Best Microphones & Audio Recorders
Great videos start with great audio and you need to invest in high quality microphones and recorders to get the best sound possible. You also need some professional monitoring headphones and speakers to use while editing to make sure you can hear every noise and hiss. Soundproofing and acoustic paneling for the room you're recording or editing in are helpful too.
We've owned everything on this page at one point, and still own most of it. And the best part about audio equipment is that it retains value way better than cameras do. You'll still be using the same microphones in a couple decades if you take good care of them.
Microphones
Rode Video Micro
This is a solid, always on, shotgun mic to mount on a camera. Perfect for picking up audio close to it, like while vlogging.
Rode VideoMic Pro +
This is our go-to back up mic on top of our DSLRs. However, if you are looking to purchase your first external mic or will be delivering close to the camera this is a great shotgun option. Just make sure it is on before you hit record! :)
Rode SmartLav+ Lav Mic
Probably the best way you can improve your smartphone videos is by upgrading your audio game. The SmartLav+ delivers deep sound at a bargain price. Make sure it is the plus version, not the original though. And get an extension cable.
Rode Wireless Go
If you’re looking for a budget wireless lavalier microphone system, the best “cheaper” option is the RODE Wireless Go. You can record with it standalone by clipping to a shirt or you can plug in a lav mic like the SmartLav+ above.
Rode NTG-3 Shotgun Mic
This is the microphone that we use 9 times out of 10. Rode's NTG-3 shotgun mic is what I use to record talking head and voiceover audio. It needs a powered XLR cable, but with a 10 year warranty, this is built to last.
Rode NTG-4 Shotgun Mic
Unsure if you want to go all out for the NTG-3? Then check out the NTG-4 or 4+. At only 60% of the cost of the NTG-3, the NTG-4 still provides that broadcast quality level of sound and the plus version also boasts a built-in rechargeable battery too.
SENNHEISER AVX-ME2 KIT
This is the wireless lavalier microphone kit that I use when filming events or people talking and moving at the same time. I’ll also use these to film more casual two person interviews too.
Mic Stands & Shock Mounts
Manfrotto 420B 3-Section Boom Stand
We use this stand anytime we are in a stationary setup. We generally use it to boom the NTG-3 but it also mount DSLRs for top down shots on tables. Don't forget to attach the sand bag though or your possessions with go crashing to the ground.
Rode SM3 Shock Mount
This rubber banded contraption makes booming easier. There is nothing worse than hearing your audio engineer grip the boom pole when you should be hearing the set audio. No matter what shotgun mic you have, use a shock mount for it.
Audio Recorders
Tascam DR-40X
Whether you are looking for an entry level external recorder or just one with a compact simple design, look no further than the DR-40. With both XLR and 1/4" inputs the DR-40 is a great handheld recorder, even if you need to use the built-in microphones.
SOUND DEVICES MIX-PRE 6
This is the professional level audio recorder I use to film my videos and my audio podcasts. It has 4 XLR inputs and some of the best pre-amps I’ve ever used. The limiter (that makes sure your audio doesn’t peak and distort) is also analog, not digital, so even when your input gain levels are too high your recording will be saved and sound usable.
Monitor Headphones & Speakers
Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Headphones
My all-time favorite monitoring headphones. Great sounds, great looks, and great comfort. Larger drivers and better build quality than the 30X, the 50X is where it's at. The three cord options make these headphones usable in any environment.
Mackie MR5 mk3 Monitoring Speakers
Before clicking export and upload, it is helpful to review your edit through both headphones and speakers. These speakers offer great sound so you can hear all the subtleties you wouldn't with built-in ones and they also won't break the bank.
See our full review here.
Sound Absorption & Proofing
Audimute Sound Absorption Blankets
Stop hiding in the closet to surround yourself with all the soft things you own to make your audio sound better. These blankets hang on a wall or from a ceiling and really dampen echoes in empty rooms. Go buy some nice sound absorption curtains. Go. Now.
Eco-C-Tex® Acoustical Sound Absorber Panels
Have a full time recording space where you can adhere foam to the walls? Perfect. These panels are you best option for quenching room noise. If you are looking for something less permanent, go for the curtains above.
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Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you. I will earn a commission % if you decide to buy through these links. I either own or have used every piece of equipment I recommend on my site. Also, know that no company is paying me to promote their products either. - Caleb Wojcik