Last updated on June 1st, 2021 at 06:03 am
There is so much more to filmmaking than people assume: from ultra-high quality footage to outstanding audio- you can’t really compromise on anything. Most people invest in tonnes in their professional cameras, which results in poor quality audio, thus no appreciation from the audience.
Most videographers opt for a shotgun mic due to its versatility. The simple set up and incredible audio quality ensures that the audience thoroughly enjoys your videos. However, the market is overcrowded with products ranging from lavalier to large shotgun microphones- all meant for a different purpose. The one thing we know is that the more choices you get, the harder it is for you to choose the right product.
Our list of the best shotgun mics for DSLR consist of products by renowned manufacturers. They are an example of versatility and technical innovations. Each product is listed after a thorough analysis, research with special emphasis on customer feedback. Moreover, the FAQ section at the end answers most of your questions, making this process much easier for you.
Best Shotgun Mic for DSLRs
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| Rode VideoMic Pro Plus | RØDE VideoMic | RØDE VideoMic Pro |
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Shotgun Mic Reviews
1. Rode VideoMic Pro Plus
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- Features Rycote Lyre suspension system
- Automatic Power Function with plug-in power availability
- Powered by RØDE LB-1 Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery or 2 x AA Batteries
- Digital Switching
- Line Gradient Acoustic Principle
- Supercardioid Polar Pattern
- Frequency Range: 20Hz – 20kHz
- 200Ω Output Impedance
- Maximum Output Level of 7.7dBu
- Optimized Windshield Shape
Features:
The large variety of cameras in the market, including the most exorbitant versions, have one issue in common: poor audio. This feature may negatively influence the filmmaker’s project. Rode made a positive repute by launching its Videomic Pro Plus: an innovative solution to enhance audio control and sound clarity. This easy to use and mountable mic leads to outstanding audio quality.
Design
Let’s face it: every single filmmaking tool is a hassle to carry along to the various shooting locations, and investing in a bulky audio system just adds to your nuisance. Thankfully, Rode prioritizes your comfort over anything. The microphone consists of an optimized windshield, a bit larger than its predecessors, but still compact enough for comfortable use.
It utilizes the Rodes signature Rycote Lyre suspension system: the soft plastic material is adequate to serve as a shock mount for minimizing noise from the constant movements during filming. It comes with a 6-inch cable, which is just perfect for your DSLR camera; however, it’s important to keep it safe as the cable is irreplaceable.
Furthermore, it utilizes a digital switching interface- a huge upgrade from its previous version. You don’t need to swipe a toggle to change the settings, but rather there are buttons for each mode. You may either press it once or several times to activate the various modes according to your needs.
Performance
As we mentioned earlier, it consists of buttons that control various modes. The first mode is a two-stage high pass filter, which allows you to reduce the lower frequency background noise such as cars and fans without comprising the quality of the higher frequency sounds. The second mode comprises a three-stage gain control, which boosts the audio signals. It easily combats the effect of the quiet preamps built into your DSLR camera and the sounds produced once you adjust the gain settings.
While testing the camera in a breezy environment, we observed little to none wind noise, while an optional dead cat accessory provides isolation from the strongest wind noises as well. The on/off system, on the other hand, is an incredible feature for irresponsible film-makers who often forget to switch on the microphone while shooting. It turns on once your camera does and shuts off the same way. Pretty convenient, right?
Other features
The mic runs on a 9-volt battery and lasts around 70 hours on a full charge. The runtime is ideal and minimizes the need for storing additional batteries. Moreover, the 10-year warranty makes your filmmaking experience even more exciting. The mic causes minimal issues while its responsive customer department ensures to provide support every time you need it.
What we like:
- Convenient to use
- Safety channel to maintain the signal
- Excellent high pass filter
What we don’t:
- A bit larger than other models
2. RØDE VideoMic Pro
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- 1/2″ condenser capsule for broadcast-quality audio
- Rycote Lyre based shock mounting system for isolation
- Ultra-lightweight
- 9V battery powered
- Integrated shock mounting and foam windscreen.
