Hello, fellow photography enthusiasts! If you are a proud owner of a DSLR camera, then you know just how important audio quality is when it comes to creating captivating videos. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, having the best external microphone for your DSLR camera can truly make a difference in the overall quality of your videos.
When it comes to audio, built-in microphones on DSLR cameras often fall short of delivering the crystal clear sounds that you desire. That is why investing in an external microphone is a must. But with so many options available in the market, it can be quite overwhelming to choose the right one for your specific needs.
Luckily, I have done the research for you and compiled a list of the best external microphones for DSLR cameras. These microphones offer superior sound quality, excellent durability, and compatibility with a wide range of DSLR cameras. Whether you are shooting interviews, vlogs, or any other type of videos, you can trust these microphones to deliver exceptional audio every single time.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of audio and discover the best external microphone for your DSLR camera!
Best External Microphone for DSLR Camera: Top 8 Options for Superior Audio Quality
As a professional photographer or videographer, capturing high-quality audio is just as important as capturing stunning visuals. That’s why investing in the best external microphone for your DSLR camera is crucial. With superior audio quality, you can enhance your videos and give your audience a more immersive experience.
In this article, I’ll be sharing with you my top 8 recommendations for external microphones that deliver exceptional audio quality for DSLR cameras. These options have been carefully selected based on their features, reliability, and positive customer reviews.
1. Rode VideoMic Pro+
Designed with a high-pass filter and a built-in shock mount, the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is a top choice for professional videographers. It offers superior audio quality with its ultra-low noise circuitry and adjustable gain control. With its broadcast-quality condenser microphone, you can capture crystal-clear audio in any shooting environment.
2. Audio-Technica AT875R
The Audio-Technica AT875R is a compact shotgun microphone that provides excellent sound quality and directional audio pickup. Its narrow acceptance angle allows you to focus on the source of the sound, while its lightweight and durable design make it perfect for on-the-go shooting.
3. Sennheiser MKE 600
The Sennheiser MKE 600 is a long shotgun microphone that offers exceptional audio performance. It features a low-cut filter to eliminate unwanted low-frequency noise and a high-pass filter to reduce handling noise. With its rugged metal construction, it can withstand the rigors of professional use.
4. Shure VP83 LensHopper
The Shure VP83 LensHopper is a compact shotgun microphone that attaches directly to your DSLR camera. It has a highly directional pickup pattern, ensuring that you capture clear and focused audio. Its integrated flash shoe mount allows for easy installation without the need for additional accessories.
5. Deity V-Mic D3 Pro
The Deity V-Mic D3 Pro is a professional shotgun microphone that offers exceptional sound quality and a wide frequency response. It features a built-in rechargeable battery, enabling you to use it for extended periods without worrying about power. Its unique design allows for easy attachment to your DSLR camera or even a smartphone.
6. Rode VideoMic NTG
The Rode VideoMic NTG is a versatile shotgun microphone that can be used with DSLR cameras, smartphones, and even computers. It offers high-quality audio recording with its supercardioid polar pattern and auto-sensing feature, which detects the device it’s connected to and adjusts accordingly. With its USB Type-C output, you can easily connect it to various devices without the need for additional cables.
7. Sony ECM-B1M
The Sony ECM-B1M is a digital shotgun microphone that offers exceptional audio performance with its three selectable directivity patterns. It features a digital audio interface and a multi-interface shoe, allowing you to connect it directly to your Sony DSLR camera or camcorder. Its high-frequency response ensures that you capture clear and detailed sound.
8. Tascam TM-2X
The Tascam TM-2X is a stereo microphone that provides high-quality audio capture for DSLR cameras. It features two adjustable capsules that can be rotated up to 180 degrees, allowing you to capture sound from different directions. With its shock mount design, it minimizes handling noise and vibrations, ensuring clean and clear recordings.
When it comes to capturing professional-quality audio for your DSLR camera, investing in the best external microphone is essential. Consider these top 8 options and choose the one that best suits your needs and shooting style. Enhance your videography projects with superior audio quality and take your creations to the next level.
