Table of Contents
Rode VideoMic Pro Plus
The Rode VideoMic Pro Plus is the top camera-mounted model from a company that makes several competitive on-camera mics. This unit boasts the most comprehensive sound profile, with a fair amount of off-axis rejection and a clean, reliable tone.
Sennheiser MKE600
If you want a high-end model that’s been designed by engineers who understand that you might want to place it on your camera, you should reach for the Sennheiser MKE600 . It can run on batteries or phantom power, depending on your rig.
Sony ECM678/9X
The Sony ECM678/9X is a small, but effective, option for independent filmmakers. The off-axis sections of the mic do a good job of eliminating most background noise from your recordings, and it can pick up voices clearly from a fair distance.
Audio-Technica BP4071
If you’re looking for a moderately priced option that can capture particularly directional sound without an obnoxiously long interference tube, the Audio-Technica BP4071 should fit the bill. It performs like a much longer mic despite measuring only 15.5 inches.
Sennheiser MKH60P48
If you want the environment in your films to be rich and present without detracting from actors’ voices, the Sennheiser MKH60P48 is a great choice. While directional in nature, there’s still a bit of ambiance allowed in to increase its sense of naturalism.
Shure VP89L
The Shure VP89L features a preamp design that does an incredible job of preventing radio frequencies from disturbing the quality of your audio. Its capsules are interchangeable, so you can affect the unit’s directionality as needed.
Rode NTG8
The aluminum interference tube on the Rode NTG8 is significantly long, and that length makes this one of the most directional mics you can find. That somewhat limits its possible uses, but it makes it ideal for tracking stationary speakers in noisy environments.
Sennheiser MKH416-P48U3 Super-Cardioid
The matte black all-metal body of the Sennheiser MKH416-P48U3 Super-Cardioid is ideal for use in filmmaking, where any aberrant reflections can ruin the lighting of a shot, and where accidents often befall the most important pieces of gear.
Rode NTG4
For its remarkably low cost, the Rode NTG4 is perhaps one of the most capable and versatile options on the market, so it’s no surprise that it finds its way onto the sets of a great many independent film productions throughout the world.
Schoeps CMIT5U
The Schoeps CMIT5U offers filmmakers an incredibly warm, realistic sound that can make viewers feel as though the speaker on the screen is right there talking to them. Its low frequency roll off control does a great job of compensating for the proximity effect.
