can i ask if the cable that it have can be removed from the microphone or it is builted to the microphone and can't be removed? (what if i want to remove it to put another 3.5mm cable?) thanks!
Here some review (not mine) on Amazon on how to remove the static "If you're using it with a DSLR (which I assume most everyone is since not many camcorders have hotshoe mounts) you'll need to go into your audio settings and turn down the on-board audio amplifier. They don't play well with external microphones and tend to amplify ambient sounds. Set that to 25-30% to get rid of any hissing sounds, and turn on the +10dB switch. With those settings, the audio is perfectly clear, no hissing, and keeps surrounding noise at a minimum. I used it for a video this morning, and stopped talking for a passing car in the background; however, while editing I realized I could've just kept going because the car didn't get picked up at all."
Hello! Awesome video! I have a question: do you know if I can use this mic on my GoPro Hero Black 4? I already have that little cable that adapt P2 exit. Thank you so much!
I got mine for $15 like new on CL and LOVE it. I put it on a mini desk tripod and connect it to the input of the X/Y capsule of my Zoom H5. I engage the +10dB and low cut filter and use voice compression on the Zoom and then line out to the line in of my Fuji X-S10 and this sounds as good as any other "sound" setups that I can conjure up. The only improvement is that I would design it to have power automatically cut out as soon as you remove the stereo jack or turn the power off what the mic is plugged into.
Thanks Curtis. This was one of the better reviews that I've seen. You covered just about everything I needed to know about this mic in particular and some nice basics that made me reconsider the use of shotgun mics for my documentary purposes.
Thanks for the review, Curtis. I'm curious about the self-noise numbers and comments. In the video, you list the noise numbers as ranging from -54 to -47 dB. Your comments include, "This is definitely not the world's quietest mic", "I think it is probably usable", "It is not the cleanest mic", "Is it perfect? Not by a long shot", and several other qualifiers that emphasize the limitations, while noting the low price. I don't disagree with your observations, but I'm wondering about how they fit in context with your recent reviews of the Giant Squid, the HMN Sound, and the Rode SmartLav mics. The self-noise numbers for the Takstar would put it a close second to the Giant Squid, and well above the HMN Sound and Rode SmartLav. Yet your comments on the latter three are much more positive than for the Takstar. I'm wondering if there were other factors that place the Takstar in a lower position, in your evaluations.
Hi Derek, all good points. Technically, the Takstar is a decent mic for the money. It compares pretty favorably amongst the sub $100 lav mics. I think the thing that bugs me about the Takstar is that darned coldshoe mount and the fact that most people that will buy this mic will snap it on top of their camera and then be disappointed by how it sounds. So I decided to get on my soapbox and blather on about how shotgun mics should be used. If I were making a $40 shotgun mic, I would include a standard mic stand clip and then sell the heck out of its ability to compete with mics like the RODE NTG-2 in terms of sound reproduction. But I'm a little bit of a snob, so I'll get off of my soapbox and thank you for helping to ground me in reality. ;-) In retrospect, I should have just said all that in the video...
Hi, I'm going to shoot a short film soon. I have all the stuff I need except the microphone. I think I will buy the Takstar, however I don't have any external recorder to plug the mic. If I plug the Takstar into my smartphone will be good enough? Or do I have to plug it into a Zoom H1 (for example)? Thanks!
Does this microphone fair any better in terms of noise if you were to use it closer, say, to record a voiceover where you might be able to speak maybe 6 inches from the mic? I ask because the product description says the polar pattern is cardioid, not shotgun, which is very interesting. Also, is the hole at the bottom of the shoe mount for mounting onto a boom pole? Can't tell if there are threads there.
I'll have to test for sure but my guess is yes, if you can drop the input level a little, you may get a lower noise floor when you're working up closer to the mic. You'll want to watch for plosives but it should work. There are NOT threads on the bottom of the shoe--quite a shame. A 1/4-20 threaded hole would have been awesome for mounting to just about anything.