- 5mm stereo mini-jack output
- Two-step High Pass Filter
- Three-position level control
Features:
We find it pretty hard to get over Rode, and it’s the ability to surprise us with its innovative features and ergonomic design. Each shotgun mic features a unique design while staying true to its promise of providing superior audio quality. Rode VideoMic Pro is another such high-quality audio device that is affordable yet easy to operate. The convenience and universal compatibility mean that everyone, from amateurs to professionals, can take advantage of it.
Design
As we mentioned earlier, Rode Pro is an innovative solution to most of your audio needs. It is an upgraded version of the Rode Videomic: it features an improved suspension rig that enables filmmakers to enhance sound clarity and audio control. As a result, the camera rig would not vibrate enough to get recorded. You don’t need much technical experience to operate it: even an amateur can perfectly mount it.
Most of us are used to bulky audio equipment that is, without any exaggeration, a nuisance to carry. Rode Pro offers a mindblowing experience from within a compact body, making it easy to carry around to various shooting locations. However, do not be mistaken: the body is sturdy enough to bear the wear and tear while shooting without overburdening the camcorders.
Furthermore, the on/off switch and battery housing are accessible on the back. The switch itself has three positions to turn it on, off, or use the high pass filter. The high pass filter activates a roll-off at 80Hz and drops off from 100Hz at a bit more than 10dB per octave. The latter cuts out any low-frequency sounds (below 80Hz) while accentuating the high-frequency voices.
Performance
There are three gain settings:‑10dB, 0dB and +20dB . The latter proves incredibly useful when using cameras with poor gain circuitry. Moreover, it has a flat frequency response with a 5dB lift at 5kHz while it peaks around 12kHz and rolls off to ‑5dB at 20kHz. This response curve enhances speech clarity while neutralizing the high-frequency effect of windshields.
Rode Pro is capable of handling maximum SPL peaks of around 134dB at 1kHz- you don’t need to worry about the mic clipping itself as there’s a lot of capacity to handle loud environments. The super-cardioid polar pattern, on the other hand, rejects quite a lot of background noise.
Other features
Similar to other microphones, Rode uses a 9V battery to effectively power the condenser capsule. Replacing the battery takes a few seconds, so you won’t need to go through any hassle when the battery runs out. Moving on, the microphone features a 3/8″ thread in the base to make it easier for you to mount it on various tripods and boom poles. Thanks to the universal shoe mount, it’s compatible with every camera device.
What we like:
- Ideal for small camcorders
- Convenient to use
- High sound quality
- Great off-axis sound reduction
What we don’t:
- The mount doesn’t work properly
3. RØDE VideoMic
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- professional-grade 1/2″ condenser shotgun mic
- Rycote Lyre shock mounting system with 3/8″ thread for easy mounting
- the super-cardioid polar pattern for highly directional recording
- Features a 40Hz-20kHz response
- high-pass filter at 80Hz to prevent low-frequency sounds
- -10dB and -20dB level attenuation
Features:
The Rode Videomic is an innovative solution to many audio issues that filmmakers often face. We understand that you may not want to part with your existing on-camera mic, but you surely can add more audio control and power to it by investing in a single device.
Design
Rode comes with its own version of a shock mount, the Rycote Lyre Shock Mounting system. It’s small enough to not add to the overall bulk of the device but effectively withstands any movements and vibrations while shooting. The compact, lightweight body enhances the portability of the microphone, making it easy for you to carry it along to multiple shooting locations. Despite its plastic construction, Rode exceptionally tackles the harsh shooting conditions without breaking down. It features a foam windscreen in the front of the mic to reduce any noises from low wind speeds or breezes. You may enhance its wind-resistant quality by investing in a windsock that reduces the higher wind speed outdoor.
The on/off switch and battery housing is present on the back of the mic. The switch consists of three positions, namely off, on, and high-pass filter—the latter cuts off the low-frequency sound to accentuate the high pitched audio. Moreover, there is an LED light next to the switch to notify you when the battery is low. The battery housing easily accommodates a 9V battery: replacing the battery is a matter of seconds. However, you won’t need to replace it that often due to the 100 hours runtime.
