Five things to look out for

1

Frequency response alone doesn’t tell you enough about a mic, so don’t get bogged down on topline spec.

2

Don’t get too excited by impressive high frequency figures. Most 25 year-olds can’t hear anything above 15KHz.

3

If the mic fits in a hotshoe, check that it has a suspended shockmount, to stop noise transfer.

4

A windjammer reduces wind noise and is essential for shooting outdoors. Budget extra if the mic lacks one.

5

An average mic placed close to the source will outperform an amazing mic placed at a distance.