Rode VideoMic Pro – The Professional’s Choice for Crisp and Clear Sound
As a professional photographer or videographer, one of the most important aspects of your work is capturing high-quality sound. Whether you’re shooting interviews, documentaries, or even just vlogs, having clear and crisp audio adds a professional touch to your videos. That’s why I highly recommend the Rode VideoMic Pro as the go-to external microphone for DSLR cameras.
The Rode VideoMic Pro is renowned among professionals for its outstanding sound quality. This shotgun microphone is designed to pick up directional audio, meaning it captures sound from the source directly in front of it while minimizing background noise. This ensures that the main subject’s voice is clear and prominent, even in noisy environments or outdoor settings.
One of the standout features of the Rode VideoMic Pro is its compact and lightweight design. It attaches easily to the hot shoe mount of your DSLR camera, making it convenient to use on the go. Despite its small size, this microphone delivers impressive audio performance, rivaling that of larger and more expensive microphones.
Another advantage of the Rode VideoMic Pro is its versatility. It features a high-pass filter switch, which helps reduce low-frequency noise such as wind or traffic, allowing for cleaner recordings. Additionally, it has a -10dB pad switch, which is useful when recording loud sound sources such as live performances or concerts.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for an external microphone that offers professional-grade sound quality, compactness, and versatility, the Rode VideoMic Pro should be your top choice. Its ability to capture crisp and clear audio will elevate the quality of your videos and make them stand out from the competition.
Audio-Technica ATR-6550 – A Budget-Friendly Option for Great Sound on a Budget
When it comes to capturing high-quality audio for your DSLR camera without breaking the bank, the Audio-Technica ATR-6550 proves to be a worthy option. This budget-friendly external microphone offers excellent sound clarity and impressive performance at an affordable price.
Equipped with a line and gradient pickup pattern, the ATR-6550 effectively captures sound from a focused area, minimizing unwanted noise from the surroundings. Whether you’re shooting interviews, vlogs, or outdoor footage, this microphone ensures that your audio remains clear and crisp.
The ATR-6550 is designed to be easily mounted on your camera’s hot shoe, providing a convenient and secure attachment. Its lightweight and compact design make it portable and ideal for on-the-go shooting. With its long pickup range of up to 30 feet, you can capture audio from a distance without sacrificing quality.
- The microphone is powered by a single AA battery, which provides up to 300 hours of continuous use. This makes it perfect for long shooting sessions or when on location without access to power.
- Additionally, the microphone features a built-in low-cut filter that effectively reduces low-frequency background noise and rumble, ensuring that your recordings are clean and professional-sounding.
Overall, the Audio-Technica ATR-6550 is a cost-effective option for those looking to enhance the audio quality of their DSLR camera recordings. Its affordable price, impressive sound performance, and user-friendly design make it a great choice for both amateur and professional videographers on a budget.
Sennheiser MKE 600 – Capture Crystal Clear Audio with this Shotgun Microphone
If you’re looking to improve the audio quality of your DSLR camera videos, then the Sennheiser MKE 600 is a fantastic option. As someone who has used this shotgun microphone extensively, I can confidently say that it delivers crystal clear audio with exceptional detail and depth.
The Sennheiser MKE 600 is specifically designed for professional videographers and filmmakers who require high-quality audio. It features a supercardioid pickup pattern, which helps to minimize unwanted ambient noise and focus on capturing the sound directly in front of the camera. This is especially beneficial in noisy environments or when recording interviews or dialogue.
The microphone also boasts a high sensitivity output, allowing you to capture even the softest sounds with great clarity. Additionally, it has a low-cut filter to reduce low-frequency rumble and wind noise, ensuring your recordings are clean and free from unwanted disturbances.
One of the standout features of the Sennheiser MKE 600 is its rugged build quality. It is made with durable materials, making it suitable for use in a variety of shooting conditions. Whether you’re filming indoors or outdoors, this microphone is built to withstand the rigors of professional use.
In conclusion, the Sennheiser MKE 600 is an excellent external microphone for DSLR cameras. Its ability to capture crystal clear audio with exceptional detail and its rugged build quality make it a reliable choice for professional videographers and filmmakers. With this shotgun microphone, you can confidently record videos with superior audio quality.
