I acquired my Canon HF-G10 only a few months back and until now have been using one of these inexpensive Mini-to-Standard Cold Shoe adapters for mounting an external microphone on-the-go.

Mini HOT Shoe Adapter Canon Vixia HF10 HF11 HF100 HF20 HF200 HG10 HG20 HF S10 | eBay (http://www.ebay.ca/itm/221139951768?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)

Here's the set-up with my old Sony EMC-MS908c; bought it with my first Sony DV camcorder over 12 years ago and it's still a great little microphone. It came with a short extension bracket-cum-dampener (of sorts) which can be used to bring the mic further forward on the HF-G10.

http://i1276.photobucket.com/albums/y475/WorBry/HF-G10withSonyMic1_zps928e6851.jpg (http://s1276.photobucket.com/user/WorBry/media/HF-G10withSonyMic1_zps928e6851.jpg.html)

http://i1276.photobucket.com/albums/y475/WorBry/HF-G10withSonyMic2_zpse9ef274e.jpg (http://s1276.photobucket.com/user/WorBry/media/HF-G10withSonyMic2_zpse9ef274e.jpg.html)

Well, the adapter is OK, I guess for the price. In it's favor, it doesn't impinge on the camcorder zoom control and so allows normal access to that. It is a bit fiddly to insert and relies on a tiny stud on the right side to lock in place. And removing the adapter requires fumbling for a little lever to lift the stud.

http://i1276.photobucket.com/albums/y475/WorBry/MiniShoeAdapteronHF-G10_zps58a4b4f9.jpg (http://s1276.photobucket.com/user/WorBry/media/MiniShoeAdapteronHF-G10_zps58a4b4f9.jpg.html)

What I really don't like though, is that the front portion of the adapter foot fits in over the 'hot' contacts and I think depresses them in order to do so. Since the adapter does rock a little in the shoe, I can see potential for damaging the contacts - a consideration if I ever came to sell the HF-G10 or use a Canon 'hot' accessory. Also, the adapter is entirely plastic construction and I don't think it would take a lot to snap the stem.

There's this pricier adapter (Pearstone CSA-II) that has a screw-down arrangement, but I'd have the same concern about the shoe touching the 'hot' contacts (difficult to tell from the product image) and I'm not sure I'd want that much elevation:

Pearstone CSA-II Universal Shoe Adapter for Canon CSA-II B&H


So, I'm thinking about one of these all-metal adapters from DM Accessories (CMS-FLAT v2):

DM-Accessories ? CMS-FLAT v2 - Canon Mini Accessory Shoe to Universal Shoe Adapter (http://shop.dm-accessories.com/products/cms-flat)

Relatively pricey (and more so through Canadian retailers), but what I like is that the fork-like foot doesn't come near the 'hot' contacts and looks to be fairly low profile. Looking at the image however, I'm not sure if the tightening ring would in any way obstruct the zoom control. Also, on the HF-G10 (and I assume HF-G20) there is a lip between the mini shoe plate and the zoom control, and I wonder if this presents any issue for fully tightening the ring down.

Any HF-G10/20 owners out there using this adapter who could comment? I'd include HF-G30 owners too, except that, being blessed with that well positioned standard cold shoe, I can't imagine any would be grappling with this issue.

BTW - looking at the above photos of my existing set-up, the observant might note that I have an HF-G20 type lens hood on my HF-G10, with the lever-controlled 'lens guard' in replace of the regular stock hood with fiddly lens cap. I contacted Canon Canada who confirmed that the hoods have exactly the same fit and was delighted to find that the HF-G20 hood was available as a part and relatively inexpensive - as I recall, around 24 $CAD (32 $CAD including tax/courier). I expected it to be much more. It arrived the next day, and fits and works perfectly. Best 'accessory' purchase I've made to date.

I hate to complain, but your photos are a bit big Brian!

Dave

Crikey you're right. I'd uploaded the full res images. Now down-sized.

BTW - I do also have one of these folding 'L' brackets, that was useful when mounting a microphone and video light on previous camcorders I've owned (all of which had a standard cold shoe).

Kaiser Folding Metal "L" Flash Bracket 201100 B&H


But, using on the left side (at maximum extension) of the HF-G10 there is not quite enough clearance to open and close the relatively large LCD screen, and mounting on the right side makes accessing the controls whilst holding the grip a bit difficult.

DM Accessories have a wrap-around bracket that allows standard shoe accessories to be forward mounted, with room for camcorder to be held by the hand-grip and operated in the normal way.

DM-Accessories ? Wrap Around Mount 36 (http://shop.dm-accessories.com/products/wam36)

Neat idea, but unfortunately the largest model would be just too small for the HF-G10/20, taking into account the lens hood.

Next step up, of course, would be a larger bracket/frame support, like:

http://www.cameragrip.co.uk/acatalog/hague_camgrip_steadyshot.html
http://www.cameragrip.co.uk/acatalog/hague_camera_camframe_support.html

or a "Cam-Caddie" like support.

But then it it starts getting bulky/cumbersome. Fine for staged shoots, going between tripod and handheld, but for video on-the-go, I really need lean arrangement that can be easily contained in a camcorder bag and quickly assembled/disassembled.

Just to clarify matters, I learn that the first version of the (DM Accessories) CMS-FLAT adapter was designed for the earlier Canon models (up to the HF-20/200 series) where the Advanced Mini Shoe was located (like the HF-G10/20) at the back end of the camcorder. This first version had a smaller tightening ring. On the HF-SXXX series models the Mini Shoe was placed further forward on the camcorder body in a recessed compartment. Apparently, this presented issues for attaching the CMS-FLAT adapter, which had to be part disassembled to access the tightening ring and then re-assembled. That's why the CMS-FLAT v2 adapter was developed.

Whether the first version of the CMS-FLAT (now discontinued) would have fitted on the HF-G10/20 Mini Shoe, I'm not sure. The HF-G10 is the first Canon model with a Mini Shoe that I've owned. Looking at images of the HF-20/200 models, I suspect it would have. What I need to know though is whether the available CMS-FLAT v2 adapter, with larger tightening ring, definitely fits.

Anyone ??

Hi Bryan,

I like the Canon mini hot shoe, but wherever they put it it will cause someone a problem. On the HF S100 it was fairly central, but fitting my DM-100 mike with a Windcutter Stormchaser on, I had hairs showing in the top of the frame at the wider angles of zoom. Windcutter re-designed it to my specifcation and cured it.

On the HF G30 it is right at the back and, with the DM-100 fitted, my forehead hits it if I tilt the EVF up, it would also hit it without the Stormchaser on. It is much more convenient to use the DM-100 most of the time than my SVM, so I put up with it.

I have a Custom Brackets Digital-T bracket I bought for my DSLR, plenty of room to open the LCD screen, but I wasn't particularly fond of it and hardly used it Custom Brackets CB Digital-T Flash Rotating Camera CB-DIGITAL-T.

You ought to be able to find something suitable here Bracket 1 - Video Camera & DSLR Brackets Mount Microphone Receivers & Accessories (http://www.bracket1.com/). I used their stuff with my HF S100 when I wanted to use the camera on a tripod and use LANC controller adaptor, which fits in the mini hot shoe, along with my Rode SVM which I mounted on the bracket.