Performance
As we mentioned earlier, the Rodes shock mount effectively reduces any operator noise and prevents any vibrations from any jolts the camera receives while shooting. Surprisingly, it picks up moderately volumed noises from over 20 feet away: the quality doesn’t falter much beyond this distance either. As its a shotgun mic, it works best when the microphone is pointed towards the audio source, but since Rode is fairly balanced directionally, you may hear sounds from different directions too.
Moving on to the audio quality, we think that it’s incredible. A lot of credit goes to it being a shotgun mic as the focus towards the sound source enables you to get dynamic frequencies.
Other features
There are two threaded holes on the base of Rode, which makes it compatible with most tripods and boom poles. The mic connects to your camcorder via the accessory shoe: you need an oversized shoe fastener to tighten down the mic.
What we like:
- It is lightweight
- Great high pass filter
- Performs pretty well
What we don’t:
- Produces a lot of static noise
- Made of plastic
4. Sennheiser MKE 400
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- Rugged all-metal housing
- Integral shock mount
- Switchable sensitivity for long and short distances.
- More than 300 hrs of operational time
- Compatible with cameras with a standard hot shoe mount
- Maximum side noise rejection
- optimized for video recording
- Switchable wind noise filter
Features:
While purchasing a microphone, there’s a chance that you may have come across Sennheiser, a renowned audio company. Each of their products features a smart ergonomic design with a great technical structure to offer the best experience to all of the customers. The Sennheiser MKE 400 is ideal for all filmmakers who want the best sound quality at an affordable price. Most microphones in this range cost almost double the price with no reliability.
Design
The one thing most consumers are not aware of is that the design of your microphone makes a huge impact on the overall performance. The metal body of Sennheiser remains isolated from the mount with the help of two 6mm rubbery stalks. These tall stalks fulfill the role of a shock mount to reduce the transmission of camera handling noise pretty effectively.
Furthermore, there is a traditional inch wide locking disc that tightens the grip while the 200mm coiled cable is elastic enough to stretch for over half a meter- pretty great in terms of flexibility. The microphone itself protrudes from the housing with a 78mm spike and points forward.
The nifty microphone easily attaches to the mount of your camera while being plugged into the 3.55mm microphone socket. There’s no need to worry about the socket as almost every renowned camera, meant for professional filmmaking, features one. Moreover, you don’t need a power source as Sennheiser works perfectly for 300 hours with a single AAA battery.
Performance
As we mentioned earlier, the features of your microphone device impact the overall audio quality. There is a 64mm long slot on the top of the spike and a ring of holes, instead of perforations, to point towards the sound. They transmit sound to the microphone capsule with a lobar pickup pattern. As a result, it makes the front and rear highly sensitive with relatively less sensitive sides, while the 45-degree angle at the front and back is the least sensitive. This system is ideal for capturing distant sounds.
The normal position of the sound is 8mV per pascal, while the high setting produces 20mV per pascal: a huge difference of 8 decibels. Moreover, the frequency response of MKE 400 is 40 to 20000 hertz, while the maximum sound pressure is rated at 126dB.
Other features
There is a foam cover over the microphone spike to reduce any nearby wind noise while the two switches on the left side adjust sensitivity and turn the device on.
What we like:
- 300-hour battery run time
- Rugged design withstands rigorous operations
- Compact, portable and lightweight
- Captures audio from short and long distances
What we don’t:
- It is hard to set it up
5. Rode VideoMic NTG Shotgun
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- Supercardioid Shotgun Condenser Microphone
- Optimized for Camcorder
- Rycote Lyre Shock-mount System
- Built-in Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery
- Annular Line Tube Technology
- USB Compatibility
- revolutionary acoustic design
Features:
You might wonder whether we own Rode since we are utterly obsessed with it: there’s no reason to not be. The Rode Videomic NTG is the latest product by this Australian company, and with the hype it received, it was almost impossible for us to not review it. You may also call it the do-it-all mic: you may either use it as an on-camera mic with DLSRs/smartphones, boom mic or a USB mic to record voice-overs, live streaming, and podcasts.
