Have you just finished a recording session, only to discover that while your footage looks fantastic, the audio is filled with unwanted noise and lacks clarity? This is a common issue when relying on standard microphones, especially in challenging environments. But don’t worry; the best shotgun microphones can solve this problem.
A shotgun microphone offers a focused recording range with high sensitivity, allowing it to isolate your subject’s voice while minimizing background noise. These mics are versatile, perfect for mounting on cameras to capture crisp dialogue, using in noisy settings to pick up only the sounds you want, or placing on a podium for clear recordings of speakers.
In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about shotgun microphones. We’ll explore their benefits, how they work, and what to consider when choosing the best shotgun mic for your projects. Let’s get started and find the ideal shotgun microphone to elevate your audio quality!
How Does a Shotgun Mic Work?
Every shotgun microphone has a long hollow tube with slots along its surface and a directional microphone capsule at the end. These capsules usually have a narrow polar pattern called super cardioid.
A shotgun mic works by using “waveform interference.” The slots in the tube create this interference, not the mic’s position. Sounds coming straight at the mic (on-axis) travel directly to the capsule at the end of the tube. However, sounds from the sides (off-axis) enter the slots at different points.
These off-axis sounds are out of phase with each other, causing them to mix and often cancel out. This is due to constructive and destructive interference, which can either reduce or dull the sounds coming from the sides. As a result, the sound is clearer when coming directly at the mic and muted from the sides.
Roundup of the Best Shotgun Mics
| Overall Best Shotgun Mic | SENNHEISER Wired Professional MKH 416-P48U3 |
| Best for Professional Use | SENNHEISER MKE 600 Professional Shotgun Microphone |
| Best for Versatility | Rode NTG-2 |
| Best Budget Option | Audio-Technica AT897 |
| Best for Advanced Features | Rode NTG4 |
| Best for High-End Use | Sennheiser Consumer Audio Neumann KMR 81 i |
| Best for Durability | Deity Microphones S-Mic 2 |
| Best for Portable Use | Shure SHUVP82 |
| Best for Long-Distance Recording | AZDEN SGM-3500 |
Things to Consider When Looking for a Shotgun Mic
Here is a list of things you should look for when shopping for a shotgun mic:
1. Frequency Response
The frequency response of a microphone measures its ability to record sound accurately across different frequencies, measured in Hertz (Hz).
Shotgun mics often have a broad and flat response to accurately represent the sounds we hear. They are tuned to emphasize speech and midrange frequencies, making them ideal for recording clear audio.
2. Condenser vs. Dynamic Microphones
There are two main types of microphones: condenser and dynamic. Condenser mics have small, sensitive diaphragms that pick up soft and nuanced sounds but are fragile.
Dynamic mics have larger diaphragms that are less sensitive to subtle sounds but can handle loud noises and rough handling. Shotgun mics are usually condensers because they need to capture even the quietest sounds.
3. Length
Shotgun mics come in various lengths, from a few inches to over a foot. Shorter mics are lighter and easier to handle, especially when mounted on a camera.
Longer mics have more focused polar patterns, making them better for capturing sound from a distance, like at concerts or sports events. However, they can be cumbersome on a camera.
4. Dynamic Range
The dynamic range, measured in decibels (dB), indicates the range of loud and soft sounds the mic can capture without distortion.
5. Sensitivity to the Free Field
Free-field sensitivity refers to a mic’s ability to capture sound directly without picking up background noise or feedback. A good shotgun mic will have high free-field sensitivity, ensuring clear audio recording.
6. Signal to Noise ratio
This ratio measures how much noise the mic can reject compared to the sound it captures. A higher signal-to-noise ratio means better sound quality and less unwanted noise.
7. Power
Shotgun mics need power to operate. They usually rely on 48-volt phantom power provided by recording equipment or cameras. Some models can also use AA batteries, which can be useful if phantom power isn’t available.
Top 9 Shotgun Microphones
To aid you on your quest to buy one of the best shotgun microphones available on the market, we have made a list that ranks the best shotgun mics. So let’s take a look!
