As a DSLR filmmaker, I know firsthand how easy it is to get swept up in perfecting your camera settings, lenses, and shooting techniques – only to end up disappointed by the tinny, muffled audio that comes straight from your camera.
It’s a common problem, but one that’s easily solved with the right external microphone.
In my years of experimenting with different audio gear, I’ve found that investing in a quality external mic can make a huge difference in the overall production value of your videos.
Whether you’re shooting vlogs, interviews, or short films, clean, crisp audio is essential for drawing your audience in and making your content feel professional.
That’s why I’ve put together this list of the 10 best external microphones to pair with your DSLR camera. From budget-friendly options to professional-grade setups, there’s something here for every filmmaker’s needs and budget.
Let’s cut through the clutter and dive into what works and best fit for you!
Top 10 Picks External Mics for DSLR
1. Rode VideoMic Pro+
As an industry staple, the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is hard to beat when it comes to versatility and performance.
This super-cardioid condenser mic delivers crystal-clear audio, with features like an integrated shock mount, foam windshield, and battery-powered operation.
The compact, hot-shoe mounted design also makes it easy to set up and adjust on the fly.
2. TAKSTAR SGC-598Â
If you’re looking to add an external mic without breaking the bank, the TAKSTAR SGC-598 is an excellent choice.
This affordable shotgun mic plugs directly into your DSLR’s 3.5mm jack, providing a major audio upgrade over your camera’s built-in mic.Â
It’s highly directional for isolating your subject’s voice, and the all-metal construction feels surprisingly premium.
3. Rode VideoMicro
Vloggers and frequent hand-held shooters will love the compact, lightweight design of the Rode VideoMicro. Despite its small size, this on-camera mic delivers impressive sound quality, with a super-cardioid polar pattern to minimize background noise.
The furry windshield and integrated shock mount also help to reduce unwanted rumbles and handling noise.
4. Rode Wireless GO IIÂ
For total freedom of movement and cable-free filming, the Rode Wireless GO II is hard to beat.
This compact wireless mic system provides crystal-clear digital audio transmission up to 200 meters.
Plus, with two transmitters included, you can easily capture professional-quality dialogue from two subjects simultaneously.
5. Sennheiser MKE 200Â
The Sennheiser MKE 200 is a fantastic on-camera microphone for DSLR users who want an affordable upgrade over built-in audio.
Its compact, all-metal body houses a high-quality condenser capsule for clear, directional sound.
The integrated shock mount and furry windshield also make it a great choice for run-and-gun style shooting.
6. Deity V-Mic D3 ProÂ
Serious filmmakers will appreciate the professional-grade features of the Deity V-Mic D3 Pro.
This high-end shotgun mic offers exceptional audio quality, with low noise and a super-cardioid polar pattern to isolate your subject.
It also includes a built-in headphone jack for monitoring, as well as a rechargeable battery system.
7. Rode smartLav+Â
For capturing crystal-clear dialogue, the Rode smartLav+ lavalier microphone is a game-changer.
This compact, discreet lav mic plugs directly into your DSLR or smartphone for hands-free, professional-sounding audio.
It’s a fantastic choice for interviews, vlogs, and other sit-down video scenarios.
8. Tascam DR-10LÂ
The Tascam DR-10L is a unique solution for DSLR filmmakers – a standalone recording device that attaches directly to your camera’s hot shoe.
This compact unit captures high-quality audio independently, then syncs flawlessly with your video in post-production.
It’s a great option for adding redundancy and flexibility to your audio setup.
9. Zoom H1nÂ
As an ultra-portable handheld recorder, the Zoom H1n is perfect for capturing ambient sounds, sound effects, and interviews on the go.
But it also makes an excellent supplementary audio source when paired with your DSLR.
Simply mount it to your camera’s hot shoe and let it work its magic.
10. Audio-Technica AT2020Â
For an affordable, studio-quality microphone that works beautifully with DSLRs, look no further than the Audio-Technica AT2020.
This large-diaphragm condenser mic delivers professional-grade audio performance, with a cardioid polar pattern to isolate your subject.
It requires phantom power but works great with camera-mounted audio interfaces.
Final Thoughts
No matter which external mic you choose, making the upgrade from your DSLR’s built-in audio is a game-changer. With the right microphone, you’ll be able to elevate your videos to a whole new level of production value. 🎥
Just be sure to practice your positioning and levels to get the most out of your new gear.
And of course, don’t forget to pair your external mic with equally high-quality lighting, lenses, and editing software for a truly polished final product.
So don’t settle for tinny, muffled DSLR audio any longer. Pick out the external mic that best fits your filming needs and budget from our top 10 recommendations, and get ready to take your video content to new heights.
With the right microphone in your toolkit, the creative possibilities are endless.
FAQs
Q: Do I need an external mic if my DSLR has decent built-in audio?
A: Even if your DSLR camera has respectable built-in microphones, an external mic will almost always provide superior audio quality. The small, built-in mics on DSLRs are prone to picking up camera noise, wind, and other unwanted sounds.
An external mic allows you to position the audio source closer to your subject for cleaner, more professional-sounding recordings.
Q: How do I connect an external mic to my DSLR camera?
A: Most external mics for DSLRs will connect via the camera’s 3.5mm audio input jack. Some models may also offer wireless connectivity or even mounting to the camera’s hot shoe.
Be sure to check the connection type and requirements for your specific camera model when choosing an external mic.
Q: What polar pattern should I look for in a DSLR external mic?
A: For most DSLR video applications, a shotgun or super-cardioid polar pattern is ideal.
These directional microphone types will help isolate the audio source (like a person speaking) and minimize background noise. Omnidirectional mics can also work but may pick up more ambient sound.
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