Repost: Top 5 Self-Tape Mics for Actors

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Top 5 Self-Tape Mics for Actors

One of the truths of being an actor is that you're always hustling to find your next gig. That often means you are still auditioning for things when you're out of town on a gig - and when you can't physically get to an audition, then you need to go on tape. Recording a self-tape can be tricky. Getting high quality sound and video isn't always easy in cast housing, but a nice microphone can help. What follows are my top 5 self-tape mics for actors.
These are in no particular order, so don't perceive this as a ranking in any way. Each microphone has its benefits and drawbacks, so pick the one that is right for you. However, all of these can get you a great self-tape sound. If you want to use them for more than a self-tape may dictate which self-tape mic you may choose.

Comica CVM-VS08 Mini Shotgun

self-tape mics for actors
This is one of the more basic self-tape mics for actors available. It doesn't do much for you beyond provide an enhanced sound for your video. If you're looking to make short films or anything else with your smartphone, then there are stronger options for you. However, if you are solely looking to enhance the audio of your self-tapes, then this little mic will give you a lot of bang for your buck.

This is a directional condenser microphone (more information about the different types of microphones can be found here). The windscreen will help cut down on the extra room noise that can be distracting in an audition video. The monitor plug in the back help you to review your videos without needing to unplug and reset the microphone between every take.

Grab this mic from Amazon: Comica CVM-VS08 Professional Cardioid Condenser Directional Mini Shotgun Microphone for SmartPhones ,Vlogging Microphone for iphone and YouTube video ( Wind Muff included)

Saramonic i-Mic Professional TRRS Condenser Microphone

self-tape mics for actors

This little kit might be my favorite setup on this list. In terms of what you need in terms of a self-tape mics for actors, this kit has it all. In addition to the microphone, you get a tripod, the adapter to hold your phone, and a remote control. If you truly need to be self-tape sufficient, this seems like the way to go.

Again, though, I wouldn't recommend this microphone for any purposes outside of making a self-tape. However, with the stand and the remote control, this is easily the best thing to have on you when you're out of town on a gig and need to get an audition put together quickly.

Get this mic on Amazon: Saramonic Professional Condenser Microphone for iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, & Mac, IOS and Android Smartphones + Joby Flexible Tripod, Ivation Smartphone Tripod Adapter and Selfie Remote Controller

Rode VIDEOMICR CPK Videomic

self-tape mics for actors
The Rode VideoMicr might be a little more powerful than what you're looking for if you're simply looking for a mic that can function for your self-tape auditions. The kit pictured above, for example, includes a boom pole and the mounting kit for that boom pole.

There are lesser versions of this microphone available, but if you want to make short films in addition to being equipped to self-tape auditions, then this is a really nice starter kit for you to grab to get rolling making your own projects.

Get the Rode VideoMicr on Amazon: Rode VIDEOMICR CPK Videomic with Rycote Lyre Mount, Boom Pole, Screw Adapter and Extension Cable

Boya BY-MM1 Shotgun Video Microphone

self-tape mics for actors
A lot of people are using this microphone to record Vlogs, and the sound quality is really nice. Based on the level that many of the vloggers are getting, this would be a clear audio choice for filming self-tape auditions. The mic itself is quite small, which makes it very portable for you to have in your luggage when you go out on a gig, something that is highly important for many people.

I don't think you could use this mic for much beyond a self-tape, but it would offer you great options for takes if this is the route you decide to take.

Get the BY-MM1 on Amazon: Boya BY-MM1 Shotgun Video Microphone for iPhone, HuaWei, DJI Osmo Mobile, ZHIYUN Smooth Q Canon, Sony DSLR Cameras

EACHSHOT Comica CVM-VM10

self-tape mics for actors
This kit is pretty cool. The handheld functionality allows for image stabilization if you have someone holding the camera for you and helping you film. This also makes it something you could use to start making short films as well, if that is something which interests you.

It is important to note, however, that you will need someone to to find someone to hold the camera if you go with this kit. While you'll most likely be able to find that friend, if you value being able to film independently, you may want to look at some of the other kits.

Get the EachShot on Amazon: EACHSHOT COMICA CVM-VM10-II Kit Cardioid Directional Condenser Video Microphone Mic With Universal Mount for DJI OSMO Mobile Plus

Self-Tape Mics for Actors: Conclusion

There are a million options available to you if you decide that you want to start using an external microphone as you film your self-tape auditions. While I certainly feel that the increase in audio quality is worth getting a mic, other things you may want to do with that microphone will dictate what mic is best for you.

The mics listed in this post are excellent self-tape mics for actors. Some of them offer more functionality than others, so decide what other video and audio projects you may want to get into before you make a purchasing decision. The right microphone can allow you to try other things while also improving your audition videos.

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