The Library Tech Commons offers a collection of audio/visual hardware for a variety of video production needs. Equipment can be checked out by UCSF faculty, staff and students. The Azden Shotgun Microphone kit includes one Azden SGM-1X shotgun mic, a shock mount mic holder, two windscreens, and two XLR cables (5′ and 30′). This high-quality shotgun min can be mounted on a camera or connected to any audio recording device that accepts XLR inputs.
Use cases for this kit include:
- Mounting on a professional camera for directional audio capture
- Mounting on a boom pole and aimed independently of the camera at moving subjects
Pairs with: Zoom H5 Handy Recorder, Gitzo Boom Pole.
Batteries required: One AAA battery (not included).
To use the Azden Shotgun Microphone follow these basics steps.
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Install battery – Twist to unscrew the bottom of the mic barrel, and then gently pull it apart. Install one AAA battery, and then screw the barrel back into place.
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Mount mic – If mounting the mic on the shoe mount of a camera, slide the mic into the shock mount holder. If mounting the mic on a boom pole, slide the mic into the boom pole’s mic holder. The back of the mic should protrude just slightly from the back of the mount.
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Connect cables – Connect the male end of the XLR cable into the back of the mic, lining up the grooved notch, and pushing in until it clicks into place. Repeat and and connect the female end to your camera or recording device.
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Windscreen – Two windscreens are included in the kit. The small, foam windscreen is for general use, and can be used indoors or out. The larger, fluffy windscreen is for outdoor use, and lessens the noise caused by wind. Gently slide the windscreen of your choice onto the barrel of the mic.
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Turn on – Flip the power switch on the mic to the ON position.
- Record – Using your recording device, adjust levels and record!
These additional notes will help you use the H5 smarter and avoid common pitfalls.
- What is “XLR?” – XLR is an electrical connector style commonly used for professional microphones. XLR mics are well protected from interference, and produce consistent, high quality, balanced sound. They generally produce higher quality sound than mics that use a standard 3.5mm connection.
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Mic pickup pattern – The SGM-1X is a super-cardioid mic. This means it is very sensitive sound in the front of the mic element, and rejects most of the sound coming from the sides. It also picks up some sound coming from the rear. Super-cardiod shotgun mics are best suited for focusing in on sound sources from a distance, but can also be used up close. For more information, check out this online guide.
- Mic positioning – This shotgun mic can be placed at varying distances from your subject, anywhere from a few inches to many feet, depending on the loudness of your subject. It is very directional, though, so be sure to always aim the front of the mic directly at your subject.
- Ruggedness – The SGM-1X is a sensitive device and should be protected in its padded case when not in use. Also, do not expose the microphone to rain or adverse weather conditions!
- Battery life – One fully-charged AAA battery can last up to 1000 hours!
- SGM-1X product page – http://www.azden.com/products/microphones/shotgun-microphones/sgm-1x/
The approximate value of this kit is $325. If anything is lost or damaged during your loan, you are responsible for replacing those items.
Reservations can be made using our online reservation calendar.
The maximum loan time for this device is 4 days. Staff are available Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 9am to 12n, in CL240 of the Parnassus Library for equipment check-out. Equipment can only be used for UCSF related activities, by UCSF students, staff and faculty. More information about the reservation process and our policies can be found here: How to Reserve Equipment.