What is The Best Mic for Classroom Videotaping?

Written by: Kristina Dems • Edited by: Laurie Patsalides
Published Jan 24, 2011 • Related Guides: Classroom Environment | Camcorders

What is the best mic for classroom videotaping? In the kind of environment where there is plenty of ambient noise present, you need a condenser mic. This kind of microphone can focus on an audio source while shutting out noise. Here is a look at several recommendations.

Introduction

In most cases, the built-in microphone on camcorders is enough to capture regular audio of everyday moments. However, in a situation where the clarity of the audio is essential like when a classroom is being videotaped for student behavior or teacher performance, a much more focused microphone must be used. What is the best mic for classroom videotaping, exactly? Basically, what you need in that kind of situation is a compact microphone that functions well with a camcorder. Condenser microphones are your best bet.

Audio Technica ATR-6550 Video Camera Condenser Shotgun Microphone

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Its compact size is specifically designed for use with video camcorders. This is why it comes with a mount that makes it easy to be attached to a video camera. It also comes with a standard stand clamp so it can be mounted on any other secure surface. It can be set to focus on a single source of audio, shutting out all kinds of noise in between. If the environment is quiet enough, it can be set to a normal cardioid pattern that picks up the source of the audio, as well as the ambient noise.

Price: $52.95

Audio Technica ATR-3350 Lavalier Omnidirectional Condenser Microphone

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This miniature microphone is designed for accurate voice reproduction and total portability. It is compact enough to be carried around with minimum visibility, making it possible for it to be used near or actually on the subject of the voice recording without stealing the scene. It can even capture other sounds around the subject since it is omni-directional. This is perfect if the main subject of the recording is the lecturer in the classroom.

Price: $20.26

Behringer C2 Condenser Microphone Cardioid

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This product is composed of 2 condenser microphones designed for live recordings, as well as controlled environment recordings like those made in studios. Being a 2-piece microphone, it is perfect for use in stereophonic recording sessions. Its cardioid design gives it the ability to eliminate feedback and minimize noise and other unnecessary ambient sounds.

Price: $59.57

Samson C02 Stereo Pair Condenser Microphones

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This is another set of 2 condenser microphones that is best suited for stereophonic recording sessions. It is designed to minimize noise and capture necessary ambient sounds that complement the subject of a recording, especially in a live environment setting like in a classroom. Its frequency response of 40Hz to 20kHz make it very sensitive, powerful enough to produce recordings of live performances or lectures, as well as controlled situations like in recording studios.

Price: $119

Azden High-performance(SMX-10) Stereo Condenser Microphone

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Depending on your preference in recording, the answer to the question “what is the best mic for classroom videotaping?” may vary from situation to situation. Some people focus on sound quality while others focus on versatility. Still, others deem size is also important. This compact dual uni-directional electret-condenser shotgun microphone is one of the most compact microphones for use with camcorders available, giving the person recording a classroom environment the freedom to move around and essentially focus on different audio sources in one recording while minimizing rumble and wind noise.

Price: $63.79

Photo Courtesy of Amazon.com