The Sony FX3 is a compact and versatile cinema camera that offers stunning 4K video quality, fast autofocus, and impressive low-light performance. However, as with most cameras, the built-in microphone of the FX3 is not very good for capturing high-quality audio. That's why you need an external shotgun mic to complement your FX3 and record clear and crisp sound for your videos.
In this article, you will learn how to choose the best shotgun mic for Sony FX3, as well as our recommended microphones for your camera.
Let's discuss further what is a shotgun mic and what's the best shotgun mic for Sony FX3. Keep reading!
A shotgun mic is a type of microphone that has a narrow and directional pickup pattern, meaning it can reject unwanted sounds from the sides and the rear and focus on the sound source in front of it. This makes it ideal for capturing dialogue, interviews, narration, and other types of speech in various environments.
However, not all shotgun mics are created equal. There are many factors to consider when choosing the best shotgun mic for your Sony FX3, such as sound quality, durability, compatibility, power options, size, weight, and price.
How to Choose the Best Shotgun Mic for Sony FX3
Selecting the right shotgun microphone for your Sony FX3 camera is a crucial decision to enhance the audio quality of your videos. A shotgun mic can greatly improve the clarity and precision of the sound captured, making your content more professional and engaging.
Here's a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best shotgun mic for your Sony FX3:
1. Compatibility with Sony FX3: Ensure that the shotgun microphone is compatible with the Sony FX3 camera. Look for models that feature a suitable mount or connector to seamlessly integrate with your camera's audio input.
2. Directionality: Shotgun microphones come in different directional patterns, such as cardioid, supercardioid, and hypercardioid. For capturing clear audio while minimizing ambient noise, choose a supercardioid or hypercardioid shotgun mic. These patterns focus on sound sources in front of the camera, effectively reducing side and rear noise.
3. Build Quality: Invest in a shotgun microphone with robust build quality. The mic should be durable enough to withstand outdoor shooting conditions and potential handling noise. Sturdy construction also contributes to longevity and reliability.
4. Size and Weight: Consider the size and weight of the shotgun microphone. A compact and lightweight mic is ideal for on-the-go shooting and doesn't add unnecessary bulk to your camera setup.
5. Low Self-Noise: Opt for a shotgun mic with low self-noise levels. Lower self-noise ensures that the microphone doesn't introduce unwanted static or hissing sounds to your recordings, particularly in quiet environments.
6. Frequency Response: Look for a shotgun mic with a frequency response that matches the range of human speech (typically around 70Hz to 20kHz). This ensures that the microphone captures voices with accuracy and natural tonality.
7. Shock Mount and Windscreen: A good shotgun mic package should include a shock mount and windscreen. The shock mount isolates the microphone from vibrations and handling noise, while the windscreen reduces wind interference when shooting outdoors.
8. Phantom Power: Check if your chosen microphone requires phantom power. The Sony FX3 provides phantom power through its XLR inputs, so ensure that the microphone can operate with this power source.
9. Price and Budget: Set a budget for your shotgun microphone and explore options within that range. While higher-priced models often offer advanced features and superior sound quality, there are also budget-friendly options that can deliver satisfactory results.
10. Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews from fellow videographers and content creators who have used shotgun microphones with the Sony FX3. Their experiences can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.
11. Brand Reputation: Choose a shotgun microphone from reputable audio equipment brands known for their quality and reliability. Established brands usually offer better customer support and warranties.
12. Test Before Purchase: If possible, test the shotgun microphone before making a purchase. This can be done at a local electronics store or by renting the microphone to ensure that it meets your specific audio recording needs.
By considering these factors and thoroughly researching shotgun microphones compatible with the Sony FX3, you'll be better equipped to choose a microphone that elevates the audio quality of your video content to a professional level.
To help you make an informed decision, we have reviewed and tested some of the best shotgun mics for Sony FX3 on the market and below are our top recommendations.
