10 Best DSLR Microphones for Professional-Quality Audio Recording

When it comes to creating high-quality videos, audio quality is just as important as the visuals. Whether you are a professional videographer or an amateur filmmaker, having a good microphone for your DSLR camera can make a significant difference in the final product. In this article, we will be discussing the top 10 best DSLR microphones for professional-quality audio recording.

Benefits of using a DSLR microphone

Using a DSLR microphone has several advantages over relying on the built-in microphone of your camera. Firstly, DSLR microphones are designed specifically for video recording, which means they are optimized to capture high-quality audio. Secondly, they are usually more directional, which helps to reduce background noise and improve clarity. Finally, they are often more versatile, allowing you to use different types of microphones depending on your needs.

Factors to consider when buying a DSLR microphone

Before purchasing a DSLR microphone, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best possible product for your needs. Firstly, you need to consider the type of microphone you want to use. There are several types available, including shotgun, condenser, and lavaliere microphones, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Secondly, you need to consider the connectivity options available, as some microphones require a separate audio recorder or preamp. Finally, you need to think about the overall build quality and durability of the microphone, as well as any additional features such as shock mounts and wind protection.

Top 10 Best DSLR Microphones

Here are our top picks for the best DSLR microphones currently available:

1. Rode VideoMic Pro+

The Rode VideoMic Pro+ is a shotgun microphone that offers excellent directional audio pickup and a range of advanced features, including built-in rechargeable batteries, digital switching, and a high-pass filter.

2. Sennheiser MKE 440

The Sennheiser MKE 440 is a stereo shotgun microphone that is ideal for recording interviews, dialogue, and sound effects. It features a unique dual-mono design that provides excellent spatial separation and a natural sound.

3. Audio-Technica AT4053B

The Audio-Technica AT4053B is a hypercardioid condenser microphone that is designed for professional broadcast and film production. It offers exceptional sound quality and a wide frequency response, making it ideal for capturing natural-sounding dialogue and ambient sounds.

4. Sennheiser MKE 600

The Sennheiser MKE 600 is a shotgun microphone that is ideal for use in outdoor environments. It features a switchable low-cut filter and a high-frequency boost, as well as a long battery life and excellent noise rejection.

5. Rode VideoMic GO

The Rode VideoMic GO is a shotgun microphone that is designed for use with DSLR cameras and mobile devices. It offers excellent directional audio pickup and is lightweight and easy to use.

6. Shure VP83F

The Shure VP83F is a shotgun microphone that offers high-quality directional audio pickup and a range of advanced features, including a digital recording interface, a built-in microSD card recorder, and a customizable frequency response.

7. Azden SMX-30

The Azden SMX-30 is a stereo shotgun microphone that is ideal for recording dialogue and sound effects in a wide range of environments. It features a unique design that combines a shotgun and a supercardioid microphone, as well as a high-pass filter and a low-cut filter.

8. Deity V-Mic D3 Pro

The Deity V-Mic D3 Pro is a supercardioid condenser microphone that offers exceptional sound quality and a wide frequency response. It features a built-in battery that provides up to 51 hours of continuous use, as well as a low-cut filter and a high-frequency boost.

9. Tascam TM-2X

The Tascam TM-2X is a stereo condenser microphone that is designed for use with DSLR cameras and mobile devices. It offers high-quality audio pickup and a range of advanced features, including a switchable low-cut filter and a built-in shock mount.

10. Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro

The Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro is a stereo shotgun microphone that is ideal for recording music, interviews, and sound effects. It features a unique design that combines a shotgun and a stereo microphone, as well as a range of advanced features such as a high-pass filter and a -10dB pad.

Why DSLR Microphones are Important for Video Recording

Audio quality is just as important as video quality when it comes to professional video production. Poor audio quality can ruin an otherwise excellent video. DSLR cameras are not designed to capture high-quality audio, so using the built-in microphone is not sufficient. This is where a DSLR microphone comes in. A good quality DSLR microphone can capture high-quality audio, eliminate background noise, and enhance the overall audio quality of your videos.

Types of DSLR Microphones

There are three main types of DSLR microphones available in the market:

1. Shotgun Microphones

Shotgun microphones are directional microphones that capture sound from a specific direction. These microphones are ideal for outdoor shooting, where there is a lot of background noise. Shotgun microphones are long and cylindrical and can be attached to the top of your DSLR camera.

2. Lavalier Microphones

Lavalier microphones are small, clip-on microphones that can be attached to the clothing of the person speaking. These microphones are ideal for interviews and vlogs, where the speaker is constantly moving around. Lavalier microphones are omnidirectional, which means they can capture sound from all directions.

3. On-Camera Microphones

On-camera microphones are small, lightweight microphones that attach to the top of your DSLR camera. These microphones are ideal for vlogging and run-and-gun shooting. On-camera microphones are omnidirectional and can capture sound from all directions.

Key Features to Consider when Choosing a DSLR Microphone

When choosing a DSLR microphone, there are several key features you need to consider:

1. Directionality

Directionality refers to the direction from which the microphone captures sound. Shotgun microphones are highly directional, whereas lavalier and on-camera microphones are omnidirectional.

2. Frequency Response

Frequency response refers to the range of frequencies a microphone can capture. A good quality microphone should have a flat frequency response, which means it captures all frequencies equally.

3. Sensitivity

Sensitivity refers to the ability of the microphone to capture low-level sounds. A more sensitive microphone can capture quieter sounds without introducing noise or distortion.

4. Build Quality

Build quality refers to the durability and sturdiness of the microphone. A good quality microphone should be built with high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear.

Conclusion

Investing in a good DSLR microphone can make a significant difference in the quality of your video content. By using a microphone that is specifically designed for video recording, you can capture high-quality audio that is clear, directional, and free from background noise. We hope this list of the top 10 best DSLR microphones has helped you to choose the perfect microphone for your needs.