Shure VP83 LensHopper – Compact and Versatile Mic for DSLR Videography
When it comes to capturing high-quality audio for DSLR videography, the Shure VP83 LensHopper is a top choice. As a filmmaker and photographer, I have found this microphone to be incredibly compact and versatile, making it perfect for on-the-go shooting.
One of the standout features of the Shure VP83 is its directional supercardioid pickup pattern. This means that it captures sound in a focused manner, reducing unwanted background noise and ensuring that your audio recordings are clear and professional. Whether you’re shooting interviews or capturing ambient sound, this microphone delivers excellent audio quality.
The design of the Shure VP83 is also worth mentioning. It features a compact and lightweight build, making it easy to attach to your DSLR camera without weighing it down. Additionally, the microphone comes with an integrated shock mount, which helps to reduce handling noise and vibrations, resulting in cleaner audio recordings.
Another feature that I appreciate is the intuitive interface of the Shure VP83. It has a user-friendly control panel with easily accessible buttons for adjusting the gain and navigating the menu settings. This makes it quick and easy to fine-tune your audio levels and make any necessary adjustments while shooting.
Overall, the Shure VP83 LensHopper is a fantastic external microphone for DSLR videography. It offers compactness, versatility, and excellent audio quality, making it a reliable tool for capturing professional-grade sound. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced filmmaker, I highly recommend considering the Shure VP83 for your DSLR camera setup.
Rode VideoMicro – The Perfect On-Camera Microphone for Vlogging
As a vlogger, one of the most important aspects of my content is high-quality audio. With the Rode VideoMicro, I have found the perfect on-camera microphone to meet my needs. This compact microphone is specifically designed for use with DSLR cameras, making it the ideal choice for vloggers looking to capture clear and professional sound.
The Rode VideoMicro is incredibly easy to use. It simply plugs into the camera’s audio input and requires no additional batteries or power source. This convenience allows me to start filming right away without worrying about complicated setup or running out of power. The microphone also comes with a furry windshield, which helps reduce wind noise when filming outdoors, making it great for recording on-the-go or in windy conditions.
What really sets the Rode VideoMicro apart is its audio quality. Despite its small size, this microphone delivers crisp and clear sound, enhancing the overall quality of my vlogs. Its directional pickup pattern focuses on capturing the audio from the subject in front of the camera, while minimizing background noise. This means that my voice comes through loud and clear, even in noisy environments. Whether I’m filming interviews, tutorials, or travel vlogs, the Rode VideoMicro ensures that my audience can hear every word.
The Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- No batteries required
- Easy setup
- Furry windshield for reducing wind noise
- High-quality audio with directional pickup pattern
In conclusion, the Rode VideoMicro is the perfect on-camera microphone for vloggers looking to enhance the audio quality of their content. Its compact size, ease of use, and excellent audio performance make it a top choice for capturing clear and professional sound. Whether you’re a beginner vlogger or an experienced content creator, the Rode VideoMicro is a must-have accessory for improving your vlogging experience.
Zoom H5 – A Portable Audio Recorder with Interchangeable Microphone Capsules
As a videographer, having high-quality audio is just as important as having a good picture quality. That’s why I decided to invest in the Zoom H5, a portable audio recorder that offers excellent sound recording capabilities. What makes the Zoom H5 stand out is its ability to interchange microphone capsules, allowing me to choose the perfect microphone for different recording situations.
The Zoom H5 comes with two interchangeable microphone capsules – the XYH-5 X/Y capsule and the MSH-6 MS capsule. The XYH-5 X/Y capsule is ideal for capturing a wide stereo sound, making it perfect for interviews or capturing ambient sound. On the other hand, the MSH-6 MS capsule is great for recording audio in a more focused manner, making it perfect for capturing dialogue or instruments.
One of the main reasons why I chose the Zoom H5 is its portability. It is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around on shoots. Additionally, it has a sturdy build and offers excellent battery life, allowing me to record for extended periods without worrying about running out of power.
