DSLRs and action cameras are excellent for capturing great video and sound. Social media has created a surge in demand for action camera microphone attachments to capture videos. Compact action cameras provide budget-friendly users with an alternative to bulkier cameras without sacrificing quality.
Action cams offer more versatility than smartphone cameras, making them a great choice for capturing special moments. Action cameras are built to withstand tough environments and offer waterproofing for better stability.
How to Attach an External Microphone?
To record audio with an action camera, you need to get an audio jack and connect it to the camera. Action cameras typically do not have an external microphone input port. An external microphone requires an adapter for it to work. Older models of action cameras provide a cost-effective solution for those in need of one.
Action cameras prioritize compact usability and can be connected to an audio recorder for better sound quality.
How to Choose Action Camera Microphone Attachments?
1. Power Supply
The power supply for your camera microphone attachment is critical to getting the best audio results. There is a wide variety of choices.:
Batteries – For outdoor recording sessions, inbuilt batteries are the ideal choice as they provide power even in remote locations.
External power supply – External power sources optimize microphone performance for long recordings.
2. Connector Plug
Tip Sleeve- There is one pin for mono audio signals.
Tip Ring Sleeve- Two pins are used for stereo signals.
Tip-Ring-Ring-Sleeve- 3 Pin connectors are used for both audio and microphone signals.
3. Budget
Choosing a budget depends on the features required and how much you are able to spend. Microphones range in price from $30 to $100, depending on the features included.
When selecting a microphone for an action cam, consider your budget and needs to find the best option.
Best Action Camera Microphone Attachments
In this article, we’ll explore the top 7 action-on-camera microphones that are likely to make a huge impact in 2023. We’re comparing microphone attachments and their respective specs to determine the best performance.
1. Sennheiser MKE 400 Shotgun Microphone
The Sennheiser MKE 400 is a compact shotgun microphone designed for video cameras, DSLRs, and audio recorders. Its portability and light weight make it easy to take on the go. The super-cardioid pattern and low-cut filter reduce unwanted background and wind noise.
Sennheiser MKE 400 Features:
- Pattern for super-cardioid pickup
- Frequency: 50-2000 Hz
- Connector: 3.5mm
- Dimension: Diameter: 126x67x37 mm
- Built-in filter
- Max Sound: 132dB
- Lightweight and small
Price: Rs14,850.00
2. Boya BY mm1
This mic is the most cost-effective option, offering cardioid recording quality. TThis $30 microphone is an incredible value. The Boya by mm1 microphone is equivalent to the Rode mic and does not need a battery to operate. The plug-and-play nature of this product makes it perfect for vlogging, and works with a variety of cameras and phones.
Features of Boya BY mm1:
- Use smartphones, DSLRs, and PCs to work.
- Consumer camcorders etc.
- Ideal for video-making, vlogs, and other purposes.
- Portable and compact
- Polar pattern with a cardioid
- Plug and play, no battery needed
- Included: 3.5mm TRS/TRRS cable, furry windshield, and carrying pouch
Price: Rs1,489
3. Rode VideoMic GO
The Rode VideoMic Pro VMP is a professional shotgun microphone that fits on any DSLR or action cam. This mic is worth the investment – it provides great quality and features that make it ideal for capturing clear audio.
Key Features of Rode VideoMic GO
- Frequency: 40Hz – 20kHz
- Connector: 1 x 1/8” / 3.5 mm TRS
- Wired Connectivity Technology
- Batteries: 9 V
- Dimensions: o. 3.94 x 6.69” / 100 x 169.93 mm
- 85g
Price: Rs6,999
4. DJI Mic
DJI Mic is designed for the Osmo Action, but it’s also compatible with other cameras using its cold-shoe adapter. Two mics, one receiver, and a secure charging case to ensure safe storage. The units are lightweight, easy to pair, and simple to charge.
Transmitters are easy to attach to clothing or mount with a magnetic base. This action camera has a battery life of 15 hours and is extremely durable. Dead cats reduce wind noise and DJI Mic allows for high-quality audio recording to match your videos. This mic is perfect for content creators looking to stand out from the competition and upgrade the quality of their work.
Key Features of DJI Mic
- Dual-Channel Recording
- 250m Wireless Transmission
- You can have up to 14 hours of onboard memory
- Compact and portable
- Wide Compatibility
- Battery life of up to 15 hours
Price: Rs34,990
5. Sairen VM-Q1
The VM-Q1 microphone is praised for its affordability, compact size and included shock mount, dead and foam windshields. The sound quality of the microphone is not good, with too much noise from the cables. The upgraded line offers great sound quality at an affordable price.
Budget microphones can drastically improve video recording audio quality. The Sairen VMQ1 doesn’t have a headphone jack, meaning you can’t listen while on the move.
Key Features of Sairen VM-Q1
- Electret condenser microphone.
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 70 dB A-Weighted.
- Frequency Response: 100Hz20kHz
- Includes shock mount, windshield, and some cables
- 3.5mm TRS Connector Jack.
- No battery is required.
Price: Rs1,558
6. Synco G2
The Synco G2 A1 is a wireless lavalier microphone designed for use with action cameras and other camera systems. An adapter is required to connect a TRS microphone to action cams via Mini USB. To connect sound from your receiver to your camera, use an adapter for 3.5mm jacks.
A transmitter clips to apparel for convenient use. The transmitter is lightweight and compact, making it comfortable to wear. You can use an external microphone to keep your audio recordings private.
Key Features of Synco G2
- Best economy wireless microphone
- Transmitter range greater than 100 feet
- You get value for your money
Price: Rs21,999
7. Movo VXR10 Pro
The Movo VXR10 Pro shotgun mic is ideal for cameras or smartphones, thanks to its shock-mount and compact design. The mic comes with a travel pouch and dead cat windshield for added convenience.
The Movo VXR10 Pro has better sound quality than the Rode, but suffers from wind noise in windy conditions. The product is inexpensive and lacks high-pass filters, gain control, and other features. A headphone socket allows you to monitor your recordings.
Key Features of Movo VXR10 Pro
- Supercardioid polar pattern
- 20Hz-18kHz frequency response
- Sensitivity 36dB
- 78dB signal-to-noise ratio
- Connections: Headphones out, line out
Price: Rs5,695
Conclusion
An on-camera microphone attachment can dramatically improve the sound quality of recordings. Always pay attention when selecting an attachment for your camera, making sure to pick the right one out of the various alternatives present.
