Audio-Technica has launched two new on-camera shotgun microphones. The Audio-Technica ATV-SG1 and Audio-Technica ATV-SG1LE look to bring Audio-Technica’s audio quality to videographers and content creators.
Compact design
The Audio-Technica ATV-SG1 and ATV-SG1LE are both compact and easy to use on-camera shotgun microphones. They both feature the same newly designed 14 mm large-diameter diaphragm which the company says delivers natural, high-resolution sound. Both mics also use a highly directional 100 mm acoustic tube to ensure that the pickup is focused on the sound source you want while blocking unwanted background noise. However, the ATV-SG1 has a larger body mount under the acoustic tube to accommodate its extra features.
ATV-SG1LE
With its 3.5mm TRS to 3.5mm TRS cable, you can simply plug the ATV-SG1LE into any camera with a compatible socket. Audio-Technica says that the mic uses unique plug-in power circuitry so that it delivers the professional characteristics of battery-powered mics. These features include an extended frequency range and high max SPL. The ATV-SG1LE is also small, measuring just 5 inches (127.1mm) in length and 1.4 inches (35mm) wide.
ATV-SG1
The Audio-Technica ATV-SG1 has a number of extra features to give you greater control over your audio. You can use its low-cut filter to alleviate noise from wind, traffic, HVAC systems, and other low-frequency sources. There’s also a gain knob on the rear of the unit for stepless adjustment. In addition, the ATV-SG1 has a safety track feature which records the main audio to the left channel and a backup track at -6 dB to the right channel. This is ideal for situations where you may get loud spikes in volume.
Additional inputs
The ATV-SG1 has an external input jack and accessory shoe on top. This means that you can mount a wireless lavalier mic receiver or plug in a powered wired lavalier mic to record simultaneously with the shotgun mic. There’s also a headphone jack with a volume adjustment knob so you can monitor your audio. Additionally, unlike the ATV-SG1LE which uses plug-in power from your camera, the ATV-SG1 has a built-in rechargeable battery. You can charge it over USB and it delivers a run time of up to 24 hours.
Shared features
Both the Audio-Technica ATV-SG1 and ATV-SG1LE feature integrated shock mount to reduce any handling noise from your camera. They also use patented Audio-Technica noise-immunity technology to protect against interference from smartphones and other electronic devices. And, their 12-sided shoe mounting plates allow the mics to be rotated in 30-degree increments for flexible positioning and precise orientation. The ATV-SG1 and ATV-SG1LE come with a wind muff for to reduce wind noise in outdoor environments as well.
What we think
Audio-Technica’s new on-camera shotgun mics are a great way to improve your audio. For many content creators, the plug-in power simplicity of the ATV-SG1LE will be all that they need. However, for more serious videographers, the extra features of the ATV-SG1 are worth the additional cost. The option to plug in a second microphone is great for interview situations. Also, the gain control, low-cut filter, and safety track recording will help to ensure your audio sounds the best it can. Whatever your budget, the ATV-SG1 and ATV-SG1LE can help to make your videos sound as good as they look.
Pricing and availability
The Audio-Technica ATV-SG1 and ATV-SG1LE go on sale this week priced at $249 and $119 respectively.