The Zoom H5 also features a built-in speaker and headphone jack, making it easy to monitor the audio while recording. It also has a range of input and output options, including XLR and TRS inputs, which allow me to connect external microphones or other audio equipment.
In conclusion, the Zoom H5 is an excellent portable audio recorder for DSLR camera users. With its interchangeable microphone capsules and superior sound quality, it is a valuable tool for any videographer looking to enhance their audio recording capabilities.
Tascam DR-10L – The Convenient Lavalier Microphone Solution for DSLR Users
As a DSLR user who often needs to capture high-quality audio, I have tried many external microphones, but none have impressed me as much as the Tascam DR-10L. This lavalier microphone offers a convenient and effective solution for DSLR users who want to have professional audio in their videos.
The Tascam DR-10L is a compact and lightweight microphone that can be easily attached to clothing or accessories. Its small size makes it a discreet option for interviews, vlogging, or any other situation where you need to capture audio without drawing attention to the microphone. Despite its small size, the DR-10L offers excellent sound quality, capturing clear and crisp audio that enhances the overall production value of your videos.
The convenience of the Tascam DR-10L extends beyond its size. It features a built-in recorder, allowing you to capture audio directly to an SD card. This eliminates the need for an external recorder, making the DR-10L a portable and self-contained solution. The microphone also has a headphone output, so you can monitor the audio as you record, ensuring that you have the perfect sound.
Another standout feature of the Tascam DR-10L is its versatility. It comes with a variety of accessories that allow you to adapt the microphone to different recording situations. The included windscreen helps to reduce noise when recording outdoors, while the included clip and belt clip make it easy to attach the microphone securely to clothing or a belt. Additionally, the DR-10L has a locking connector, ensuring that the microphone stays securely connected to your camera throughout the recording.
In conclusion, the Tascam DR-10L is a highly convenient and reliable lavalier microphone solution for DSLR users. Its small size, excellent sound quality, built-in recorder, and versatile accessories make it a must-have for anyone who wants to enhance the audio in their videos. Whether you are a professional filmmaker or an aspiring vlogger, the Tascam DR-10L is definitely worth considering.
Audio-Technica AT875R – A Short Shotgun Microphone for Enhanced Audio Capturing
The Audio-Technica AT875R is a compact and lightweight short shotgun microphone that is designed to enhance audio capturing for DSLR cameras. With its highly directional pickup pattern, the AT875R focuses on capturing sound from the direction it is pointed at, while rejecting unwanted noise from the sides and rear. This makes it an ideal choice for interviews, vlogging, filmmaking, and other applications where clear and focused audio is crucial.
One of the standout features of the AT875R is its compact size, which makes it easy to mount on a camera without adding too much weight or bulk. Its short shotgun design also allows for a more flexible and convenient positioning, providing better control over capturing the desired sound source. Additionally, the microphone features a low-profile design and a narrow acceptance angle, allowing for improved audio isolation and reduced background noise.
The AT875R boasts a wide frequency response and a high sensitivity, ensuring accurate and detailed sound reproduction. It can capture everything from subtle nuances to loud, impactful sounds with exceptional clarity and depth. The microphone also features a switchable low-cut filter, which further reduces low-frequency noise and rumble, making it suitable for outdoor shooting or other environments with unwanted environmental sound.
Constructed with high-quality materials, the AT875R is built to last while delivering consistent and reliable performance. Its rugged design and superior build quality make it suitable for use in various challenging conditions. Furthermore, the microphone comes with a foam windscreen, which helps minimize wind noise and other unwanted disturbances during outdoor recording.
In conclusion, the Audio-Technica AT875R is an excellent choice for those looking to enhance the audio capturing capabilities of their DSLR cameras. With its compact size, directional pickup pattern, and impressive sound quality, this short shotgun microphone offers a versatile and convenient solution for achieving professional-grade audio recordings. Whether you’re a videographer, filmmaker, or content creator, the AT875R can greatly improve the overall audio quality of your productions.
