Recording high-quality audio is crucial for professional video production, and a DSLR microphone can make a significant difference in capturing clear and crisp sound. DSLR microphones are designed to work with digital single-lens reflex cameras, which are widely used by videographers and content creators. The right microphone can improve the audio quality of your videos, making them more engaging and enjoyable to watch.
When choosing a DSLR microphone, there are several critical factors to consider. The type of microphone, directionality, frequency response, and sensitivity are all essential features that can affect the quality of your audio. Additionally, the size, weight, and compatibility with your camera can also be important considerations.
In this article, we will review the best DSLR microphones on the market and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed purchase. Whether you are a professional videographer or a content creator, a high-quality DSLR microphone can take your audio to the next level. So, let’s dive in and explore the top options for capturing excellent audio with your DSLR camera.
Best DSLR Microphones
If you’re a professional videographer or a content creator, you know how essential it is to have high-quality audio to accompany your visuals. DSLR microphones are a great investment to make sure your audio is crisp, clear, and professional-sounding. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best DSLR microphones to help you make an informed decision. Our list includes microphones that are easy to use, compatible with DSLR cameras, and deliver excellent sound quality.
Movo Wireless Mini Duo Wireless Microphones
If you’re looking for a compact wireless system to capture broadcast-ready audio for your next video project, the Movo Wireless Mini Duo Wireless Microphones might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The all-in-one microphones and transmitter packs professional features into a featherlight design, making it easy to carry around.
- The Wireless Mini has a battery life of up to 10 hours, so you can record all day without a recharge.
- The Wireless Mini features a 3.5mm jack, giving you the ability to connect with any device with a 3.5mm line input.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the way the receiver attaches to the camera is not very secure.
- The audio quality might not be as good as some higher-end microphones.
- The Wireless Mini might not be as durable as some other wireless microphone systems.
The Movo Wireless Mini Duo Wireless Microphones are a streamlined wireless audio system that offers professional-grade lavalier mics and transmitters in a compact design. With selectable noise-canceling and one-touch muting, you’ll have full control of a broadcast-ready audio signal. The Wireless Mini is compatible with DSLR and mirrorless cameras, camcorders, recorders, and more, making it a versatile option for a variety of video projects.
The Wireless Mini has a battery life of up to 10 hours, so you can record all day without a recharge. Stable 2.4Ghz transmission ensures an interference-free signal at distances up to 164 feet. The Wireless Mini features a 3.5mm jack, giving you the ability to connect with any device with a 3.5mm line input.
However, some users have reported that the way the receiver attaches to the camera is not very secure. The audio quality might not be as good as some higher-end microphones, and the Wireless Mini might not be as durable as some other wireless microphone systems. Overall, if you’re looking for a compact wireless system that offers professional-grade features at an affordable price, the Movo Wireless Mini Duo Wireless Microphones might be worth considering.
GRTPRTS Dual Wireless Lavalier Microphone
If you’re looking for a versatile and professional wireless microphone for your smart devices, DSLR camera, or laptop, the GRTPRTS Dual Wireless Lavalier Microphone is a great option.
Pros
- Wide compatibility with devices, including iPhone, Android, DSLR camera, laptop, and more
- Professional noise-reduction mic that can eliminate background noise effectively and pick up the target sound intelligently
- Easy set up and plug & play with innovation 2.4GHz wireless technology
Cons
- Few Android users need to turn on “OTG” setting and download “Open Camera App” when the default camera app doesn’t work
- Some users experienced a noticeable hiss in the background when the speaker stopped talking
- The receiver has a 3.5mm TRS jack, so it doesn’t work with 3.5mm TRRS devices
The GRTPRTS Dual Wireless Lavalier Microphone is a reliable and easy-to-use wireless microphone that offers a long-range and lag-free experience. With its wide compatibility and professional noise-reduction mic, it’s an excellent choice for filmmakers, vloggers, YouTubers, mobile journalists, and content creators. The microphone also boasts a long battery life of up to 8 hours and a 65ft barrier-free effective distance, making it ideal for indoor and outdoor long-distance high-fidelity recording.
The set up is easy and straightforward; just select a correct type cable to connect your device with the receiver, power on both wireless lapel mic and receiver, and they will get paired automatically in 1 second. The package includes 2 x Wireless Microphone, 1 x TRS Receiver (not TRRS), 1 x type-c to iPhone cable, 1 x type-c to Android cable, 1 x type-c to USB cable, 1 x Store Case, 1 x Charging Cable.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and reliable wireless microphone for your smart devices, DSLR camera, or laptop, the GRTPRTS Dual Wireless Lavalier Microphone is a great choice.
Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone
If you’re looking for an affordable shotgun microphone, the Movo VXR10 is a great option.
Pros
- Compatible with a wide range of devices, including DSLR cameras, smartphones, and tablets.
- Durable aluminum construction and sturdy shock mount to minimize handling noise.
- Comes with a furry windscreen, soft carrying case, and multiple output cables.
Cons
- Some users report that the sound quality is not as crisp as they would like.
- The microphone may feel a bit cheap since it’s made of plastic.
- The red shock mount may not be the most aesthetically pleasing option.
The Movo VXR10 is a versatile microphone that can be used with a variety of devices, making it a great choice for vloggers, filmmakers, and anyone who needs to capture high-quality audio on the go. While the sound quality may not be perfect, it’s still a significant improvement over the built-in microphone on most devices.
The durable aluminum construction and battery-free design are also big pluses, as is the included furry windscreen and soft carrying case. The multiple output cables make it easy to connect the microphone to a wide range of devices, and the sturdy shock mount helps to minimize handling noise.
Overall, the Movo VXR10 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly shotgun microphone that can be used with a variety of devices.
Comica CVM-V30 LITE Video Microphone
If you’re looking for a versatile microphone that works with a variety of devices, the Comica CVM-V30 LITE Video Microphone is a solid choice.
Pros
- Compatible with a wide range of devices, including cameras, smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
- Battery-free design means you won’t have to worry about running out of power during long recording sessions.
- Unique shock mount design helps minimize unwanted handling noise.
Cons
- Feels a bit cheap and plasticky.
- May pick up unwanted noise from the surrounding environment.
- Some users have reported issues with the plug-in.
The Comica CVM-V30 LITE Video Microphone is a great option for anyone looking for a microphone that can work with a variety of devices. Whether you’re filming YouTube videos, conducting interviews, or recording live events, this microphone is versatile enough to handle it all.
One of the biggest advantages of the Comica CVM-V30 LITE Video Microphone is its universal compatibility. Whether you’re using a camera, smartphone, tablet, or laptop, as long as your device has a 3.5mm mic jack, you should be able to use this microphone with ease.
Another benefit of this microphone is its battery-free design. Instead of relying on batteries, the Comica CVM-V30 LITE Video Microphone is powered by your camera or smartphone’s plug-in power. This means you won’t have to worry about running out of battery during long recording sessions.
The unique shock mount design of the Comica CVM-V30 LITE Video Microphone is also worth noting. This feature helps minimize unwanted handling noise, which can be a big problem with other microphones.
However, it’s important to note that the Comica CVM-V30 LITE Video Microphone does have some downsides. Some users have reported that the microphone feels a bit cheap and plasticky, which could be a concern for some. Additionally, the microphone may pick up unwanted noise from the surrounding environment, which could be an issue in some recording situations. Finally, some users have reported issues with the plug-in, so it’s worth keeping this in mind before making a purchase.
Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile microphone that can work with a variety of devices, the Comica CVM-V30 LITE Video Microphone is definitely worth considering. While it does have some downsides, its universal compatibility, battery-free design, and unique shock mount make it a solid choice for anyone looking to up their recording game.
BOYA BY-M1 Lavalier Microphone
If you’re looking for an affordable microphone that can be used with your smartphone, DSLR, camcorder, or audio recorder, the BOYA BY-M1 Lavalier Microphone is a great choice. With its omnidirectional pickup pattern, it’s perfect for capturing audio from any direction.
Pros
- The microphone is compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, DSLRs, camcorders, and audio recorders.
- The omnidirectional pickup pattern ensures that you can capture audio from any direction.
- The microphone comes with a lapel clip, foam windscreen, and 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter.
Cons
- The 6-meter cable may be too long for some users.
- The microphone’s sensitivity may be too high for some applications.
- The LR44 battery is not rechargeable.
The BOYA BY-M1 Lavalier Microphone is a great choice for anyone who needs an affordable and versatile microphone. Whether you’re recording a presentation, shooting a video, or conducting an interview, this microphone will deliver clear and accurate audio. The microphone’s omnidirectional pickup pattern ensures that you can capture audio from any direction, and the lapel clip makes it easy to attach the microphone to your clothing.
