When purchasing the XH-A1 which I'm going to do most likely soon, what mic fits in the slot? The XL-A1 has the same kinda slot but there is a mic that comes with it. For the slot on the XH-A1, what mic would fit in there? I've been recommended a couple of mics but I want one that specifically is made for the Canon so it can fit in that slot that is on the side of the camera. I'm assuming it's the same mic for the XL-A1 and XL-2 because the slots look similar and so does the mic...Any help would be appreciated.

I wouldn't know which mic really fits into it. But think for a moment... what is the most important, a very average mic that really fits, or an excellent mic, that delivers a superb sound?

Same with Sony cam's: the in-house mics are not really where you've been waiting for.

For instance, a Rode NTG 1/2 works fine. Others can be Sennheiser K6/ME66 ME67 or Audio Technica. Info enough on DVInfo regarding this subject.

With about 22mm's versus 25mm of the Canon support they don't exactly fit, but there are solutions to solve this. I used a thin strap tape, as used to keep cables together, and no hum, as some seem to have with other fits.

That's true. I'm just mainly looking for a fairly cheap mic to attach to the camera...and hoping I could find one that fit into the slot.

Mark,

I believe the issue is neither physical or electrical, but rather one of acoustics.

The XH-A1 external microphone holder is specified up to 25mm diameter; the vast majority of microphones designed for ENG and similar are less. It is easy to find a solution to fit a small diameter microphone using things like O rings, pipe insulation sleeves, ... Note the length can be an issue if you look at really long shotguns (on the order of 14 inches and above, depending on the space left to clamp the microphone and the wind protection you use).

Electrically, you have the choice of mono or stereo, with a 3.5mm plug or an XLR (balanced) connection, with or without 48V phantom power. This covers pretty much everything but the most exotic setups.

The issue I (and many others) have noted is one of acoustics: external microphones have a tendency to pickup parasite sounds when you operate the camera or use the zoom. Some materials to fit small diameter microphones have better damping characteristics than others, but I found none that is totally satisfactory. The only thing reported to work is to mount an external support on the hot-shoe or the microphone holder (something like this (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/sitem/sku=407105&is=REG)).

Would the Rode Video-Mic work with the XH-A1?

Yes the Rode Videomic works with the XH A1. Plug it into the mic input or get an adapter to use it with the XLR inputs.

I've been using the Rycote camera clamp adapter. It comes in different sizes to accommodate different diameter mics. Works great and eliminates any handling or camera noise.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/407104-REG/Rycote_037306_Medium_Hole_Softie_Mount.html

I wouldn't ever advise the Rode Videomic on the A1: it's not a real XLR/balanced mic.

Instead, use the Rode NTG1 or 2: impossible to find a better mic for this money. Even the built quality is magnificent !!!

Rode has the SM3/5 for reducing handling and motor noise.

But, as already indicated, some experimenting with cable straps, o-rings of soft foam is already doing miracles.

Dirk

I wouldn't ever advise the Rode Videomic on the A1: it's not a real XLR/balanced mic.

Instead, use the Rode NTG1 or 2: impossible to find a better mic for this money. Even the built quality is magnificent !!!

Rode has the SM3/5 for reducing handling and motor noise.

But, as already indicated, some experimenting with cable straps, o-rings of soft foam is already doing miracles.

Dirk

Well, I don't want to spend the extra 100 on that mic...What do you mean it's not a real balanced mic?

the cable from the rode videomic is unbalanced. longer unbalanced cable runs are prone to interference, which means you probably shouldn't boom it. this shouldn't be a concern as the rode is primarily an on-camera shotgun and sits in the camera shoe (but doesn't go in the mic holder -- the original intent of this thread). i have no experience with the mic, but it has garnered many favorable reviews here (you can check the audio forum and run a search on the mic). fyi, there is a used one being sold here in the classifieds.

Instead, use the Rode NTG1 or 2: impossible to find a better mic for this money. Even the built quality is magnificent !!!

But, as already indicated, some experimenting with cable straps, o-rings of soft foam is already doing miracles.


I love my Rode NTG2!! It's like a freaking handheld soudstage. I sandwich a rectangulare piece of foam to keep it on my A1. I also keep spares in case it falls off during mic removal and I lose the foam. You never know.