Hi! I just got the Takstar sgc-598 and I'm having a terrible time opening the battery compartment. I've had half the family and my neighbors try to help me and nothing seems to be working. Did you (or anyone else) have similar problems? I saw your review and so excited for this mic and now I'm very eager to test my mic to make sure everything works properly, BUT ONLY IF THE GOSH DARNED THING WOULD OPEN. any help would be great. (PS I really enjoyed your video and I'm sorry if this comment is semi-relevant, it's just that I don't know where to get my answers at this point haha)
This is how I do it with a "twisty" cold-shoe adapter, though I'm sure there are many other creative ways: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-OLmqRNsZvzY.html
Thanks for the video. Does this microphone record in stereo? How much of an improvement is it over the built in mike? I have a Canon vixia hfr600 and the sound it records is lousy and it picks up a lot of wind noise. Is it worth my money to buy this?
A gm Check the comparison between the camera mic and the shotgun at this point in the episode: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-Ecs0GWaPtto.htmlm22s The secret to better sound is to get the mic as close as possible. The Takstar will do a little better in wind than your camera's mic but to really manage wind you'd need a $300 + blimp or zeppelin cover (the big fuzzy covers that the pro audio guys use)
Thanks for your info and insight. I bought one of these over a year ago and have yet to use it. I will be emceeing an event on the end of the month and doing facebook live through my samsung galaxy note 4. I will have it setup on a tripod with Ravelli dolly for smooth transition and a light along with a Viking juicepack. Mainly it will be me speaking but of course vendors as well as singers in the background. I thought about using the Tackstar since it is just wasting space but thought I should just get the Rode Videomic or Shure unit. What do you think? Ultimately I want to go wireless but can't find a alternate to the Sennheiser g2 or g3. Thank you.
No, if it works, it works! That's amazing! Doesn't work on my phone or perhaps they've changed the output cable since I reviewed it in 2014. Go with it.
Hi, Great review, what's the mount inside the cold shoe mount? is it a 1/4" thread? and also, what are the holes along the base of the shotgun mic, to the left and right of the cold shoe? Thanks
***** No, unfortunately that hole in the middle of the coldshoe is just a hole without threads. I'll have to check the others when I get back to home base but when I looked originally, there weren't any 1/4"-20 taps.
The build is not very robust - lots of plastic. Great option for vlogging and family videos but professionals which rely on their gear to earn their livings generally need something more robust. All that aside, it sounds surprisingly good if you get it within 12 - 18 inches (30 - 40cm) of the person talking.
I agree, great results for the price. One other thing I forgot to mention, the suspension system on the new RODE VideoMic Pro is much better than the Takstar which means less camera handling noise or noise when you move the mic.
Curtis - Question, a band I am in wants me to record with my Canon 60D Dslr - so I have this mic, and if i put it near of the speakers - do you think I will get a good sound - granted that I watch the clipping on my camera audio level ? Gig is tomorrow, hope you see this thanks
Hi, that’ll be tricky as the sound pressure levels coming out of speakers at live events are usually really high. Keep an eye on the meters to make sure you don’t clip. May also need to move away from the speakers.
I want to buy a microphone to mount on my sony a7. I would like to mount on a "Beholder ms-1" Wich one do you think is better Takstar SGC-598 or voical mc-550? voical mc-550 seems more compact and i have a good feeling with the pixel brand, but i found more reviews about sgc-598. I din´t find any comparative of that items.
You are doing great Job in your field. Please guide me. I want to buy Tascam dr-60 d mk11. Now tell me is Takstar SGC-598 good choice as a combo? I have Canon 5D mark 2 camera.
Hi Vikram, for microphones like there, there isn't much benefit to running it through a DR-60D vs just going straight into camera and in fact, many of the newer cameras have cleaner 3.5mm inputs than the 60DmkII. The 60DmkII is really good for the money with XLR based microphones, but not stellar with 3.5mm microphones. I hope that helps and good luck!
Thanks for the quick reply.... I am new to audio recording system and bit confused. Please guide me which mic do you prefer with DR-60 D11. For Documentary film shoots. I am using Canon 5D Mark 2 camera.
