How to Connect an External Mic to a Sony Handycam
By Nathan McGinty
One of the best ways that you can ensure you can get the best possible sound with movies recorded on your Sony Handycam is by using an external microphone. Although the built-in microphones on Sony Handycams are sensitive and can even handle Surround Sound, higher-end external mics are specially built for picking up sounds, such as conversation, from a distance away. Connecting an external mic to your Sony Handycam will differ depending on the model of mic that you have. Some external mics use the built-in hot shoe on the Handycam, which provides a power and sound connection to the camera, while other mics use an internal battery and need to be plugged into the mic inlet on the Handycam.
Hot Shoe Accessory
Step 1
Turn off the Sony Handycam.
Step 2
Slide the connecting shoe on the external mic into the hot shoe on the top of the Sony Handycam.
Step 3
Tighten the top of the mic in the hot shoe by turning the fastening ring clockwise.
Step 4
Power on the Sony Handycam.
Connecting an External Mic Without a Shoe
Step 1
Turn off the Sony Handycam.
Step 2
Slide the shoe into the hot shoe on the top of the Sony Handycam, if this external mic comes equipped with one. Tighten the mic by turning the retaining ring clockwise.
Step 3
Loosen the plastic mic cover on the Sony Handycam. Exactly where this is will depend on your Sony Handycam model.
Step 4
Insert the mic connector into the jack labelled "mic."
Step 5
Turn on the mic.
Step 6
Power on the Sony Handycam.
References
Writer Bio
Nathan McGinty started writing in 1995. He has a Bachelor of Science in communications from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Arts in international journalism from City University, London. He has worked in the technology industry for more than 20 years, in positions ranging from tech support to marketing.