Design
The Rode video mic NTG is a hybrid of an on-camera mic and a shotgun mic. We were pretty impressed by the feature set and its ability to support a number of applications. It has a pretty sturdy and robust body with a Rycote Lyre Shock system. This is a great feature to withstand any movements of the mic while shooting. With a proper layout and markup of buttons, using it becomes easy, while the lightweight body (around 94g) enhances its probability. This is an important feature to consider since most bulky filmmaking pieces of equipment are a hassle to carry to various shooting locations.
Do you want to record directly from your handheld device? Rode features a USB C output to easily convert NTG into a USB microphone for recording via a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Performance
What does one demand from a shotgun mic? It should have low self-noise, flat freq response while being very directional. Fortunately, Rode NTG has everything. Rode fulfills its promise of providing a greater output range than it’s competitors. It offers a highly directional super-cardioid polar pattern along with infinite variable gain control. As a result, the user may adjust the mic’s output with high precision: from mic level to line level to a headphone level. Sounds cool, right? The gain control, itself, is quite easy to use.
Furthermore, there is an Auto-sensing 3.5mm output, which allows the user to switch between TRS and TRRS. As a result, Rode accommodates the cameras and mobile devices, preventing the nuisance of carrying adaptor cables. Moreover, there is a high pass filter, – 20dB pad, high-frequency boost, and safety channel to enhance sound clarity.
Other features
The safety track is one of our most favorite features of a microphone. Unfortunately, most mics in the market do not offer it except Rode NTG. It allows you to record a second track at -20db: this is ideal for people shooting in loud environments who don’t want to do through the hassle of distorted audio clips due to sudden noises.
What we like:
- It is versatile
- Cost-effective
- Meat for multiple applications
- Wonderful shock mount
What we don’t:
- Battery can’t be replaced easily
- No balanced output
- Not compatible with a dead cat
6. RØDE VideoMic GO
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- Line Gradient Principle
- JFET impedance converter
- Frequency Range of 100Hz – 16kHz
- Sensitivity ranging from -35.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz
- Compact and lightweight design
- tight pickup area to reduce surrounding sounds
- High-quality directional microphone
- No battery required
- Integrated Rycote Lyre shock mounting system with 3/8” thread
- Rugged reinforced ABS construction
Features:
If you feel that we are obsessed with Rode, you are absolutely right. Each product from its diverse range of shotgun mics for DSLR cameras has something unique to offer. The Rode Videomic Go, their latest launch, proved quite successful amongst amateur and enthusiast shooters who were looking for incredible sound quality while using their DSLR cameras.
Design
Similar to the other Rode models, Rode Go utilizes a Rycote Lyre shock mount that minimizes the audio of rugged movements and other low-frequency sounds. Another thing we are quite impressed by is the 3.5mm cable that is completely independent of the mic. Even if it gets damaged, you won’t need to replace your entire mic: just buy a new cable, and you are good to go. Moving on, the mic jack is on the back: this ergonomic feature keeps the cable at bay and prevents you from accidentally disconnecting the mic.
The size, on the other hand, is smaller than the other Rode models. However, it doesn’t compromise on the audio quality. If anything, this is an advantage since carrying heavy filmmaking materials is a hassle. Moreover, it feels solid and reliable, while the lightweight body enhances portability.
Performance
Rode Go is compatible with some of the most famous cameras in the market, including T2i, T3i, 7D, and 5D Mark II. Basically, its compatible with cameras that have a 2.5V plug-in power available via the mic port. The frequency response covers sounds up to 100Hz-16Hz: pretty great considering that the low-frequency sounds are not wanted.
At a distance of two feet, it sounds almost identical to the original Rode shotgun mic with a great directional sound and minimal echo. Rode Go is best meant for distances around 2-3 feet as it does an outstanding job of cutting out any ancillary noises.
Other features
Almost every shotgun mic by Rode is battery operated except Go. Surprisingly, it requires a power source, neither any batteries nor external controls, to power the mic. All you need to do is plug it in and use it without even turning it on. Pretty convenient, right? You don’t need to worry about not turning your mic on during the crucial shooting scenes anymore.
In short, Rode Videomic GO is perfect for small projects. The limited range is great for run and gun situations, and if you are fond of the original Rode mic, the quality is almost the same- perfect.