1. SENNHEISER Wired Professional MKH 416-P48U3
Overall Best Shotgun Mic
What Impressed Us
- Excellent sound quality with a balanced signature
- Supercardioid polar pattern for effective noise rejection
- Durable and resistant to moisture and plosives
- Versatile for both indoor and outdoor use
- Industry-standard reputation for professional applications
What Disappointed Us
- May require additional equipment for optimal performance
- Some users may find it less effective in reverberant spaces
We chose the SENNHEISER Wired Professional MKH 416-P48U3 as the overall best shotgun mic due to its outstanding performance, reliability, and industry-leading sound quality. This microphone is a favorite among professionals in film, television, and broadcasting for its ability to deliver precise and clear audio in various environments.
The MKH 416-P48U3 excels in overall use with its highly directional super-cardioid pickup pattern, ensuring that it captures the sound you want while minimizing background noise. This makes it perfect for on-location shooting, interviews, and voice-over work.
Its robust build and weather-resistant design ensure durability in challenging conditions, making it a versatile tool for any professional audio application.
In addition to its exceptional performance, the MKH 416-P48U3 features a wide frequency response of 40 Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring detailed and accurate sound reproduction. Its compact length of 250 mm makes it easy to handle and mount.
With a dynamic range of 130 dB, it can handle loud sound sources without distortion. The microphone’s high sensitivity to the free field (25 mV/Pa) and excellent signal-to-noise ratio of 81 dB ensure clear and noise-free recordings. It operates on 48 V phantom power, providing consistent performance.
In conclusion, the SENNHEISER Wired Professional MKH 416-P48U3 is the best choice for those seeking a top-of-the-line shotgun microphone. Its combination of superior sound quality, robust design, and professional-grade features make it an invaluable tool for any audio recording setup.
View on Amazon: SENNHEISER Wired Professional MKH 416-P48U3
2. SENNHEISER MKE 600 Professional Shotgun Microphone
Best for Professional Use
What Impressed Us
- Excellent noise rejection and directionality
- Compact and lightweight design
- Switchable “Low Cut” filter for wind noise reduction
- Battery-powered option for use with cameras without phantom power
- Good sound quality with a balanced signature
What Disappointed Us
- May not be ideal for indoor use due to its directional nature
- Some users find the included windscreen foam to be of poor quality
The SENNHEISER Professional Shotgun Microphone is our top pick for professional use due to its unparalleled audio quality and reliability. This microphone is widely used in the film, television, and broadcasting industries for capturing precise and clear audio in demanding environments.
The SENNHEISER Professional Shotgun Microphone excels in delivering pristine sound with its highly directional super-cardioid pickup pattern, which effectively minimizes background noise and focuses on the desired audio source.
Its robust construction and weather-resistant design make it ideal for various professional settings, ensuring consistent performance even in challenging conditions.
In addition to its impressive performance, this microphone offers a wide frequency response, excellent dynamic range, and high sensitivity, ensuring that every nuance of the audio is captured accurately. Its high signal-to-noise ratio ensures clean recordings with minimal background noise, making it a reliable choice for professional applications.
In conclusion, the SENNHEISER Professional Shotgun Microphone is the best choice for professionals who demand superior audio quality and reliability. Its outstanding performance and durable design make it an invaluable tool for any professional audio setup.
View on Amazon: SENNHEISER Professional Shotgun Microphone
3. Rode NTG-2
Best for Versatility
What Impressed Us
- Narrow polar pattern for precise boom work
- Effective background noise rejection
- Versatile power options (phantom power or internal AA battery)
- High-pass filter for reducing low-frequency noise
- Affordable price
What Disappointed Us
- High self-noise
- Signal may require significant gain
The Rode NTG-2 is our choice for the best versatile shotgun microphone due to its flexibility and high performance in various recording scenarios. We selected this mic for its ability to deliver exceptional audio quality whether used for film, television, or location recording.
