Common Problems With On-Board Digital Video Microphones

Think that the on-board microphone on your recently purchased camcorder is enough? Think again.

Getting On Board

For most people, the onboard microphone on their home digital video camcorder seems sufficient. Using attachable microphones is complicated and often expensive for a home user. Before you decide that the onboard pick-up is fine there are a number of common issues you should be aware of.

Clarity

The biggest thing to consider is simply the lack in clarity or quality of the audio that you will end up getting. Camcorder microphones are not designed to get specific audio types, nor are they of the highest caliber. They are essentially just to get some type of audio feed, so if you want something usable for a serious digital video project you will have to look elsewhere.

Pick-Up Pattern

Camcorder microphones are usually omnidirectional microphones. This means that they record sound from all directions around the microphone. This means that it is harder to get the specific dialogue or sound effects that you want, and that you will get all of the background clutter as well.

Camera Sounds

Often times on more inexpensive camcorders the microphone is actually in the camera itself. It can then pick up the mechanical noise of the camera operating, which injects just another element of noise into your recording. Even higher end digital cameras that have the attached microphone away from the camera body are still too close to eliminate camera noise.

Distortion and Damage

Their lack of quality also makes them more susceptible to interference and damage. They do not have the resilience of many attachable microphones, and cannot withstand the same kind of punishment and technological run-off. Expect to blow out the microphone or break it entirely in the course of your filming.

Getting the Goods

The rule really states that the more attention you give to audio and the better your equipment is, the more you will want to use the final product. If you are really intent on getting specific and clear audio recordings then you need to decide exactly what you are trying to get and pick up some external microphones that will do the job. Microphones are just as important as the camera you are using, so make the quality of this peripheral just as important as that of the digital video camera itself.