The microphone is compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, DSLRs, camcorders, and audio recorders, so you can use it with whatever equipment you have on hand. The microphone comes with a lapel clip, foam windscreen, and 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter, so you have everything you need to get started right away.
One potential downside of the BOYA BY-M1 Lavalier Microphone is that the 6-meter cable may be too long for some users. If you’re working in a small space, you may find that the cable gets in the way. Additionally, the microphone’s sensitivity may be too high for some applications, so you may need to adjust your recording settings to get the best results. Finally, the LR44 battery is not rechargeable, so you’ll need to replace it periodically.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and versatile microphone, the BOYA BY-M1 Lavalier Microphone is an excellent choice. It delivers clear and accurate audio, and it’s compatible with a wide range of devices. Whether you’re a professional videographer or a casual user, this microphone is sure to meet your needs.
Ttstar Wireless Microphone System
If you’re looking for an affordable wireless microphone system with complete accessories that offers great value for money, the Ttstar Wireless Microphone System is a solid choice.
Pros
- Wide compatibility with a range of devices, from DSLR cameras to smartphones.
- Complete accessories included, including three microphones, a multifunctional tripod, a windproof fur shield, and a charging cable.
- Extraordinary audio performance with high-quality sound transmission and clear voice thanks to upgraded noise-reducing technology.
Cons
- Not compatible with MacBook or Bluetooth speakers.
- Some users have reported issues with the receiver unit not connecting to the microphones after a few uses.
- The microphone pickup has very little suppression for feedback when used in front of speakers.
This microphone system is ideal for live performances, teaching, presentations, public speeches, interviews, or video and audio recording. It can also serve as a nice tool for fitness/exercise instructors. With 32 selectable frequencies for each channel, you can choose a frequency suitable for interference-free use. If you’re not satisfied, just contact the manufacturer for help. Overall, the Ttstar Wireless Microphone System is a great option for those on a budget who need a reliable and versatile microphone system.
Sennheiser Professional MKE 200 Directional On-Camera Microphone
If you’re a vlogger or videographer looking for an on-camera microphone that can deliver isolated and enhanced in-camera audio, the Sennheiser Professional MKE 200 Directional On-Camera Microphone is a great choice.
Pros
- The compact design with a sleek and stylish finish makes it easy to carry around and use on the go.
- The integrated wind protection and internal suspension mount help minimize handling noise, ensuring clear and crisp audio quality.
- The interchangeable 3.5mm (1/8″) TRS and TRRS connectivity allows for easy compatibility with DSLR and mirrorless cameras or mobile devices.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the microphone’s sensitivity is not high enough, making it difficult to capture audio from a distance.
- The included cables may not be long enough for certain setups, requiring users to purchase additional cables separately.
- The price point may be a bit high for some users who are looking for a more budget-friendly option.
Overall, the Sennheiser Professional MKE 200 Directional On-Camera Microphone is a solid choice for anyone in need of a portable and reliable on-camera microphone. Its sleek design, wind protection, and interchangeable connectivity make it a versatile option for vloggers, videographers, and content creators on the go.
BALILA Wireless Lavalier Microphone System
If you’re looking for a wireless lavalier microphone system that delivers crystal clear sound, the BALILA Wireless Lavalier Microphone System is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Superior sound quality with noise cancelling and 0s delay transmission range of 80-100 feet.
- Professional real-time audio monitor for accurate sound recording.
- Wide compatibility with any mobile device, DSLR camera, desktop, or laptop.
Cons
- Cannot be used with MacBook or Bluetooth speakers.
- Requires adapter cable for smartphones without 1/8″ jack.
- Audio quality is only okay with some hiss and noise.
The BALILA Wireless Lavalier Microphone System is perfect for those who need a wireless microphone that can be used with any mobile device or DSLR camera. The system is equipped with a real-time monitoring function that allows you to accurately record sound without losing valuable voice. The 20 channels wireless microphone delivers different frequencies, and the quick clip type to install the transmitter is more convenient for smartphones.
The clip-on mic is made of double high specification metal material inside and outside and applied omnidirectional sound pickup technology. It offers invisibility on shirt collar, which can make your hands free in interview, stage, gym, classroom, meeting, or live performances like Web Podcast, Youtube. The system comes with a stylish and protective storage hard box, which is convenient to carry with you.
