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Question

cam with great sound pickup under $300

Oct 26, 2014 3:43AM PDT

Hello. I need some assistance. I need to video a script reading with 8 actors, in my very still house. I can sit pretty close to them. But they will also be singing. so I need great sound pickup. the long range goal is to place an edited version on Kickstarter. Thank you for your help. Lois

Discussion is locked

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Answer
So far, none.
Oct 26, 2014 3:58AM PDT

That question has been put up many times. The prior answers have been to get a cam with external mic inputs or just bow to the inevitable sound recorder.
Bob

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True Bob.
Oct 26, 2014 4:21AM PDT

Many years ago when I was in a band we had a video made VHS. The filmaker got a bit artistic and came close up to the lead, rhythm drums, etc. The result was a cacophony of noise when he decided to focus on drums, lead guitar etc. The mic was mounted on the camera. If it had been static in the room, the sound would have been fine.
Dafydd.

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External mic
Oct 26, 2014 6:33AM PDT

I agree this is the best way to go, a camcorder with an external mic input. So a stereo mic on the table in front of the actors or a conference mic which is often mono.The camcorder inputs are normally stereo so I use a short lead with a mono to stereo adapter on one end and a stereo plug at the other. (This reduces strain on the camcorder internals)
The "rule of thumb" is video from a distance but audio close to the sound source.