Dave

Hi Bryan

I have two of the HF200's and only one DM-100 so I have been considering how to do this too, with my Rode Video Mic. I had been thinking of this:

DiffCage Cinema Rig. Pro Mounting Solution - DiffCase iPhone Cases & Accessories For Mobile Photography | PhoGo Case (http://diffcase.com/collections/sun-shade-lenses-accessories/products/diff-cinema-rig)

but unfortunately, it seems I waited as it is currently, perhaps permanently sold out. I like the look of the wrap around mount as an alternative. The long hot shoe mount would probably allow mic and light to be mounted.

Cheers

Tim

Thanks Dave.

Actually, one of the reasons I'm contemplating the options for mounting an external microphone is for use with a Stormchaser fur that I've purchased to combat wind noise. Much of the (otherwise excellent) video footage from a recent trip to the UK, recorded with the built-in mic, was blighted with wind rumble. I didn't include the fur in those two images of my current set-up, but both of those microphone attachment configurations (with and without forward extension bracket) work fine with it. That said, the Sony EMC-MS908c does easily pick-up handling noise, so it's a bit of a trade-off - one factor in favor of mounting on a bracket, I guess.

Of course, I have considered whether it would be worth biting the bullet and going for a DM-100 - but, in addition to price, I wondered too whether there would be issues with a long-haired fur like the Stormchaser, as you have found. I think the DM-100 comes with it's own fur windjammer doesn't it, but how well it performs in strong winds, I'm not sure. Presumably it fits over the stock foam windscreen, or does it have a foam liner?

I haven't discounted the possibility of using a "L", "T" or "U" type-bracket mount, but would want it to be folding and quick to assemble/dissemble. I'd also like the option to use it with the Manfrotto 577 quick release combo that I have:

Manfrotto 577 Rapid Connect Adapter with Sliding Mounting 577


As such, the distance from the fixing screw hole (or maximum extension, if a slot) to the upright portion (accounting for any handle) needs to be, at minimum, 6" to provide adequate clearance for the opened LCD screen.

Invariably, the product specifications for these brackets only state the total dimensions and not the working distances. There is also a (pricier) folding version of that CB Digital-T bracket you mention:

CB Folding-T - Camera Flash Brackets - Products - Custom Brackets (http://www.custombrackets.com/products/camera-flash-brackets/cb-folding-t.html)

Stated to be 8" wide, when opened out. And also folding 'S' and 'L' brackets, both stated to be 7" wide:

CB Folding-S - Camera Flash Brackets - Products - Custom Brackets (http://www.custombrackets.com/products/camera-flash-brackets/cb-folding-s.html)
CB Folding-SB - HD Video Supports - Products - Custom Brackets (http://www.custombrackets.com/products/hd-video-supports/cb-folding-sb.html)

I emailed them a few weeks back requesting confirmation of the screw-hole to upright clearances but received no reply. If you still have the CB-Digital T, any chance you could measure it?

I'd looked at the Bracket 1 products also. They state the Bracket 1 Micro to be compatible with the XA10 (and so presumably HF-G10)

Bracket 1 micro - Video Camera & DSLR Brackets Mount Microphone Receivers & Accessories (http://www.bracket1.com/Item/bracket1micro)

Yet the stated width is just 5.5", which is less than the Kaiser 'L' bracket I have. Presumably, that assumes the bracket would be used with the LCD screen closed.

Something like the Bracket 1 Mini 2 would be beyond my budget:

Bracket 1 mini2 - Video Camera & DSLR Brackets Mount Microphone Receivers & Accessories (http://www.bracket1.com/Item/bracket1mini2)

Still, if there are other, reasonably priced, folding brackets out there that are wide enough, I'd be interested to know.

Cheers.

Hi Bryan

I have two of the HF200's and only one DM-100 so I have been considering how to do this too, with my Rode Video Mic. I had been thinking of this:

DiffCage Cinema Rig. Pro Mounting Solution - DiffCase iPhone Cases & Accessories For Mobile Photography | PhoGo Case (http://diffcase.com/collections/sun-shade-lenses-accessories/products/diff-cinema-rig)

but unfortunately, it seems I waited as it is currently, perhaps permanently sold out. I like the look of the wrap around mount as an alternative. The long hot shoe mount would probably allow mic and light to be mounted.


Thanks Tim. That DiffCage looks to be a cool accessory for it's stated purpose, but they don't give any dimensions and looking at the images I'm certain it wouldn't fit with the HF-G10.

What might be worth looking at for your HF-200 though is that DM Accessories Wrap Around bracket I mentioned above:

DM-Accessories ? Wrap Around Mount 36 (http://shop.dm-accessories.com/collections/canon-mini-shoe/products/wam36)

As for the CMS-FLAT v2 mini-shoe adapter; I emailed DM Accessories with images of the mini shoe placement on the HF-G10. They think it will work fine, even with the lip between the mini-shoe and zoom control, and would accept a return if it doesn't. So I might give it a try. They also confirmed that a similar adapter to the CMS-Flat v2 being sold on EBay out of China is a copy of their design:

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/400745910595?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

Bryan,

The DM-100 does come with a furry wind muff, it is reasonably effective but the Stormchaser is better. The problem with hair in the frame was only on the HF S100 with the forward shoe, because it poked out forward of the lens. There is no foam with the supplied deadcat, Windcutter are the only company that do a fur and foam set for it. I tested mine out of the window of a Land Rover doing 60 kph and there was no wind rumble.

The SVM is the better mike, but the DM-100 is neater and much easier to set up and use, also it is handy to be able to switch it to shotgun mode (mono) when necessary. As it is camera powered, it's one less battery to worry about when on a trip and I find it a big improvement over the built-in mikes.

I was impressed with Windcutter. When I contacted them and told them the Stormchaser was causing problems, they asked me to send it back and they made a new one to my measurements. When it arrived there was still a small problem, so it went back again. This time when they sent it back, problems solved, it was with a letter thanking me for my assistance in the re-design and they had credited me with the full purchase price!

Yes, I do still have the Custom Bracket but no, sorry, I can't measure it. We are having some fairly major work done on the house and it has been put away somewhere where I can't find it.

I tried my Bracket 1 Mini 2 assembly on the HF G30 today for the first time, I'd almost forgotten about it. It works well, I'll have to see if I can fit it into my gear bag.

Dave

Thanks Dave. Actually I'm just waiting on a replacement Stormchaser for my EMC-908c. First one they sent was clearly designed to fit over the bare microphone only, so they are sending another to fit over the stock foam windscreen.

I also recently tested the stick-on Rycote Micro-Windjammer fur pads over the built-in mics on my HF-G10 and they actually work quite well in mild to moderate minds. Like you, to get some notion of "controlled" comparative performance, I made a few runs up and down the road (on a relatively still day) with the camcorder out of the window. With the uncovered mics (in auto mode), the wind-rumble kicked in as soon as moved off. With the fur pads on, I got up to 25 kmph before the rumble became noticeable, and I could hear my own voice more clearly from inside the car. I think the critical point is probably where the wind-force parts the fur fibres to expose and penetrate the fur backing.

