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Best external microphones for high-quality video on Canon RF mirrorless cameras?

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Hey everyone! I recently made the jump to the Canon RF system with an EOS R6 Mark II, and I am absolutely loving the image quality. However, I have quickly realized that the built-in microphone just isn't cutting it for the professional video projects I'm starting to take on. I have been noticing some distracting autofocus noise from my RF 24-70mm lens being picked up by the internal mic, so an external solution is definitely my next priority.

I am primarily shooting a mix of outdoor lifestyle content and indoor sit-down interviews. I really need something that delivers crisp audio without a lot of background hiss. I have been looking at a few specific options and would love some feedback from people who have used them:

  • The Rode VideoMic NTG for its versatility on and off the camera.
  • The Canon DM-E1D since it uses the multi-function shoe and avoids messy cables.
  • A wireless setup like the DJI Mic 2 for interview situations.

My main concern is finding a mic that balances well on a gimbal while still providing that high-end sound. For those of you shooting video on Canon RF mirrorless bodies, what has been your most reliable external microphone setup for high-quality results?


3 Answers
12

Just saw this thread and had to chime in because I went through the exact same headache with my R6 Mark II. I used to be all about the standard 3.5mm wired mics, but honestly, dealing with cables on a gimbal is such a nightmare when you're trying to balance things perfectly. Double checking that the wire isn't snagging every time the motor moves is just too much stress during a shoot. I ended up picking up the Canon DM-E1D Stereo Microphone because it utilizes that new digital multi-function shoe. Since it draws power and sends the signal directly through the shoe, you don't have to worry about a battery dying mid-shoot or that annoying hiss you sometimes get from cheap analog cables. The sound is incredibly clean because the conversion happens digitally before it even hits the camera's internal preamps. It's also tiny, which helps a lot with gimbal clearance and keeping the weight centered. For those sit-down interviews you mentioned, I actually shifted away from on-camera mics entirely. I've been using the DJI Mic 2 Wireless Microphone System and it's been a lifesaver. Being able to record 32-bit float internally on the transmitters means I never have to worry about clipping if someone starts laughing or talking too loud. Plus, you can plug the receiver into the camera or just use the internal recording as a backup. It really changed my workflow for lifestyle stuff too because I can mic up a subject and walk 50 feet away without losing audio quality. Definitely look into the digital shoe options tho, they're the future for Canon users.


3

To add to the point above: if youre looking for that pro sound without spending a fortune, you should definitely check out some alternatives that punch way above their weight class. Ive been doing this for a decade and honestly, some of the mid-range stuff is just amazing now!! Its kinda crazy how good cheap mics have gotten. If you want to save some cash but still get that crisp audio for your interviews, check these out:

  • <a href=" https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt= Sennheiser+MKE+400+Shotgun+Microphone&BI=8941&KBID=10361&SID=2222&DFF=d50" target="_blank" rel="nofollow sponsored">Sennheiser MKE 400 Shotgun Microphone
  • This thing is fantastic because it has a built-in shock mount and wind protection. It kills that lens motor noise perfectly.
  • Deity V-Mic D4
  • Super lightweight for the gimbal and way cheaper than the high-end Rode stuff.
  • Tascam DR-10L Digital Audio Recorder with Lavalier
  • If you want the absolute best audio for sit-down interviews, clip-on recorders are a lifesaver. Definitely peek at sites like RTINGS or the Curtis Judd Audio channel on YouTube. That guy is basically the gold standard for mic reviews and helped me save hundreds when I was starting out. Youre gonna love the R6II, its such a beast for video! Let me know if you need help with settings tho.


2

Honestly, the Rode VideoMic NTG Hybrid Analog/USB Shotgun Microphone is my go-to. Its super light for gimbal work and the sound quality is a massive step up from internal mics.


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