The NTG-2 stands out with its dual power options, allowing it to run on either phantom power or an AA battery, providing versatility in different recording environments.
Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle and mount, perfect for on-the-go shooting. The super-cardioid pickup pattern ensures focused audio capture while minimizing background noise.
In addition to its versatility, the NTG-2 features a wide frequency response, good sensitivity, and a solid dynamic range, ensuring clear and detailed recordings. Its durable construction ensures longevity, making it a reliable choice for various professional and amateur applications.
In summary, the Rode NTG-2 is the best versatile shotgun microphone, offering flexibility, high performance, and ease of use. Its adaptability makes it a valuable addition to any audio recording toolkit.
View on Amazon: Rode NTG-2
4. Audio-Technica AT897
Best Budget Option
What Impressed Us
- Compact and lightweight design for easy handling and mounting
- High-quality audio capture with a super-cardioid polar pattern
- Long battery life with a single AA battery
- Affordable price point
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor recording
What Disappointed Us
- May not be as effective for distant sound sources due to its shorter length
- Foam windscreen included may not be sufficient for windy conditions
The Audio-Technica AT897 is our top pick for the best budget option due to its affordability and reliable performance. This microphone provides excellent value for money, making it an ideal choice for those looking for quality audio on a budget.
The AT897 excels in delivering clear and natural sound with its highly directional pickup pattern, which effectively isolates the desired audio source from background noise. Its compact design makes it easy to handle and mount, suitable for various recording scenarios, including film, video, and field recording.
In addition to its budget-friendly price, the AT897 offers a wide frequency response, good sensitivity, and decent dynamic range, ensuring high-quality audio capture. It operates on both phantom power and AA battery, adding to its versatility. The durable construction ensures it can withstand regular use, making it a reliable option for budget-conscious users.
In conclusion, the Audio-Technica AT897 is the best budget option for those seeking quality audio without a hefty price tag. Its combination of affordability, performance, and versatility makes it an excellent choice for various recording needs.
View on Amazon: Audio-Technica AT897
5. Rode NTG4
Best for Advanced Features
What Impressed Us
- Highly directional supercardioid polar pattern
- Versatile features such as high-pass filter, -10dB pad, and high-frequency boost
- Dual-powered with internal rechargeable lithium-ion battery and P48 phantom power
- Super lightweight and ideal for boom or camera use
- Clean, crisp sound with low-noise circuitry
What Disappointed Us
- Highly sensitive touch controls
The Rode NTG4 is our choice for the best shotgun microphone with advanced features due to its cutting-edge technology and superior performance. This microphone is designed to provide exceptional audio quality with enhanced functionality, making it perfect for professional use.
The NTG4 excels in delivering high-quality sound with its super-cardioid pickup pattern, which ensures focused audio capture while minimizing background noise. It features a built-in high-pass filter, high-frequency boost, and a -10dB pad, offering advanced control over the audio capture process. These features make it highly adaptable to different recording environments and scenarios.
In addition to its advanced features, the NTG4 offers a wide frequency response, excellent sensitivity, and a strong dynamic range, ensuring clear and detailed audio recordings. Its durable construction and dual power options (phantom power and internal rechargeable battery) add to its versatility and reliability.
In summary, the Rode NTG4 is the best choice for those seeking advanced features in a shotgun microphone. Its superior performance, enhanced functionality, and robust design make it a valuable tool for professional audio recording
View on Amazon: Rode NTG4
6. Sennheiser Consumer Audio Neumann KMR 81 i
Best for High-End Use
What Impressed Us
- Excellent sound quality with high directivity and minimal coloration
- Suitable for medium-distance applications, such as film dialogue and ENG
- High maximum SPL and signal-to-noise ratio
- Equipped with a -10 dB pad and high-pass filter switch
- Durable and reliable construction
What Disappointed Us
- High price point, making it less accessible to budget-conscious users
The Sennheiser Consumer Audio Neumann KMR 81 i stands out as the best option for high-end use due to its exceptional audio quality and professional-grade performance. This microphone is a top choice for demanding audio environments, such as film and broadcast production.