What we like:
- It is compact and lightweight
- It is affordable
- Compatible with most popular cameras
What we don’t:
- Limited range
- Poor bass quality
- Less battery runtime
7. TAKSTAR SGC-598
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- Low power indicator
- Powered by 1.5V AA alkaline battery
- Back electret condenser
- The frequency response of 50-16KHz
- Sensitivity ranges from -32dB±3dB
- Bass filter of 10dB/octave at 60Hz
Features:
We all know that bad audio ruins beautiful footage. With the amount of money, filmmakers spend on the videos; it would be pretty unfair to not invest in good audio equipment. Fortunately, Takstar is here to help. Takstar SGC-598 is an affordable, sturdy, yet compact alternative for your audio needs. After our bad experiences of unclear sounds and loud vibrations, we feel that this microphone performs much better than most high-end mics in the market.
Design
When we saw it for the first time, we found it pretty hard to justify the low price. The outer appearance resembles that of a high-end microphone. Takstars medium size means that neither is it hard to carry, nor does it comprise the audio quality. It’s compatible with both on camera and off camera mics. Takstar features a heart-shaped single point pick up that effectively reduces the background noises. However, it works best in quiet areas. Moreover, its shock-resistant structural design proves quite helpful while shooting in rugged areas; such conditions often produce a lot of noise, such as camera movements and vibrations. Fortunately, you won’t face such issues with Takstar.
The other feature we are pretty fond of is the selection of alloy materials used in the construction of the mic: it’s sturdy enough to stay by your side for a long time compared to other cheap microphones that break down the very next day. The metal perfectly shields any electromagnetic interference.
Furthermore, you don’t need to be a professional filmmaker to set the microphone up: just place it on your camera or attach it to your smartphone through a C-shaped stabilizer.
Performance
The performance is similar to Rode, a manufacturer famous for its premium quality audio gear. With a fairly neutral audio balance, the mic places emphasis on the mid and lower tones: it has a low-frequency attenuation of 60Hz 10dB / octave. As a result, the audience gets to hear a fair yet pleasing amount of bass while the other high-frequency sounds get washed out just a bit. In technical terms, it has 10dB sensitivity enhancement and 200Hz low-frequency attenuation- ideal for several audio recording jobs. The cardioid polar pattern and monomer technical parameters make the audio quality much better.
Other features
We are okay with Takstar being powered by a 1.5V AA battery. However, with most battery-operated devices, you often face the nuisance of running out of charge in the middle of the shoot and wasting the day. Thanks to the low power indicator, you are notified of the battery beforehand.
What we like:
- Amazing construction
- It is affordable
- Easy to use
What we don’t:
- It produces static noises
8. Comica CVM-V30 Pro
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- low-cut filter function and 10dB Sensitivity Adjustment
- Shock-resistant structural design
- Super-Cardioid Polar Pattern
- Compatible with cameras with 3.5mm(TRS) audio input jack
- Dynamic Range of 100 dB
- Sensitivity ranges from -33dB±2 dB to -23dB±2 dB
- Comes with Windscreen and Wind Muff
- Cold-shoe Design with 1/4inch threa
Features:
The audio of your footage matters a lot: muffled audio may ruin the entire hard work and capital invested in your video. If you are looking for a low-cost yet incredible shotgun mic, the Comica CVM-V30 Pro mic is the ultimate solution. Many filmmakers compare it to the popular models due to the enhanced sound clarity and outstanding grip on the frequency.
Design
Most people are often skeptical about investing in products with a lightweight plastic body. However, Comica forces you to reconsider your assumptions due to its sturdy built and ability to support multiple cameras. Moreover, the compact body makes it portable and doesn’t ruin the balance of your camera, compared to the other bulky audio equipment that is a nuisance to carry along. V30s streamline ergonomic design, and an incredible mounting system minimizes any autofocus motor noise or camera movements.
Furthermore, it is compatible with all cameras that consist of 3.5mm(TRS) audio input jack. There is a 0.25-inch external port that allows users to mount their cameras with ease. However, you may use an original lightning adaptor cable to connect your smartphones.