Only thing is that the Rycote fur pads and stickies are really designed for DSLR microphones and the like, and to fit on that fairly narrow strip on the HF-G10/20 (same on HF-G30, I think) where the stereo mics are located, they have to be trimmed down and a wider opening made in the stickie to go round the mics capsules. A bit finicky to say the least.

I had some dialogue with Rycote about the prospect of custom pads and stickies for the Canon HF-GXX series. They indicated that they will more likely look at a modified version of their strap-on 'Gust Buster', which has a foam liner and silicone beaded trims to promote a good seal.

Windcutter also do a stick-on specifically to fit the HF-G10 mics, but it is intended to be left on, or, if removed, considered single use. The Rycote Micro WJ's come in a pack of 6 re-usable fur pads and 30 stickies. In practice though, I wouldn't really say the fur pads are re-usable, as the adhesive used is fairly strong and messes up the backing on the fur when it is peeled off. Still you at least get three double-shots per pack.

I'm not sure if Windcutter use the same 'Stormchaser' fur material on their stick-on as their regular wind-jammers. On the Rycote fur pads the backing weave is a bit more open and softer by comparison.

No bother about measuring the Custom Bracket. I've ordered one of the CMS-FLAT v2 adapters and will see how that goes for now.

Cheers.

Bryan

Hi Bryan

I wasn't sure whether the Diffcase bracket I mentioned would be big enough got the G10, but it has heaps of room for the HF-200.

The DM-100 fluffy cover is really about and much use as an ash tray on a motorbike. I found it totally inadequate. I bought a couple of 5" microphone foam covers and cut and joined them together. I then sewed up a new fluffy cover from some material I have for those and it works much better.

I agree that the DM-100 is an easy to use and versatile microphone and I would have two if I could, but the fact is I already have the Røde, so I need a mount for it with the camera. The DM Accessories on looks like it might be the neatest option. Thanks for the heads up!

Cheers

Tim

Hi Bryan
I wasn't sure whether the Diffcase bracket I mentioned would be big enough got the G10, but it has heaps of room for the HF-200.

Well, that was just my impression form the images. An iPhone 5S, is what, just shy of 5" long. Looks like that leaves around 2" spare, so maybe 7" total (inside) width. Judging from the position of that widest screw mount hole (around 1" in), I'd say the maximum working distance from attachment hole to the vertical portion must be around 6". On second thoughts, it might be worth looking at. Could maybe also use it rear-mounted, with the top bar coming over the back of the camcorder. I'll contact them to see if I can get the exact measurements and check future availability. I think I'd want to stick a piece of rubber strip on that metal-bare support bar though, for cushioning/grip - same goes for the DM Accessories wrap-around bracket.

I agree that the DM-100 is an easy to use and versatile microphone and I would have two if I could, but the fact is I already have the Røde, so I need a mount for it with the camera.

Yes, a DM-100 would be nice to have, primarily for the convenience, but I don't really have that luxury just now. The performance and scope of the Sony EMC-MS908c is adequate for my present needs. In fact, for most indoor video, I'm content with the quality and range of the built-in mics. It's just the outdoor wind-noise issue that's troublesome. I'm don't know if the electronic 'wind-cut' feature was in any way improved on the HF-G30. I think it gives the option of High and Low level filtering? I saw one comparison of the XA10 and XA20 though, and there seemed to be quite a noticeable improvement in 'wind-cut' performance on the latter.

XA20 vs. XA10 - YouTube

The DM Accessories on looks like it might be the neatest option. Thanks for the heads up!

No problem. It's worth looking at, at least. Certainly looks well sturdy.

Came across this earlier thread on the same subject:

http://www.dvinfo.net/forum/canon-xa-vixia-series-avchd-camcorders/502834-shoe-mount-g10-hood-g10.html

What intrigued me were the 4th and 6th posts - the notion that the top plate of the HF-G10 casing could be replaced with that of the HA10 to provide a forward placed cold shoe - which, on the XA10 doubles as the front attachment for the removable handle.

Is that really possible and has anyone done it or has had it done? And what then becomes of the rear Advanced Mini Hot Shoe - is that then lost, or is that what the rear handle attachment on the XA10 is (plus the screws) ?

As for epoxy gluing or screwing a standard cold shoe plate to the HF-G10 top, I don't think I'd be so brave.

The high sensitivity of my Sony EMC-MS908c to handling noise is starting to bug me though, and (as per the photos in my first post) placing it a bit further forward with that short extension bracket doesn't really make a difference. I'm not sure how much a shock mount would help. I don't really want to get into the spider-web suspension type mounts, at least not mounted on the camcorder shoe.

Anyone used one of these Windtech shockmounts? :

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/901013-REG/windtech_sp_25cm_shock_mount_for.html


Shame the HF-G10 doesn't provide phantom power as I like the look of the Rode VideoMic Go:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1012003-REG/rode_videomic_go_videomic_go_on_camera_shotgun.html


Or is there is any mini in-line (battery-powered) phantom power adapter that could be used?

Seems Canon went out of there way to deter people from using non-proprietary accessories on the HF-G10/20. Even the external microphone port input seems 'colder' than those on the Sony and Panasonic DV camcorders that I used the EMC-MS908c on before, certainly in Auto mode. Mind you it was pretty much the same on the HV30.

Bryan, if you are looking about for an alternative microphone now, I would not suggest the Røde VideoMic GO, but the slightly more expensive Røde VideoMic with Lyre Suspension.

Rode VideoMic with Rycote Lyre Suspension System VIDEOMIC-R B&H

I have the older version with the rubber suspension, which is not quite as durable. The mic is really good and is my first choice for off camera mics when I am not using XLR gear. This is the other mic I am looking to attach to my second HF200.

There is also the option of the Canon DM-100 which can be picked up for around $200 on eBay. I have been very pleased with mine. It wasn't a separate purchase for me, but came with one of the cameras I bought. The expectations I had of it were not high but I have been very pleased. I did make a new wind cutter and dead cat for it to improve the outdoor performance.

Thanks again Tim,

I'd have to say, the appeal of the Rode VideoMic Go for me is it's sub $100 pricing and adding to that the lightweight/compact form factor, coupled with the Lyre support system. Granted, the Rode VideoMic you suggested is not that much expensive but you are looking at a bulkier/heavier unit, taking into account that I would be perching it on that mini-to-standard shoe adapter - and I don't really know how robust that is. Anyhow, if the VideoMic Go, is a no-go, so to speak, that's all there is to it.

Yep, like I said, a DM-100 would probably be the most convenient option. Just can't see my budget stretching to that just now. Mind you, when you start totting up the cost of accessories needed to make something like the Sony ECM-MS908c really workable (shoe adapters, brackets, shock mounts etc) you wonder if it's worth it.

