Saramonic SG Mic Q&A

Is SG Mic suitable for recording music or instruments?

Yes. With 128 dB max SPL handling and a 15 mm large-diaphragm capsule, it performs excellently on acoustic guitar, drums, and other high-SPL sources.

Do I need a shotgun mic for short videos or vlogs?

Highly recommended if your content features voice-over narration or atmospheric sound — it dramatically improves clarity and gives a professional feel. For run-and-gun selfies or frequent multi-person interaction, a wireless lavalier (UHF) system may be more practical.

In very noisy environments, can SG Mic still capture clean dialogue?

Yes, within limits. A shotgun excels at rejecting off-axis noise. For best results:
· Point the speaker’s back toward the noise source
· Get the mic as close as possible to the speaker
· Use a windscreen to reduce wind noise

What’s the optimal recording distance when capturing dialogue?

The ideal working distance is 0.3 to 0.8 meters.
· Best quality (close-up interviews): 0.3–0.5 m for fuller and more detailed vocals.
· General use (medium to close dialogue): 0.5–0.8 m to stay clear while avoiding the mic entering frame.
For noisy outdoor scenes: the closer the mic is, the better.

What is the difference between SG Mic and SoundBird V6?

SG Mic is an upgraded version of the SoundBird V6. There are 4 key improvements:
· Max SPL increased from 125 dB to 128 dB for handling louder sound sources.
· Operating temperature extended to −20℃ to 50℃ for better performance in difficult environments.
· SNR improved from 78 dB to 80 dB for clearer audio.
· Output impedance optimized from 600 Ω to 100 Ω to reduce signal loss in long-distance recordings.

Is SG Mic fragile or afraid of moisture?

Shotgun mics are precision instruments — avoid dropping them. SG Mic uses a rugged brass construction and survives 1.5 m drops in lab tests; pairing it with a shock mount is recommended.
SG Mic works reliably from -20°C to 50°C and 20–90% humidity* (rain, seaside, jungle, etc.).
* Data from Saramonic Acoustic Lab.

Can SG Mic be plugged directly into a camera?

SG Mic uses a XLR connector and requires 48V phantom power. It can be plugged directly into professional cameras/camcorders with XLR inputs. Consumer DSLRs/mirrorless cameras cannot power it directly — an XLR-to-3.5mm adapter with phantom power (e.g., Saramonic SmartRig, RØDE VXLR Pro) is required.

Which devices can SG Mic connect to?

· Professional camcorders with XLR inputs (e.g., Sony PXW/PXZ series, Canon Cinema EOS, Panasonic AU-EVA1, Varicam series)
· Field recorders (e.g., Zoom H series, Tascam DR series, Sound Devices MixPre series)
· Audio mixers and interfaces with XLR inputs
· XLR-equipped camera cages, handles, or boom poles