The 6 Best DSLR Camera Microphone Options

The Rode VideoMic GO On-Camera Microphone is one of the industry standard options and thus one of the best DSLR camera microphone options and widely used by those who need crystal clear audio without any fuss. It’s also extremely budget friendly. The Rode VideoMic GO On-Camera Microphone is a cold-shoe mounted shotgun mic (no electronics or trigger capabilities) that allows you to point your camera at the audio source and capture perfect audio and visual at the same time. You’re left with a smooth and natural sound that naturally helps reduce the amount of ambient background noise thanks to the highly directional super cardioid polar pattern, providing you with professional level recordings with ease. In addition, you have an integrated Rycote Lyre shock mount that helps isolate the microphone from any bumps or knocks – especially handy if you’re using them in active environments. The 120Dbspl max SPL is great for those who want to record loud sound sources, live music and even motor sports. You also get a windshield included too – perfect if you’re out and about. If you’re active, shoot video on the fly and want great sound with minimal fuss, this is a fantastic choice.

 For the broadcasters and on-the-spot journalists, the Rode NTG1 Shotgun Condenser Microphone is a must have – in fact, it’s the best option if you want to shoot studio and television quality news with superior audio quality to match. The Rode NTG1 Shotgun Condenser microphone has been optimised for tv, sports and outdoor broadcasting! With incredible directionality across the entire frequency range, enhanced LF response, directivity and sensitivity, this is perfect for when distance mic’ing is required without sacrificing audio quality. It does require 24 or 48V Phantom Power to operate and is connected via a 3 pin XLR so make sure you’re set up for this before you decide to add it to your rig. If you’re shooting the likes of YouTube videos and reviews or even interviewing on the go at exhibitions, you probably won’t need it. However, if you want to create movies or television shows or you need a mic for professional applications, this is one of your best options. It also comes supplied with a WSVM windshield so you're all set straight out of the box.

 If you prefer to hold on to a microphone, yet don’t want to carry around a large condenser mic, the Zoom H1N Handy Recorder is actually quite handy! This small and compact unit is one of the best DSLR microphones thanks to it’s tough, rugged construction, high quality audio and its portability. Considering its small size (smaller than an iPhone) the sound quality is impressive thanks to the  X/Y microphone capsule. This in conjunction with the two matched unidirectional condenser microphones set at a 90-degree angle ensure superior audio quality, whether you’re recording multi-track recordings or audio for video. This is ideal for DSLR cameras and those who broadcast or record bands and live sports events as it can handle up to 120 dB SPL – the equivalent of a jet aircraft at less than 200 feet away! The wide range of input and control options on the front panel give you total control over your audio and the slate tone generator for DSLR video has been specifically crafted for superior DSLR audio. High quality audio, up to 10 hours of battery life from 2xAA batteries and the 3.5mm stereo mic/line input which lets you record with your external microphones will also come in handy too. A rugged, portable and highly reliable DSLR microphone that is capable of overdubbing audio and can for your DSLR – this is a great option for those who need a versatile microphone for many different uses.

The Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro Condenser Microphone is one of the best DSLR microphones for those who need a highly portable set up. This is actually the industry standard for DSLR on-camera audio. This is also perfect for all environments due to the 134dB SPL and wind shield – so you can take it to busy areas, gigs and outdoor environments confident in the knowledge you’re going to get a good recording. A three-position level control (-10dB, 0, +20dB) makes it ideal for recording live music whether acoustic or full band and the on mic power and EQ controls are perfect for making changes on the fly. The onboard mounting is also easy to attach to your camera, so you’re ready at a moment’s notice.

For those of you out there who operate as part of a team and need a hand held option for on-the-go reporting, the Rode Reporter Microphone is one of the best DSLR mics available today. It features an omnidirectional polar pattern which is ideal for presentations and interviews, and the frequency response has been specifically tailored for voice reproduction allowing you to record high quality audio at all times. The cool thing about this mic is the removable ‘Flag’ that lets you add your own branding or logos – ideal for YouTubers, reporters and journalists. Best of all, it also comes with a 10-year extended warranty when you register your mic. 

This DSLR microphone works best when used with the Rode Newsshooter Kit Wireless XLR Transmitter, as the transmitter clips in to the end of the microphone and the receiver has been designed to fit on top of the DSLR camera or even a GO PRO. Thanks to the Series II 2.4GHz digital transmission with 128-bit encryption, the unit constantly monitors and hops between frequencies to ensure you’re always on the strongest signal level at a range of up to 100 metres* (over 100 yards).

 Finally, we have the Rode Rodelink Filmmaker Kit that provides you with pretty much everything you need to start creating high quality audio with your DSLR camera straight away. The Rode Rodelink Filmmaker Kit is ideal for YouTubers, journalists and those who film in controlled environments. You get RØDE's broadcast Lavalier microphone along with RX-CAM receiver that can sit on top of your DSLR, as well as TX-BELT transmitter which is lightweight and fits to your belt or back pocket. The receiver uses series II 2.4GHz digital transmission with 128-bit encryption and hops between frequencies to ensure you’re always on the strongest signal level at all times at a range of up to 100 metres. One button pairing as well as an OLED display provides you with information on sound levels, battery status (receiver and transmitter), and gives you the option to mute and select channels easily - just some of the reasons we think it's one of the best camera microphone options for journalists. A great, non-intrusive solution ideal for interviews and tutorials in controlled environments. .