One other option I'm toying with however is attaching the mic with a flexible/gooseneck arm. I know there are quick release assemblies with long (dual) articulating arms, designed primarily for DSLR's, but what I'm thinking of is attaching a shorter arm to the Manfrotto 577 quick release plate I have. As you can see from the photo I linked to above, the base has two screw holes on the side for storing the optional 1/4"-20 and 3/16"-16 attachment screws. Could maybe screw attach a flex-arm with a shoe adapter to one of those. The thing about mounting on a bracket/grip is that you still get handling vibrations transmitted to the mic through the frame. Theoretically, since you wouldn't be holding the flexi-arm, handling noise could be reduced.

Something like this, with a shoe adapter, mic holder, via mini-ball head if needs be, screwed to one end:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/SKIER-4-7-Magic-Arm-1-4-Screw-Flexible-Holder-15mm-Rail-Rod-Video-Camera-DSLR-/271186621008

or probably the longer (7.9") one for greater flexibility in positioning; I'd also want to use it with an LED video light.

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/SKIER-7-9-Magic-Arm-1-4-Screw-Flexible-Holder-15mm-Rail-Rod-Video-Camera-DSLR-/281090495607?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item41724c9477

I think that could work well. Portable too.

And I see you can also get stick-on shoe adapters:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/613979-REG/Impact_9031540_Adhesive_Backed_Accessory_Shoe_2_Pack.html


It doesn't say if the adhesive is "permanent" or not, but you could probably do something similar with removable picture hanging strips like these:

http://www.command.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/NACommand/Command/Products/Catalog/?N=5924736+3294737309+3294529207&rt=rud

I tried them before when I was (and still am) looking at alternative ways of sticking fur pads over the built-in mics, to make them truly re-usable. The part of the strip that normally attaches to a wall adheres very well to the camcorder body, but can be easily removed without leaving any residue. If the other part with permanent adhesive was not strong enough to hold a shoe adapter (I have one from a Sima video light bracket), I guess one could glue it to the strip. Might be OK for light accessories.

Why, the possibilities are endless. Yeah, right !

Just by way of follow-up:

.... What I need to know though is whether the available CMS-FLAT v2 adapter, with larger tightening ring, definitely fits.

I purchased the CMS-FLAT v2 adapter, and yes, it does fit on the HF-G10 mini shoe, with adequate clearance all round.

http://i1276.photobucket.com/albums/y475/WorBry/cms-flatv2onmyCanonHF-G102resized_zpsc63f1fed.jpg (http://s1276.photobucket.com/user/WorBry/media/cms-flatv2onmyCanonHF-G102resized_zpsc63f1fed.jpg.html)

http://i1276.photobucket.com/albums/y475/WorBry/cms-flatv2onmyCanonHF-G103resized_zps2c78e2d7.jpg (http://s1276.photobucket.com/user/WorBry/media/cms-flatv2onmyCanonHF-G103resized_zps2c78e2d7.jpg.html)

I subsequently found on the web this photo of one attached to an HF-G30 also.

http://i1276.photobucket.com/albums/y475/WorBry/canonhf-g30withcms-flatv21_zps729425e3.jpg (http://s1276.photobucket.com/user/WorBry/media/canonhf-g30withcms-flatv21_zps729425e3.jpg.html)

One thing I noticed was that the two-pronged 'foot' of the adapter I received is thinner than the one pictured in that HF-G30 photo, as well as the product image shown on the DM Accessories website. I contacted them about that. Apparently, the foot shape had undergone some modifications because of difficulties in inserting the originally thicker foot into the mini-shoe plate on the HF-SXX models, where the plate is located in a concealed, recessed compartment in a forward position. So the foot was made a bit thinner with some curvature (radius) to the underside of the prongs, so that it could be inserted at a slight angle.

Not a big deal, as once the thumb ring is screwed down, the foot is lifted up and secured very tightly to the two side flanges and the front flange, so there is absolutely no movement. Had the adapter been plastic construction I might have been more concerned, but the adapter is all metal - aluminium (I’m British) with stainless steel foot. Very solid.

The only thing is that, until secured, it jangles a bit loose in the shoe so you need two hands to hold it in place whilst tightening down the screw, or else tilt the camcorder down to make sure it doesn’t fall out. Since taking that photo, I’ve attached a thin square of adhesive backed foam (picture hanging strip) to the underside of the foot, so that it slips in more snugly, and avoids scraping the base of the shoe plate. Most importantly, the adapter foot comes no way near the hot-shoe contacts.

The top ‘standard’ shoe adapter is a single molded piece (powder coated aluminium) attached directly to the metal screw shaft. So, there’s no ‘front stop’ like on the Pearstone and the ‘MSA-1’ mini-shoe adapters - but, once tightened down, all of the standard shoe accessories I’ve tried secure very tightly.

Once attached, the top side of the ‘standard’ shoe adapter sits around 2cm above the mini-shoe plate, about the same as the ‘MSA-1’ adapter. Which is fine for me, as it provides adequate vertical clearance to comfortably use the zoom control.

So, all in all, a very solid secure assembly and I definitely prefer it to the plastic MSA-1 adapter.

@Tim -BTW, I received no reply from Diffcase about that DiffCage bracket, so I guess it must be "dead in the water" as you suggested.

@Dave - if you are there - you mentioned having a Rode SVM. I'm assuming it's this one (and not the SVM Pro) :-

http://www.mondo24.pl/userdata/gfx/f2eb0e00da4eedc2261ed4dd1744f8f2.jpg

A couple of questions; I know the SVM is supplied with a Rode 'Dead Kitten' fur wind cover, but I can't see any mention of a foam windscreen. Does the 'Dead Kitten' itself have a foam lining, or is it just the fur with a fabric liner?

Also, how does the wind protection performance compare with that of the Windcutter fur/foam combination on your Canon DM-100?

Testing a Windcutter Stormchaser fur on Sony EMC-MS908c stereo mic, I found the fur on its own didn't really protect any better than the foam, but when fitted over the foam, there was a dramatic improvement in wind-noise reduction.....at least when tested out of a car window.

That said, as we are coming into Autumn and the 'real' blustery winds are picking up, I'm finding that in stronger gusts (today around 25 mph, for example), some low frequency rumble is coming through - not to the extent that it interferes with 'desirable' sound (dialogue etc), but it's there. To what extent that is due to air pressure pulses penetrating the fur/foam layer or vibrations coming from the force of air hitting the exposed microphone casing and/or camcorder body, I'm not sure. The EMC-MS908c is certainly very sensitive to handling noise and, until now, I've only had the microphone mounted on the extension bracket that came with it, which has a fairly basic integral rubber 'isolator’ in the shoe mount. I’m thinking to try covering the exposed portion of the mic casing with felt or some other dampening fabric to see if that helps. But as far as shock-mounts go, the only workable options would be something like a Rode SM3 'cats-cradle' support (or knock-off/DIY versions thereof) or else a pricey Rycote InVision Lyre shoe mount. But then it starts getting cumbersome again, and how far do you go?

Using the integral mics on the HF-G10 with a stick-on fur pad (one pad covering both mics), I’ve found that applying a ‘Low Cut’ filter (in the equalizer options) does help to reduce the residual wind-rumble that comes through in stronger gusts, albeit at the expense of thinner audio - but still quite usable, nonetheless. As you know, attaching an external microphone to the HF-GXX camcorders disables that option - and I think that applies to a DM-100 on the mini hot shoe also?