Performance
Comica features a low cut filter function with 10dB sensitivity adjustment. This is ideal for shooting in noisy environments when you could really make do with adjusting the sensitivity from -38dB to -28dB. Moreover, it has a super-cardioid polar pattern, similar to other shotgun mics, which results in outstanding off-axis audio reduction. It works best while focusing on the audio source while sounds from other directions cut each other off for a dynamic frequency.
Another quality we loved about this microphone is its ability to capture loud and clear sounds from a distance of 5-6 feet.
With a frequency range of 40hz to 20khz and a 114db max SPL, it’s optimal for recording interviews and video blogging.
Other features
Most often than not, your microphone runs out of power in the middle of the shoot, causing unnecessary hassle. Comica requires two AAA batteries as a power source. However, we were impressed by the 200-hour runtime: it is enough to last through several shoots. Moreover, this microphone comes with a dead cat and a foam wind cover, while the other microphones force you to buy it at an additional cost. This cost-saving incentive effectively reduces wind noise pick-up for clear audio.
What we like:
- Excellent build quality
- It is affordable
- Outstanding low cut filter
- Comes with a free dead cat
What we don’t:
- Built-in cable
- You need to turn it on/off manually
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): About Shotgun Mics
Q: What’s the difference between a shotgun mic and a lavalier?
A: After setting up your video recording equipment, the other challenge your filmmaking project poses is the requirement of good audio. It’s essential whether you want to shoot an interview, background noises, or a live video scene. The two options available for recording good audio are lavalier mics and shotgun mics.
Lavalier mics are meant for wide-angle lens and filmmakers fond of constantly changing their shooting locations. Button sized microphones, also known as lapel mics, are omnidirectional or have a cardioid configuration: ideal for different audio needs. They block out any off-axis background noise while isolating noises from close individuals.
Omnidirectional mics, on the other hand, provide a natural sound while allowing you to freely position the mic.
Shotgun mics, on the other hand, are ideal for situations with a lot of background noise. They allow the user to focus on a certain area of noise while preventing any off-axis noise. As a result, you don’t need to spend hours editing out the useless recordings. Moreover, the tight polar pattern proves ideal for recording far off audio.
Q: When would you use a shotgun mic?
A: A shotgun mic is often the best choice for your next filmmaking project. Even though many people opt for lavalier mics, shotgun mics offer certain unique advantages, making them incomparable to their counterparts. They use a cardioid polar pattern to accommodate far off sounds while simultaneously cutting off low-frequency sounds. The first reason to opt for a shotgun microphone is because of the relatively natural audio compared to a lavalier: the noise combines with air, distance, and electronic signals to produce life-like audio.
Secondly, you don’t need to hide the shotgun mic on the actor. How? You need to attach them on a microphone stand or boom pole while a boom operator operates it away from the shot. The exemplary range and polar pattern allow you to hear the sounds from several feet away. Pretty cool, right? The other advantage of using a shotgun microphone is that you don’t need to incur additional expenses of purchasing batteries. They utilize the phantom power of your recorder to work. However, you may use batteries if the phantom power isn’t available.
Furthermore, the independence from a cable wire means that your shotgun mic won’t suffer from RF hits. A good cable, on the other hand, sounds much better than a good wireless transmitter.
Q: How do shotgun mics work?
A: Shotgun mics are often referred to as inference tube microphones. They employ imaginary polar patterns with a directional capsule- often a super-cardioid. The long hollow interference tube offers a right directionality, thus reducing any ambient noise. Basically, the on-axis sound passes down the tube to the capsule while any off-axis sounds enter through the side slots. As a result, the latter enters at various times and through different slots, eventually canceling each other out. However, you should know that shotgun mics work best when there is an obvious difference between the off and on-axis sounds.
Conclusion
Now that you have gone through our list of the best shotgun mics for your DSLR cameras, you may find it easier to make a selection. We made sure to include products from a range of budgets so you won’t need to go any trouble. It is integral to note that poor quality audio is often the reason for negative criticism, and there’s no reason for you not to invest in good quality audio gear. Rode is, so far, our favorite manufacturer since each product is unique from each other except with one major similarity- incredible performance.