SmallRig 13164-SR Shotgun Microphone

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84%
93%
Portability & Weight
96%
Power Reliability
84%
Audio Immersiveness
89%
Build Quality
92%
Setup & Ease of Use
78%
Handling Noise Isolation
74%
Wind Noise Suppression
67%
Output Sensitivity
83%
Device Versatility
79%
Vocal Clarity
88%
Value for Money
85%
Aesthetic & Design
More

Overview

SmallRig 13164-SR Shotgun Microphone represents a thoughtful entry into the crowded world of mobile audio gear. While many manufacturers focus on mono directional pickups, this compact shotgun microphone leans into a dual-channel setup that captures a wider sense of space. It weighs just 35 grams, meaning it practically disappears when mounted on a DSLR or a smartphone rig. The build quality feels surprisingly dense for such a small footprint, swapping cheap plastics for a more durable aluminum alloy. This SmallRig audio solution aims to bridge the gap for creators who jump between professional cameras and mobile devices without wanting to carry bulky power cables or extra batteries. It is a straightforward, no-frills tool for anyone who needs to capture better sound while remaining nimble in the field.

Features & Benefits

The real standout here is the stereo recording capability, which offers a much more immersive audio field than the standard mono mics usually found at this price point. To keep the signal clean, the integrated TPE shock mount does a solid job of dampening those annoying handling thuds and jitters that can ruin a take. Because this dual-channel mic is corded electric and battery-free, you never have to worry about a dead cell cutting your shoot short. Its cardioid pattern is tuned to pull in voice clearly while pushing back the ambient echo of a room. For outdoor work, this compact shotgun microphone comes with both a foam cover and a furry windscreen to tackle moderate wind noise, ensuring your levels stay consistent even when the weather is not cooperating.

Best For

Travel vloggers and mobile creators will get the most mileage out of this SmallRig audio solution. Its low profile makes it an ideal fit for gimbal setups where every gram matters for balance. If you are a budget-conscious videographer, having reliable backup audio that requires zero charging is a massive weight off your mind. It also shines during casual interviews or while capturing ambient street noise where you want that extra sense of stereo width rather than a flat mono signal. Whether you are plugging into an iPhone or a dedicated mirrorless body, the plug-and-play nature of this dual-channel mic makes it a versatile pick for fast-paced environments where you do not have time to mess with complex settings or external power sources.

User Feedback

Actual users often highlight how easy it is to switch between different hardware platforms thanks to the included cable options. Most agree that the jump in clarity from a phone's internal mic is undeniable, though some note that the high sensitivity requires you to watch your in-camera gain settings to avoid clipping. The sturdy construction earns a lot of praise, as it feels like it can survive being tossed into a gear bag without a second thought. On the flip side, while the stereo image is wide, a few reviewers mention that it might not be the best choice for highly focused, long-distance dialogue in noisy environments. Overall, this dual-channel mic is viewed as a practical upgrade for anyone tired of thin, tinny audio from their built-in hardware.

#Microphones
#Professional Video Accessories
#Accessories
#Camera & Photo
#Electronics

Pros

  • The ultra-lightweight 35g design ensures it won't disrupt the balance of small camera gimbals or smartphone rigs.
  • Dual-channel stereo recording captures a much richer sense of space and atmosphere than the internal mics on most cameras.
  • No batteries are required, which eliminates the risk of your audio cutting out during long shooting days.
  • The integrated TPE shock mount effectively dampens handling noise and small vibrations while you are moving.
  • A rugged aluminum alloy build provides better durability than the plastic housings typically found in this price bracket.
  • The plug-and-play functionality allows for instant setup across both DSLR cameras and mobile devices.
  • Includes both a foam windscreen and a furry deadcat for immediate use in varied outdoor weather conditions.
  • The cardioid polar pattern helps to sharpen the pickup area and minimize distracting room echoes.
  • Compact dimensions allow this dual-channel mic to fit easily into even the smallest accessory pouches or pockets.

Cons

  • The high sensitivity of the capsule can cause audio clipping if the in-camera gain is not carefully adjusted.
  • Stereo recording can sometimes pick up too much distracting ambient noise in busy or echo-heavy locations.
  • Vocal presence and low-end richness tend to drop off significantly once the subject moves more than a few feet away.
  • Lacks a built-in headphone jack, making it impossible to monitor audio directly from the unit if your camera lacks a port.
  • The provided cables are somewhat thin and may require careful handling to avoid fraying at the connector points over time.
  • No manual on-board controls mean you are entirely dependent on your device's software for all audio level tweaks.
  • The SmallRig 13164-SR Shotgun Microphone does not include the Lightning or USB-C adapters necessary for many modern smartphones.
  • Its diminutive size makes the physical cables appear disproportionately long and difficult to manage without extra ties.

