I'm an amateur filmmaker- where can I buy a mic that can attach to my SONY video camera to record sound?

Question

I'm an amateur filmmaker- where can I buy a mic that can attach to my SONY video camera to record sound?

Answer 1

It depends on the Sony camcorder you have.

In gerneral:

==> Some (typically entry level consumer-grade) do not have any method for connecting an external mic.

==> Some (typically mid-level consumer-grade) have a Sony proprietary "Active Interface Shoe" that ONLY certain Sony mics  can use - they will specify that the AIS is required.

==> Some (typically high-end consumer-grade or prosumer) have a 1/8 stereo mic jack. You can use either mono or stereo mics in it - or you can get an XLR adapter like those from juicedLink or BeachTek and use mics with an XLR connector.

==> Most of the pro-grade Sony camcorders have XLR audio in...

Since you did not tell us which Sony camcorder model you have it is impossible to help you any further.

Answer 2

sony camera, not camcorder? well for a sony DXC series (ie DXC637) video camera, they are available from sony. however the deck, either PVV3 or DSR-1 has standard 3 pin mic input connectors, so any mic will do. there is a holder for the mic built in to the viewfinder, or you can use a mic clip that mounts on a camera accessory shoe.

mounting a mic on a camcorder will do no better than the mic built into the camcorder for capturing ambient sound. if you are doing dialog from actors, then the mic has to be placed close, either a Lav pinned on the clothing going to a wireless pack, or an overhead on a fishpole.

most broadcast stores have a range of mic available on-line. try BCS or BSW. most local music stores carry professional grade mics as well.

Answer 3

Newegg.com, best buy, circuit city