Our Recommended Shotgun Microphones for Sony FX3
Sennheiser MKE 600 Shotgun Mic
The Sennheiser MKE 600 is one of the most popular shotgun mics for Sony FX3 due to its high quality and reasonable price. It delivers excellent sound quality with low noise, high sensitivity, and natural frequency response. It also has a switchable low-cut filter that can reduce wind noise and rumble.
This shotgun mic can be powered by either phantom power or a single AA battery, which gives you more flexibility and reliability.
The MKE 600 comes with a foam windshield and a shock mount that can reduce handling noise and vibrations. It also has a rugged metal housing that can withstand harsh conditions.
It is compatible with the Sony FX3 via the XLR inputs on the top handle of the camera. You can also use an XLR to 3.5mm adapter cable to connect it to the mic input on the side of the camera. The MKE 600 is a great choice for anyone who wants a professional and versatile shotgun mic for their Sony FX3.
Rode VideoMic Pro+ Shotgun Microphone
The Rode VideoMic Pro+ is another great shotgun mic for Sony FX3 that offers high performance and convenience. It features a supercardioid polar pattern that can reject ambient noise and focus on your subject.
It also has a digital switching system that allows you to adjust the gain, high-pass filter, high-frequency boost, and safety channel settings according to your needs. The VideoMic Pro+ has an automatic power function that can turn on and off with your camera, saving battery life and preventing missed recordings.
The VideoMic Pro+ can be powered by either a rechargeable lithium-ion battery or two AA batteries. It is compatible with the Sony FX3 via the 3.5mm mic input on the side of the camera.
You can also use an XLR adapter to connect it to the top handle of the camera if you prefer. The VideoMic Pro+ comes with a foam windshield, a micro USB cable, and a Rycote Lyre shock mount that can isolate the mic from vibrations and shocks.
The VideoMic Pro+ is a perfect option for anyone who wants a compact and easy-to-use shotgun mic for their Sony FX3.
Rode NTG5 Moisture-Resistant Short Shotgun Microphone
The Rode NTG5 is a high-end shotgun mic for Sony FX3 that offers superb sound quality and durability. It features a short interference tube design that can produce natural and uncolored sound with minimal distortion.
It also has a highly directional supercardioid polar pattern that can reject off-axis noise and capture clear dialogue. The NTG5 has a low self-noise of 10 dB-A and a high sensitivity of -23 dB re 1V/Pa, which means it can produce strong output levels without requiring much gain from your camera or recorder.
The NTG5 is also moisture-resistant, which makes it suitable for outdoor use in humid conditions. It is compatible with the Sony FX3 via the XLR inputs on the top handle of the camera. You can also use an XLR to 3.5mm adapter cable to connect it to the mic input on the side of the camera if you want.
This shotgun microphone comes with a foam windshield, a furry windshield, a pistol grip shock mount, a boom pole mount, a mic clip, and an XLR cable. The NTG5 is an ideal choice for anyone who wants a premium and reliable shotgun mic for their Sony FX3.
Conclusion
A shotgun mic is an essential accessory for your Sony FX3 if you want to record high-quality audio for your videos.
Depending on your budget, preferences, and needs, you can choose from the three shotgun mics we recommended above: the Sennheiser MKE 600, the Rode VideoMic Pro+, or the Rode NTG5. All of them are compatible with the Sony FX3 and can deliver excellent sound quality, durability, and performance.
If you want to learn more about how to choose the best shotgun mic for your Sony FX3 or other cameras, you can check out these resources:
– Best Microphones for Sony FX3 & FX6 – Camera Tested
– Best mic for Sony FX3 – Top Handle Audio Quality is Impressive – YouTube
– Best Microphone for Sony FX3 – Accessories Tested
Remember, the best shotgun mic for your Sony FX3 is the one that suits your needs and expectations. We hope this article has helped you make an informed decision and improve your audio quality.
Happy shooting!