Good External Mic for a Camcorder?

May 10, 2007 3:09 PM

I need help choosing an external microphone for a camcorder.

I have a MiniDV camcorder (a Canon ZR500) that I frequently use for recording interviews with one or two people at a time, usually indoors. I would like to begin using an external mic to get better sound quality on the recordings, but I really have no idea what to get. General advice or specific mic recommendations (with a little explanation of why it's a suitable choice) greatly appreciated.

posted by Pater Aletheias to Technology (3 answers total)

Best answer: For interviews, you should consider a pair of lavalier mics. For general purpose on-camera stereo mics, the Audio-Technica AT822 (around $250) is a nice choice.
posted by spitbull at 3:57 PM on May 10, 2007

The Rode Videomic is the standard for MiniDV shotgun mics. It's not specifically for interviews, but it will most definitely improve the all-around sound of your recordings -- interviews included.
posted by nitsuj at 4:17 PM on May 10, 2007

Best answer: Seconding spitbull, with the addition that you don't have to record to the camcorder.

Hook up the lav mics to a digital recorder (iPod, etc.) and sync the audio on the recorders with the audio/video on the camcorder. Slate or even just sharply clapping hands.

Then when you edit you can sync the mp3 audio with the video using the waveforms.

This allows you to have more options with camera placement.
posted by trinity8-director at 4:25 PM on May 10, 2007 [2 favorites]