcorders, it's important to remember that audio is just as important as video. Many videographers believe that audio is even more important than video.

Poor audio quality can make a video very difficult to watch, even if it is high quality. For this reason, choosing a DSLR microphone capable of capturing high-quality audio is important.

3. Portability

You'll likely be doing a lot of moving when recording video with your DSLR camera. This means you'll need a microphone that is easy to carry.

Some microphones, such as shotgun microphones, can be huge and bulky. This can make them difficult to carry with you, especially if you're recording video in a crowded area. For this reason, choosing a small, portable microphone is important.

Photo by KAL VISUALS on Unsplash

How to Choose the Best Microphone?

1. Type

Getting the right microphone can improve the quality of the audio you capture. The 3 most common types are handheld, lavalier, and shotgun microphones.

1) Handheld Microphone

Advantages

Using Conditions

Handheld microphones are well-suited for situations where the speaker is mobile, or the recording environment is dynamic, like during interviews, live events, presentations, and vlogging.

2) Lavalier Microphone

A lavalier microphone is a small microphone that can be attached to clothing. It is commonly used in film and television productions to capture dialogue. This type of microphone has an omnidirectional polar pattern, which means it picks up sound from all directions. If you're looking for a good lavalier, get the Rode SmartLav+. This microphone captures clear, crisp audio. It has an omnidirectional pickup pattern, which captures sound from all directions.

Photo by Ricky Kharawala on Unsplash

Advantages

• Allow for hands-free recording
• Improved audio quality since the microphone is close to the subject's mouth
• The microphone's proximity to the subject's mouth helps to reduce unwanted background noise

Using Conditions

Lavalier microphones are frequently employed when the speaker requires freedom of movement, such as during presentations, performances, or interviews. Typically, lavalier microphones are best suited for indoor use or controlled environments where wind or other environmental noise is not a hindrance.

3) Shotgun Microphone

A shotgun microphone is a directional microphone commonly used in film and television productions. It is mounted on a boom pole and pointed at the subject to capture dialogue. This type of microphone has a super-cardioid or hyper-cardioid polar pattern, which means it is highly directional and picks up sound primarily from the front.

An example of a shotgun microphone is the Sennheiser MKE 600. This microphone is designed for professional audio recording and is popular among filmmakers, videographers, and content creators.

Advantages

Using Conditions

Shotgun microphones are frequently utilized in outdoor environments or spacious indoor areas where capturing audio from a distance is essential. They are particularly well-suited for film production, news gathering, documentaries, or any situation that demands professional audio quality.

2. Frequency Response

Frequency response determines how well the microphone can capture different frequencies of sound. In simple terms, the frequency response of a microphone is the range of frequencies that it can capture and reproduce accurately.

Photo by Chase Fade on Unsplash

Different microphones have different frequency responses, and the best microphone for a particular application depends on the desired frequency range of the sound being recorded. For example, if you're recording a vocalist, you'll want a microphone that can accurately capture their voice's full range, typically between 80Hz to 12kHz. On the other hand, if you're recording a bass guitar, you'll want a microphone that can capture lower frequencies accurately, typically below 80Hz.

The frequency response of a microphone is usually represented graphically in the form of a frequency response curve. This curve shows how the microphone responds to different sound frequencies and can help you determine which microphone best suits your specific recording needs.

3. Size

When choosing the best microphone, size can play a crucial role. A big microphone with a larger diaphragm can provide greater sensitivity and a wider frequency range, resulting in more accurate and detailed recordings. Additionally, larger microphones are generally more rugged and durable, making them suitable for use in more rugged environments.

On the other hand, small-size microphones are more portable and easier to use in confined spaces. They are also less conspicuous, making them ideal for video production and other situations where the microphone must be hidden from view.

4. Battery Life

Some microphones require phantom power provided by the camera through a cable. Others run on battery power, allowing more flexibility in location and mobility.

Photo by Christian Wiediger on Unsplash

Phantom power eliminates the need to replace batteries, which can be costly and time-consuming constantly. However, it can drain the camera battery quickly and limit the time you can record audio. Battery-powered microphones are more portable and can be used in remote locations, but you must ensure that the battery is charged and carry spare batteries.

5. Polar Pattern

There are four main types of polar patterns.

