Ross Winn, Author at Podcast Insights®

Best On-Camera Shotgun Microphones For DSLR Video Cameras

By Ross Winn

Updated September 21, 2021

Disclosure: Links to other sites may be affiliate links that generate us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Audio quality is critical when it comes to video production. On-camera shotgun microphones are an easy way to up your audio quality when recording with a DSLR video camera. Another benefit is that they don’t have to be mounted to the camera, you can get an extension cable and mount them on a boom pole or tripod to get the mic closer to your subject.

If you’re interested in other options besides shotgun mics for interviews, take a look at these interview microphones.

We’re going to take a look at the best shotgun mics in 2026 that are designed to be used on-camera, but of course, will work off-camera as well…

Quick Overview: Best On-Camera Shotgun Microphones For DSLR Video Cameras

IMAGE	PRODUCT
	OUR TOP PICK Rode VideoMic Pro+ Designed for camcorders, DSLR cameras and portable audio recorders Broadcast-quality audio Super-cardioid polar pattern ensures that surrounding audio is minimised	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Rode VideoMic Pro Features a native 40Hz-20kHz response High-pass filter at 80Hz -10dB level attenuation is ideal for recording loud sound sources	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Rode VideoMic Standard sized shoe mount Employs a super-cardioid polar pattern for highly directional recording Features a native 40Hz-20kHz response	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Rode VideoMic GO Delivers clear, crisp, directional audio Reduces other surrounding sounds No complicated switches or settings	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Rode VideoMicro Designed to improve the audio quality of your videos High-quality cardioid condenser microphone capsule Reduces distracting peripheral sounds	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	TAKSTAR SGC-598 10dB sensitivity enhancement 200Hz low-frequency attenuation Specially designed for the camera and high-sensitivity condenser microphone	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Shure VP83 & VP83F LensHopper Detailed, high-definition audio Full low-end response For professional results every time	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Saramonic VMIC Recorder Polar pattern super cardioid Records 16-bit/48kHz WAV audio to a micro SDHC card 3.5mm headphone monitor input	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Canon DM-E1 Directional Microphone Shotgun and stereo (90 Degree/120 Degree) directional controls Included wind screen Shock mount construction helps reduce camera operation noise	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Sennheiser MKE 600 Pronounced directivity Maximal rejection of side noise Switchable "Low Cut" filter minimizes wind noise	VIEW ON AMAZON →

The Best Podcast Starter Kit (For 1, 2, 3 & 4+ Hosts)

By Ross Winn

Updated August 25, 2021

Disclosure: Links to other sites may be affiliate links that generate us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Ready to start a podcast?

Audio quality is clearly one of the most important factors – and for that, you’ll need a good microphone.

As you add more people, you will need some additional gear to get everything hooked up and recorded on your computer. It’s not complicated – and I’ll tell you exactly what you need to get started.

I’ll give a lower budget (but quality) recommendation and some suggested upgrade options as well.

2019 Podcasting Conferences & Events You Need To Attend

By Ross Winn

Updated October 11, 2021

Disclosure: Links to other sites may be affiliate links that generate us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Podcasting is exploding, and with it, more events and conferences that feature your favorite podcasters, a place to meet and network with other podcasters, and a place to learn. We’ve put together a list of the top podcasting conferences and events so you can easily find one to attend.

They will be in chronological order and we’ll try to include upcoming dates and locations whenever possible. Let me know in the comments if any are missing!

Special Podcast Movement 2019 Discount: Use Code INSIGHTS

Podcast Movement is the premier podcast-only conference “for podcasters, by podcasters”. There are tons of amazing speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities.

It’ll be in Orlando from Aug 13-16, 2019 this year.

Get your ticket now before prices go up

Be sure to use promo code INSIGHTS for $30 off!

P.S. Let me know you registered and let’s chat – I’d love to connect in person!

Best Audio Mixers For Podcasting & Music (w/ USB Interface)

By Ross Winn

Updated September 21, 2021

Disclosure: Links to other sites may be affiliate links that generate us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Because the best mixer for podcasting will vary depending on your needs, how many people are involved, your experience with audio equipment, and much more, I’ve broken up the recommendations into mixers that work well for single-person and 2-person podcasts, and recommendations for podcasts with 3 or 4 (or more) hosts.

One thing to keep in mind when deciding on an audio mixer is that you will need an XLR input for each person in the room or studio. Even if you’re doing a solo podcast, if you ever want to have a guest join you live, you’ll need a spare input and XLR mic for them. Because of that, I would actually look for a mixer that has more inputs than you think you’ll need.

For example, if you’re doing a 2-host podcast, you should consider mixers from the multi-person podcast section. Some people might only ever have guests through Skype or phone calls, but you never know.

I’m only going to include mixers that include a USB connection so you don’t have to worry about how to connect them to your desktop computer or needing additional equipment to get your recordings onto your podcasting laptop.

USB audio interfaces are also popular ways to record on your computer (or connect to a mixer) but you usually won’t have the same control over EQ, levels, gain, etc.

Best Laptops For Music Production & Recording (& Podcasting)

By Ross Winn

Updated April 7, 2021

Disclosure: Links to other sites may be affiliate links that generate us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Updated in January 2020.

So you want to get serious about music production or podcasting? You’ll need a good laptop that can handle everything you throw at it.

There is a good chance you’ll have lots of programs and tabs open at the same time and you will need the ability to add at least 1 extra screen (many people use 2 or 3). These usage requirements use a lot of RAM and graphic power, respectively. I recommend getting at least 16GB RAM if at all possible.

Most important for audio processing is a CPU with fast single-core performance. This will allow you to get your mixes into a single file much quicker and process effects and chains without the CPU needing to wait, among many other benefits. 8th generation Intel i7 processors are the best, followed by Intel i5. 7th generation processors are also excellent.

We’re just going to focus on the best laptops for music production and podcasting. There are many more options for desktop and all-in-one computers that work well for audio recording and podcast recording, but the flexibility and portability of a laptop makes it a must-have.

Featured Podcasting Tools For:

Podcast Hosting

Buzzsprout

Web Hosting

Bluehost

Podcast Music

PremiumBeat

Remote Recording

Iris

Best On-Camera Shotgun Microphones For DSLR Video Cameras

The Best Podcast Starter Kit (For 1, 2, 3 & 4+ Hosts)

2019 Podcasting Conferences & Events You Need To Attend

Best Audio Mixers For Podcasting & Music (w/ USB Interface)

Best Laptops For Music Production & Recording (& Podcasting)