The KMR 81 i excels in capturing pristine sound with its super-cardioid pickup pattern, which effectively isolates the desired audio source from ambient noise. Its high sensitivity and low self-noise ensure that every detail of the audio is captured with clarity and precision. The robust build and superior components ensure durability and long-term reliability.
In addition to its high-end performance, the KMR 81 i offers a wide frequency response and excellent dynamic range, making it suitable for a variety of recording applications. Its compact length and lightweight design make it easy to handle and mount, enhancing its usability in professional settings.
In conclusion, the Sennheiser Consumer Audio Neumann KMR 81 i is the best choice for high-end use, offering unmatched audio quality and reliability. Its superior performance and professional-grade features make it an essential tool for high-stakes audio recording.
View on Amazon: Sennheiser Consumer Audio Neumann KMR 81 i
7. Deity Microphones S-Mic 2
Best for Durability
What Impressed Us
- Excellent off-axis rejection and sound quality
- Durable and weather-resistant construction
- Low self-noise level
- Affordable price point
What Disappointed Us
- May require additional accessories for optimal performance
The Deity Microphones S-Mic 2 stands out as the best option for durability due to its rugged construction and reliable performance. We chose this microphone for its ability to withstand tough conditions while delivering high-quality audio.
The S-Mic 2 excels in providing clear and natural sound with its super-cardioid pickup pattern, which effectively isolates the desired audio source. Its all-metal construction and waterproof design ensure that it can endure harsh environments, making it ideal for field recording and outdoor use.
In addition to its durability, the S-Mic 2 offers a wide frequency response, excellent sensitivity, and a strong dynamic range, ensuring detailed and accurate audio capture. Its low self-noise and high signal-to-noise ratio further enhance its performance, making it a reliable choice for professional applications.
In conclusion, the Deity Microphones S-Mic 2 is the best choice for those seeking a durable shotgun microphone. Its robust construction and exceptional audio quality make it a valuable tool for demanding recording situations.
View on Amazon: Deity Microphones S-Mic 2
8. Shure SHUVP82
Best for Portable Use
What Impressed Us
- Compact and lightweight design for easy handling
- Natural off-axis rejection for improved sound quality
- Compatible with premium accessories for enhanced functionality
- Good sound quality with effective noise rejection
- Affordable pricing for semi-professional applications
What Disappointed Us
- Some users have reported issues with the microphone’s durability
- May not be suitable for high-end professional applications
The Shure SHUVP82 is our top pick for the best portable shotgun microphone due to its compact design and high performance. We selected this mic for its ease of use and portability, making it perfect for mobile recording.
The SHUVP82 excels in delivering clear and detailed sound with its super-cardioid pickup pattern, which effectively minimizes background noise. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to handle and carry, ideal for on-the-go recording.
In addition to its portability, the SHUVP82 offers a wide frequency response, good sensitivity, and a solid dynamic range, ensuring high-quality audio capture. Its durable construction ensures long-term reliability, making it a dependable choice for various recording applications.
In summary, the Shure SHUVP82 is the best choice for portable use, offering excellent audio quality and ease of use in a compact package. Its portability and performance make it an ideal companion for mobile recording.
View on Amazon: Shure SHUVP82
9. AZDEN SGM-3500
Best for Long-Distance Recording
What Impressed Us
- Excellent side noise rejection with a supercardioid polar pattern
- High-sensitivity condenser element for detailed sound capture
- Low self-noise floor and high dynamic range for clear audio
- Durable all-metal brass body with gold-plated XLR connector
- Affordable price for a professional-grade microphone
- Includes useful accessories like a hardshell case, mic clip, and windscreen
What Disappointed Us
- May require additional wind protection for outdoor use
- Some users may find the microphone’s length (approx. 7 inches) to be a limitation for certain applications
The AZDEN SGM-3500 is the best choice for long-distance recording due to its exceptional reach and audio clarity. We selected this microphone for its ability to capture distant sound sources with precision and minimal background noise.
