Which Microphone for My First Student Film?

[createmyowncubed]

I'm making my first independent student film, and I'm in need of some audio teachings. I have a 3ccd Panasonic consumer video camera, and I'm guessing I'll use that for the audio... Unless there's something out there I can use that fits my budget. Do I record the sound separately? And what's a DAT?
I don't know anything about audio. But I know it's important.
My budget is no more than about 100 bucks.
What should I do?

 

[Bob Kessler]

DAT = Digital Audio Tape.

DAT recorders are being used less and less in favor of digital recorders like the Fostex FR-2. Most manufacturers no longer make DATs, and it's getting harder to get replacement parts and the tapes are getting more expensive. You can find decent ones used in the $250.00 to $750.00 range.

On an ultra-micro-budget mics and recorders become a problem.

For a mic think about the Azden SGM-1X Shotgun. It's about $150.00, but you will still need the shockmount, cable, cable adapter and boompole. Not a mic I would use (I prefer the Rode NTG-1 in the under $250.00 price range), but it's a start.

Your best bet for a recorder would probably be a MiniDisk. There are many relatively inexpensive ones out there that will do the job. Sony makes many good ones. Keep in mind that you will have no control over volume levels; lower range MiniDisk recorders use a compress/limit process instead which can be troublesome.

Syncing in post will be a bear, so use the camera sound as a sync reference, make sure that you log everything well and use your clapboard.

PM me if you would like.

 

[Veronnie]

What would you recommend for wireless? My budget is a bit more allowing.

 

[Bob Kessler]

I like the Sennheiser Evolution G2 500 Series, and the Lectrosonics 100 and 400 series because I have had positive experiences with them. Sony makes some nice ones as well, although I have no personal experience with them.

 

[Veronnie]

Thanks Uncle Bob!