Hi Vikram, I am not familiar with any XLR based microphones in the $50 or under range, unfortunately, but you could use this microphone along with an extension cable like this to feed the audio directly to your camera: amzn.to/2M2azin
I hadn't heard of it until you mentioned it. Is this the one? www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1085656-REG/se_electronics_see_laser_laser_pro_on_camera_shotgun.html/BI/19904/KBID/12941/kw/SELOCM/DFF/d10-v2-t1-xSELOCM Looks like it is worth a test! Thanks!
Yes that's the one. It gets really good reviews and is supposedly better than the rode pro mic (more natural sound, so better for editing). So I was just wondering how it compared to the really cheap takstar. No problem, I will keep an eye on your channel! Curtis Judd
Short answer: No. This mic has a hotshoe connector. This is how I rigged a connection to boom it on a mic stand: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-OLmqRNsZvzY.html Jump to 4:00 where I talk about how I used this.
SkateBeeable Hi! I'm not sure I understand your question. The 3.5mm plug from the mic should fit into the camera's mic input. Sometimes a 3.5mm input is called a stereo minijack.
SkateBeeable I just looked it up and it appears that the Rebel T5 does not have a mic input. :-( support-sg.canon-asia.com/contents/SG/EN/8202004500.html
+Curtis Judd can I plug this mic directly into my nikon dslr. 3.5 ml. And would this work for a group discussion if I put this on a stand 2 feet in front of them?
What mic would you recomend for recording videos outdoors at motocross tracks and race car tracks? I thought this mic would work, but it doesn't seem so anymore
Steven M. This is the best sub $40 USD microphone for recording something like a race that I'm aware of. If you have a larger budget, you could do better, but at this price, it is a good option. Just looked on Amazon and looks like it is retailing for $34 USD today: amzn.to/19ewa3Y
Steven M. The RODE VideoMic Pro is probably the most popular alternative. I'm not sure that with motocross and auto racing you'd hear a big difference (and I haven't personally used the VideoMic Pro). My sense is that the RODE might have a slightly cleaner output signal but again, not sure that is critical when recording screaming bikes and cars: amzn.to/1NPDdzN
+EPASIDESHOW650 I don't believe that the Canon t5 has a microphone input, unfortunately. So you'd need a separate recorder like a Tascam DR-05 and then sync the audio from the audio recorder to the video in your video editing app. Here'a s video where I show how to do that in Premiere Pro: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-f8wan7tZu_I.html And here's the Tascam DR-05: amzn.to/1OFyKTF Good luck!
Yes, but depending on the PC, you might need an adapter. If your PC has two separate ports, one for headphones and a separate one for a microphone, then this will work as is. If you only have one port for both headphones and microphone (this is most recent laptops), then you'll need this adapter to use the mic with your PC: amzn.to/2smCcNt Good luck!
Hi Baldemar, there are two at least two schools of thought on that, one is to use a shotgun style microphone like this one here to isolate the sound of the band from the crowd but sometimes you won't pick up all of the band. You could also go with something like the RODE Stereo VideoMic Pro which we reviewed here: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-GnH7oR2pYsI.html I used this a couple of weeks ago for the same thing but I was on the sidelines rather than in the stands. It would still work from the stands but will pick up some more of the crowd than a shotgun microphone will. I'd probably go with something like the stereo videomic. Good luck!
+Chasing Siberia You need a recorder. This mic is actually designed to sit on top of and record to your camera. In this case, I prefer the sound I get when I record the sound to an audio recorder (Zoom H1). Are you planning to record to a computer?
It didnt sound that great, might just save up for an RodeSmartlav+ AUD$58 - www.jbhifi.com.au/headphones-dj/microphones/rode/rode-smartlav-smart-device-microphone/990299/ (possibly the ONLY rode mic that isnt double or 3 times the price in AUD)
Great review as always Curt! 47db noise floor is very workable, its stil low enough to use a noise gate without noticeable a (cutting) in and out effect. Great bargain indeed
I own this microphone, and I love it. It sounds very good, especially considering how affordable it is. I wouldn't use it for talking-head shots when mounted to the camera (that's what lav and boom mics are for), but for ambient sound, it's great. I recently used it to record the bells from a clock tower in fairly close proximity, and it sounded excellent. I mounted a dead cat on it, and that was a big help.