Ratings

After distilling thousands of global reviews, our AI has carefully evaluated the SmallRig 13164-SR Shotgun Microphone to provide these specific performance metrics. We have actively scrubbed the data to filter out bot activity and incentivized bias, ensuring both the standout strengths and frustrating pain points of this compact shotgun microphone are transparently reflected.

Portability & Weight
93%
At just 35 grams, users love that this SmallRig audio solution adds virtually no bulk to a camera rig. It is perfect for gimbal users who need to maintain balance without constantly recalibrating their motors during long days of shooting.
The tiny size can make it feel slightly delicate to some users with larger hands. Its compact nature also means it can be easily misplaced if it is not kept in its specific storage bag between different filming locations.
Power Reliability
96%
The battery-free design is a massive win for creators who often forget to charge their accessories before a big shoot. You can simply plug it in and start recording, ensuring you never miss a critical moment because of a dead cell.
Because it relies on phantom power from the host device, it may drain your smartphone or camera battery slightly faster than usual. Users should be aware of this impact during marathon recording sessions in the field.
Audio Immersiveness
84%
The dual-channel recording provides a spacious stereo image that standard mono mics simply cannot match. It captures the atmosphere of a bustling city or a live musical performance with a real sense of presence and spatial depth.
This wider pickup pattern can occasionally capture unwanted side-noises in crowded spaces or busy rooms. If you are looking for surgical isolation of a single voice, the stereo nature might be more of a hindrance than a help.
Build Quality
89%
Moving away from the plastic housings common in budget gear, the aluminum alloy body feels remarkably durable. It survives being tossed into a backpack and handles the occasional bump during outdoor treks without showing any signs of cracking.
While the metal body is rugged, the thin 3.5mm cables provided are more susceptible to wear over time. Some owners have reported needing to be careful with the connector points during frequent plug-and-unplug cycles on daily shoots.
Setup & Ease of Use
92%
The plug-and-play simplicity is a breath of fresh air for those who hate menu-diving or complex configurations. Whether you are using a DSLR or an iPhone, the transition is smooth, allowing you to focus on your content.
The lack of on-mic gain controls means you are entirely dependent on your camera's internal software for levels. This can lead to frustration if your specific recording device has poor preamps or limited manual audio adjustment options.
Handling Noise Isolation
78%
22%
The TPE shock mount is quite effective at absorbing the subtle vibrations from handholding a camera during a walk-and-talk vlogging session. It significantly reduces the low-frequency thumps that usually occur when you adjust your grip or move.
It is not a miracle worker for aggressive movement or high-impact jogging. Some users found that the mount is a bit stiff, allowing sharper physical jolts to still translate into the audio track in certain conditions.
Wind Noise Suppression
74%
26%
Having both a foam cover and a "deadcat" included in the box provides immediate value for outdoor creators. The furry windscreen performs well in light breezes, keeping dialogue audible during beach or park shoots without much interference.
In gusty or high-wind conditions, the provided accessories struggle to maintain a perfectly clean signal. Professional users might find they need to upgrade to a more robust third-party wind jammer for serious outdoor field work.
Output Sensitivity
67%
33%
The high sensitivity ensures that you can get a loud, clear signal even from cameras with weak internal preamps. This often results in a better overall signal-to-noise ratio when your recording levels are dialed in correctly.
It is very easy to peak the audio if you are not careful with your distance from the capsule. Many buyers reported that they had to drop their camera gain significantly to avoid clipping in louder environments.
Device Versatility
83%
This dual-channel mic works across an impressive range of hardware, from tablets to professional camcorders. The dual TRS and TRRS support means you do not have to buy extra adapters for most modern mobile setups.
Compatibility can be a bit hit-or-miss with certain newer smartphones that lack a dedicated headphone jack. You will still need your own USB-C or Lightning dongle, which is not included in the standard retail package.
Vocal Clarity
79%
21%
For close-range vlogging, the cardioid pattern keeps the user's voice sounding natural and crisp. It does a much better job of rejecting room reflections than a built-in phone mic, making your indoor tutorials sound more professional.
As you move further away from the mic, the vocal presence and low-end response drop off fairly quickly. It is definitely designed for arms-length use rather than capturing subjects from several meters away in a large room.
Value for Money
88%
For the price, getting a metal-bodied stereo mic with a shock mount and two types of windscreens is a bargain. It provides a noticeable professional lift to any basic mobile or mirrorless video setup without a heavy investment.
While the value is high, it remains an entry-level tool. Those looking for professional-grade XLR performance or advanced features like high-pass filters will find this unit a bit too basic for their long-term production needs.
Aesthetic & Design
85%
The sleek, minimalist black finish looks great on top of any modern mirrorless camera. Its small size ensures that it does not block your flip-out screen or interfere with other mounted accessories like LED lights.
The cable management can look a bit messy since the wires are relatively long for such a small device. Users often find themselves having to wrap the cable around the mount to keep it out of the frame.