Since you are on a budget, just make sure you get an affordable XLR mic for your A1. I've used my XLR shotgun as a boom mic via monopod or tripod. I don't think you can do that with proprietary hotshoe mics.

My experience is (not with the Rode videomic, which I never tried) that even a short min-jack cable is easily subject of interference and distortion problems. Even a halogen transformer - close enough - can ruin your recording.

In my Sony VX times, ended up with a lot of bad mic's in this respect. None of those solutions where even close to acceptable. Also the Rode videomic is intended for a typical consumer cam, not for a pro/semi pro cam.

Believe me: the A1 has a top of the shelf recording competence with its XLR connectivity, very low noise, don't go for a cheap handicam solution, but for a real XLR mic. The NTG2 is worth every penny, you'll not regret it.

Would the NTG-1 fit onto the camera? Either in the slot that is provided or using the On-Camera shock mount that it comes with? I just keep reading that people need to make their own devices to keep it on the thing...

I currently use the Rode Videomic on my XH-A1 with the Rode VXLR (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/387850-REG/Rode_VXLR_VXLR_Mini_Jack_to_XLR.html). I have had no interference problems with this mic even when I have it on a boom.

That being said if I was going out to by a new mic today I would get the NTG-2, and wrap a little tape around it or use a piece of foam to keep it in the holder.

Regarding internals & specs, the NTG-1 and 2 are identical with the exception that the NTG2 can be powered by means of a battery, which makes the design of the mic a little bit longer. Also the price is not that different.

Though I'm working with the NTG-2, on the A1, I assume both are possible with respect to their built, without any doubt what concerns their connectivity.

Reason where would choose the NTG-2 for is - even though you don't need it on the A1, you're able to use this mic in conditions where you don't have phantom power.

I am using AT-835ST stereo shotgun mic with XH-A1. The camera mount doesn't work with it, so I used Rhode mount.
In fact, I got rid of the on-camera mic mount - this way the camera fits better inside a case.
By the way, AT-835ST produces very nice sound, plus there's an option of "stereo".

Ok, I think I'll spare the extra cash and get the NTG2 RODE...ALthough I have one last question. It's a really long mic, won't it get in the way of the camera or something? It just seems that putting a 10 inch mic on the camera would be awkward (Assume that most of my filming would be with the NTG2 on the A1 and not used as a boom). Is it awkward?

I'm trying to order this tonight, so if anyone could provide me an answer I'd really appreciate it.

I have and use the Rode NTG-2 putting it on the A1 with a J-Rod and a shock mount. The J-Rod fits the A1 mount without wrapping the mic with foam, tape, etc. Very clean.

See here http://www.thej-rod.com/

No problem keeping the mic out of the shot.

WIthout using the J-Rod, is it ok?

The NTG-2 diameter is slightly smaller that the A1 mount so you'll have to put rubber bands and or tape on the mic to build it up enough for it to fit snugly in the A1 mount

I have and use the Rode NTG-2 putting it on the A1 with a J-Rod and a shock mount. The J-Rod fits the A1 mount without wrapping the mic with foam, tape, etc. Very clean.

See here http://www.thej-rod.com/

No problem keeping the mic out of the shot.

How does the Rode attach to the J-Rod?

I have an A1 and NTG-2. I took off the on-camera mount (two screws) and use the Rode shock mount. You can get it in a kit:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/400806-REG/Rode__NTG_2_Shotgun_Microphone.html

Works great!

You might look at a short shotgun, like this one
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/495302-REG/Audio_Technica_AT875R_AT875_Short_Condenser_Shotgun.html

It's more designed for camera mounting. I use an old Sony short shotgun on my XH A1. It's about the same length as this Audio Technica. I know two different soundmen who swear by AT, the more expensive ones. However, for grabbing ambient sfx from the camera, a mic like this might be perfect.

You might look at a short shotgun, like this one
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/495302-REG/Audio_Technica_AT875R_AT875_Short_Condenser_Shotgun.html

It's more designed for camera mounting. I use an old Sony short shotgun on my XH A1. It's about the same length as this Audio Technica. I know two different soundmen who swear by AT, the more expensive ones. However, for grabbing ambient sfx from the camera, a mic like this might be perfect.
By chance, here is a press release that gives a description of this exact microphone:
http://www.videomaker.com/video-news/2007/04/1782-audio-technica-dubuts-the-at875-short-shotgun-mic

It seems the mic is new from Audio Technica since April. Also, the mic includes an adapter bushing to allow it to fit the camera mic holder on "popular cameras" -- so I imagine it will fit the XH-A1 -- which answers the question of how to get a mic to fit into the "oversize" holder.