BALILA focuses on customer satisfaction and provides a 24-hour online service. If you have any problems with using the microphone, contact them by clicking through your order, and they are here to help.
Hollyland Lark M1 Wireless Lavalier Microphone
The Hollyland Lark M1 Wireless Lavalier Microphone is a great option for those who want high-quality audio recording.
Pros
- One Click Noise Cancellation: The cutting-edge DSP noise cancellation chip provides effective environmental noise cancellation, making your video voice clear and clean.
- Incredible Lightweight and Compact: The Lark M1 wireless lavalier microphone only weighs 0.42oz/11.8g, which is lighter than 3pcs of A4 papers, providing a comfortable wear experience.
- 8H Long Battery Life: The microphone provides 8 hours of continuous working time when fully charged, and each TX and RX have a USB-C port for direct charging while working at the same time, perfect for outside Interview Video Podcast Vlog.
Cons
- 3.5mm-TRS-to-lightning cable for iPhone/iPad or 3.5mm-TRS-to-Type-C cable for Android phones was not included.
- The microphone may pick up background noise in noisy environments.
- The microphone may not be compatible with all devices.
This wireless lapel microphone system is perfect for DSLR cameras, iPhones, Android phones, and live streaming. With a 656ft long-range wireless transmission range, this microphone supports up to 650ft stable and reliable and high fidelity audio receiving working distance in open space, making it easy to handle complex environments. The Hollyland Lark M1 wireless lavalier mic works with all kinds of devices and includes a 3.5mm-TRS-to-TRS cable for all kinds of DSLR cameras and a 3.5mm-TRS-to-TRRS cable for computers/phones with a 3.5mm port.
In conclusion, the Hollyland Lark M1 Wireless Lavalier Microphone is a great investment for those who want clear and high-quality audio recording.
Movo VXR10-PRO External Video Microphone
If you’re looking for a high-quality and compact shotgun microphone that supports headphone monitoring, then the Movo VXR10-PRO External Video Microphone is a great option.
Pros
- Highly accurate supercardioid delivers crisper audio than your standard directional microphone.
- Rycote Lyre shock mount virtually eliminates handling noise and vibrations.
- Battery-free design – microphone draws power directly from your phone or camera.
Cons
- Some users found it difficult to install on camera support.
- Low noise output may require higher gain settings.
- Some users found the support to be rigid and uncomfortable.
The Movo VXR10-PRO External Video Microphone is a professional-grade shotgun microphone that captures high-quality audio and supports headphone monitoring on smartphones with third-party apps. With its unparalleled clarity, this microphone delivers crisper audio than your standard directional microphone. The Rycote Lyre shock mount virtually eliminates handling noise and vibrations, ensuring the highest level of sound quality possible. Additionally, the microphone draws power directly from your phone or camera, making it a battery-free design that is compatible with any recording device with a 3.5mm TRS or 3.5mm TRRS port.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality and compact shotgun microphone that supports headphone monitoring, the Movo VXR10-PRO External Video Microphone is an excellent choice.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying the best DSLR microphone, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the right product for your needs. Here are some of the key features to look for:
Directionality
The directionality of a microphone refers to how it picks up sound. There are three main types of directionality: cardioid, supercardioid, and omnidirectional. A cardioid microphone is ideal for recording sound in front of the camera, while a supercardioid microphone is best for recording sound from a distance. An omnidirectional microphone, on the other hand, records sound from all directions, making it ideal for recording ambient sound.
Frequency Response
Frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that a microphone can pick up. A good DSLR microphone should have a wide frequency response to ensure that it can capture a range of sounds accurately. Look for a microphone with a frequency response of at least 20Hz to 20kHz.
Sensitivity
The sensitivity of a microphone refers to how well it can pick up sound. A more sensitive microphone will pick up quieter sounds, while a less sensitive microphone will only pick up louder sounds. Look for a microphone with a high sensitivity rating to ensure that it can pick up even the quietest sounds.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of a DSLR microphone are important factors to consider, especially if you plan on using it for extended periods of time. Look for a microphone that is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around and use.
Connectivity
Finally, consider the connectivity options of the microphone. Most DSLR microphones connect via a 3.5mm jack, but some may require an adapter or have other connectivity options. Make sure that the microphone you choose is compatible with your camera and has the necessary connectivity options.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best DSLR microphone for your needs and ensure that you capture high-quality audio in your videos.
Aaron Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
