The Nikon D5100 is a popular DSLR camera that captures high-quality images and videos. However, its built-in microphone might not always deliver the best audio quality, especially in noisy environments. That’s where an external microphone comes in.
An external microphone is an accessory that attaches to the camera and captures sound from a specific direction, resulting in clearer and more focused audio. There are many types of external microphones available on the market, but not all of them are compatible with the Nikon D5100.
In this article, we will help you find the best external microphone for your Nikon D5100 by reviewing and testing various options on the market. Whether you’re a professional videographer or a casual content creator, we’ve got you covered.
Best External Microphones for Nikon D5100
1. Rode VideoMic Pro+ Camera-Mount Shotgun Microphone
The Rode VideoMic Pro+ is a game-changer for professional Nikon D5100 users seeking top-notch audio quality. This microphone boasts the Rycote Lyre suspension system, ensuring pristine audio output even in dynamic shooting environments. Its Automatic Power Function is a lifesaver, intelligently conserving battery life by deactivating the microphone when unplugged from the camera. Additionally, the Digital Switching feature streamlines the audio signal at the source, significantly reducing post-production and editing time.
One remarkable advantage of the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is its ability to capture crystal-clear audio in various professional scenarios. For instance, during on-location interviews or documentary filming, the Rycote Lyre suspension system effectively minimizes unwanted vibrations and handling noise, delivering professional-grade sound. Moreover, the Automatic Power Function seamlessly ensures uninterrupted recording, a crucial feature for capturing spontaneous, unscripted moments in a professional setting.
While the Rode VideoMic Pro+ excels in many aspects, it’s essential to address its limitations. Professionals should be aware that using this microphone with a phone may pose some challenges due to the need for multiple adapters. However, for Nikon D5100 users primarily focused on professional-grade video production, this limitation may not be a significant concern. Additionally, the limited gain choices and higher price point should be carefully considered, although the exceptional audio quality and innovative features justify the investment.
2. Movo VXR10 Universal Shotgun Mic for Camera
The Movo VXR10 Universal Shotgun Mic for Camera is an excellent choice for professionals seeking an affordable and versatile external microphone for their Nikon D5100. This microphone offers several features that make it a valuable tool for professional audio recording.
The Movo VXR10 is compatible with a wide range of devices, including DSLRs, smartphones, tablets, and laptops, providing professionals with the flexibility to use it across various platforms. Its durable aluminum construction and battery-free design ensure reliability and longevity, making it a dependable choice for professional use. The furry “Deadcat” windscreen and integrated shock mount effectively minimize handling noise, ensuring high-quality audio recordings even in outdoor environments or during fast-paced events.
While some users have reported a hissing sound when using the microphone with DSLR cameras, this can be mitigated by manually adjusting the audio levels. Additionally, the unidirectional nature of the microphone makes it ideal for capturing audio from a specific direction, which is beneficial for professional applications such as interviews and location sound recording.
In real-world scenarios, the Movo VXR10 excels in delivering clear and crisp audio, making it suitable for professional vlogging, interviews, and outdoor events. The included cables simplify the connection process, and the compact design enhances portability, allowing professionals to easily carry it to various recording locations.
3. Shure VP83 LensHopper Camera-Mounted Condenser Shotgun Microphone
The Shure VP83 LensHopper Camera-Mounted Condenser Shotgun Microphone is a game-changer for professionals seeking top-notch audio quality for their Nikon D5100. Its highly directional super cardioid/lobar polar pattern ensures that unwanted off-axis audio is rejected while capturing the intended sound source with crystal clarity. Say goodbye to unwanted background noise and hello to pristine sound recordings.
This microphone boasts superior RF immunity, shielding your recordings from unwanted artifacts caused by cellular and RF devices. Imagine capturing the perfect audio in any environment without interference. The integrated Rycote Lyre shock mounting system takes it a step further by providing impeccable isolation from vibration and mechanical noise. Your recordings will be free from unwanted disturbances, ensuring a professional-grade result every time.
However, it’s essential to consider the potential drawbacks. The 0.125-inch dual mono unbalanced connector type may not be universally compatible, so it’s crucial to check your device’s specifications. Additionally, the requirement of a single AA alkaline battery (included) may be inconvenient for some users. Despite these considerations, the Shure VP83’s exceptional performance and durability make it a worthy investment for professionals seeking premium audio quality.