Unfortunately, the EMC-MS908c doesn’t have a high-pass/low-cut filter option, but (correct me if I’m wrong) neither does the DM-100 - whereas the Rode SVM does.

So that’s why I was interested in your experience with the DM-100 and SVM in windy conditions. Also, any problems with rubber bands on the SVM suspension mount under blustery conditions - I’ve read that it doesn’t take much to dislodge them?

Cheers.

Edit: Well, a Rode SVM I was following on Ebay, that was looking like a bargain until the last 20 mins of the auction, finally went for more than I'd pay. Amazing how sought after that older model still is.

Actually, looking at specs for my Sony ECM-MS908c, I see the quoted frequency range is 100 Hz - 15 kHz, with no bass roll off, so it's probably not picking up some of the really low-frequency wind-rumble anyway.

From what I've read, for on-camera external mics, the output impedance should ideally be at least 7x that of the camcorder mic-in. Input impedance of the 3.5mm mini-jack port on the HF-G10 is 5kΩ. Output impedance of the EMC-MS908c 1kΩ (+/- 20%, unbalanced), which would explain why it is a tad on the quiet side on the HF-G10. The Sony DV camcorder I first bought the mic for had an input impedance of 6.8kΩ, so better matched...as would be expected.

Output impedance of the Rode VideoMic "R" (along with the VideoMic Pro and Stereo VideoMic Pro) is quoted at 200Ω. So, as sub-200$ Shotgun/Super-Cardioid mics go, the Rode VideoMic is tempting. I just can't see one perched a top of my HF-G10, nor the older VideoMic with the rubber band suspension system.

As for more compact, light weight, self-powered mics, two that might fit the bill are:

Sennheiser MKE-400: fairly dated, but still popular. In various test videos I've seen, the sound seems a bit thin compared to say the Rode VideoMic (older model), but most of those were on DSLR's. Anyone know what the output impedance is for this mic? None of the specs I've found state it. I've also read comments that it is rather sensitive to 'wind-noise', but is that any more than other shotguns when relying on just the foam windscreen?

The other would be a Sony EMC-CG50 Pro (with the standard shoe): many attestations to the high quality, but, again, I can't find any specs stating the output impedance.

Anyone have experience with either of these mics on an HF-GXX who could comment?

I've seen the occasional S/H EMC-CG50 going for sub-200$ on Ebay, but MKE-400's in the $130 - 180 range are not uncommon.

Otherwise, I'm back to looking at a DM-100. My only reservation there is lack of flexibility in placement of the mic.

I've gone for the DM-100. Having sourced more complete specs for the Sennheiser MKE-400 it did look like a good, "small form factor" alternative to the Rode VideoMic, but a very good deal came up on a DM-100 that I couldn't pass up.

Still, I have the options covered for attaching a third party mic to the HF-G10 if I ever go back to that. I did purchase one of those Skier flexible arms and screwed onto the base of the Manfrotto quick release assembly it works very well as an alternative means of attaching standard shoe mount accessories. Perfect in fact for mounting my HDV-Z96 LED light in a high, forward position. Mounted with the CMA-FLAT v2 adapter on the mini-shoe, it's just too far back.

And so endeth my monologue.

Hi Bryan,

Sorry for the delay replying, I have been in sunny Greece for a couple of weeks.

Yes, that is the SVM I have, no the dead kitten does not have any foam lining, but it works very well. I have not compared it with the DM-100 Stormchaser, but I did compare it with a Rycote and found it better in a not-too-scientific test at home.

I much prefer the performance, in the wind or not, of the SVM to the DM-100, but the DM-100 is so much more convenient and quicker and easier to set up plus, with the switchable shotgun/90/120 it's more versatile and it usually gets used.

Dave

Thanks Dave,

Well, I'll see how I get on with the DM-100. Convenience, in addition compactness, is a prime consideration, but how well the mic copes under windy conditions, and the feasibility/effectiveness of any affordable solutions that can be applied to improve that, are important factors for me also.

What I found a little discouraging was seeing this comparison of the Rode VideoMic Pro with Deadcat and the Senny MKE-400 (with the MZW400 windscreen and Rycote Mini-Windjammer), especially the outdoor section of the video.

http://www.sam-mallery.com/2011/04/r%C3%B8de-videomic-pro-vs-sennheiser-mke-400-indoors-out/

At face value, the Stormchaser fur-over foam on my Sony ECM-MS908c fares better than that in stronger gusts.

So, it will be interesting to see how the DM-100 with it's (enveloping) stock fur cover compares with the EMC-MS908c with the foam/Stormchaser fur combo, in the first instance.

Cheers.

Hi Bryan,

One thing I have realised about the DM-100 is that it is the worst mike that can be used outdoors on the HF G30.

Not having been able to filter out the wind noise the Stormchaser couldn't stop while on holiday, I have just had a chance to check the camera audio settings against the manual.

The built-in mikes have selectable Wind Screen, Frequency Response and Directionality functions. For the mike terminal there is a selectable Low Cut filter, but not the others which are greyed out. When the DM-100 is attached, all the options are greyed out, the one exception being Microphone Attenuator which works for all mike configurations. How crazy is that, Canon's own accessory mike being nobbled in favour of third party units?

If I use my SVM, I will have two selectable low cut filters, the one on the mike and the camera one, so I will be spoilt for choice. Time for a re-think!

Now I have to see how well I can clean the audio up in post.

How are you getting on with your DM-100?

Dave

Hi Dave,

I only received the DM-100 yesterday and so am still testing it out. For the retail price it still commands (new - $CAN 190 - 210 here in Canada), I would have expected a better build quality and something more substantial than the fragile plastic mini hot shoe foot; I can see it will need to be handled with TLC.

To my ears, the sound quality is a bit better than the HF-G10's internal mic - richer/fuller mid-tones in particular. I've just run some fairly crude frequency response tests using a 20-20,000Hz sweep audio sample, which bare that out. Frequency range looks about the same as the the built-in mic though; quoted, in the specs as 100-10,000 Hz, but you can see a "roll off" up to 20 Hz from the spectra. I think it's well suited for dialogue. Close range off-axis rejection in the 90o and shotgun modes is quite good and adequate for my needs.

I haven't had opportunity to test the mic with the supplied fur cover in decent winds yet. The fur itself is not what I would call optimum quality - heavy-duty weave backing (literally a 'sock'), no lining of any sort, sheds the fibers like crazy and there is no means of closing down/sealing the rather generous opening on the underside that the mic is inserted through. I sensed some loss in sound fidelity and the frequency response tests I've just done confirm a fair degree of attenuation of the upper-mid/high's. So not exactly 'acoustically transparent' - not surprising considering the dense backing.

Yes, it is annoying that the DM-100 disables all of the useful on-board manual audio options except levels and the attenuator. So in combating wind noise you are left entirely at the mercy of what physical barriers can be applied to the microphone. But I did know that.

