Live streaming is all the rage, and it’s only becoming more popular. With today’s popular streaming platforms, creators of all kinds can share their talents with the world instantaneously and reach massive audiences. And, in today’s audio landscape, a stream is only as good as its mic. Whether you’re live streaming a stay-at-home concert, playing your favorite video game, creating new recipes, podcasting live, or shooting a movie in your living room, you’ll need it to sound good. That’s where Sweetwater comes in. Our microphone experts know a thing or two about live streams and recommended we put together a short list of the best camera-mounted microphones for streaming. Here are our top picks for camera-compatible mics.
Best Shotgun Mics for Streaming Video
RODE VideoMic NTG
For videographers, the RODE VideoMic NTG camera-mount shotgun microphone is an excellent option. This shotgun condenser mic is optimized for use with a camcorder and delivers impressive audio quality in whatever environment you’re in. It has a highly directional supercardioid pickup pattern that rejects unwanted noise, so your audience hears everything you want them to and nothing that you don’t. Handling noise isn’t an issue since it includes a shockmount that attaches to your camera via the built-in shoe mount. RODE also offers the PG2-R pistol grip microphone shockmount that gives your mic extra mobility when you need it.
The secret to the VideoMic NTG’s great sound lies in its incredibly useful features. It has a switchable highpass filter to reduce any low, rumbling frequencies along with a switchable 20dB pad to make sure it doesn’t overload the recording. When you’re using it with the windscreen, activate the high-frequency boost to regain some of the lost sparkle. Plus, it offers an amazing safety net for field recordists who are sometimes startled by loud sounds — a switchable safety channel that records a backup channel that’s 20dB lower in case the main channel gets clipped, so you won’t have to worry about clipping again. For ease of use, the VideoMic NTG has an infinitely variable gain control to match the mic’s level to the input device. Lightweight, durable, and flexible, the RODE VideoMic NTG should be on the top of your list if you’re serious about your stream’s sound.
Why we like the RODE VideoMic NTG:
- Makes precision miking a walk in the park
- Infinitely variable gain control and autosensing input allow it to work seamlessly with any capture device
- Doubles as a USB mic for desktop recording, podcasting, and voice-over work
Saramonic Vmic Mini
The Saramonic Vmic Mini was created with smaller cameras and mobile devices in mind. This miniature shotgun microphone is ideal for streamers because it proves that you can capture broadcast-quality audio from an economically priced microphone. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a specially designed windscreen that work together to virtually eliminate unwanted ambient noise. It also has an internal shockmount that lessens handling noise.
Best of all, the Vmic Mini requires no batteries for operation. The Vmic Mini’s mounting options are virtually endless. It can mount to camera shoes, camera cables, boom poles, tripods, and more. The only limit is your imagination!
Why we like the Saramonic Vmic Mini:
- Compact size pairs perfectly with smaller DSLR cameras and mobile devices
- No batteries required
- Internal shockmount reduces handling noise
Sennheiser MKE 400v2
Do you want to stream your music for the world to hear? The Sennheiser MKE 400v2 camera-mount shotgun microphone may be just the mic you’re looking for. This compact shotgun microphone boasts some impressive features that make it versatile enough to record solo instruments, singing, and voice-over work. It has a supercardioid polar pattern that offers seriously impressive side noise rejection, not to mention an integrated windscreen for wind and handling noise. The 50Hz–20kHz frequency response ensures that you’ll capture every bit of your performance. To help you get the best sound possible, the MKE 400v2 ships with a furry windshield and a built-in shockmount. But, if that’s not enough, switch on the onboard wind-noise filter to enjoy clear recordings in almost any environment.
With versatility in mind, the MKE 400v2 offers a shoe mount to effortlessly connect to a camera. The mic also features a switchable sensitivity control that ensures you’ll get fantastic sound, no matter how loud the performance gets. And the mic automatically powers up when connected to a DSLR, a mirrorless camera, or a mobile device for continuous use. Whether you use it at home or in the field, the Sennheiser MKE 400v2 is an excellent choice for any streamer or content creator.
Why we like the Sennheiser MKE 400v2:
- Supercardioid pickup pattern is ideal for precision-miking applications
- Switchable sensitivity and noise filter ensure you get the best possible sound in any environment
- Compact design and battery-free operation are ideal for mobile videographers
Best Shotgun Mics for Streaming with an Interface
Sennheiser MKH 416
The MKH 416 from Sennheiser is a favorite among audio professionals. Why? Because it works so well on voice, not only for voice-overs and ADR (dialog replacement for film) but also for announcing tasks! It has an incredibly tight polar pattern, which is ideal if your acoustic space is live and reverberant and would benefit from a highly directional mic that focuses on just the voice. The MKH 416 delivers a smooth, transparent signal, thanks to its low level of self-noise and transformerless output. Whether you’re using it for your voice or for capturing on-camera antics, you’ll still sound great. The MKH 416 requires phantom power to operate, so it’s a great option for streamers who already use an interface in their setup.
