I recently purchased a Canon T3i. I got it almost exclusively for video work (I already own DSLRs and have a good lens collection). Anyhow, the on-board audio on the Canon T3i is terrible. I've also used a Nikon DSLR (model?) for video and had the same issue. I guess I should point out that my opinion about video production is that audio recording is critical to the overall result. This microphone solves the problems of the newer DSLR issues around audio. The mic records mono, but the input plug carries the signal to two channels giving you dual mono into your stereo input, so you don't have to correct it in production later on (or with extra signal splitting plugs). The quality of the mic is outstanding. You will need to experiment with the settings in your camera and on the mic to get the best balance of volume and hiss. I did some experimenting, and I set my Canon T3i to manual audio and click the gain to 8 or 9 clicks above zero (about 20%). I then set the mic to +20 on the gain. This seems to give me a good clean signal. Other settings give alot more hiss or not enough amplitude. I also use the mic on my HF G10 camcorder. I use a different balance on the G10 (default settings on both the camera and mic seems to work fine). It offers a more targeted pick up than the onboard G10 mics, and I use the deadcat wind shield to eliminate wind problems when outside. I did have to purchase a shoe adapter for the G10 because the Canon "advanced mini-shoe" is incompatible (too small).
It's expensive, especially with the deadcat and mini-shoe adapter, but overall worth it if you shoot with a DSLR or intend to shoot outdoors with a camera that lacks a good wind screen.
Others have commented about the thin cable, and I agree that it is too tender. The complaints about the shock mount are unfounded. I have found it to be of an excellent build and have not had any problems with it dismounting, even when I have been less than gentle with it.
The 9 volt battery is wonderful, although please remember to take it out before going through airport security. The battery alone attracted special attention from homeland security on a recent trip. On the return flight, I removed the battery ahead of time and had no problems. The "on" light is my favorite feature (I have several powered mics with out a light, and have burnt through countless batteries in my forgetfulness).
I do teach video production, so I guess I'm a professional of sorts. I don't think I would recommend spending this much for casual video production (like home movies). You might be satisfied with a less expensive mic. Try Audio-Technica. They seem to offer decent mics for much less, however the audiophiles out there will not be pleased with anything less than the Rode VMP.
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really high quality, light, and CLEAR mic!
All I can compare this mic to is the built-in one on my D800. The mic on the D800 is really nice, but I've had all I can take of the motor noise of the AF system.External: Packaging is as expected, mic comes in a paper box - with cut foam fitted for the mic. (Years ago, I bought a similar mic made by Sony called a "Zoom Mic" that was shaped like the letter "Z"). Rode's mic was packaged similar. Hmm, no coupon for a free dead cat. Wish I had bought this when the dead cat was offered. I did get the dead cat anyway (more on that later). I've seen a lot of comments regarding the plastic build. I like the lightness and since the feel seems solid enough, I am guessing the plastic is a good choice? The shock absorber does make the mic feel a bit fraile. For those who do not know (the "Z" mic mentioned earlier did not have this feature...) the mic sits on a rubber shock absorber and not fixed solid to the base. This helps keep a lot of excess noise down.Internal: The manual is nice - but the instructing for getting the nine volt into the mic - lol - well, it does take some care and attention. The good side(s) though is that the battery will NOT fall out, and you do not have to change the battery too often.Mic function: Very NIce. I turned the camera's mic input down, and left the mic on "0" gain. While capturing video, I watched the vue meter on the camera just to be sure that the input was not too loud (away from the red). This worked nicely. I guess I will have to tweak/retweak every time I use the mic. Every situation/location will be different. While I like the extra controls (i.e. mic gain/cut, and high pass) it'd be nice if this can be done auto-magically. I can slightly still hear the AF motor, but I really have to concentrate.I did order the dead cat and after figuring out how to put this thing on, all is well. Is it worth $30? lol. There are videos online of folks making similar devices much cheaper and works just as well.HTH.
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- Reviewed in the United States on August 12, 2012
- Reviewed in the United States on August 8, 2012
All I can compare this mic to is the built-in one on my D800. The mic on the D800 is really nice, but I've had all I can take of the motor noise of the AF system.
External: Packaging is as expected, mic comes in a paper box - with cut foam fitted for the mic. (Years ago, I bought a similar mic made by Sony called a "Zoom Mic" that was shaped like the letter "Z"). Rode's mic was packaged similar. Hmm, no coupon for a free dead cat. Wish I had bought this when the dead cat was offered. I did get the dead cat anyway (more on that later). I've seen a lot of comments regarding the plastic build. I like the lightness and since the feel seems solid enough, I am guessing the plastic is a good choice? The shock absorber does make the mic feel a bit fraile. For those who do not know (the "Z" mic mentioned earlier did not have this feature...) the mic sits on a rubber shock absorber and not fixed solid to the base. This helps keep a lot of excess noise down.
Internal: The manual is nice - but the instructing for getting the nine volt into the mic - lol - well, it does take some care and attention. The good side(s) though is that the battery will NOT fall out, and you do not have to change the battery too often.
Mic function: Very NIce. I turned the camera's mic input down, and left the mic on "0" gain. While capturing video, I watched the vue meter on the camera just to be sure that the input was not too loud (away from the red). This worked nicely. I guess I will have to tweak/retweak every time I use the mic. Every situation/location will be different. While I like the extra controls (i.e. mic gain/cut, and high pass) it'd be nice if this can be done auto-magically. I can slightly still hear the AF motor, but I really have to concentrate.
I did order the dead cat and after figuring out how to put this thing on, all is well. Is it worth $30? lol. There are videos online of folks making similar devices much cheaper and works just as well.
HTH.
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Top reviews from other countries
- B. A. AndersonReviewed in India on April 3, 2015
Works very well with the Lumix GH3
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TitoReviewed in Spain on October 13, 2014
Genial con el Audio de la cámara en modo Manual
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- M. SharmanReviewed in the United Kingdom on September 19, 2012
Excellent microphone: buy this one