A bit discouraging that you found the Stormchaser fur-over-foam combination insufficient on your recent excursion, as I was under the impression from your earlier post that it was very effective. How strong were the winds and are you sure the SVM (with Deadcat, I assume) would have fared any better, with or without the Low Cut filter? Referring to that comparison of the Rode VM Pro and Sennheiser MKE-400 I linked to above, and the outdoor segment of the video:

http://www.sam-mallery.com/2011/04/r%C3%B8de-videomic-pro-vs-sennheiser-mke-400-indoors-out/

You wonder to what extent the 'wind rumble' coming from both mics, with their respective furs and high-pass filters engaged, was due to wind buffeting the exposed mic casings. At least with the DM-100 enveloping the entire microphone tube is a practical option. Anyhow, I'll see how I get on with the 'Canon' fur initially.

It is nice though to be able to connect the DM-100 to the mini-shoe and not have to be thinking about adapters/brackets, cables, batteries, whether the mic is switched on (and then off) and overly fiddling with levels. I guess it's that convenience that you are paying for to a large degree.

Cheers.

Edit:

For the mike terminal there is a selectable Low Cut filter, but not the others which are greyed out....... How crazy is that, Canon's own accessory mike being nobbled in favour of third party units?

Just double checked on that using my old Sony EMC-MS908c mic. With the external MIC terminal on the HF-G10 you don't even get the Low Cut Filter option !!

Another thing I've noticed is that the DM-100 does pick up a fair bit of handling noise, especially with the transverse zoom control being located just in front of the mini hot shoe on the HF-G10. Also picks up the battery knocking in the compartment as the camcorder is moved around - even worse with the longer BP-827 'replacement' I'm using as you tend to catch it when controlling from the hand-grip. Is it just the HF-G10, or do the BP-828's also fit a little loosely in the battery compartment of the HF-G30 ?

Pity there's not some hot shoe extension cable that could allow the DM-100 to be positioned on a bracket away from the camcorder body. Again, surely Canon could have made that option possible, as it wouldn't have compromised their proprietary stranglehold. I can see myself making more use of the 'soft' on-screen zoom control with this mic. Anyhow, no point in nit-picking. It is how it is, and I chose it.

So, I dunno, as yet, I have mixed feelings about the "added value" the DM-100 brings to my HF-G10. A lot will depend on whether it proves possible to achieve more effective wind-noise control with it.

Dead cats/Mic muffs need to fit tight to be effective, for many/most mics that means fitting over a foam wind screen. If they are a lose fit, they will likely move in the wind making their own noise as they rub on the mic body and grill. In general they are also much more effective than foam only. And if shooting outdoors, don't leave home without one.

FWIW: The DM-100 is a recycled model number. Canon offered a DM-100 short shotgun (mono only) for camcorder use back in 1984! The frequency response spec was something like 200-10K Hz. . The current DM-100 is different.

Mics like the DM-100, MS908, MKE400 are designed for convenience and retail price-point as much as for sound quality. They are generally a significant improvement over build-in camcorder mics on camcorders such as the G20/30 and XA20, but arguably less so for camcorders such as the XF-300 or XH-1A.

Impedance matching is an interesting topic.
In general the mic output impedance should not be higher than the recorder or mixer input impedance. And lower (up to a point) is usually better. Maximum power transfer is when the impedances are equal, but power transfer is not an issue given that we are mainly interested in amplifying small signal voltages in this day of solid state circuits.
If the mic and input impedance are equal you see a 6 dB reduction in voltage at the terminal (compared to the open circuit output of the mic). If the input is 10x the mic impedance, you see a 0.8 dB reduction - less amplificaiton needed for the same recorded level.
The other potential (no pun intended) issue is possible clipping and distortion at high sound pressure levels. Typically condensor mics have a miximum output current capability and that limit can be reached at lower scound pressure levels as the input impedances drops compared to the mic output impedance. But this may not be obvious from the mic specs.

Thanks Don,

Yes, I came across that earlier DM-100 model when searching more detailed specs on the current one.

Canon Microphone User Manual | ManualsOnline.com (http://music.manualsonline.com/manuals/mfg/canon/dm100.html)

Strange that they would use the same model name.

As far as (Dave and) I know the only people who produce a fur-over-foam combination set for the DM-100 are Windcutter - their foam set (in four parts) is designed to fit over the entire microphone tube, including the portion that passes through the support structure.

It's predecessor (as perceived), the DM-50 differs from the DM-100 in having more of the rear portion of the tube protruding from the back. For the DM-50, Canon provided a pair of foam windscreens to cover the front and rear sections, but leaving the portion that passes through the support exposed. So for added wind protection it was necessary to purchase a third party fur designed to fit over the whole structure, or else make one. Rycote made (and I think still do) a Mini Windjammer specifically for the DM-50.

What is puzzling though is why both mics have side slots along the entire length of the microphone tube at all. I've tried in vain to obtain more specific information on the inner workings of the DM-100 that might explain this design, or at least provide clues. All that the provided specifications state is that the DM-100 is a '"Back Electret Stereo Condenser Microphone" with "Super-directional/ Uni-directional Stereo" capabilities. On that basis, it might be reasonable to suggest that it uses a dual-capsule Mid-Side system to achieve the Stereo (90/120 degree) and 'Shotgun' pick-up patterns, but even if a section of the slotted tube does comprise an ‘interference tube' for a mid-line (Shotgun) element, it is hard to believe that it would extend so far back. Yet it's also hard to believe that Canon would put slots there purely for looks....or to confuse inquiring people like myself. I contacted Canon (Canada) Technical Support and they could shed no more light, other than to suggest that if Canon had elected to provide a fur cover that envelops the entire microphone, it would probably be best to apply any additional foam layer in like manner. This was before purchasing the DM-100.

What I have now tried is covering the front segment of the tube with some faux-fur (that I know works very well), sealing it as tightly as possible with rubber bands. Pointing the (so-covered) mic directly at a fairly gentle fan, there is some wind noise which intensifies sharply as the air stream is directed onto the exposed rear portion of the tube. So it would appear that all of those slots do in some way actively serve the microphone system.

Can't say that I have anything more than a very basic understanding of microphone acoustic dynamics. Any ideas as to what might be happening in the DM-100? Does it possibly use some element of rear pick-up in the merging of polar patterns to achieve more efficient close range off-axis rejection in the 'shotgun' and 90o "stereo" modes? I have no idea. Interesting also that the DM-50 also has a grill on the end of the rear tube portion, whereas that on the DM-100 is closed off.

From a practical standpoint though, what I might consider is making a fur cover myself and incorporating a layer of suitable (soft, low-density open cell) foam in, or as the lining. The ultra-soft reticulated foam that Rycote use as a liner in some of their Mini-Windjammers (those designed for portable field recorders for example), is rather special - but I've seen some types of soft, low density sewing/pleating foam sheet that could work. Suddenly I'm interested in needlework !!

I'm not sure if the Mini-Windjammer Rycote produced for the DM-50 also includes a foam layer or not. But if it does and it was was simply a matter of moving the position of the underside opening further back, that could be another alternative.

Cheers.

