Best Mics for Sony A7C

The Sony A7C is already a powerhouse of a camera, boasting remarkable features in a compact and stylish build. But to truly unlock its potential, having an equally remarkable external mic is paramount. And that’s what I’m here for—to share the four cameras I loved (some I still do) pairing with my Sony A7C and talk about their key features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed buying decision.

Whether you’re planning to make cool documentaries, record travel vlogs, or simply capture memories at home in crystal clear audio quality, this list of the best mics for Sony A7C has got you covered!

The Best Mics for Sony A7C

We are going to take a close look at four different microphones, all of which have unique features and cost different amounts. We also talk about their features and if their prices are justified. If you’re new to mics and don’t have much of an idea about what to expect from a mic, read our quick buying guide to camera mics down below!

Without further ado, here are the best mics for the A7C:

MicrophonePriceAvailability
RODE VIDEO MIC NTG$240.99View On Amazon
SONY ECM-B1M$348View On Amazon
DEITY V-MIC D3$139View On Amazon
RODE VIDEO MIC PRO+$257View On Amazon

Rode VideoMic NTG

Weighing only 3.3 ounces and measuring 6.7 by 0.8 inches (HW), the Rode VideoMic NTG is a compact external mic for Sony A7C that won’t add too much extra bulk to your setup.

It has a sleek aluminum body that not only looks stylish, but also provides protection in case of accidental drops or if you happen to be shooting in rough weather conditions. While I don’t recommend testing it in the rain or dropping it on purpose, you can have peace of mind knowing that it’s built to withstand harsh conditions.

Another one of its standout features is its excellent RF rejection. By effectively eliminating interference from wireless signals, it guarantees audio recordings free from unwanted disruptions. Moreover, the inclusion of a shock mount greatly enhances the microphone’s performance by minimizing handling noise and vibrations.

The VideoMic NTG also provides a wide range of output levels and offers the ability to record a “safety channel” at a lower level, which acts as a safeguard against unexpected volume spikes.

However, while the shotgun super-cardioid pattern of the VideoMic NTG is excellent for capturing focused audio from the front, it may not be suitable for all recording needs. If you require a more omnidirectional or specific polar pattern, this microphone might not be the ideal choice.

Pros And Cons Of Rode VideoMic NTG

Sony ECM-B1M

The Sony ECM-B1M microphone measures approximately 3.91 inches in length, 1.08 inches in width, and 3.22 inches in height. When it comes to weight, this microphone is impressively light, tipping the scales at around 2.72 ounces.

The ECM-B1M mic features a shock mount at the bottom of the unit and switches for controlling various audio reception parameters on the back.

To enhance the overall audio performance, Sony has integrated digital signal processing, which converts analog sound into a digital format and effectively suppresses unwanted noise. Sony’s sophisticated algorithms also excel at recognizing speech while effectively filtering out other ambient noises.

This mic is powered by the hot shoes, it’s primarily intended for on-camera use and not for mounting on a boom or stand. Sony does offer a multi-interface shoe extension cable, but it is relatively short and pricey.

Pros And Cons Of Sony ECM-B1M

Deity V-Mic D3

While premium mics are great and offer sparkling top-end sound, most folks don’t have much to spare on recording equipment and would rather spend a good amount on setting up their studio. That’s where the V-Mic D3 comes in.

The Deity V-Mic D3 measures 9.49 x 4.88 x 3.27 inches and weighs 5 ounces, which is slightly heavier than the previous two cameras but still good enough for indoor and outdoor use.

It operates on battery power and can be conveniently plugged directly into your Sony A7C. It also comes with a Rycote shockmount, which allows you to attach it seamlessly to the top of your camcorder. And the best part? It lasts for over 150 hours on continuous use!

Like most mics on this list, the V-Mic D3 also works with your phone or computer, so if that’s something you need, definitely pick a mic with the option.

If you don’t need additional controls and don’t mind the average sound quality, you can find a great use for the V-Mic D3 by Deity. It’s also good for videographers who are just starting out with Youtube and don’t need high-end sound quality just yet.

Pros And Cons Of Deity V-Mic D3

Rode VideoMic Pro+

You may have noticed that there are several Rode microphones on this list, and there’s a good reason for that. Rode mics not only provide excellent audio quality but also come at a reasonable price for its features. And the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is no exception.

