What's the best shotgun/directional mic under $200, I was looking at the panasonic AG-MC100G, but wasn't sure if that was the best bang for the buck. Post your suggestions for good mics under $200.

What's the best shotgun/directional mic under $200, I was looking at the panasonic AG-MC100G, but wasn't sure if that was the best bang for the buck. Post your suggestions for good mics under $200.
I'm also looking for advice. There don't seem to be many options on the market.

Hard to say, but you might want to listen to the $150ish Rode VideoMic
(which I've only heard at a trade show, but it appears some folks think it's decent) or perhaps the Ambient TinyMike. I think the Rode will be easier to find...

Best,

Jim

You can also consider the Rode NT3 as well, it isn't a shotgun, but if you don't need the high side and back rejection it's a great mic, as is the videomic. I have both. Guy Bruner reviewed them and the new Rode shotgun mics on his great site www.pana3ccduser.com. Check out the equipment review section. there are audio clips too! Mark

I bought the rode ntg-2 shotgun at b&h for about $225 and they had a special where they threw in an azden mount and a short xlr connector for free. I like the mic, for the price I think it's really good.

If you're not completely sold on a shotgun, you might want to consider a nice hypercardioid like the Oktava MC012 available here http://www.sound-room.com for about $170. It's a great mic for the price and will blow away similar-priced shotguns in sound quality.