So the original desire that many filmmakers wanted with their DSLR was XLR capability. Since that is what “the people” wanted to hear about, it’s what I went looking for. Well after some thought, and a load of interesting opinions, I’m updating our search to include all audio in general to cover all bases. Cool?

AlainP, over at Canon5DTips did a great job reporting on a handful of external audio devices that are worth mentioning. And since audio devices are as abundant as DSLR choices, it all really comes down to what you’ll be using it for…

One of the phrases that likes to be tossed around is: “Filmmakers should be used to using an external audio device anyways.” I agree, we are used to it. Does that mean we what to keep doing it that way? No, not really, syncing audio is a pain in the ass. Especially with DSLR video that wasn’t made to handle audio like a professional video camera does…


Probably the most popular audio device for DSLR filmmakers right now is the Samson Zoom H4N. This guy packs a great punch and is pretty affordable for a low-budget filmmaker. Price is a set at a modest $299. Here a couple of the features:

-Built-in X/Y stereo mics record at either 90° or 120°
-Four channel simultaneous recording using built-in and external mics
-2 XLR inputs with phantom power allow recording with any mic
-Records on SD/SDHC media of up to 32GB for maximum recording time
-Records at CD quality, 16-bit/44.1kHz resolution.
-Built-in mounting joint for tripod and mic stand mounting
-USB 2.0 port for faster file transfer

The guys at Zacuto love it and actually teach classes on advanced DSLR audio with it. The most common complaint is the built-in mics inability to handle wind noise. Kinda makes sense.

The second most popular audio recorder is the M-Audio Microtrack II. This guy is a bit of a downgrade from the H4N, but still holds it’s own. It also records to CF cards which helps when you only want to use one type of card for both audio and video. Here’s some of the features:

-2 channel WAV (BWF) and MP3 recording and playback
-1/4 inch TRS inputs with line inputs and 48V phantom-powered mic preamps

Unfortunately, it doesn’t have XLR inputs, but the audio is still pretty damn good. And at $189, it does a fantastic job.

Next is one of the top of the line external audio recorders, the Fostex FR2LE. We all know Fostex for their DAT recorders; a real staple in the film world. I know I’ve used Fostex DAT when I ran sound for a couple 16mm shorts. Real good quality, but hefty price tag at $599. Here’s some of the features:

-Records to CompactFlash in Broadcast WAV Format (BWF) or MP3 at 24bit 96kHz quality.
-2 professional phantom powered XLR microphone inputs.
-Features a 1 take = 1 file recording system which eliminates overwrites.
-2 second ‘pre-record’ buffer.
-USB 2.0 for high speed file transfer.
-Designed specifically for location sound recording.

Basically for anyone who has used Fostex before, this is the best of the best for compact audio recording on a run-and-gun film set.

The next two audio recorders I will mention are really for those people who want direct contact with their audio and the camera itself. The first of which is the BeachTek DXA-5D, which was designed with the Canon 5D Mark II in mind. It’s pretty inexpensive as well, at $375. Here’s some of the features:

-Disables the camera’s audio gain.
-2 48V phantom powered XLR inputs with manual controls.
-Headphone & Line output jacks.
-Works best with Canon 5D Mark II, Canon 7D, and Nikon D300s.
-Camera & tripod mountable.

With all the DSLR specific design aspects, this device seems like a no brainer. No syncing in post and easy to use. But sometimes having an external device allows for a little more creativity with your sound, which I know a lot of people like. It’s all up to personal use.

Lastly, there is one more audio recorder that fares well in the DSLR market. It’s the juicedLink CX231. Set a little cheaper than the BeachTek at $299, it holds up well with a lot of the same features:

-48V and 12V Phantom powered XLR inputs.
-1/8″ (3.5mm) Mini Output.
-Three Gain Settings.
-Camera & Tripod Mountable.

Ok, so now that I’ve gone on and on about this crap, it’s time for everyone to make their own opinions on what they want to use. I’ve presented options, that’s all.