Pure speculation on my part but I would not be surprised if the Canon mic is a rebranded (and perhaps repackaged) third party microphone. Back in the 8mm/Hi8 days of the L1/L1/A1Digitals (1990s) Canon had a "zoom" stereo mic on the market (ZM-100) as well as the standrd stereo mic that came with the L1/L2 and later the XL1. The old ZM-100 may have evolved into the current DM-100. There also was a mixer mic offered in the 1990s.

It costs to make holes/slots and add grills,so any opening in the tube is likely part of the interference design needed for the shotgun effect. (Note that Audio Technica offered some stereo shotgun mics in the tube format; e.g., BP4027 and the low cost current AT Pro 24.) Some cardoid mics have openings in the rear - the classic EV664 comes to mind as an example. Holes in the back probably allowed a shorter tube, a concern for small camcorders. The attachment point mid tube can improve balance.

Thanks Don for your enlightening and very plausible explanation. So it would appear that there was some logic in Canon dropping the foam gags in favour of a fur cover for the DM-100, to ensure that all sections of the tube were covered. I rest happier with that knowledge.

Cheers.

Edit: Oh, yes, I remember the ZM-100 now, when I was looking at mics for my HV30, to complement the Sony EMC-MS908c stereo mic. That's the one that needs an on-board 5V DC terminal. You still see them on EBay going quite cheap.

A bit discouraging that you found the Stormchaser fur-over-foam combination insufficient on your recent excursion, as I was under the impression from your earlier post that it was very effective.It is pretty effective, but no fur and foam combination will stop very high winds unless it is a blimp and even they have their limitations.

I tested the DM-100/Stormchaser on my HF S100 out of the window of a Land Rover at 70kph and it was fine, but that was before the second modification which entailed trimming some of the fur.

The Dodecanese islands get regular high winds, I believe it's the Sirocco. One day on land and one day on a boat trip I picked up wind noise. I am unsure how bad it is as I have not had a chance to check it out on the timeline so far, but it is much less than it would have been with just the Canon fur although more than if I could have switched the high pass filter on.

I don't think the SVM deadkitten is any more effective, I've never done a side-by-side test, but the filter (either one) would have made a big difference to the recording.

Dave

Thanks Dave,

I only have experience with the on-board Low Cut filter applied to the HF-G10 in-built mics. Not much use in combating wind noise on its own. Where I have found it useful though is in combination with a fur pad applied (with removable poster hanging strip) over the dual mic grills. Same principle, but in that case longer fur doesn't necessarily give the best results. I've experimented with this quite a bit. More important is to cover as much of the area around the grills as possible. What tends to happen with these commercial 'stick-on' fur pads that just about cover the grills is that the wind force blows the fibers back, gets in through the edges of the pile and exposed backing mesh and whips across the mic capsules. In fact, the best results I've achieved so far have been with fur from a cuddly toy that has quite short, fine and relatively dense 'hairs' with a not-too-dense backing weave. Some attenuation, but quite impressive in eliminating wind noise in natural gusts, so far up to around 25mph. And when it does creep in, that's where the on-board Low Cut filter is life saver, albeit at the expense of a thinner sound. Still quite usable audio though. And that's with the (default) automatic 'wind screen' feature left on; switched off, a little more 'rumble' creeps in, so it does actually have some use. I believe on HF-G20 and HF-G30 there is the option of two wind-screen 'strengths' - the HF-G10 has just the one.

It will be interesting to see how the DM-100 with it's fur cover compares.

Re; I tested the DM-100/Stormchaser on my HF S100 out of the window of a Land Rover at 70kph and it was fine, but that was before the second modification which entailed trimming some of the fur.

Yeah, if I did go for the Stormchaser/foam combo I wouldn't want the fur trimmed at all, as there's no possibility of the long fibers getting into the frame with the DM-100 sitting so far back on the HF-G10. I might check with Rebekah at Windcutter about that, just to make sure that modification has not been incorporated as standard. Do you find there is enough clearance on the underside though, as the foam alone must add some girth? Lightly bristling the tips of the fibers probably wouldn't matter much, but I wouldn't want to be rubbing the 'body' of it with the back of my hand when holding by the hand grip. Unfortunately, Rebekah couldn't provide a stock photo of the fur/foam combo fitted on a DM-100 when I last inquired. They rely on satisfied customers sending photos in to add to their gallery.

Crikey, this thread has deviated off the original topic somewhat, hasn't it.

Edit: Just tried out the DM-100 with fur outside in some moderately gusty (post rain storm) winds (maybe 15mph). Rather disappointing. No howl, close range speech comes through clearly, but loads of rumble. Yep, definitely needs more protection than that.

Hi Bryan,

I just spotted your edit a few posts back. The battery can move a bit on the HF G30, but the movement is quite well damped and I have yet to pick up any noise from it.

Clearance below the DM-100 with Stormchaser is not an issue with the HF G30, the zoom rocker is situated to the side on top of the hand grip and is of the professional style forwards and backwards configuration.

I am considering my options because I've pretty much run out of patience with the DM-100. I was prepared to accept the restricted frequency response in return for the convenience, but as my forehead touches it when using the EVF, it makes it impossible to tilt it up fully and with this stupid not being able to use the high pass filter with it, it is of limited use to me. The filter thing was the last straw.

My options are 1. Buy or make a new fur for the DM-100 (unlikely!) 2. Find a suitable bracket and use my SVM, the SVM in the camera shoe unbalances the camera and makes it uncomfortable to hold, especially as I have it on a shoe extender to keep the fur from appearing in the top of the frame at full wide angle. 3. Use my ATR 25, which is not much heavier than the DM-100 and maybe replace my home made shock mount with a commercial one. 4. Buy another mike. Preferably not, but possible.

See, I've managed to mention brackets and adaptors again! :-)

Edit: I just checked a couple of the worst wind noise clips on the timeline. It's not explosive, blots-out-all-other-sound wind noise, it's just normal low frequency rumble, easily dealt with. It would not have been recorded with the high pass filter in, but high marks to the Stormchaser. So option 1 no longer is.

Dave

......2. Find a suitable bracket and use my SVM....

I'll post a pic of the flexible arm assembly I'm using in place of an L-bracket (for handheld), when I have a mo. Works very well.

......it's just normal low frequency rumble, easily dealt with.


What are you using for that, out of interest?

Hi Bryan,

If I use the SVM I shall need a bracket that fits via the tripod screw. I want to lower the mike and use QR plates for quick setup. I have a Bracket 1 Mini and over camera cold shoe adaptor, but they raise it up higher and are too big for my current needs.

Current favourite is to use the ATR25, I'll see what happens when I do some tests.

I just did a quick test using the Kdenlive Triple Band Parametric With Shelves and Kdenlive Gain. A couple of minutes and both clips I tried were sorted.

Dave

I just did a quick test using the Kdenlive Triple Band Parametric With Shelves and Kdenlive Gain. A couple of minutes and both clips I tried were sorted.


I've got those in Audacity (with the LADSPA effects plug-in pack) but I've no idea how to use the "Triple Band Paramatric with Shelves". How did you arrive at suitable settings for eliminating the wind rumble?

