Ok, first let me say I know very little about audio. I know how to operate the cameras and shoot, but when it comes to Audio, forget it.

So here is my question.
I own a Canon XH-A1. Im looking for an external Mic for it. I know there are many types and you can spend thousands. Im looking to spend a few hundred. Im looking for a Shotgun Mic, but its hard if not impossible to find one that says its Stereo.

So, lets take the Rode NTG-2 for example. Its not Stereo, right? But what if you split the XLR out of the Mic and ran it into both XLR's on the Camera. Is that possible? Is there any advantage in doing this?

If not, can anyone recommend a good shotgun Mic?

I've been looking at the following myself:
-Audio-Technica AT897 - Short Condenser Shotgun Microphone
&
-Fostex MC35 - Electret Condenser Shotgun Microphone


Suggestions, Questions, Help.
Mike A.

What are you planning to use it to record? That affects the stereo/mono question - stereo is often used for music and ambience but most dialog is recorded in mono.

Splitting the mic to both channels doesn't produce stereo, it produces dual-mono. Not a bad thing because if your camera allows each channel to be set to its own level you can record one channel 6-8db lower than the other, providing insurance that if a sudden loud drive the main channel into overload, the other lower level channel is there as a backup.

What are you planning to use it to record? That affects the stereo/mono question - stereo is often used for music and ambience but most dialog is recorded in mono.

I'll be recording all outdoors, both ambiance and things such as railroads.
Which also leads me to another question. Diesel engines can tend to be loud with a lot of BASS.

Are there Mics that are better for a deep sounding BASS?

Also, I would say this Mic will be attached to the Canon XH-A1 99% of the time. I know the camera has Phantom power +48v, will this be an issue?

Thanks again for you help, Im trying to understand all of this.

Mike A.

Psst! Michael,

CSS-5.

Ty

Psst! Michael,

CSS-5.

Ty

pssst - The Sanken mic or the Chinese nuclear ballistic missle?

ROFL

Either.

Ty