Wireless lav mic for D5200

[rijman]

I have been researching wireless lav mics and still haven't locked in on a quality system in the $300 or so price range. There are a lot of issues to consider including range, sensitivity (does it easily pick up wind with a wind screen), quality and size. The new Nikon wireless coming out is similar to the Canon wm V1, which are well priced for reportedly good quality audio, but the combo mic/transmitters are big, although lightweight, and I don't like their size because it stands out like a lipstick case on the person wearing it. The mic is fully wireless, which is good, but I can't get over the large size.

I'm looking to get good outdoor audio for a wedding. Any suggestions for a good quality wireless mic system under $500?

 

[480sparky]

I use a simple wired mic plugged into my smart phone and record the audio on that. I marry the two up in post. It's über-cheap ($25 for the mic, and free app). You can also record to an electronic voice recorder and transfer the files into a computer. Another advantage to this system is an infinite range.

 

[rijman]

I do have a Tascam DR-40 recorder I mount on my camera and run an XLR cable from it to a Rode NTG-2 shotgun mic, which is not suitable for a wedding ceremony. I have considered recording directly to the recorder with or without a mic attached and just sync the audio and video in post, which I intentionally avoid with my normal setup. There is still the matter of how to record audio to my recorder without having my gear adversely affecting the view of the ceremony. The ceremony is outside and I don't anticipate there will be any type of podium.

 

[rijman]

My research and communication with a professional videographer has lead me to these 2 options as good lav systems for the price, the Sennheiser G3 with the ME 2 mic, so far the best price I found was $420 factory refurbished, and the new RodeLink by Rode which sells for $399 new. I'm leaning toward the RodeLink although because it's new I can't find any tests on it yet, there are some positive writeups and the company has put out videos explaining the specs and features. It seems as though the other cheaper systems i've researched have limited range or the mic is not broadcast quality. If you never go outside and stay close to your subject you can use cheaper systems, although the sound won't be real good, but to go outdoors over 20 feet away up to 100 yards you need better quality systems.

 

[rijman]

I bought the RodeLink and so far I'm very pleased with the ease of use and quality of the sound. This is one of the most affordable professional grade wireless mic systems on the market at $399.