add-on mics for camcorders

[Peter Stedman]

I’m preparing a short talk/video for our club members on using an add-on mic for their small camcorders. I’ve mentioned the usual well-known models Sennheiser MKE300d and their MKE400 also the Rode model. I’ve got to the stage of discussing getting the mic close to the sound source in ‘reporter’ style by using a suitable extension cable with the usual provisions.

However it’s realised that the models mentioned are not designed to be used hand-held away from the camera. Way back in the in the past I did use the MKE300 with long cable my making up a DIY handgrip which was successful.

What other small, relatively inexpensive add-on mics can readers suggest that would be suitable for easy of removal and using at a distance from the camera? Keeping in mind that it would be of the kind that one might take on holiday in the gadget bag.

Pete

[tom hardwick]

The reason that mics such as the MKE300 come with very short leads is generally because they use the little 1/8" mini-plug and don't have professional XLR connectors. The short leads are designed to be kept short (and not used with extension cables) so that they don't pick up noise.

[Chrisbitz]

ANY mic up close (a foot or so) will sound better than a £1000 mic 10 feet away.

I used to use a £25 Vivanco tie-mic on a 5m extension cable for a long time, and I don't remember any impossible problems with interference. You do however HAVE to wear full headphones, so you can hear when you're picking up radio1 on the extension cable!