In television, film, and online video production, the shotgun microphone for camera is a widely used choice among creators. Its name comes from the design of its slotted tube, which resembles a shotgun barrel, and it is known for its ability to capture highly directional audio. Sounds outside the typical 30-degree pickup range of it are effectively blocked out.
Similar to the smaller lavalier type, it is both essential and commonly used, playing a crucial role in achieving clear, high-quality sound in videos. This article will dive into the world of this audio gear, exploring:
- What is a shotgun microphone?
- How does it work?
- How to choose the best one?
- What is the best option at the Moman Store?
What is a shotgun microphone for camera?
The shotgun microphone for camera is one of the most popular types of mics used in filmmaking. It is highly directional, meaning it mainly picks up sound from the area it’s aimed at. This type is perfect for situations where you need to focus on sound from a particular direction while reducing noise from other sources. You’ll often find it in film and TV production, as well as for capturing interviews interviews, speeches, and lectures.
What does it look like? It is a long, slim tube with small slits along its sides and a microphone capsule near the end. Although it doesn’t resemble shotguns, the design helps it capture sound in a narrow, focused pattern. To use one, you typically point it toward the speaker’s mouth, which is why they’re called shotgun microphones. Here are two common types:
- On-camera shotgun microphone: This type is mounted on top of the camera, and aimed directly at the speaker.
- Off-camera shotgun microphone: This is often attached to a boom pole, which is why it’s sometimes called a boom mic. A boom operator moves it into the right position, bringing it close to the speaker without getting it in the shot.
How does it work?
Shotgun mics consist of a standard microphone element (or diaphragm) placed at the end of a long, empty tube. This tube, known as an interference tube, features a series of small slots along its length to cancel out sound that isn’t coming from directly in front of the mic. Manufacturers invest significant time and resources to refine the design of their interference tubes. Some options have highly advanced interference tubes, while others use simpler designs.
What to look for when choosing the best one?
Whether you’re buying a shotgun microphone for camera to launch a YouTube channel or upgrade your video content, there are a few key factors to consider. Below is a quick guide that outlines the most important factors for choosing the right one for your projects:
High directionality: The main reason to choose a shotgun mic over a lavalier or wireless system is its ability to capture sound from a specific direction (on-axis) while minimizing background noise. While most shotgun mics excel at this, top models feature a hyper-cardioid or super-cardioid polar pattern, which is the industry standard.
Low self-noise: Budget options often produce unwanted “self-noise”, a faint hissing sound caused by the mic’s internal electronics. The best choices minimize this noise with high-quality designs or built-in active noise reduction (ANR) to eliminate internal sounds. Shock-isolating mounts are also important to reduce noise from camera movement.
Sensitivity: Since camera mounted shotgun microphone is often used to capture distant sounds, it tend to have high sensitivity. While cheaper models may boost sensitivity, they often introduce more noise. A good option balances sensitivity with a solid signal-to-noise ratio for clean recordings.
Compatibility: Consider what camera or device you’ll be using with your audio gear. Most cinema and mirrorless cameras use mini-jack inputs, while higher-end cinema cameras typically use XLR connectors. Many modern models also offer Bluetooth connectivity.
Price: They can range from less than $50 to more than $1,000. However, most beginner filmmakers and content creators don’t need an expensive $1,000 cinema-grade model. There are plenty of affordable options that offer great quality for typical video production needs.
Best shotgun microphones for cameras: 3 picks for different budgets at Moman Store
The Moman Store offers a range of camera microphones, covering everything from enthusiast-level to high-end cinematic equipment. Below are three carefully selected options based on different budgets and needs.
SYNCO M3: Best budget shotgun microphones for DSLR cameras with Supercardioid pickup pattern and 3.5mm TRS/TRRS connector
Price: $55
The SYNCO M3 is an affordable option that can be mounted on a hot shoe and comes with an effective shock mount to reduce handling noise. It is powered by two AAA batteries (not included), meaning it doesn’t draw power from the camera, making it ideal for long shooting sessions. This supercardioid model features a foam windscreen and a 100Hz low-cut filter, effectively reducing noise and enhancing recording quality. It also includes a 3.5mm TRS and TRRS cable, making it compatible with both cameras and smartphones. With a frequency response range of 30Hz-20KHz, the audio is rich and full, and we found no lack of bass. Overall, this is a well-built, high-quality, and very easy-to-use option for beginners.
SYNCO D1: Best value hypercardioid shotgun condenser for video recording featuring 180Hz high-pass filter and XLR connector
Price: $129
The SYNCO D1 is one of the best-value video camera shotgun microphone with an XLR connector. Made of brass, it has a solid and durable build. It can be powered either by the 48V phantom power from your recording device or by a single AA battery, so you won’t run into power issues. The 180Hz low-cut switch helps reduce handling and wind noise, while the 78dB SNR and supercardioid pickup pattern ensure excellent sound quality. This product is well-suited for intermediate users and those looking to pursue filmmaking or recording full-time.
SYNCO D2: Professional shotgun microphone for camera with hypercardioid pickup pattern, low self-noise, and XLR connector
Price: $199
The SYNCO D2 is designed specifically for film and television, featuring an ultra-low noise floor of just 12dB (A-weighted) and 24dB (CCIR 268-3). This Hypercardioid condenser boasts an incredibly flat frequency response from 20Hz to 20kHz and an 80dB signal-to-noise ratio, with high sensitivity (-32dB ± 3dB) for capturing sound from a specific direction. To ensure interference-free signal transmission, it uses a gold-plated 3-pin XLRM connector and comes with an XLRM-XLRF cable for easy connection to most cameras, booms, and tripods. Its solid brass body and black-speckled finish make it ideal for professional outdoor recording.
