Best Microphone Recommendations for DSLR Audio Recording in Large Spaces

When recording audio with a DSLR in a large space like a museum room, choosing the right microphone can make or break the quality of your video. Here, we explore a variety of options that can help you achieve professional-grade audio, whether you have a tight budget or a bit extra to spend.

Cardioid Lavalier Microphones

For optimal clarity and focus on the subject#39;s voice, a cardioid lavalier microphone is an excellent choice. It captures audio from the front while suppressing ambient noise from the sides and rear. This makes it perfect for recording individual speakers in a large, echo-prone space like a museum.

Wireless Options

If you need a wireless solution, you might consider the Sennheiser G3 EW100 pack with an ME-2 omni capsule. This pair offers high-quality sound and flexibility, with the ME-2 adapter designed specifically for DSLRs. Despite the initial expense of around $650, the sound quality makes it a worthwhile investment for corporate or documentary-style footage.

Entry-Level Options

If you have no budget, the Audio Technica ATR3350iS wired lavalier microphone is a cost-effective choice. At around $30, it wonrsquo;t break the bank and can still provide decent sound quality for your project. If this is your only option, consider recording the audio on your smartphone and syncing it in post-production for greater flexibility.

Shotgun Microphones

While a cardioid lavalier is typically the best choice for capturing clean voice overs, a shotgun mic can also be useful, especially if you have one on hand. Shotgun mics capture sound from a narrow, forward-pointing direction and can be effective for distant voices. However, they can also pick up unwanted room noise, which is why they are often used in situations with a clear line of sight, such as news broadcasts in the Oval Office.

Testing with a Shotgun Mic

To get the best results, record a take with the shotgun mic first, followed by one with the lavalier. While the shotgun mic might not sound ideal on its own, you can still hear the potential. This can help you compare the two and decide which microphone works best for your specific situation.

Hypercardioid Boom Mics

For feature films or when you have the resources, a hypercardioid boom mic is the ultimate choice. The popular Oktava Mk-012, priced around $300, is a versatile and high-quality option. Boom mics are excellent for capturing clear, isolated audio by positioning the microphone as close to the speaker as possible.

Best Practices for Recording

Regardless of the microphone you choose, there are a few best practices to keep in mind:

Attach the lavalier as close to the subject’s mouth as possible to minimize echoes and background noise. Turn the gain down to the lowest acceptable level to avoid overloading the microphone. Check the level before recording to ensure you capture good audio quality. Be aware that room echoes in audio recordings are difficult to fix and can significantly degrade the quality of your recordings.

Conclusion

Choosing the right microphone for your DSLR and large space recordings is crucial for capturing clear, professional-quality audio. From budget-friendly cards to high-end boom mics, there are many options to suit your needs. Whether you have a limited budget or a bit extra to spend, the key is selecting a microphone that best suits your specific situation and recording environment.

Additional Resources

For more information on DSLR microphones, visit Rode#39;s microphones page. Consider their Brodge and other video camera models for reliable audio quality. If you are producing video for a client with low tolerance for distortion, you need to control the pick-up and direction of where the sound is being recorded with a microphone in the $150-200 range.