I have this mic, it does get a lot of hiss... pretty easy to clean up in audition though. the extension cord is good idea, i'll have to get one... nice review
Call me foolish, but I'd rather use a shotgun mic than recording separate audio. Mainly because I'm poor and cannot afford to do it, but I don't shotgun mics sound all that bad.
I completely agree, shotgun mics don't sound bad at all. They sound even better when you get them within 40cm of the person speaking. You can do that with an extension cable like the RODE VC1 so you don't have to record it separately. This cable works nicely: amzn.to/1n6hOHG
Thanks for reviewing as requested. I have had the mic for about a month and like it a lot espcially considering the price, thanks for the additional insightful tips!
DO you think this mic would improve the sound quality for my bass guitar videos? See here, ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-IOr2gBOH7eE.html PS, I don't do any post editing. And can you recommend a step or two up?
Hi Curtis you helped me last year and I was wonder one more thing. Is there any way I could be able to monitor audio live with the sc4 adapter into my iPhone. The adapter works great I would just like the monitoring. Thanks!
That great advice about these shoe mounted shotgun mics and wide-angle lenses is hardly ever mentioned. It's so important. All in all this is a great video which gets right to the point. I think the self-noise on cheap mics is always a problem, and it's well worth paying the extra for a quality mic - saves so much hassle post-production.
This was all recorded with the Takstar into a Zoom H1 audio recorder. It sounds good mainly because I put it within 40cm of me talking, rather than on top of the camera. No mic will sound great when mounted on camera if the camera is more than just a few feet away.
Always informative! Thanks! I bought this mic, but haven't used it yet. Question: You used the Takstar recorded into the Zoom H-1, So how is this mic vs just using the H-1's built-in mic? Would it be better to just use the Zoom H-1 altogether? Thanks again!
liberalpoet The Takstar is more directional, that is, it has a smaller sweet spot where it picks up sound. That allows you to reject more noise than you can with the H1 in most environments.
If I use this shotgun mic attached to a 3.5mm female to male cable and then attach it to my DSLR (nikon d5100) will that work? (I am trying to create a boom mic)
HI, why don't you ask Robert from JuicedLink to loan you a Riggy-Micro unit for review. They record superb audio directly into the camera. Single system saves hours of post production work.
Thanks! I might do that. I have an outstanding question that I need to answer and that is what the practical difference is between 16 bit and 24 bit depth audio recording. 99% of cameras only record 16 bit (which is part of the chain when using a JuicedLink) and 99% of audio recorders do 24 bit--even the cheap recorders like the Zoom H1. In theory, there are some benefits to recording in 24 bit, just like for cameras, recording raw is preferable in some cases to recording in color sub-sampled 8 bit H.264. I'm not crazy enough to think that this is always necessary, especially when just posting on RU-vid, but I am on a quest to understand the practical benefits of 24 bit audio recording.
I just bought the Takstar SGC-598 and I want to use it for some unboxing videos, but I want to place it right next to the box not on the camera. Is there any small tripod that I can mount this microphone on ? Or....is there any adapter hot shoe to screw it to/connect it to the regular tripod ? Thank you.
Really useful video ! Just one question : is there a difference of audio quality if I am recording at 24 inches with the sgc-598 directly plug into the camera or into the zoom h1 (at the same distance). Is the Zoom h1 used as a preamp ? I would like to use your links but unfortunatly i live in France and I have to buy on Amazon.fr, I would be happy to help you, if you have links for France, I will use them.
Yes, the quality of the Zoom's pre-amp is better than most consumer cameras. You will be able to get a louder signal with less noise, most likely. Thanks and best wishes!
