Sony Handycam HDR-CX405 - external microphone

[BGDwth]

I have the handycam above. The inbuilt sound is not always as good as I'd like when I am a few feet from the object I am recording and in a noisy environment. Especially when recording someone speaking.

Could someone more knowledgeable than I please advise if they know of good solutions (lapel mike, directional mike etc) that are suited for a more 'budget' pocket, but not necessarily a budget sound!

Any replies appreciated.

[IamNic]

Hi there BGDwth,

I am not familiar with the camcorder you listed.

If it has a 3.5mm microphone jack, you should be able to use any microphone with a TRS (Tip Ring Sleeve) connector. Beware of TRRS connector microphones, since they won't work with a default audio jack.

I had very good experiences with so called "shotgun microphones" in situations, like you describe.

The record a "cone" in front of them, nearly nothing to the sides, nothing behind.

- Nic

[BGDwth]

Hi Nic

Much appreciated for the reply, thanks, I'll look into those options.

[IamNic]

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BGDwth schrieb:

Hi Nic

Much appreciated for the reply, thanks, I'll look into those options.

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 You're very welcome.

[toni.homedes]

Probably too late, but maybe useful for someone else.

Record the sound separately and then sync it to the video in your editor. You will need a mediumly decent editor to do it. I use Kdenlive (free) in Linux and CyberLink PowerDirector (paying) in Windows.

So, do you need a new recorder? Most probably not. If you have a smartphone, you have a recorder. Put it in some pocket on your subject and film him/her from far away. The sound will be quite good. There are some very cheap smartphone lapel microphones but even corded hands-free earphones can be used as such.