The SGM-3500 excels in delivering high-quality sound with its highly directional super-cardioid pickup pattern, which ensures focused audio capture from a distance. Its long barrel design enhances its reach, making it perfect for capturing audio in large venues or outdoor settings.
In addition to its long-distance capabilities, the SGM-3500 offers a wide frequency response, excellent sensitivity, and a strong dynamic range, ensuring detailed and accurate audio capture. Its robust construction ensures durability, making it suitable for various demanding recording environments.
In conclusion, the AZDEN SGM-3500 is the best choice for long-distance recording, offering superior reach and audio clarity. Its performance and durability make it an essential tool for capturing high-quality audio from a distance.
View on Amazon: AZDEN SGM-3500
Frequently Asked Questions About Shotgun Mics
The narrow pickup pattern of a shotgun’s directional microphone makes it an excellent choice as a recording device. It has a high gain and concentrates primarily on the sound source in front of it. Thus it records that sound with a high gain, but it captures the noises (unwanted sounds) from the sides and the back extremely quietly.
People use shotgun microphones for public addresses in meetings, conferences, and classroom lectures as it is unnecessary for the speaker to hold a microphone to his mouth or to have a wired microphone attached to his person in these situations to record a speech or a lecture.
All condenser microphones, including shotgun mics, require an external power source. They often rely on the 48-volt phantom power provided by a recording device, mixing console, or camera.
If you aren’t moving around much while streaming, a shotgun mic should be sufficient for your needs. It also has excellent directionality since it will only take up the sounds sent directly to it, leaving behind any other noises. Because you can position it above the camera, the shotgun mic can be an excellent choice if you want to conceal the presence of your microphone.
Nobody can keep a shotgun mic completely still. If there isn’t a shock mount, it will pick up even the tiniest vibrations; the microphone will pick up even the tiniest vibrations as distracting background noise.
A Guide on Utilizing a Shock Mount
1. Attach the shock mount to a boom pole, microphone stand, or tripod using the included screws. A shock mount will have a threaded insert measuring either 3/8″ or 5/8″. Most of them come standard with adapters that make them compatible with any boom pole or mic stand.
2. Place the microphone inside the cradle. Put the microphone on top of one of the lyres, and then press down on it with consistent force. The lyre will gradually separate until it has completely received the microphone and firmly fastened it. Proceed in the same manner with the remaining lyres.
3. Plug the audio cord into the microphone. Most pencil condenser microphones require phantom power via XLR wire.
4. Secure cable. Most shock mounts come equipped with a built-in mechanism for wire management. It maintains order and safeguards any surplus cable.
5. Experience stability devoid of any noise.
When utilized properly, shotgun mics and lavaliers (lapel mics) may record high-quality audio. They work wonderfully for chats, vlogs, and interviews. Lavalier microphones, especially the omnidirectional kind that clip on the subject, deliver a high signal-to-noise ratio. A lavalier microphone with a 3.5mm connector allows direct recording from the microphone to the video file.
The transmitter for a wireless lavalier microphone may be put into a 3.5 mm jack or recorded to a second mixer for syncing in post production.
Shotgun microphones are more adaptable than lavaliers because of their compact design. Shotgun microphones often provide a more organic sound than lavaliers. In addition, you won’t have to worry about actors, yourself, or interviewees having to conceal them to keep them out of shots.
Final Words
It’s great to see the impressive quality of all the shotgun microphones listed above. Choosing any of these options will provide you with polished, high-quality audio that enhances your recordings.
Even the more affordable shotgun mics exceed expectations, offering excellent value for money. This means that you can achieve great sound quality without breaking the bank.
We hope our buying advice helps you find the perfect shotgun microphone. We highly recommend the SENNHEISER Wired Professional MKH 416-P48U3 for professionals seeking top-notch audio quality and durability. For those looking for a versatile and reliable option, the Rode NTG-2 is an ideal option.