4. Comica VM20 Shotgun Microphone
The Comica VM20 Shotgun Microphone is a game-changer for professionals seeking top-notch audio recording capabilities for their Nikon D5100. Its super-cardioid directional pattern effectively eliminates background noise, delivering clear and precise recordings. The two low cut filter modes (<75Hz & 150Hz>) further enhance audio quality by reducing unwanted background noise, ensuring crisp sound recordings. Notably, the microphone’s OLED screen allows real-time monitoring of battery status, ensuring uninterrupted recording sessions.
This versatile microphone is widely compatible with various devices, including Android smartphones, DSLR cameras, and camcorders, making it an ideal choice for podcasting, filmmaking, vlogging, interviews, and live streaming. The ten-level gain adjustment and sensitivity range of -43dB to -23dB provide full control over volume, guaranteeing a smooth and stable recording experience.
One of its standout features is the built-in 3.7V/300mAh rechargeable lithium battery, offering an impressive standby time of up to 60 hours. Its USB-C interface design enables charging while in use, extending its working time, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Additionally, the Rycote shock mount minimizes unwanted vibrations and shaking during motion shots, ensuring professional-quality recordings.
While the Comica VM20 excels in various aspects, it’s essential to note that the XLR adapter cable is not included, and the noise level of 65 dB may not meet the requirements for some professional audio recordings. However, these limitations can be addressed by purchasing the XLR adapter cable separately and considering the microphone’s exceptional directional pattern and low cut filter modes, which significantly enhance recording quality.
5. Comica VM20 Shotgun Microphone
The Comica VM20 Shotgun Microphone is a game-changer for professionals seeking top-notch audio for their Nikon D5100. This versatile external microphone boasts an OLED screen that displays battery life and real-time power monitoring, allowing you to fine-tune settings on the fly. The low-cut button effectively minimizes external noise, ensuring crystal-clear audio, even on windy days. Additionally, the ten-level gain adjustable knob provides precise control over microphone volume, catering to diverse shooting scenarios.
This high-quality kit includes a Rycote shock mount, windscreen, and wind muff, ensuring stability and durability while shielding against external signal interference. The built-in 300mAh rechargeable lithium battery offers an impressive 60 hours of usage with just 3 hours of charging, ideal for extended professional shoots. Compatibility with various devices, including DSLR cameras, smartphones, laptops, and tablets, makes it a versatile choice for professionals across different platforms.
The Comica VM20’s robust features make it a perfect fit for professionals in various fields. For instance, content creators will appreciate its suitability for YouTube, podcasting, vlogging, and TikTok, while journalists and interviewers can rely on its exceptional audio quality for capturing compelling stories. Moreover, its adaptability to outdoor events and live streaming makes it a valuable tool for event coverage.
While the sound pattern may not be as super cardioid as expected, the Comica VM20’s exceptional features and accessories compensate for this limitation. The microphone’s incompatibility with XLR cables is a drawback in specific situations, but its broad device compatibility ensures seamless integration into most setups. Despite some complaints about sound quality when used with smartphones, its exceptional performance with DSLR cameras and other devices outweighs this concern.
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6. Hollyland Lark M1 Wireless Lavalier Microphone
The Hollyland Lark M1 is a game-changer for professionals seeking a top-notch wireless lavalier microphone for their Nikon D5100. This compact and lightweight device boasts a cutting-edge DSP noise cancellation chip, ensuring crystal-clear audio in any environment. Weighing a mere 0.42oz/11.8g, it offers unparalleled comfort during extended use, making it an ideal companion for on-the-go professionals.
With a remarkable 8-hour battery life and simultaneous USB-C charging capability, the Lark M1 is tailor-made for outdoor interviews, video podcasts, and vlogs. However, it’s essential to note that the microphone’s compatibility is slightly limited, requiring a separate 3.5mm-TRS-to-TRRS cable for use with computers and phones. Additionally, while it includes two windshields, the absence of built-in wind protection demands extra caution in windy conditions. Furthermore, the lack of real-time monitoring may be a drawback for some professionals.
