Audio quality plays a big role in video production. Shotgun mic for DSLR is a simple way to improve the audio quality when making recordings with DSLR camera. It is a highly directional, ultra-sensitive microphone with a tight recording angle to isolate target sounds from ambient noise. In this article, we will recommend the top 4 SYNCO shotgun mics and tell several factors to consider when you decide which product to invest in.
Table: Quick overview on top 4 shotgun mic for DSLR cameras at SYNCO
Shotgun mic comes in different designs and features to work in different situations. Here we list the specs of 4 different models at SYNCO. Check the table to have a quick view of them and jump to the detailed product introduction that you have an interest in.
|
DSLR shotgun mic |
D2 |
D30 |
M3 |
U3 |
|
Polar pattern |
Hypercardioid |
Supercardioid |
Supercardioid |
Cardioid |
|
Frequency Response |
20Hz-20KHz |
20Hz-20KHz |
30Hz-20KHz |
50Hz-12KHz |
|
Dynamic Range |
117dB (1KHz at Max. SPL) |
119dB SPL (A-weight per IEC651) |
119dB |
/ |
|
Signal/Noise |
80dB (1KHz at 1Pa) |
82dB (1KHz at 1Pa) |
＞78dB |
/ |
|
Sensitivity |
-32dB±3dB (1dB=1V/Pa at 1KHz) |
-24dB±2dB (1dB=1V/Pa at 1KHz) |
-41dB±2dB RL=0.68KΩ Vs=1.5V (1KHz 0dB=1V/Pa) |
-26.5dbV@1KHz |
|
Max. Input SPL |
130dB (T.H.D≤1% at 1KHz) |
124dB SPL |
135dB SPL |
105dB SPL |
|
Price |
$169, regular $259 |
$129 |
$59 |
$79 |
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SYNCO D2: XLR shotgun mic for DSLR under $300
|
Polar pattern |
Hypercardioid |
|
Connection |
XLR |
|
Other key features |
Solid brass construction, flat frequency response, low self-noise |
|
Best for |
Content creators looking for professional audio solution |
The SYNCO D2 is the most professional and expensive among these 4 choices. If you are strict with the audio quality and want every cent you pay to get its value, the D2 is the top choice for you.
This shotgun mic for DSLR features hypercardioid polar pattern to isolate the subject from background noise to the best extent. The solid brass construction enables it to work well in outdoor audio pickup with great anti-interference. The D2 also features ultra-flat frequency response and low self-noise. This allows it to capture all the frequencies that human can hear and produce natural and clear sounds. You can mount it on tripods or boom poles using the supplied mic holder or connect it to DSLR cameras or camcorders with the XLRM-XLRF cable.
SYNCO D30: Shotgun mic with shock mount, under $200
|
Polar pattern |
Supercardioid |
|
Connection |
TRS/TRRS |
|
Other key features |
Low cut at 75/150Hz, safety channel, gain control at -10-15dB, audio monitor |
|
Best for |
Anyone looking for flexible recording |
The SYNCO D30 is a 3.5mm shotgun mic featuring supercardioid polar pattern. If you are looking for a shotgun mic that offers flexible adjustments, the D30 is a good choice.
It includes a low cut filter that can be tuned to 75Hz or 150Hz. A safety channel option is also available, which transmits a signal that is -10dB lower into one audio channel. This prevents clipped audio while recording in a noisy area. Furthermore, the D30 includes stepless gain control from -10dB to 15dB, allowing you to tailor the output to your recording equipment.
In addition, the D30 includes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides 30 hours of recording time after a 2-hour charge. It is made of aluminum alloy, making it extremely light at only 85g. Furthermore, the dual shock mount, which can be quickly mounted to your camera, boom pole, or tripod, can efficiently reduce filming vibrations.
SYNCO M3: Short shotgun mic for DSLR under $100
|
Polar pattern |
Supercardioid |
|
Connection |
TRS/TRRS |
|
Other key features |
3-level gain control, 100Hz low-cut filter, audio monitor |
|
Best for |
Anyone looking for low-cost and user-friendly shotgun mic |
If you are on a tight budget and still want a shotgun mic for DSLR, the SYNCO M3 comes to help. Pay 59 dollars and you will get a super cardioid shotgun mic, a shock mount, a foam windscreen, a TRS and TRRS cable, and a canvas pouch in the package.
The M3 is simple to use. It carries a 3.5mm monitoring jack for plugging earphones in to monitor the recorded audio. And you can make adjustments accordingly using the 3-level gain control and 100Hz low-cut filter.
