Just picked up a Lumix G85 for basic video work. My old Samsung Galaxy S9 just aint cutting it anymore for audio, especially when filming outdoors with too much wind noise.
I was looking at the Rode VideoMicro II since people online say its great for budget setups. But then I read a few threads claiming it lacks low-end punch compared to powered mics like the Deity V-D3. My budget is around $100 max. Size and weight are big priorities since I want to keep the whole kit lightweight.
Which one should I actually get for this camera?
Get the Rode VideoMicro II for $79. It costs $0.02 per day over a five year lifespan and weighs only 39 grams.
- Rode VideoMicro II: $79, zero batteries needed, great wind protection included.
- Deity V-Mic D3: $100, heavier, requires charging. I did the math on the Rode and it saved me a ton compared to dealer audio gear. The G85 setup stays light and cheap.
Like someone mentioned, keeping weight down on a G85 matters. Rode VideoMicro II is 39g and easy, but Deity V-Mic D3 gives better gain control if you need it.
Omg I have this exact same issue with my G85. Been dealing with it for like two months now and still cannot find a good answer.
Been thinking about your audio setup while fixing my lawnmower. Dealer wanted $350 for a professional shotgun mic kit, but I built my own wind-muffled setup for a fraction of that. Before you buy, what kind of outdoor environments are you shooting in, and how far from the camera will you be standing?
- Rode VideoMicro II costs $79, weighs 39 grams, and breaks down to about $16 a year over five years.
- Deity V-Mic D3 costs $100 and adds extra weight you might not want on a G85. Let me know your distance needs so I don't steer you wrong.
@Reply #6 - good point! Keeping costs down is key. Dealer wanted $400 for a pro kit, but I built my own setup for $75. Saved me a ton.
Good to know!
Just wanted to say thanks for everyone chiming in. Super helpful discussion.
Saved for later, ty!
omg I have this exact same issue with my setup too. Been dealing with it for like two months now and honestly still cannot find a good answer anywhere. Everyone just repeats the same brand hype online without actually testing stuff in heavy wind. It gets so frustrating when youre just trying to figure out what works and every thread just goes in circles...
Solid advice 👍
^ This. Also, ngl, audio gear rabbit holes are no joke. I spent like three whole days watching comparison videos before I bought mine. TL;DR: Keep the furry deadcat windshield on whatever you pick, especially for outdoor shoots. Lowkey, the wind noise on the G85 is brutal without a proper deadcat because the camera body itself picks up a lot of handling sounds if you aren't careful. Idk if this applies to your exact model, but the hot shoe mount on mine got a bit loose after six months of outdoor use, so definitely check your connections before you start recording. I ended up having to tighten the little screw base on my shock mount mid-shoot once and it was super annoying. If you stick to the lighter setups under 50 grams, you won't strain the port as much. Good luck with the vids!