Audio-Technica ATV-SG1 and ATV-SG1LE on-camera shotgun mics

Audio-Technica has announced two shotgun microphones that mount on a camera: the ATV-SG1 and the ATV-SG1LE. Both use the same microphone design. The SG1 has more controls, while the SG1LE is the lower-priced version with fewer features.

What the two models share

• A 14mm large-diaphragm capsule combined with a 100mm acoustic tube that has a highly directional pickup. The tube focuses on the sound source and blocks unwanted noise from around it.
• An integrated shockmount to reduce handling and vibration noise.
• A 12-sided shoe mounting plate that rotates in 30-degree steps, so the mic can be placed horizontally and aimed precisely.
• A windjammer in the box for strong wind outdoors.

ATV-SG1

The ATV-SG1 adds onboard low-cut and gain controls and headphone monitoring. A safety track option splits the signal to create a second, redundant recording 6 dB lower, which protects the take from clipping. Audio-Technica also uses its patented noise-immunity technology here, which it says resists hum and RF noise from smartphones and other electronics.

The SG1 has a built-in rechargeable battery. It charges through the USB-A to USB-C cable supplied in the box, and one charge is rated for up to 24 hours of use. The price is $249.

ATV-SG1LE

The ATV-SG1LE needs no battery. It runs on plug-in power supplied by the camera and connects with the included 3.5mm TRS cable. It keeps the same capsule, tube, shockmount, rotating shoe plate and windjammer. It does not have the gain, low-cut and safety track features of the SG1, and it does not need charging. The price is $119.