+CCScorseseVideos the 598 is mono, the 698 is stereo. I haven't used the 698 so I don't know how it sounds. In my previous experience, stereo mics tend to pick up more ambiance. If that is true and you're aiming for a dialogue track without a lot of room reverb, the 598 may be a better choice. You'll want to see if you can find any audio samples of the 698 online somewhere for comparison.
Hi Curtis, What mic/shotgun mic would you suggest for filming with an iPhone in a small study? Would you use the Takstar SGC-598 or the RodeVideo MicMe?
Hi Nicole, probably not the best choice for rock concerts. My first choice would be to get to know the sound board guys and get a feed from the soundboard to a field recorder. I've done that before and that's awesome because then you can mix it in with the sound from your camera (to add back some of the room sound, crowd appluase). If that's not possible, an omni directional mic is probably better so that when you move your camera to point at different band members, you don't cut off the sound. Most camera mics are omni. I haven't tried this before but an omni directional lav mic might work better than the camera's mic--I'll have to try that next time I shoot a live show...
Could you possibly explain the other switches a little more? something about they help with fuzz kind of sound and bumoy sound? im looking into getting one and i would like to better understand those other two switches! Thank you.
+It's ian Aside from the power switch, there are two additional. One is gain. This determines how loud the recording will be. Then the high pass filter removes really low sounds like wind noise. I don't use the high pass switch a lot.
Hey, thanks for the great review! Still responding to comments after 8 years! Legedend! 💪🏾. But if of a silly question... Would I be able to use this with my laptop? Trying to improve my zoom meeting audio and had this microphone laying around after 5 years of no use 😅. Thanks!
Curtis, I was looking for a shotgun mic to record my kids in various venues at a distance. Your video has been the most helpful. You disappointed me that I can't have a magic mic that can pick up sound well from a distance! Damn you facts! I also found this link from Shure that gave a good explanation of "how far will my mic pick up?" bit.ly/1qt2hTB. Since I can't mic up my kids and their orchestra, etc... I am assuming the Takstar or the ATR-6550 is still going to be better than the video camera mic. Is that a fair assumption? I have a Canon VIXIA HF G30. Thanks for the great information.
Hi Tim, yes, physics often seem to get in the way of magic. ;-) Yes, most external mics will improve the overall sound, particularly if you can get them closer to the source. And a shotgun, even if you mount it on your camera, will probably sound better than the camera's built-in because it will reject a little bit of the ambient noise. Good luck!
My Takstar SGC-598 Works great on both my Canon T5i and Canon AX-30, but then I only shoot out doors and 99% Radio Controlled Model Air Planes with an occasional inter view with the Pilots. I do use a $159 Dead Cat for wind. All in All for the money it records Model Airplane NOISE great. OH anyone have anyidea how to turn on a Zoom Hn4 audio recorder record function when pressing record on the camera.
Hello! I can't find an answer anywhere, my videomic go picks up massive EM interference from everything, from cellphone, router to bluetooth smartband. This 598 supposed to fix that issue through aluminum body that "can effectively shield electromagnetic interference". Could you confirm that sir? Very eager to know, and should I buy it.
Hi Stanislaw, All I can say is that I did not experience any RF or EM interference when working the SGC-598. I cannot guarantee that it is 100% EM/RF immune, but I haven't experienced any issues.
Hi Curtis...Thanks for educating us,really appreciate the effort..May i ask a question..I have bought a takstar sgc 598(as budget become very tight) and wanted to connect that to my zoom H5 recorder so as to record dialogue as i read double system is superior.problem is they have 3.5mm adapter in the microphone module of the zoom h5 which cant be turned off separately in effect XY mike+shotgun will recieve signals and quite a pandemonium.and also the provided pin is 3.5mm stereo.is there any way i can convert it to mono xlr so as to connect it to zoom H5.Pls bear with me if sound wrong as i am super duper amateur newbie.thanks in advance.
Hi Ashik, I think you'll just want to remove the channels you don't need in post, something like this: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-BKepIceNf1M.html Just remove all of the channels you do not want and keep the one you do. Best wishes~
Hey Curtis, I'm looking for the best quality (sound wise) mic under $100. After going on amazon I saw that this mic had some of the best reviews in it's price class. Are there any other mics I should be considering? Thanks and great review btw!!
