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Microphones

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Clean audio is half of great video. Browse wireless lavalier systems, on-camera shotgun mics, and field recorders — everything you need to capture professional sound on set or on location.
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How to choose a microphone for video

Audiences forgive imperfect video before they forgive bad audio. Pick the mic that matches what you're actually recording:

Pick the type for the job

Shotgun mics mount on top of the camera and pick up sound in front — good for run-and-gun video, b-roll, and interviews when you can keep the camera close. Lavalier (lav) mics clip to a subject's clothing for hands-free dialogue — essential for interviews, vlogs, and presentations. Wireless lav systems (DJI Mic, Rode Wireless Pro, Hollyland) skip the cable and have become the default for solo creators.

Connectivity matters

3.5mm TRS/TRRS works with cameras and phones (consumer-friendly). XLR is the pro standard — balanced signal, longer runs, used on cinema cameras and audio recorders. USB-C plugs directly into computers and some cameras. Many modern wireless mics offer all three with adapters.

On-camera vs off-camera audio

On-camera shotgun mics are convenient but pick up the camera's own handling noise and whatever's near the lens. Off-camera mics (lavs, boom mics) sound dramatically better because they're close to the subject. If you have one mic budget, lav usually wins for dialogue.

Don't skip the accessories

Windscreens, deadcats (furry covers), shock mounts, and good cables make more difference than spec sheets suggest. Outdoor shooting without a windscreen is unusable. Cheap cables introduce noise.

Frequently asked questions

Shotgun or lavalier — which should I get first?

For dialogue and interviews, a lav is clearer. For ambient sound, b-roll, and run-and-gun, a shotgun is more flexible. If you're shooting people talking, start with a wireless lav system; you'll use it forever.

Wireless or wired?

Wired lavs are reliable and cheap but they tether you to the camera. Wireless systems (DJI Mic 2, Rode Wireless Pro, Hollyland Lark M2) have become so good and so affordable that most solo creators skip wired entirely.

Do I need a separate audio recorder?

For most YouTube, social, and event work, no — modern cameras record clean audio if you give them a clean signal. For narrative film, podcasts, or anything mission-critical, a Zoom or Tascam field recorder gives you redundancy and better preamps.

What's the difference between XLR and 3.5mm mics?

XLR is the professional standard: balanced signal, lockable connector, used on cinema cameras and audio recorders. 3.5mm is the consumer standard — works with most cameras and phones, easier to use, but more susceptible to interference on long runs.

Are USB-C mics good for camera work?

USB-C mics shine for podcasting and computer recording. For camera use, you usually want something with a 3.5mm or XLR output instead — though some wireless kits offer USB-C as a third option for phones and laptops.

Local to Milwaukee? Stop into our camera store in Oak Creek, WI to A/B mics in our demo room and find the right sound for your setup.
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