Why we like the Sennheiser MKH 416:
- Ultra-directional response is ideal for finicky sound sources
- Feedback rejection helps you get crystal-clear recordings
- Capsule design resists the side effects of humidity
RODE NTG5
The RODE NTG5 is one of the most popular shotgun mics in the industry — and for good reason! It’s lightweight and durable and sounds divine. It has a linear frequency response and a super-smooth off-axis response. And, thanks to its cutting-edge sound port design, the NTG5 delivers a detailed, lifelike response that’s ideal for vocal applications.
It requires phantom power, so make sure you have an interface with phantom power. The RODE NTG5 Kit comes with all the accessories you need to utilize this mic’s full potential. You get an ergonomically designed pistol grip for handheld use, two windshields, a carrying bag, and more!
Why we like the Rode NTG5:
- Acoustic ports deliver a more lifelike sound
- Included pistol grip is excellent for conducting interviews
- Lightweight design makes it easy to hold and transport
Best USB Mics for Streaming Your Podcast
Earthworks ICON
Let us introduce you to the last USB microphone you’ll ever need. At least, that’s what Earthworks claims for the ICON USB mic — and, with decades of experience crafting pro gear with the punch of pristine audio, they should know. At first glance, this mic appears sleek, sophisticated, professional — the cherry on top for any streamer, podcaster, YouTuber, or content creator. The ICON produces sound as vibrant as its attractive design; a cardioid mic featuring a small-diaphragm condenser means audio capture to the most minute detail. With a tuned frequency response of 20Hz–20kHz, this small-diaphragm capsule captures lifelike vocals and a stunningly detailed sound image. And, with a short-stem orbital mic adapter, precise mic placement is easy with almost any stand or boom arm you need.
With the advent of the ICON, Earthworks professed the desire to connect people, no matter how far away, through the role of a fantastically designed, sensational-sounding mic. In our electronic day and age, employing the right mic with a detailed sound image means feeling a closer connection to friends, audiences, and even business colleagues from around the world — putting the human element back into electronic technology. Phenomenally functional, this mic also boasts durability to corrosion, stains, and bumps that add up over the years. The ICON USB microphone from Earthworks is built to perform, to dazzle, and to last.
Why we like the Earthworks ICON:
- It looks sharp and professional on camera
- Cardioid small-diaphragm condenser captures detailed sound
- It functions with Mac and Windows for audio input wherever you need it
Apogee HypeMic
The HypeMic from Apogee brings plug-and-play simplicity to more creators than ever before. It’s compatible with Mac, PC, and iOS, so you can record and stream audio from almost any device! In addition to its impressive recording flexibility, the HypeMic packs some seriously impressive features under the hood.
This mic has a cardioid condenser capsule that captures lifelike vocals, especially when you take advantage of the proximity effect. The HypeMic carries an onboard analog compressor that makes your vocals sound full and float above the rest of the stream’s audio. Before being transmitted to your device, the audio runs into a premium PureDIGITAL A/D converter that outputs your vocals in pristine 24-bit/96kHz quality.
Why we like the Apogee HypeMic:
- Mac, PC, and iOS compatibility lets you record on almost any device
- Studio-grade analog compression brings your vocals to life
- User-friendly operation gets you up and running in no time
AKG Lyra
The AKG Lyra delivers clear sound and flexible operation with an undeniable old-school charm. This USB desktop microphone packs impressive features into a user-friendly package. If you stream 4K video, then the Lyra should be your first choice. Its 4K-compatible, 24-bit/192kHz audio resolution provides your viewers with excellent sound quality to match the visuals. The Lyra has a 4-capsule array that allows you to select from four polar patterns. As the name suggests, the Front setting only picks up audio from the front of the mic — ideal for podcasting and voice-over work. The Front & Back pattern turns the Lyra into a figure-8 mic for two-person interviews. If you’re singing and playing guitar, the Tight Stereo mode will flatter your guitar and voice simultaneously. For situations where the entire band is playing, put the Lyra in Wide Stereo mode to capture the whole room with a single microphone.
That’s not all, though. The Lyra has a convenient momentary mute switch mounted on the front of the mic. This useful feature cuts the mic’s output so that your viewers don’t hear sneezes, coughs, or any undesirable noises while you’re streaming. And, while it comes with a stylish tabletop stand, the Lyra doesn’t have to stay on your desk! The included desktop stand can be removed, so you can attach the mic to a radio-style boom arm or a conventional mic stand.
Why we like the AKG Lyra:
- The 4-capsule array enables multiple polar patterns (Front, Front & Back, Tight Stereo, Wide Stereo)
- Pristine 24-bit/192kHz audio resolution pairs perfectly with 4K video
- Momentary mute switch prevents your viewers from hearing sneezes, coughs, and other interruptions
Not sure what microphone is best for you? Do you have questions about live-streaming setups? Sweetwater can help! We’re dedicated to helping you find the perfect gear and troubleshooting any problems you may encounter. Call us at (800) 222-4700, and you’ll be connected to your personal Sweetwater Sales Engineer. They’ll listen as you describe your situation and work to match you with the perfect microphone for your unique streaming needs.
