Inputs

• Aftermarket microphones, known as external mics, come in a variety of shapes and sizes. However, the first thing you need to know about them is the different input connections. Consumer camcorders typically come with a stereo audio jack. Professional video cameras usually feature an XLR jack. As such, it is important to know which kind of input your specific camcorder accepts. A camera with an audio jack will need an external microphone that includes a stereo input. Camcorders with XLR inputs need a mic with an XLR jack.
  
  

Types

• It's important to understand that external microphones come in three major varieties. Each variety offers its own unique advantages:
  
  Shotgun microphone--attaches to the top of the video camera; great for picking up sound from one direction and from many speakers.
  Lavalier microphone--often wireless, these external mics connect to the lapel or other article of clothing worn by the video subject; preferred when the subject's voice is the only sound trying to be recorded.
  Hand-held microphone--most commonly associated with on-site news stories, these microphones are held by the video subject.
  
  

Function

• A further distinction between camcorder microphones is their direction of sound pickup. Some camcorder mics are omnidirectional, which means that they are designed to pick up all sounds within a specific radius. Unidirectional microphones, on the other hand, are designed to block out ambient noise, only picking up sound within a narrow field of direction.
  
  

Wired vs. Wireless

• External microphones can be wireless or wired. Wired external mics feed directly into the camera via a cord. Wireless mics use technology that allows sound to be wirelessly recorded by the camcorder. Wired mics are typically preferred for short-range shooting because they offer good sound recording at a more affordable price. Wireless microphones are suggested for video scenarios in which the video subject and the camcorder are a great distance apart.
  
  

Expert Insight

• Don't let price be the most important factor when purchasing a camcorder microphone. While prices vary wildly, so does quality and construction. If you are truly looking for high-quality sound, be aware that you get what you pay for. Take some time to read model reviews and talk to salespeople to better understand which camcorder microphone best suits your needs.