Using an old Canon Stereo Zoom Mic on DSLR

[adge666]

I'm currently using a Panasonic GH1 and the on-board mics aren't much good. I have lying around an old (but in good condition) Canon 'Stereo/Zoom Microphone' that looks as if it may have been an accessory for the old 8mm A1/A2 camcorders. As they were expensive back in the day, I suspect the accessory mic is of decent quality and wouldn't mind giving it a try.

The only thing is, the mic connector is a 2.5mm which I can either adapt or rewire. The other connector is a 1.5mm that I suspect is for power - which is a pain. I've seen mics like this that take a battery.

Can anyone advise whether it is even worth trying out or should I just get rid and buy a Panasonic unit? Also, any ideas how to power it up?

This unit has a switch for stereo or zoom(?) and a small knob that allows the zoom pattern to be varied from 90 to 150 degrees and a cold shoe mount, if that helps anyone recognize it. :)

[Alex H.]

Not even worth trying. There is no such thing as a "zoom" mic: that product name is a marketing gimmick. Placing a mic on the camera is not a good idea as it is not only too far from the action it is also too close to the camera and all handling/operator noises that come with it. Further, adding a stereo mic array on top of the camera isn't going to get you much usable sound as the response is far too wide with too little rejection.

[Steve House]

I hate to say it but any mic, no matter how high the quality, is going to sound pretty marginal when mounted on the camera under 99% of the circumstances serious filmmakers can find themselves working in.

[adge666]

I was originally thinking of starting off with a Zoom H1 and using the on-board audio for reference. I thought the Canon mic might at least be a bit more directional than the on-board mics that face upwards! I think the Canon mic will go on the Ebay pile based on your assessment!

[Chadfish]

Just get a Rode VideoMic pro.