Despite these considerations, the Lark M1 offers exceptional benefits for professionals. Its noise cancellation feature ensures optimal audio quality, while the extended battery life and USB-C charging capability make it a reliable choice for demanding shooting schedules. The microphone’s wide compatibility and user-friendly setup process further enhance its appeal, allowing seamless integration with various devices. The inclusion of a charging case adds practicality, enabling convenient on-the-go charging.
7. Rode VideoMic GO II Camera-Mount Lightweight Directional Microphone
The Rode VideoMic GO II is a game-changer for professionals seeking an external microphone to elevate their Nikon D5100 audio capabilities. Its compact and lightweight design ensures effortless portability, while the dual 3.5mm TRS and USB outputs cater to a wide range of devices, from cameras to smartphones and computers. Setting up the microphone is a breeze, thanks to its battery-free and switch-free operation, making it ideal for on-the-go professionals seeking hassle-free solutions.
This microphone is not just easy to use, but it also delivers exceptional audio quality, making it a valuable asset for professionals. The high-quality windshield and shockmount provided with the microphone effectively minimize wind noise and vibrations, ensuring pristine audio capture even in challenging environments.
While the Rode VideoMic GO II offers numerous advantages, it’s essential to address potential drawbacks. Some users have reported issues with the included audio cable, and the lack of input adjustment might deter some professionals. Additionally, the software accompanying the microphone has received mixed reviews. However, these concerns can be mitigated by using high-quality alternative cables and exploring external audio adjustment options.
8. Movo VXR1000 Mini HD Shotgun Condenser Video Microphone for DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras
The Movo VXR1000 is an exceptional choice for professionals seeking a compact and versatile external microphone for their Nikon D5100. Its features cater to the needs of professionals, making it a valuable tool for their work.
The hypercardioid polar pattern of the Movo VXR1000 ensures precise dialog capture while effectively rejecting off-axis sound, providing professionals with clear and focused audio recordings. The microphone’s standard windscreen and outdoor wind muff expand its versatility, allowing seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor applications without compromising audio quality.
Professionals will appreciate the integrated shock mount, which minimizes handling noise and vibrations, resulting in pristine audio recordings. Real-world examples demonstrate the microphone’s ability to capture crisp and clear audio, especially when used for dialog capture. Its compact design makes it unobtrusive when mounted on the camera or camcorder, ensuring it does not interfere with the shot.
While the Movo VXR1000 excels in many aspects, professionals should consider its requirement of a 1.5V AAA battery, which may not be as convenient as USB-powered alternatives. Additionally, the included outdoor wind muff may not suffice in extremely windy conditions. Some users have reported clicking sounds in recordings after extended use, which professionals should be mindful of.
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9. BOYA by-MM1 On-Camera Shotgun Microphone
The BOYA by-MM1 is the perfect companion for professional Nikon D5100 users seeking a versatile external microphone. With its plug-and-play design, this microphone eliminates the hassle of battery management, making it an ideal choice for on-the-go professionals. Its high-quality cardioid directional microphone ensures that every sound is captured with precision, making it an excellent tool for professional video production, live streaming, and field recording.
The BOYA by-MM1’s robust shock mount and suspension structure effectively minimize unwanted vibration and handling noise, ensuring that professionals can focus on capturing pristine audio in any environment. Additionally, the furry windshield provides a reliable solution for blocking wind and environmental noise, further enhancing the microphone’s suitability for outdoor use.
Professionals will appreciate the microphone’s compatibility with a wide range of devices, including iPhones, Androids, cameras, camcorders, audio recorders, tablets, and laptops. This versatility allows seamless integration with various recording setups, offering professionals the flexibility they need to adapt to different production scenarios.
While the BOYA by-MM1 offers exceptional performance, it’s important to note that an additional adapter cable is required for use with iOS lightning and USB-C devices. Furthermore, some users may notice a slight hiss in their recordings, and the mono-mixed sound may not meet the stereo sound requirements of certain professionals. However, these limitations can be mitigated with the appropriate adapter and post-processing techniques.
10. SENNHEISER Condenser Microphone, MKE 400 (508898)
The SENNHEISER MKE 400 is a game-changer for professionals seeking top-notch audio quality for their Nikon D5100 videos. This highly directional and super-cardioid shotgun microphone is designed to isolate and enhance in-camera audio, delivering exceptional sound for your video projects.
