Shotgun microphone, so named because of its shotgun barrel design, is the go-to choice for obtaining concentrated, high-quality recordings of conversation, foley, and sound effects in film, video, and TV productions. It is popular since it is able to capture the sound sources that are in front of it and minimize the off-axis ambient noises. Though all models share the same fundamental characteristic, there are several models with unique features for different workflows, scenarios, and users. So which is the best shotgun mic for film? Read on to find your own pick.
Quick overview: Top 4 shotgun mic recommendations for short film at SYNCO
There are several shotgun microphones at SYNCO. They are in different designs and feature various polar patterns. Some can be directly mounted on the camera and some can attach to the boom pole. Below we list 4 popular models and introduce their key features.
SYNCO D2 - Best shotgun mic for film production with hypercardioid polar pattern
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The SYNCO D2 is a medium-distance shotgun microphone with the best quality of any option on our list. The acoustic design ensures that the audio recording is clear and natural-sounding. Authenticity is essential in film audio, and the D2 has always adhered to this principle. The off-axis response is excellent, and the self-noise is exceptionally low.
The D2 features well balanced frequency response and hypercardioid polar pattern. Your audio will have a great level of depth to it. It can record really effectively in any setting, indoors or out. The microphone itself can survive practically any climate, from humid to dry and freezing.
Features- Hypercardioid polar pattern to focus on certain directional sounds and block off-axis noises
- Brass metal body ensures solid construction with high anti-interference
- Ultra low noise floor at 12dB (A-weighted)
- XLR connector brings interference-free signal transfer
SYNCO D30 - Shotgun mic used in movies that offers gain control, low cut and audio monitoring
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When recording at a distance, the supercardioid pattern with the short interference tube provides high accuracy. The frequency response is wide-ranging and turns off at 20Hz, which is ideal. The self-noise is relatively low, and it has a fuzzy windscreen for outside filming. The SPL (Sound Pressure Level) is 124dB, allowing you to capture very loud audio sources without distortion.
There's also an optional low-cut filter that can assist minimize low-frequency sounds like traffic and A/C units. This is especially useful if you're filming outside. Lastly, the SYNCO D30 is very light, at 85g. whether you use it on the camera or attach it to the boom pole as a boom microphone for camera, you won’t feel any burden.
Features- Stepless analog gain knob for adjusting input and output signals
- Overdrive protection system works to protect the sound recording from distortion
- 3.5mm headphone jack for real-time monitoring
- 75Hz/150Hz low cut filter to reduce low-frequency noises
SYNCO M1S - Best budget shotgun mic for film with compact design
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The SYNCO M1S is a compact shotgun mic for film that mounts on your camera. While it is less expensive than others on our list, it packs a powerful punch! You have the advantages of cost and mobility while still obtaining high-quality sound.
The M1S is only 72mm long and 35g in weight. A high-quality cardioid condenser is housed within and is utilized to record your sounds. A windscreen for outdoor usage is included in the package. You also receive a shock mount with four rubber rings for vibration absorption. Finally, there is a cable for plugging it into your camera, so no batteries are required! Overall, it is an excellent choice when you are tight on budget and want to get directional and mobile recording.
Features- Shock absorption design for reducing vibrating noises
- Compact and light enough to have no impact on video shooting
- Plug and play for run-and-gun production
- Wide compatibility with cameras, smartphones, tablets, and Mac with included 3.5mm TRS/TRRS cables
SYNCO M3 - Camera mounted shotgun mic for filmmaking beginner
Go and buy at Moman PhotoGears Store
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The compact design of the SYNCO M3 makes it convenient to bring around and place on your camera. It has excellent directionality and is very sensitive, with low self-noise.
The condenser microphone within is broadcast recording grade, providing you with a raw, true, acoustic sound. It operates on 1.2V battery power, so you won't need to utilize a live power source. A single battery provides 30-50 hours of runtime.
Finally, an inbuilt foam windshield makes it easy to use outside. Setting sound levels with cameras shotgun microphone SYNCO M3 is available. The 3-level gain control and 100Hz low cut allow you to adjust the input signals to an ideal level. If you’re getting started in film audio, the user-friendly M3 is a good choice.
Features- 3-level gain control at -10dB, 0dB, and +10dB for improving input signals
- 100Hz low cut filter to reduce low-frequency noises
- LED indicator to show working status
- Compact construction and light weight for portable filmmaking
How to choose the best shotgun mics for film: Six questions help narrow the options
It might be difficult to choose the best one because there are many factors to take into account. For this reason, we have made a list of requirements that can help you narrow down the options step by step.
- How much are you willing to spend on the purchase?
- Are you serious about footprint? A heavy one is hard to operate on the boom pole and a long one is likely to block the camera lenses.
- How important is the off-axis rejection for you? Shotguns feature different pickup patterns.
- Do you want to capture sounds in a quiet setting? This decides on the requirement for self noise.
- Where will you take up the video shooting frequently? Interior and exterior shootings ask for different mics.
- What kind of output are you looking for, XLR or 3.5mm?
Table: Film shotgun mic comparison by specs
According to the aforementioned choosing tips, we list the information of each SYNCO shotgun mic for documentary filming and make a comparison table for you to make a quick choice.
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Product |
D2 |
D30 |
M1S |
M3 |
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Price |
$199.00 |
$179.00 |
$29.00 |
$59.00 |
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Dimension |
0.75×9.84 inches |
Φ21.5×214.5mm |
Φ21.5x72mm |
Φ32×186mm |
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Weight |
165g |
85g |
35g |
52g |
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Polar pattern |
Hyper Cardioid |
Super Cardioid |
Cardioid |
Super Cardioid |
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SNR |
80dB |
82dB |
>60dB |
>78dB |
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Connector |
XLRM |
Type-C to 3.5mm |
TRS/TRRS |
TRS/TRRS |
Note: The price above is offered in Moman PhotoGears Store - our authorized seller.
How to make your shotgun mic sound better in film production?
Investing in a microphone is the first step to high quality audio results. And you should follow the tips below to make it sound better.
Mount the mic properly
Besides directly mounting it on your camera, sometimes you need it to be off-camera. And there are three common ways for you to choose from. Just select the one that suits your video shooting.
Using a stand or boom arm: Attaching a shotgun mic to a boompole or stand outside of the camera shot is an excellent method to take advantage of its strong directionality. For the greatest results, set it outside of the frame, a few feet above, and straight towards the desired sound source (i.e. who is speaking).
Using a studio arm: Another excellent alternative is to use a studio arm. Once attached to the arm, you may use it like any other microphone, but pay close attention to mic placement. Remember that because shotgun microphones are directional, you'll need to position it squarely at your mouth while podcasting or streaming for the greatest results.
Using a desk stand or tripod: Finally, a film shotgun mic may be simply fixed on a tripod or a desk stand and put in front of the speaker. This is an excellent choice for podcasting/streaming setups that require greater portability.
Pay attention to the aiming direction and distance
Camera shotgun microphones are ideal for recording natural-sounding speech since they are directional. Simply point it at the subject's chin or upper chest, keep approximately 2-3 feet away from their mouth, and pay attention to your frame so the mic doesn't wind up in the shot. It's normal to record conversation above the talent, but depending on the occasion, you can also record it below your talent. Experiment to see what works best and sounds the best.