Zoom
Zoom ZBTA2 PodTrak Series Bluetooth Transmitter/Receiver Adapter
Regular price $59.99Unit price
Audio Accessories for Cameras & Recording Systems
The microphone is only part of your audio chain. Impulse Camera Store carries the audio accessories that complete your recording setup — microphone cables, XLR adapters, audio interfaces, boom pole hardware, shock mounts, windscreens, deadcats, audio recorders, headphone adapters, and connectivity solutions for camera, recorder, and mixer systems. Professional audio on a video production depends as much on the accessories connecting your microphone to your recorder as it does on the microphone itself.
Buying Guide: Essential Audio Accessories
XLR Adapters & Preamps
Most professional microphones output via XLR, but most consumer and prosumer cameras only accept 3.5mm (TRS) input. XLR to camera adapters — like the Rode AI-Micro or Saramonic adapters — step down the signal and provide phantom power for condenser microphones. For cameras without any audio input, a dedicated audio recorder (Zoom H-series, Tascam DR-series) records clean audio separately for synchronization in post.
Shock Mounts & Windscreens
A shock mount isolates your microphone from mechanical vibration transmitted through the boom pole or stand, eliminating handling noise in your recording. Windscreens (foam or foam-and-fur "deadcat" style) reduce wind noise from air movement across the microphone capsule. Both accessories are essential for outdoor recording and any handheld boom work.
Boom Poles & Hardware
A quality boom pole extends your microphone over your subject without appearing in frame. Carbon fiber boom poles are the professional choice for their rigidity and light weight over long operating distances. Boom pole connectors, cable through-booms (internal cable routing), and pistol grips round out a complete boom setup. For single-operator documentary and ENG work, a monopod with a microphone clip is a practical lightweight option.
Headphone Adapters & Monitoring
Monitoring your audio in real time while recording is non-negotiable for professional work. Many cameras have a 3.5mm headphone output for direct monitoring. For locations with multiple audio sources, a mixer with headphone monitoring gives you full control. Coiled headphone cables, right-angle adapters, and 1/4"-to-3.5mm converters are the small accessories that keep monitoring setups working smoothly on set.
What is phantom power and do I need it for my microphone?
Phantom power (48V) is required by most condenser microphones to operate their internal electronics. Dynamic microphones do not require phantom power. When connecting a condenser mic to a camera or recorder without phantom power, you need an XLR adapter or preamp that supplies 48V. Always check your microphone's requirements before purchasing an adapter.
Do I need a dedicated audio recorder or can I use my camera's built-in audio?
Built-in camera audio is acceptable for rough cuts and reference, but the preamps in most cameras are noisy, and the analog circuit path often introduces hiss and hum. A dedicated field recorder (Zoom H5, H6; Tascam DR-60D) provides significantly cleaner preamps, XLR inputs with phantom power, and greater control over audio quality. For professional work, recording to a dedicated recorder and syncing in post is the standard approach.
What windscreen should I use outdoors?
For light wind (under 10 mph), a foam windscreen provides adequate protection. For outdoor locations with significant wind, a "deadcat" or "blimp" windscreen (fur-covered foam over the microphone capsule) is necessary — these work by disrupting airflow before it reaches the capsule. Rode, Rycote, and Deity all make windscreen solutions compatible with their respective microphones.
What is a shock mount and do I need one?
A shock mount suspends the microphone in an elastic cradle that isolates it from vibration. Without a shock mount, footsteps, boom handling, and stand vibration all transmit directly into your recording. For any boom-mounted or stand-mounted condenser microphone, a shock mount is essential. Many microphones include a basic shock mount; premium Rycote Lyre-style shock mounts provide superior isolation.
What cable do I need to connect a microphone to my camera?
The cable you need depends on your microphone's output (XLR or 3.5mm TRS) and your camera's input (usually 3.5mm TRS). For XLR mics to cameras, you need an XLR-to-3.5mm adapter or a camera-mount preamp. For 3.5mm mics directly to cameras, a TRS-to-TRS 3.5mm cable is standard. Always use shielded, quality cables — cheap cables are a common source of interference and noise.
Visit Us in Milwaukee — Impulse Camera Store carries audio accessories for video production and field recording in Milwaukee. Stop in or email sales@impulsemke.com with your microphone and camera setup for specific accessory recommendations.