Need input on the DM-50 Directional Mic
 

I'm wondering what the best applications would be for the Canon DM-50 Directional Microphone, which mounts on top of the GL-2?

I'd like to speak to someone who uses one of these to see how practical it might be, how much range it has, sound quality, etc...

Thanks,
Dan from Michigan

Dan,
We have many, many threads that discuss the DM-50.

Covered, but for a quick answer not worth it. To me the DM-50 and the on camera mic are so similar that I would save a bit more money and get a better mic. Look for a used Senn Me66 perhaps?

Yes, I priced a Senn Me66 and it looks like I'd only be able to afford a used one...

Thanks!

I have to agree that the DM-50 isn't probably the best shotgun mic you could get for your camera. However, it IS relatively inexpensive, and DOES provide pretty good directional sound. I also like that you can switch it from directional to omni with a simply flick of your finger, and the fact that it pulls power from my camera battery, which I can monitor easily.

Overall, I'd say it's a good deal unless you can afford a much better directional mic.

I did notice a difference when I recently got the DM-50, and since I usually add a soundtrack later, I'm happy with it for now. And considering the increased range, windscreen, 3 settings and shock mounting it really is a great value.

Thanks Vladimire and Travis,
I appreciate the help. If anyone has any info on the specs of the DM-50, I'd still like to know the approx. pick-up range/distance of this microphone.

:)
Dan

Dan, I'm relatively new to digital video, so I'm afraid I don't know much about the wireless mic systems. I did use the dm50 for a friends wedding and during the vows I was about 20 feet away, and this was a bit out of range for the mic (although it should be fine with some work in post production). I'd say anything within 10 feet would sound good. (Using a wide-angle converter lets you get even closer to the subject for better audio pickup)
Hope this helps, Vlad

I've run tests with my DM-50 vs. the onboard mic at ranges around 25 feet, and I picked up sound very well with the DM-50. However, weddings are a different story because the bride and groom (the bride especially usually) will be talking very quietly. I did a wedding this past summer where I was no more than 10ft. from the bride and groom with a GL2/DM-50 combo, and I had a wireless (feeding to another GL2 w/receiver) about two feet above their heads (attached out of view to the struts on the tent they were under). I got only slightly more sound out of the bride using the wireless that was right above her vs. the DM-50. I'd say the DM-50 is a very good mic overall for its price category.