If you’ve used a Rode mic before, you’ll find the VideoMic Pro+ just as user-friendly but with added durability and more features to enjoy. My favorites are its eco-friendly rechargeable battery and power-saving feature that automatically activates when the mic is not in use.

The mic also offers a wide frequency response range spanning from 20Hz to 20kHz, which delivers a rich and authentic sound experience. It can capture the full spectrum of audio, from deep and warm low ends to clear and crisp highs.

However, one notable drawback I’ve encountered with the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is its windscreen. While it adequately serves its purpose when filming in mild breezes outdoors, it becomes ineffective in harsher conditions. To learn how to reduce wind noise, check out this article.

Pros And Cons Of Rode VideoMic Pro+

Buying Guide To Microphones For Sony A7C

If you want to make sure you are getting the best mic for your needs, you need to be aware of the following things.

Purpose

The purpose of your microphone usage will determine the type, features, and characteristics you should prioritize. For example, if you plan to use the microphone for recording vocals in a studio setting, you would typically look for a condenser microphone known for its sensitivity and accurate sound reproduction. On the other hand, if you intend to capture audio in a live performance or interview scenario, a dynamic microphone with good off-axis rejection and durability might be more suitable.

Polar pattern

There are a bunch of mics in the market – unidirectional, bidirectional, and omnidirectional are a few types you may come across. While the unidirectional mics are good for picking up sounds directly in front, they also tend to have bad noise reduction compared to bidirectional ones. For a more comprehensive comparison of the different polar patterns, check out this article.

Amount of Noise

When choosing a microphone, it’s important to consider the signal-to-noise ratio specifications provided by the manufacturer. Look for microphones that have a high signal-to-noise ratio to ensure clean and accurate recordings, especially in situations where capturing clear audio is crucial, such as podcasting, voiceovers, or professional music recordings.

Power Source

Some microphones are designed to be powered directly by the camera, while others may require external power sources such as batteries or phantom power. Battery-powered microphones offer the advantage of portability and flexibility, allowing you to use them in various locations without relying on a constant power supply. On the other hand, camera-powered microphones draw power from the camera itself, eliminating the need for additional batteries and simplifying the setup process.

Budget

Setting a budget helps you narrow down your options and focus on microphones that fall within your financial means. While it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option available, it’s important to strike a balance between affordability and durability. Investing in a slightly higher-priced microphone that offers better build quality and reliability can save you from the need for frequent repairs or replacements in the future.

You Can Also Read: Using A High-Quality Boom Microphone With Sony A7C: Pros and Cons

Conclusion

By considering my list of recommended microphones for the Sony A7C, you can make an informed purchasing decision that aligns with your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize portability, advanced audio controls, or enhanced noise reduction, this selection ensures that you’ll find the perfect match for your Sony A7C.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Mics For Sony A7C

Is Sony a7c good for videography?

As a budget camera with a full-frame sensor and powerful RAW capabilities, the A7C is a great choice for bloggers and Youtubers, and can even be used as a B-cam in professional settings. However, it does lack advanced controls and if you’re a serious pro, you might want to take a look at the Sony A7R.

Is Sony A7C weather resistant?

The A7C is good if there’s light mist but it’s not fully weatherproof. The term is weather-sealed- and while it won’t be damaged if it’s accidentally caught in the rain, you will end up damaging the equipment if you try to actively use it in the rain.

Does Sony A7C have stabilization?

The A7C might be tiny but it features 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization and gyro data stabilization to ensure that you don’t get shaky footage. The In-body Image Stabilization (IBIS) works like a charm but you may still want to get a decent gimbal if you’re serious about shooting quality video shots.

Is Sony A7C good for landscape?

Equipped with a full-frame sensor and incredible RAW capabilities, the α7C works quite well for landscape photography but if you need more controls, there are better cameras in the market.
Sony A7C camera is also weather-sealed to protect from humidity and rain, so you don’t have to worry about shooting landscapes if this is the only camera you have.

Does A7C have APS-C mode?

The A7C does have APS-C mode but it will default to 1.5x crop which is great if you want to use an older APS-C lens or shoot with a prime lens.

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