1) Cardioid

In a cardioid polar pattern, the microphone is most sensitive to sounds coming from the front of the microphone, and it picks up less sound from the sides and rear.

The cardioid polar pattern helps isolate the sound source and reduce ambient noise, leading to a cleaner and clearer recording. Cardioid microphones are ideal for use in noisy environments, such as in a crowded room or outdoors. It is frequently employed in vlogging, interviews, and various other forms of video production.

2) Omnidirectional

Omnidirectional picks up sound equally from all directions, which is ideal for recording ambient sound or a group of people speaking in a circle. It can produce a more natural and open sound, as they capture the room's sound and environment where the recording occurs.

Omnidirectional is used when recording music or other audio that requires a natural and spacious sound.

3) Supercardioid

This pattern is similar to cardioid but has a narrower pickup angle, making it even more directional. This makes it ideal for recording a single source in noisy environments or where there is a lot of background noise. The super-cardioid pattern focuses on the sound source directly in front of the microphone, allowing for better isolation and separation of the desired sound from other background noise. It is commonly used in broadcast and live sound applications.

4) Bidirectional

This pattern picks up sound equally from the front and back of the microphone while rejecting sound from the sides. This makes it ideal for recording two sources facing each other.

Bidirectional microphones help minimize unwanted ambient noise, such as traffic or other distractions. This allows for cleaner and more focused audio capture from the desired sound sources. It is commonly used in interview recordings and podcasts.

10 Best Video Microphone for DSLR Cameras

1. Shure VP83F

Image Credit: amazon.com

Specifications

• Price: $329.00
• Weight & Size: 1.14 pounds and 10 x 5.2 x 4.2 inches
• Power source: Phantom power
• Type of mic: Condenser
• Frequency range/Frequency response: 50Hz to 20kHz
• Polar pattern: Lobar, Supercardioid polar pattern
• Connectivity: 3.5 mm TRS

Pros

• Excellent sound quality
• Has a good external mic
• Compact and lightweight
• Easy to use

Cons

• Expensive
• No USB interface
• Detects sounds from the image stabilizer and the lens

2. Rode Videomic Pro+

Image Credit: amazon.com

Specifications

• Price: $232.00
• Weight & Size: 4.3 ounces and 4.3 x 6.69 x 2.59 inches
• Power source: Rechargeable, Corded Electric, Battery Powered
• Type of mic: Condenser
• Frequency range/Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz
• Polar pattern: Supercardioid
• Connectivity: 3.5mm TRS

Pros

• Rechargeable batteries that last longer
• Variable gain control with selective options
• Best for YouTube videos
• Has a high-quality sound
• Durable and easy to use

Cons

• Too much background noise
• Expensive

3.Sennheiser MKE 600

 

Image Credit: amazon.com

Specifications

• Price: $318.00
• Weight & Size: 15.2 ounces and 10.08 x 0.79 x 4.02 inches
• Power source: AA batteries, Phantom power
• Type of mic: Condenser
• Frequency range/Frequency response: 40Hz to 20kHz
• Polar pattern: Lobar, Supercardioid
• Connectivity: XLR

Pros

• Exceptional in voiceovers
• Can be self-powered with a battery or powered by phantom power
• Amazing sound quality
• Excellent noise rejection skills

Cons

• XLR cable is heavily

4. Saramonic Vmic Recorder

Image Credit: amazon.com

 

Specifications

• Price: $63.95
• Weight & Size: 1.17 ounces and 10.2 x 2.59 x 3.1 inches
• Power source: AA batteries
• Type of mic: Condenser
• Frequency range/Frequency response: 50Hz to 20kHz
• Polar pattern: Supercardioid
• Connectivity: 3.5 mm Jack

Pros

• Affordable
• Lightweight and portable
• Audio recorders to a camera and SD card
• LCD screen for battery life and level monitoring
• Good construction

 Cons

• It had a larger polar pattern than anticipated
• Compressed tone or sound

5. Tascam TM-2X

Image Credit: amazon.com

Specifications

• Price: $99.00
• Weight & Size:  8.8 ounces and 6.06 x 3.19 x 8.5 inches
• Power source: Corded Electric
• Type of mic: Condenser
• Frequency range/Frequency response: 50Hz to 20kHz
• Polar pattern: Cardioid
• Connectivity: 3.5 mm TRS