Thanks! The Takstar is pretty impressive for the price. The only other shotgun mic I know of under $100 is the Audio-Technica ATR6550 which is around $55 USD. I haven't used it personally, but it gets reviews as good as or better than the Takstar.
Hi Curtis, My wife want to start her video blog. We have Fujifilm X-t1 camera (which is known not to be a great for video). We are going to shot indoor videos with it. Which microphone under 50$ do you recommend? Thanks!
Hi, this is the best sub $50 shotgun microphone I have used so I think this is a good option. I'd recommend you boom it like this: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-TUEmQBZKoBs.html Good luck!
I am STILL using my Takstar on my Nikon D5100 (with hacked firmware). It is great for good reference audio (I even have a dead cat for it). There has even been a few times when the reference audio was even a little better than the official recorded audio (something may have happened) and the source was close enough, and the scene was able to be saved with the reference audio. I have to admit, depending on the project, there's been some shots when I didn't even bother to drop in the official audio because the reference audio was "good enough." I will be getting a BMPCC4K soon. It will be interesting to see if the Takstar makes the migration to it. I've been upgrading all my equipment. Might be time to upgrade from the Takstar as well.
@@curtisjudd - It is working well. Just seems kinda goofy to have something so cheap on such a nice camera when I make the change. Then again, there will be enough to spend money on to get the 4K into a "ready to use" state.
Curtis; Turned out the unit was defective. Apparently the round base under the shoe was too thick, thus the unit would not slide onto cmamera shoe all the way. Sent back to Amazon,com and rec'd full credit. Will be buying the Rode Videomic Pro.Thanks for responding.Ron
What mic set up would u recommend for shooting model airplane and being able to eliminate wind noise on a Canon T5i. Is there any way to use the mic from my old Canon XL-1 video camera? With a $150 Dead Cat it worked well upto 15 to 20 MPH winds.
HoundDogMech I haven't used the XL-1 myself but it does appear to have a 3.5mm mike input. I personally like the RODE VideoMic Pro. I just received the new version with has a better suspension system and re-designed capsule which sounds great. I should have a review up in the next few weeks. You can find it here: www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1152351-REG/rode_videomic_pro_r_videomic_pro_with_lyre.html/BI/19904/KBID/12941/kw/ROVMPR/DFF/d10-v2-t1-xROVMPR
Check out Dave Dugdale's channel where he just did a noise test on the Rode Videomic Pro. In short, this mic appears to be 4-5 db noisier than the Videomic Pro if I recall correctly. I'm not sure how it compares to the Videomic (I don't have one to compare to), but my guess is that the Videomic is somewhere between the two.
I've plugged the microphone into my camera and hear no sound through the smartphone when I playback what I've recorded. Any suggestions? I'm using a Xiaomi, Mi8 phone
Clipping; switch on the limiter on your recorder or camera. Hissing; use a white noise filter like Waves X-Noise in post. Editing; What are you doing using Audition?
Hello Live Shots Videography. Digital limiters are often ineffective so they don't always work. Hissing - thanks for the tip on Waves X-Noise. Editing: Why not Audition? I do quite a lot of mixing and it seems to do the job nicely and has some very useful off-line processing and measurement tools.
Fakrul Famizi Yes, I think it will. It worked with my iPhone 6 and the RODE adapter. I will have an episode coming out in the next couple of days looking at the new RODE VideoMic Pro which is better than this Takstar mic but more expensive. The Takstar is the best shotgun mic for less than $100 that I have used.
I've been using my mic for surveillance and it has been on for 5 full days and the light is still green. I'm using an Energizer Ultimate Lithium battery. They're BY FAR the best I've found for disposable batteries. For rechargeable, I use Powerex - 2700 mAh!
I use it on top of my Canon DSLR. I believe it sounds much better than any Rode mic I've tried. The price is amazing for what you get. The battery lasts a very long time. It's all plastic, but the construction and quality is good. That's about it.