SYNCO U3: Mini shotgun mic for DSLR and smartphone under $100
|
Polar pattern |
Cardioid |
|
Connection |
TRRS |
|
Other key features |
Low cut at 75Hz/150Hz, gain control at 0-15dB, audio monitor |
|
Best for |
Content creators using multiple recording devices |
The SYNCO U3 is one of the go-to options if you use both DSLR cameras and smartphones for video production. You can use the supplied Type-C to TRRS cable to connect it to the cameras. The U3 will automatically accommodate the camera and start picking up sounds.
The U3 also features optional low cut at 75Hz/150Hz and stepless gain control at 0-15dB. These features allow it to cut down unwanted low-frequency noise and amplify the audio signals to ideal levels. You can monitor the audio via the 3.5mm headphone jack. The U3 also performs well in long-time recordings. The inbuilt Li-ion battery enables the U3 to work for 40 hours in total.
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What is a good shotgun mic for DSLR: Six factors to consider
According to what you are going to record and where you will use the mic, the shotgun mic you need will be different. Here we list some factors to consider. Use them as references and you will find the best shotgun mic for DSLR filmmaking.
Frequency response: What is the frequency range of the sound source?
The frequency response of a microphone is its capacity to record sound at different frequencies, which is measured in Hertz (Hz). Shotgun microphones generally feature extremely broad, flat responses in order to more accurately capture the sounds that the human ear can hear. If you focus on recording sounds at a specific frequency range, you can choose a shotgun mic featuring the same frequency response to ensure better audio.
Sound pressure levels: Will the shotgun mic be used to capture loud sounds?
Sound pressure levels (SPL) are used to evaluate sound sensitivity. Higher SPL can record louder sounds, or microphones can be placed further away and still provide the same sound level. This is helpful if you can't get close to a sound source.
Length: Do you need tighter polar pattern or more portability ?
Shotgun microphones come in a variety of lengths, ranging from 3 or 4 inches to more than 1 foot. Which length to invest in depends on how you will use it. A lower profile makes the microphone lighter and more agile when mounted on a camera.
Long shotgun mic is the best choice for outdoor DSLR filmmaking. It features a tighter polar pattern to capture clear sounds and reduce distracting background noise. However, if you mount it on the DSLR camera, chances are that it may block the camera lenses. Therefore, it is advised to use it as a boom mic for DSLR camera, which means attaching it to the boom pole.
Power supply: What kind of power supply can you offer to shotgun mic for DSLR?
Shotgun microphones necessitate the use of a power supply. They usually rely on 48V phantom power from a camera, recorder, or mixer. However, some give the option of utilizing an AA battery, which can be really helpful if phantom power is not available.
Battery life: How long will you use the shotgun mic for DSLR video?
As aforementioned, there are mics powered by AA battery or inbuilt battery. It is advised to check how long will it last after a full charge. This is important when you make outdoor filmmaking since charging is limited.
Accessories: Does it include everything you need in the package?
Different accessories are included in the package. Here are some common accessories. A windshield is used to disperse the wind noises in outdoor filming. Shock mounts can eliminate vibrations when you move the camera and cables are used to power the mic or connect it to the boom pole. It is advised to check the package list to see if it includes everything you need.
Table: SYNCO DSLR shotgun mic comparison in aforementioned factors
|
DSLR shotgun mic |
D2 |
D30 |
M3 |
U3 |
|
Frequency Response |
20Hz-20KHz |
20Hz-20KHz |
30Hz-20KHz |
50Hz-12KHz |
|
Max. Input SPL |
130dB (T.H.D≤1% at 1KHz) |
124dB SPL |
135dB SPL |
105dB SPL |
|
Dimension |
0.75x9.84 inches |
Φ21.5x214.5mm |
Φ32×186mm |
116x53x46mm |
|
Power supply |
48V DC, 2mA |
Inbuilt battery |
DC 1.2V (Two AAA Batteries) |
500mAH inbuilt Lithium Battery |
|
Battery life |
/ |
/ |
/ |
About 40 hours (Monitor at medium volume) |
|
Accessories |
XLRM-XLRF cable, windshield, mic holder |
Type-C to TRS/TRRS cable, windshield, shock mount |
TRS/TRRS cable, windshield, shock mount |
Type-C to 3.5mm TRRS cable, cold shoe |
|
Price |
$169, regular $259 |
$129 |
$59 |
$79 |
How to set up shotgun mic for DSLR?
When it comes to setting up the microphone, you have three options.
Option one is to record audio separately and then sync it using third-party editing tools.
The second approach is to use an XLR adaptor to connect the shotgun mic to DSLR. The benefits include having electricity for microphones and a tiny independent power supply.
The third method is to attach your microphone straight to your camera via the mini-jack input on your DSLR. When shooting for YouTube, this generates surprisingly high audio quality.
Overall, every option is simple and takes between 2 and 5 minutes to complete. Things may take less than 30 seconds once you're used to it.