Pros

• Small and lightweight
• Affordable
• Does not need additional batteries

Cons

• Phantom power is not available

6.Sennheiser AVX-ME2 

 Image Credit: amazon.com

Specifications

• Price: $749.00
• Weight & Size:  1.72 pounds and 12.6 x 6.7 x 2.9 inches
• Power source: AA batteries and Phantom Power.
• Type of mic: Condenser
• Frequency range/Frequency response: 50Hz to 18kHz
• Polar pattern:  Omnidirectional
• Connectivity: XLR

 Pros

• The sound quality is excellent
• Simple to use
• Nicely constructed
• Good automation and wifi range

Cons

• Battery life on receivers is poor
• The receiver's blue antenna cap is rattling and is loose

7. Rode Videomicro RodeLink

Image Credit: amazon.com

Specifications

• Price: $299.00
• Weight & Size: 1 pounds and 5 x 2 x 3 inches
• Power source: AA batteries
• Type of mic: Condenser
• Frequency range/Frequency response: 60Hz to 18kHz
• Polar pattern:  Omnidirectional
• Connectivity: wireless USB

Pros

• Excellent audio
• Continuous frequency hopping and a strong wireless microphone signal
• Prolonged battery life

Cons

• The construction quality may be better
• Each receiver and transmitter may only be used once

8. Canon Directional Microphone DM-E1

Image Credit: amazon.com

Specifications

• Price: $245.13
• Weight & Size:  0.45 Pounds and 3.8 x 5.3 x 3.2 inches
• Power source: AA batteries
• Type of mic: Condenser
• Frequency range/Frequency response: 50Hz to 16kHz
• Polar pattern: Cardioid (Directional)
• Connectivity: 3.5mm plug

 Pros

• Shotgun, 90°, and 120° are the three modes.
• Includes a windscreen
• Good sound quality

Cons

• Expensive
• The battery status cannot be viewed while the device is in use.

9. Sennheiser MKE 400

Image Credit: amazon.com

Specifications

• Price: $199.95
• Weight & Size:  2.08 ounces and 0.83 x 5.12 x 2.44 inches
• Power source: AA batteries
• Type of mic: Condenser
• Frequency range/Frequency response: 50Hz to 20kHz
• Polar pattern: Supercardioid polar pattern
• Connectivity: 3.5 mm TRS

Pros

• Won't make your rig heavier
• Sturdy metal casing
• Flexible phone clamp
• Captures focused, clear sounds

Cons

• The mic mount is not tunable
• Lack of bubble-level on the tripod

10. Sennheiser EW 112

Image Credit: amazon.com

Specifications

• Price: $649.00
• Weight & Size:  8.8 ounces and 15.94 x 6.77 x 2.87 inches
• Power source: AA batteries
• Type of mic: Condenser
• Frequency range/Frequency response: 50Hz - 18kHz
• Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
• Connectivity: Wireless

Pros

• Excellent audio quality
• Simple to set up and operate

Cons

• Quite a harsh-sounding voice

Bonus: Practical Accessories You may Need for Vlogging or Video Recording

1. Headphone Jack

Image Credit: amazon.com

A headphone jack is a type of connector used to connect headphones to a DSLR camera. Headphone jacks are typically located on the side or bottom of the camera and allow you to monitor the audio while recording.

2. Shoe Mount

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A shoe mount, also known as a shoe adapter, is a small metal plate used to mount a microphone or other accessory to the hot shoe of a DSLR camera. Shoe mounts are popular for videographers, vloggers, or filmmakers because they are small and easy to use.

3. Deadcat Windscreen

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A dead cat windscreen is a type of windscreen that is designed to reduce wind noise. Deadcat windscreens are typically made of furry material and placed over the microphone's top to minimize wind noise.

4. Shock Mount 

 

Image Credit: amazon.com

A shock mount is a type of mount that is used to reduce vibration and noise from the camera. Shock mounts are typically made of metal or plastic and are placed between the microphone and the camera. If you have no idea, you can try the Rycote Lyre shock mount first.

Conclusion

There are many different types of DSLR microphones available on the market, so choosing the right one is important. This guide has discussed the different types of DSLR microphones and how to choose the best one for your needs. We've also provided a list of the 10 best DSLR microphones on the market to choose the right one for your budget and needs.

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