Selecting a Camera Microphone (And why it's a sound investment)

Here at Planet PC we realise that it's hard to have great video without great sound, and anyone who's ever had to rely on an on board camera microphone will know only too well that it's hard to have great sound without a decent microphone.

 

That's why if you head over to www.planetdv.net you'll see that we stock a wide range of professional microphones and accessories from the likes of Sennheiser, Rode and Audio-Technica. With such a wide range of options suited to cater for an equally wide range of budgets and requirements you'd be forgiven for wondering where to start when choosing the best microphone for your needs. That's why we've put together this guide to help you get the most out of your kit. Read on for an overview of some of the things worth considering when choosing a microphone.

 

Sony UWP-V2/K38 UHF




What do you want to record?

 



Sennheiser Evolution EW 100-ENG G3

Seems like an obvious question we know, but the microphone you need will depend largely on what you will be using it for. If you're looking at conducting on the spot interviews with a presenter where you haven't got time to mic up interviewees then you'll want to consider the Sony UWP-V2/K38 UHF. Featuring a decent handheld and loads of accessories this kit includes everything you need to get started and offers superb value for money. Did we mention it's also wireless?

 





Alternatively if you're working indoors or you've got the time to get your subjects mic'd in advance then why not consider the  Sennheiser Evolution EW 100-ENG G3 (providing you've got the budget of course). With an RRP of £699.00 (ex vat) this doesn't come cheap but in terms of professional high end wireless solutions we reckon this is one of the best out there. As well as a professional lavalier microphone this kit also includes a plug-on transmitter which allows any standard XLR microphone to be turned into a wireless one.

 

 

 

Audio Technica AT897

Shotgun or Stereo

 

For those of you who operate as a one man band then chances are you'll be looking for something that's camera mounted. If you're looking to record directional audio then you might want to consider a decent condenser such as the Audio-Technica AT897. Not only does this professional shotgun have a great range it's also nice and light and will even dry out after getting wet - great for outdoor ENG work and just as effective when mounted on a boom pole - just don't forget your windshield!

 

RODE Stereo VideoMic Pro Microphone




If on the other hand you need to record a wider field then check out the Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro. Featuring a cardioid pick up pattern this little beast is lightweight and compact - ideal for anyone looking to shoot quality video on a DSLR. Great for recording live events and capturing the natural ambiance essential for setting the scene - with an RRP of £157.50 (ex vat) the price tag alone makes this an essential accessory for anyone even considering video on a DSLR.

 

 

 

Consumer or Pro?



Audio-Technica ATR6550 Condenser Shotgun Microphone

Apart from the audio you are looking to record, one of the biggest factors in which microphone you choose will be the camera you are using it with. A sub £1200 camera is unlikely to feature XLR inputs and will instead feature a standard 3.5mm connection. This means a condenser microphone/phantom power is out of the question but this isn't the end of the world. The fact that you don't have a high end camera doesn't mean you can't still achieve decent audio. While condenser microphones are generally better performers with lower noise levels there are a range of options for anyone on a budget. Why not check out the ATR6550 Condenser Shotgun Microphone from Audio Technica? With an RRP of just £65.83 (ex vat) this kit comes with loads of accessories and is one of our favourites here at Planet PC. The ATR6550 is also powered by an internal battery which means lack of phantom power isn't an issue. 

 

These are just a few of the things worth considering when making what is ultimately a very important decision regarding your kit and when it comes to audio it's definitely not worth taking a gamble and trying to fix things in post. In such a competitive industry which demands the utmost in professionalism and quality making the right choices about the tools of your trade is essential, especially when it comes to sound.

It's pretty much a given that a decent microphone will save you a lot of time and money in the long term and with so many affordable options there's really no excuse for poor audio. Visit www.planetdv.net where you'll find a great range of professional audio kit and accessories or alternatively give our dedicated sales team a call on 01274 713400.