Best Cheap Shotgun Microphone?

Question

I need to get a good Shotgun Microphone for the JVC GZ HD7 camcorder, but I have a limited budget after springing for the camcorder. What's a good cheap one that would work with this camcorder's hotshoe?

Answer 1

That's a tough question to answer, considering a there is a positive correlation between mic quality and price, meaning better mics will cost more $$. Sure, you can get a mic for $15 on eBay, but as far as which decent priced mics that are worth buying:

1) RODE VideoMic             $150

2) Sennheiser MKE300        $130

3) Azden SGM-X                $110

The Rode mic is by far the best quality you'll ever get with a mini-stereo mic. The Sennheiser  and Azden seem to be decent

I'd give a marginal recommendation to the Audio-Technica ATR-55 and the Azden ECZ-990, but only a marginal one. The Audio-Technica one isn't too sturdy and I have noticed a hissing noise, and the ECZ is only a minor upgrade from the onboard mic.

As far as compatibility with your camera's shoe mount, all mics would fit. Some mics, like the RODE mic have an integrated shockmount with the proper threads for a standard shoe mount and a boompole. If you get the ECZ-990 or the Audio-Technica, you'll need to purchase a shockmount in order to work in your camcorder shoe.

As far as the "hot" shoe goes, you won't need the "hot" part. All mini-stereo mics run off their own power. The hot shoe is designed for other accessories like lights. However, you can use the hot shoe to hold your mic, granted it has a shockmount....they just need a cold shoe

hope that helps