Featuring integrated wind protection and an internal suspension mount, the MKE 400 effectively minimizes handling noise, ensuring that your audio remains clear and free from unwanted disturbances. The built-in low-cut filter and 3-step sensitivity switch provide added flexibility and control in any environment, allowing professionals to adapt to various recording situations with ease.
While the price point may be considered steep by some, the microphone’s quality and features make it a worthwhile investment. The super-cardioid polar pattern ensures that the microphone captures sound from the front while minimizing ambient noise from the sides and rear, resulting in focused and pristine audio. Although the MKE 400 is slightly bulky, it remains relatively user-friendly and doesn’t add excessive weight to your setup. However, it’s important to note that the locking mechanism for the cables can be a bit finicky at times, requiring some patience to ensure proper functionality.
Buying Guide
When it comes to finding the best external microphone for your Nikon D5100, there are a few key features you should consider before making a purchase. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Compatibility
First and foremost, you need to ensure that the microphone you choose is compatible with your Nikon D5100. Look for microphones that have a 3.5mm jack, as this is the standard size for most DSLR cameras.
Directionality
Another important factor to consider is the directionality of the microphone. Directionality refers to the microphone’s ability to pick up sound from a specific direction. There are three main types of directionality to consider:
- Omnidirectional: These microphones pick up sound from all directions. They are ideal for recording ambient noise or group conversations.
- Cardioid: These microphones pick up sound from the front and sides, while minimizing background noise from behind the microphone. They are great for recording interviews or solo performances.
- Shotgun: These microphones have a highly directional pickup pattern, allowing them to capture sound from a very specific area. They are ideal for recording outdoor events or wildlife.
Frequency Range
The frequency range of a microphone refers to the range of frequencies it is capable of picking up. Look for microphones with a wide frequency range to ensure that you capture all of the nuances in your audio recordings.
Build Quality
Finally, it’s important to consider the build quality of the microphone. Look for microphones that are well-built and durable, with a solid construction that can withstand regular use.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the best external microphone for your Nikon D5100 that meets your specific needs and budget.
Conclusion
You now have a clear understanding of the best external microphones for your Nikon D5100. Whether you’re a professional videographer or a hobbyist, the right microphone can make all the difference in the quality of your audio. Keep in mind that the best microphone for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Be sure to consider factors such as directional sensitivity, frequency response, and connectivity options. With the right external microphone, you can capture clear and high-quality audio to complement your stunning visuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated external microphones for DSLR video recording?
When it comes to external microphones for DSLR video recording, there are several options available in the market. Some of the top-rated external microphones for Nikon D5100 include Rode VideoMic Pro+, Sennheiser MKE 400, and Audio-Technica AT4053B. These microphones offer excellent sound quality and are highly recommended by professionals.
How do I connect an external microphone to a Nikon D5100?
Connecting an external microphone to a Nikon D5100 is a simple process. First, locate the microphone jack on the camera body. Then, plug the microphone into the jack using a 3.5mm audio cable. Once the microphone is plugged in, you can adjust the audio settings on the camera to optimize the sound quality.
Which microphone brands are compatible with the Nikon D5100?
The Nikon D5100 is compatible with a wide range of microphone brands, including Rode, Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, and Shure. However, it is important to check the compatibility of the microphone with the camera before making a purchase.
What should I look for in a microphone for shooting video with my Nikon D5100?
When choosing a microphone for shooting video with your Nikon D5100, there are several factors to consider. These include the type of microphone (shotgun, lavalier, etc.), directional capabilities, frequency response, and sensitivity. It is also important to consider the environment in which you will be shooting and the type of sound you want to capture.
Are there any budget-friendly external microphones recommended for Nikon D5100 users?
Yes, there are several budget-friendly external microphones that are recommended for Nikon D5100 users. Some of these include the Rode VideoMicro, TAKSTAR SGC-598, and Movo VXR10. These microphones offer good sound quality at an affordable price.
Can using an external microphone improve the video quality on a Nikon D5100?
Yes, using an external microphone can significantly improve the video quality on a Nikon D5100. The built-in microphone on the camera can pick up unwanted background noise and produce poor quality sound. An external microphone can help to eliminate background noise and produce crisp, clear audio.