Suitable for:

The SmallRig 13164-SR Shotgun Microphone is an ideal match for on-the-go content creators and mobile vloggers who need to upgrade their audio without adding significant bulk to their setup. Its 35-gram frame makes it perfect for use on gimbals where keeping the payload light is essential for motor stability. If you frequently record ambient environments, street scenes, or live musical performances, the stereo recording mode provides a much more immersive and realistic soundstage than standard mono mics. It is also a fantastic choice for videographers who want a reliable, battery-free backup option that is always ready to record the moment it is plugged in.

Not suitable for:

This SmallRig 13164-SR Shotgun Microphone may fall short for professional filmmakers who require advanced features like a high-pass filter, adjustable gain, or XLR connectivity. Because it captures a wider stereo image, it is not the best tool for surgical voice isolation in loud, crowded environments where a highly directional mono shotgun mic would better reject side noise. Users who primarily record at a distance from their subjects will likely find the sensitivity and frequency response lacking compared to larger, powered condensers. Additionally, if you are using a modern smartphone without a 3.5mm jack, you will still need to carry your own dongle as one is not included in this kit.

Specifications

  • Model Name: The manufacturer identifies this specific audio unit as the 13164-SR.
  • Weight: The unit is extremely lightweight at approximately 35g (1.23 oz).
  • Dimensions: The external casing measures 3.23 x 0.79 x 0.79 inches.
  • Primary Material: The microphone body is constructed from a durable aluminum alloy.
  • Mounting Options: It includes a cold shoe mount and a 1/4″ screw thread for tripod compatibility.
  • Polar Pattern: The capsule utilizes a unidirectional cardioid pattern to focus on front-facing audio.
  • Number of Channels: This device supports dual-track stereo recording for an immersive soundstage.
  • Connectivity: Audio output is handled via a 3.5mm TRRS jack for broad device compatibility.
  • Power Source: The microphone is corded electric and operates without the need for external batteries.
  • Frequency Response: The upper range of the audio capture frequency extends to 18 KHz.
  • Signal-to-Noise: The rated signal-to-noise ratio for this unit is 70.00.
  • Sensitivity: The audio sensitivity is rated at approximately 38 decibels.
  • Shock Absorption: The structure features a dedicated TPE material designed to reduce vibration noise.
  • Wind Protection: The package includes both high-density foam and furry windscreen accessories.
  • Hardware Support: It is designed to interface with camcorders, cameras, and mobile smartphones.

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FAQ

Yes, but you will need to use your own Lightning or USB-C to 3.5mm adapter. This SmallRig audio solution includes the standard 3.5mm cable, but modern smartphone dongles are sold separately.

That is correct. It runs entirely on “plug-in power” provided by your camera or phone through the audio jack, so you never have to worry about a dead battery halfway through a vlog.

While most shotgun mics record in mono to isolate voices, this dual-channel mic records in stereo. This means it captures the “space” around you better, which is great for travel videos or live music but less ideal if you only want to hear one person speaking in a loud crowd.

Most likely, yes. Because it only weighs about 35 grams, it is light enough that most modern gimbals won’t even notice it’s there, making it a favorite for mobile creators.

Absolutely. While it typically slides into a camera’s cold shoe, the bottom of the mount also has a 1/4″ thread, so you can screw it directly onto a tripod or a vlogging handle.

This compact shotgun microphone is quite sensitive. Since there are no buttons on the mic itself, you’ll need to go into your camera or app settings and turn down the “record level” or “gain” until the levels stop peaking in the red.

Yes, it includes both the foam cover for indoor use and the furry “deadcat” for outdoor filming. The furry one is much better at blocking wind noise if you’re shooting at the beach or in a breezy park.

It’s great for casual or walk-and-talk interviews because of the stereo field, but for a professional sit-down interview in a noisy room, you might still prefer a dedicated mono mic or a lavalier for tighter voice isolation.

It helps a lot with small vibrations from your hands, but it won’t fix everything. If you are running or jumping, you might still hear some thuds, but for normal vlogging movements, the TPE structure does its job well.

If your device doesn’t provide plug-in power (which is rare for modern cameras and phones), the mic won’t work since it has no battery of its own. However, almost all DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and smartphones support this power standard.