I know from experience that a slightly too long mic on the camera is a real bothersome problem. I think 11" is too long and you won't like it after a short while. I have the AT4093a which is 9", and I wouldn't go any longer.

For what you want, I think this new mic might be perfect. I have a dozen or so AT mics and in general the quality of the sound is equivalent to more expensive mics. I have found that the new mics AT has come out with the past year for special uses (such at the mic above) have been excellent choices for what they are designed for, usually better than the competition.


(No, I don't work for or have any interest in Audio-Technica.)

AT has always given you a pretty good mic for the money. I like their mid-range shotguns better than the Sennheiser equivalents. In the economical wireless lav department, however, I think the Sennheiser G2 is the best deal at 500 bucks.

The old shotgun I stuck on my XH A1 is about 7". I wouldn't want an 11 inch one because it would cause problems in the camera bag, and most likely in wide angle shots, unless it was elevated. All most people are going to do with a camera-mounted mic is ambient effects, so it doesn't have to be a hugely expensive one.

On the other hand, if you have one good enough for interviews, it's simple to take it off the camera, attach a longer cable, stick it on a boom, and thereyago. I've done that more than once when I didn't know I was going to shoot an interview and wasn't really prepared.

does anyone know if this AT875 is available in europe and if so where i can get it?

I need something good soon.

I have the rode videomic but realise it wouldn't be truly taking advantage of the A1 capabilities.

in the meantime should i send the videomic to channel 1 via xlr adapter or can i go straight into the 3.5mm jack and send this to the left, leaving the right free for another xlr input if required?

thanks,
ger

How does the Rode attach to the J-Rod?

HI Stephen,

For any shotgun mic you would need a rubber band shock mount of some kind. This will greatly reduce the handling noise, and zoom and transport noise. I like the Azden SMH-1 . The J-Rod will fit the camera mic mount snugly and allow you to mount 2 "shoe" mount accessories like a shock mount and a radio receiver.

New to the XLR mic; went with the Azden SGM-2X. Wrapped a small piece of cardboard around the mic. Cardboard was cut to size of the A1's mic holder and black marker used to color. I have since removed my mic holder and am now using the included mic holder for the 2X.

Hey guys, I'm using the Rode NTG-2 with my XH-A1 and love it. I took the advice of another on this board and bought 3 #15 size rubber O-rings. They fit perfectly between the gaps of the stock shock mount. Great $1.50 suggestion.

Good luck!

Hey guys, I'm using the Rode NTG-2 with my XH-A1 and love it. I took the advice of another on this board and bought 3 #15 size rubber O-rings. They fit perfectly between the gaps of the stock shock mount. Great $1.50 suggestion.

Good luck!

Just ran out and bought me a set--brilliant!

I'm using the same setup but I just cut what appears to be 1/8 foam to tighten in the shock mount. No problems what so ever. I have spare pieces in case I need to replace it.

Hey guys, I'm using the Rode NTG-2 with my XH-A1 and love it. I took the advice of another on this board and bought 3 #15 size rubber O-rings. They fit perfectly between the gaps of the stock shock mount. Great $1.50 suggestion.

Good luck!

This Shock mount fits right on top the XHA1. I have it, works great.
Here it is at BH Photo:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/398316-REG/Rode_SM3_SM3_On_Camera_Shockmount.html

It's a $3,500 camera, buy a $50 shock mount.

I know this is a tad late of a post but for the purposes of future viewers, anything you do on the XH-A1 without a "rubber band or o-ring" type of mount WILL be transmitted into the mic because the mic holder is hard mounted to the camera. I've tried everything in the world and all actions on the camera are transmitted into the sound path without a rubber mounting system via the hot shoe. Sony has a mic that apparently does the job nice that came with the Z7 and it actually DID work but otherwise listen close . . your actions WILL be there somewhere.

On rubber ring mounted mics my personal preference which I have two of is the AT-897 which is a "best bang for the buck" condenser. Great range, excellent range and just all around great sound and robust with controllable range and roll off (also will take a bat that last about 10 or so hours and have even had it working the following day :o)