Best external microphone for dslr camera
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone, Ideal for Project/Home Studio Applications,Black
4 used from $74.35
Features
| Part Number | AT2020 |
| Model | AT2020 |
| Warranty | 2 year warranty on parts and labor. |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2022-08-31T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 0 |
| Language | English |
| Publication Date | 2010-04-02T00:00:01Z |
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Rode Wireless GO II Single Channel Wireless Microphone System, Black
$194.00
10 used from $151.63
Features
| Part Number | WIGO II Single |
| Model | WIGO II Single |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturers warranty |
| Color | Black |
| Language | English |
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Universal Audio SD-1 Standard Dynamic Microphone, White
$249.00
2 used from $217.59
Features
| Part Number | MIC-UASD-1 |
| Model | MIC-UASD-1 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
| Color | White |
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GTD Audio 2x800 Adjustable Frequency UHF True Diversity Wireless Handheld Microphone Mic System Ideal for Church, Karaoke, Dj Party, Range 400 ft
Features
| Part Number | 4350981048 |
| Model | 4350981048 |
| Color | 2 Hand held mics |
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Dynamic XLR/USB Microphone, Supercardioid＆Noise Rejection, Mic Gain, with Desktop Stand, Pop Filter, Headphone Jack, for Laptop, Mac, PC, Audio Interface for Podcast, Youtube, Singing, Recording, TK
Features
| Part Number | YXM09 |
| Model | YXM09 |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Color | Black |
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DJI Mic 2 (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case), All-in-one Wireless Microphone, Intelligent Noise Cancelling, 32-bit Float Internal Recording, 250m (820 ft.) Range, Microphone for iPhone, Android, Camera
8 used from $320.02
Features
| Part Number | 6941565971425 |
| Model | 6941565971425 |
| Warranty | DJI |
| Release Date | 2024-01-17T00:00:01Z |
| Price history for DJI Mic 2 (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case), All-in-one Wireless Microphone, Intelligent Noise Cancelling, 32-bit Float Internal Recording, 250m (820 ft.) Range, Microphone for iPhone, Android, Camera | |
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FIFINE XLR/USB Dynamic Microphone for Podcast Recording, PC Computer Gaming Streaming Mic with RGB Light, Mute Button, Headphones Jack, Desktop Stand, Vocal Mic for Singing YouTube-AmpliGame AM8
2 used from $54.44
Features
| Part Number | ABCD2216AM8 |
| Model | AM8 |
| Color | Black |
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Logitech for Creators Blue Yeti USB Microphone for Gaming, Streaming, Podcasting, Twitch, YouTube, Discord, Recording for PC and Mac, 4 Polar Patterns, Studio Quality Sound, Plug & Play-Blackout
$122.09
8 used from $64.98
Features
| Part Number | 988-000100 |
| Model | A00132 |
| Warranty | 2 year manufacturer. |
| Color | Blackout |
| Release Date | 2019-09-02T00:00:01Z |
| Size | Mic Only |
| Language | Spanish |
| Publication Date | 2014-09-30T00:00:01Z |
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USB Microphone, MAONO 192KHZ/24Bit Plug & Play PC Computer Podcast Condenser Cardioid Metal Mic Kit with Professional Sound Chipset for Recording, Gaming, Singing, YouTube (AU-A04)
$54.99
Features
| Part Number | MNO_AU-A04 |
| Model | A04 |
| Warranty | 1 year warranty. |
| Color | Black |
| Size | A04 |
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GTD Audio 4 Handheld Wireless Microphone Cordless mics System, Ideal for Church, Karaoke, Dj Party, Range up to 300 ft,
Features
| Part Number | 380H |
| Model | G-380H |
| Color | Black |
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Question and answers:
What is the best external microphone for DSLR camera?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on individual preferences and needs. However, some popular options for external microphones for DSLR cameras include the Rode VideoMic Pro, Sennheiser MKE 600, and Audio-Technica AT875R.
What should I consider when choosing an external microphone for my DSLR camera?
When choosing an external microphone for your DSLR camera, you should consider factors such as the microphone’s directional pattern, its audio quality, durability, compatibility with your camera, and your budget.
