Which external microphones are best for Sony ZV-1 vlogging?

Question

So I finally pulled the trigger on a Sony ZV-1 for my upcoming trip to Tokyo next month. Im super excited to start vlogging but the built-in mic is kinda driving me crazy. Even with that little fluffy deadcat thing it comes with the audio sounds really thin when Im outside in the wind. I spent all night watching YouTube reviews and honestly Im more confused now than when I started.

I keep seeing the Rode VideoMicro mentioned as the gold standard for beginners since its cheap and doesnt need batteries. But then I saw the Sony ECM-G1 which looks way cleaner because it connects directly through the hot shoe without any messy cables. My main worry is that if I use a cable it might block the flip out screen which would be a total nightmare for framing myself. Also some people in the comments were saying certain mics have a weird hiss on the ZV-1 specifically if you dont mess with the manual gain settings.

I have about $150 to spend and I really need to get this sorted in the next two weeks before I fly out. I mostly do walk and talk stuff in crowded areas so I need something that focuses on my voice and ignores the traffic noise. Is the Sony brand one worth the extra cash for the cable-free setup or should I just stick with a traditional shotgun mic? What are you guys actually using on your ZV-1?

VincentTab · Accepted Answer

Honestly, I've been using the Sony ECM-G1 Ultra-compact Vlogger Shotgun Microphone for months now and I'm super satisfied with how it performs on the ZV-1. If you're worried about cables blocking your screen, this is 100% the way to go because it uses the MI shoe for power and audio. No mess, no fuss, and I've had zero complaints with the hiss people mention as long as you keep the levels reasonable. Heres why I think it works well for your Tokyo trip:

No cables to snag or block the flip-out screen.

Large 14.6mm capsule gives much better vocal presence than the internal mic.

Runs off the camera battery so you never forget to turn it on. I found mine for about $140 which fits right in your budget. Tbh, the lack of a cable is a lifesaver when you're walking through crowded spots like Shibuya. It focuses nicely on the person in front of the lens. You wont regret spending the extra few bucks over the Rode just for the convenience alone.

phoebepqy772671 · Answer

> I mostly do walk and talk stuff In my experience, <a href=" https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt= Sennheiser+MKE+200+Directional+On-Camera+Microphone&BI=8941&KBID=10361&SID=12345&DFF=d50" target="_blank" rel="nofollow sponsored">Sennheiser MKE 200 Directional On-Camera Microphone has better isolation than Deity V-Mic D4 Mini Compact Cold-Shoe Shotgun so traffic noise wont drown you out.

VictorPab · Answer

Been messing with my setup lately and I am super happy with the Rode VideoMicro II Ultra-compact On-camera Mic. It works way better than the old version.

VideoMicro II: Small, no battery, sounds crisp.

Rode VideoMic GO II Analog/USB Microphone: Super directional for loud crowds. Tbh check out the Curtis Judd YouTube channel for gain tips. Also, the UURig R054 L-Plate Bracket for Sony ZV-1 stops the mic from blocking your view!