Hi Bryan,

As I said, it was a quick test so I wasn't too fussy, but it so happens that the first filter I tried worked. I set the frequency to where the cut off was required, set the gain to reduce the rumble to a manageable level, then set the slope so make the cut off sound more natural. I fiddled with the settings a bit to make it more acceptable and then applied gain to bring the overall volume up. I then copied the effect stack and pasted it to a second noisy clip, it was OK there too.

I didn't save the experiment because now I know it works, I can do it when I get to any affected clips. I simply wanted to know whether I could do it in Kdenlive, if I needed to use an external audio editor, or I needed to find suitable audio clips somewhere.

Dave

Thank Dave. I'll look at that some more. "Prevention is better than cure, but sometimes we all need a Doctor". The (standard) High Pass filter in Audacity actually does quite a reasonable job at attenuating the residual low-frequency rumble (100-150 Hz freq cut off, 6db per octave roll-off) that comes through with the Stormchaser fur (over stock foam) on my Sony EMC-MS908c; I've still to test the DM-100 + Canon fur in stronger winds. And there are a couple of other High Pass variants there to try - Glame and Glame-Butterworth.

Can't say I relish the prospect of heavily investing in better/added wind protection for the DM-100. I contacted Rycote and they never made (or considered) a Mini Windjammer for the DM-100. They also confirmed that the MWJ for the DM-50 doesn't have any foam lining as it was designed to fit over the stock foams. Feasibly (just my thinking), based on the similar dimensions (as specified) of the two mics, it could be adapted to fit the DM-100 provided it left enough room inside to go over a foam set adapted from, say, a not-too-thick generic windscreen, but it would mean closing up the existing underside aperture and creating a new one further back. Do-able I guess, but it's taking a chance on the fit and it would probably be easier to make one from scratch. The Windcutter Stormchaser/foam combo for the DM-100 puts you back $75.

Anyhow, if the DM-100 doesn't work out, I may just go back to the Sony mic with Stormchaser fur for now, and see what more could be done to improve the wind protection. Staying on topic - I can see a little improvement just moving it off the (all metal) CMS-FLAT mini hot shoe adapter up onto the flexible accessory arm. I will post some pics shortly.

Interesting that you are favoring the ATR-25. Is that purely from an ergonomic perspective? Still, at least with the HF-G30 you have the option of applying the internal Low Cut filter when attaching an external mic to the MIC terminal.

The ATR25 has a better performance than the DM-100 and it is only marginally heavier, therefore it can happily sit in the cold shoe of the HF G30 without affecting the balance like the SVM does. Also it will help with camera battery life, having its own power source rather than taking it from the camera battery like the DM-100.

The other big advantage is, it is ready to go with no extra expenditure, I just made a small modification to the DIY shock mount to accommodate the different cable run, no cost, now I am waiting for suitable windy conditions for a test run. As I recall the home made Dead Rat, made to fit over the supplied foam, works well, but it's a few years since I last used the mike.

Dave

A couple of pics of HF-G10 with the flexible arm and Sony ECM-MS908c attached (with Stormchaser fur)

http://i1276.photobucket.com/albums/y475/WorBry/HF-G10flexiblearm2_zps082d1bfc.jpg (http://s1276.photobucket.com/user/WorBry/media/HF-G10flexiblearm2_zps082d1bfc.jpg.html)

http://i1276.photobucket.com/albums/y475/WorBry/HF-G10Flexiblearm1_zps868ca8db.jpg (http://s1276.photobucket.com/user/WorBry/media/HF-G10Flexiblearm1_zps868ca8db.jpg.html)

Just one of a variety of possible configurations, this one with the mic set fairly low. So that's the 20cm (7.8") version of the Skier flexible arm screwed into one (1/4"-20 thread) of two threaded holes on the left side of the Manfrotto 577 Rapid Connect Adapter, normally used for storing the optional 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 camera mounting screws.

Skier 7 9'' Magic ARM 1 4" Screw Flexible Holder 15mm Rail ROD Video Camera DSLR | eBay (http://www.ebay.ca/itm/SKIER-7-9-Magic-Arm-1-4-Screw-Flexible-Holder-15mm-Rail-Rod-Video-Camera-DSLR-/281090495607)

Manfrotto 577 Rapid Connect Adapter with Sliding Mounting 577


Looks a little "Heath Robinson" (Brits will understand) I know, but it works very well for handheld and tripod and is rock solid.

For attaching the Sony mic holder to the arm, I just used a few threaded adapters that I had to hand. I might replace them with a better mini-ball head and/or shoe adapter, depending on the configuration. I have the 501PL mounting plate set back a little in the adapter base which keeps the locking lever on the right side out of the way when holding by the hand grip. Mounting the arm on the right side is just a simple matter of attaching the mount plate to the camcorder the opposite way and attaching the arm to the other (3/8"-16) thread hole on the side adapter base. I haven't tried it yet - just needs an inexpensive 1/4"-20 to 3/8"-16 adapter to attach the arm, like:

Giottos 1 4 3 8" Tripod Monopod Convert Screw Adapter | eBay (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Giottos-1-4-3-8-Tripod-Monopod-Convert-Screw-Adapter-/170985703276)

The ATR25 has a better performance than the DM-100.....

I've never used one but, from reports/reviews, I had the impression that, whilst reasonable quality for the price point, it has a rather 'quiet' output and with that is prone to gain noise/hiss. To my ears, the DM-100 has around the same level of background hiss as the inbuilt mics when set at the same manual level.

I bought the ATR25 for use on my GS250 which had only auto gain on the audio, a real pain! I have not used it since I stopped using the GS250, so have not used it on any of my cameras with manual gain.

It definitely has a much better frequency response than the DM-100, the rest I shall find out when I get time to test it properly. So far I have recorded just one clip, solely for the audio, to make sure it still works and matches the camera input.

Yes, dear old William Heath Robinson, what a fertile imagination he had. His devices were certainly wilder and whackier than your flexible bracket! I think your bracket looks pretty good.

If you stop to think about it, when you look at the gear cameramen use and the way it is scattered around the camera, brackets to hold lights, mikes, follow focuses, monitors etc., cables everywhere, now that really is beginning to look Heath Robinson!

Dave

Yes, dear old William Heath Robinson, what a fertile imagination he had.

There were are couple of working examples of his contraptions in a Manchester shopping precinct that fascinated me when I was a kid. There have been lots of imitators (Ruby Goldberg etc) and his devices were an inspiration in Nick Park's Wallace and Gromit animations, not to mention Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang (showing my age) - but he was the original, and a visionary in some querky way:

http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/75474000/jpg/_75474785_kinecartop.jpg

Love this one - "Signal Invention - intelligent method of overcoming difficulties of taking one's own photograph"

http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/75479000/jpg/_75479434_d4b0591f-8c6f-454b-92ae-9c0388cafb7d.jpg

I think your bracket looks pretty good.

Nothing new of course:

http://ww.dealwinwin.com/wwwimages/product/I6/00/2013-07-18-00433215997.jpg

But it's a solution and I already had the Manfrotto plate to hand.