Affordable and high-quality shotgun microphones.
Don’t expect to get premium sound quality if you record videos with a DSLR, even if it is the latest camera model by a reliable manufacturer. Built-in camera mics are unlikely to deliver decent audio quality. However, you can still create a great video product with your DSLR. Combine it with the best shotgun microphone to get impressive results.
If high-quality video content is what you are working towards, pay attention to the gear you use. A boom microphone is an essential component when it comes to creating documentaries or narrative stories. It ensures clear audio eliminating any unnecessary sounds. Thus, try to get the best shotgun microphone that you can afford.
However, it’s not that easy to find a good model. To facilitate your choice, we have compiled a list of the top options for you to find a suitable model. No matter how much money you have, you should pay attention to three features. Check them out below to find a suitable model.
Power: 5 V | Polar patterns: Line + gradient | Connectivity:: USB | Frequency response: 20 kHz
The Audio Technica AT875 is a compact, lightweight shotgun microphone that performs well and delivers a clear sound. This versatile microphone features an eight-channel matrix, which lets you connect a multitude of headphones with different combinations of drivers.
The Audio-Technica AT875R shotgun microphone is a low-profile condenser mic that measures approximately seven inches in height and exhibits the same sound quality and performance as many, higher priced, shotgun microphones. The AT875R resolves the problems of off-axis sound pickup by having a low-frequency driver, which is much better at picking up those elusive low-frequency sounds. This feature eliminates a lot of problems for amateur audio-ographers working on location and shooting for scenes in which the audio from the background may not be steady. This shotgun microphone is also ideal for those who need to work with a small amount of headroom when capturing fast action or moving scenes.
Power: 5 V | Polar patterns: Line + gradient | Connectivity:: USB | Frequency response: 20 kHz
The Audio Technica AT897 shotgun microphone is a high performing, versatile microphone ideal for both on-the-air and off-the-air broadcast applications. Its stringent quality and supreme consistency standards put the AT9097 apart from the other mics of its class. With rugged build quality for reliable performance, the mic also handles highSPLs with ease and provides a wide dynamic spectrum.
A high quality shotgun microphone, the AT9097 from Audio-technica features a diaphragm designed specifically for extended wavelength applications. The diaphragm has been mounted to the board instead of on the platform, resulting in increased stability and greater accuracy. In addition to that, an aluminum plate has been added to the front portion of the diaphragm to increase its strength. This improves the strength and precision of the entire assembly. The sensitivity of this mic is another factor why it is such a popular choice.
Power: 5 V | Polar patterns: Super Cardioid | Connectivity:: USB | Frequency response: 20 kHz
FEEL WORLDS FM8 shotgun microphone by Dynamic Perception is a new entry in the highly competitive world of professional microphones. It features a high quality diaphragm, which gives it the ability to capture high quality sound and transmit it very precisely and flawlessly. Because it is based on the patented "shotgun" technology of acoustic engineers, it allows for a tremendous amount of mobility and freedom from holding the device while speaking. The microphone is easy to use with its on-the-go sound card, yet incredibly robust for live performances and mixing.
Some of the pros complain about the lack of an auto-tone option, but the rest of the pros seem to have nothing but good things to say about this product.
Power: 5 V | Polar patterns: Cardioid | Connectivity:: USB | Frequency response: 20 kHz
The ECMGC60 has a cardioid pattern that helps to transmit more energy to the sound from the transmitter. Also cardioid pattern, which helps to produce cardioid sound effects, and a two-ways design, which makes it easy to connect up multiple devices that need to be used together. The microphone also have a diaphragm that lets you get a clear sound, but there are some noise reduction methods you may choose to do before turning on the mikes, like turning the volume down very low.
Sony ECMGC60 comes with an adapter that allows it to work with any type of standard USB port.
Power: 5 V | Polar patterns: Super Cardioid | Connectivity:: USB | Frequency response: 20 kHz
PIXEL MC650 shotgun microphone is the perfect product for professional sound engineers and music producers. This mic features two diaphragms with independent volume controls, which enable the user to choose a cardioid or condenser model according to his needs. PIXEL has also incorporated several innovative features not seen on other models such as a front panel volume knob, which allows the user to easily change the level of the various controls. A unique on-off switch allows the user to turn the mic on and off without turning the unit on and off. It also has a large diaphragm, which helps to eliminate localized noises within a recording.
PIXEL MC650 shotgun microphone is one of the best options when you are looking for a microphone suitable for both professionals and amateurs. Another pro is that this mic is very affordable making it one of the best options for almost any audio enthusiast.
| IMAGE | NAME | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Audio-Technica AT875R
Our choice
|
CHECK PRICE → | |
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Audio-Technica AT897
Condenser
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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FEELWORLD FM8
Compact
|
CHECK PRICE → |
Directionality is an essential feature to consider when choosing the best shotgun microphone. Depending on the directionality, a mic provides a higher or lower level of rejecting surrounding noise. Consequently, the higher the directionality, the narrower field of focus a microphone has.
When operating, a microphone produces some noise which is called self-noise. To avoid hissing sounds on the recording, get a device with low self-noise.
If you work with low-level sounds, opt for a microphone with high sensitivity. In general, a standard shotgun microphone features above-average sensitivity. However, if you produce loud-music movies, it’s recommended to get a device with low sensitivity. For such purposes, you may choose an average microphone at a budget price.
If you are looking for the best shotgun microphone, focus on these features to find an optimal solution.
