Polsen MVP-3 Review

Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

19 reviews
  • Mobile Journalist, Vlogger, Run & Gun
  • For Cameras, Mobile Devices & Recorders
  • Runs on Plug-In Power
  • Simple Operation with No Controls
  • 3.5mm TRS Output Jack
  • Detachable Coiled TRS and TRRS Cables
  • Metal Housing Fights RF Interference
  • Ultracompact and Ultralightweight
  • Foam Windscreen and Furry Windshield
  • Detachable Shoe/Tripod Shockmount
Average Rating (19 ratings)
100%
B&H Photo Video ( 19 ratings )
100%

Highlighted Customer Reviews

Showing 1 to 19 of 19 Reviews

Beat all of my expectations

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Jun 3, 2021

Reviewed by Douglas on B&H Photo Video

I've been using this mic in the field for a while. I love that it doesn't require a battery, and therefore has no on-off switch. No more losing the audio because I forgot to turn on the mic! The mic comes in a beautiful case that also includes a fluffy wind-screen that is very effective. After checking out the packaging and accessories, I was worried that the audio quality would be terrible, but even that was surprisingly good. The caveat is that I'm using this to record in the field and I'm not recording high fidelity audio. I checked the polar pattern on the mic, and it does reject off-axis audio pretty well. All in all, it was a steal for the price. It comes with everything you need to plug it in and use it under a wide range of conditions. For ambient sounds and voice, it's not noticeably worse than my Rode shotgun mic. It's really hard to find anything bad to say about this little guy. If I had to say anything bad, I'd say the shock mount is probably going to break after extended use, but the entire kit cost less than most shock mounts, so I'll be gentle with it and hope it lasts a year or two. I'm very happy, overall. p.s. I bought this for field work. I think it's best use is where you must travel light but still need an external, directional microphone with a wind screen. ... More

Rode VideoMicro knock off at half the price

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Mar 4, 2022

Reviewed by Ben on B&H Photo Video

I own a Rode VideoMicro and I was looking for a deadcat (furry windshield) for it because I shot a video at Lake Champlain a few months ago and the audio is essentially unusable because of the noise picked up by the mic without a deadcat. And looking for one, I found that the replacement piece made by Rode (Rode WS9 Deluxe Wind Shield) costs 25 dollars! Other knockoffs are about 10 bucks. Later, I found this kit by Polsen for only 27 bucks! I mean, I did not need another microphone, but for basically 2 dollars, I got the deadcat I was looking for, plus a spare mic! That's a deal. Now, in terms of quality of the sound; I tried them both and the sound quality is the same as the Rode or maybe a hair better. At least, it sounds a tiny bit warmer to my ears, which I like, but most of the work I do is indoors for my YouTube channel. So, yes. Absolutely get this Polsen kit. Best value on the entire internet right now (as the time of this writing). ... More

Happy with this mic. Great bang for the buck!

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Mar 19, 2021

Reviewed by Jim on B&H Photo Video

I am very impressed with all the accessories that comes with this mic. I love that it comes with a shock mount, cables for a dslr input, cable for a phone, 2 windscreens (normal and deadcat), and a handy carrying case. I think that is an incredible deal for the price. Sound quality is good too. I think it provides clear audio and is very helpful in improving sound quality from any built in mic on your camera or phone. I think this is perfect for a run and gun shoot, but also very handy if you want to improve your sound when recording to a phone or iPad. I'm impressed by this mic and all you get for a great price. [I have received this product in exchange for my honest review] ... More

inexpensive, but works well

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Aug 14, 2021

Reviewed by William on B&H Photo Video

I am primarily a still photographer, but the couple of videos I made with the EOS R internal microphone were noisy, although it did not seem like a very windy day. B&H had a special on this microphone and so I bought it. The wind noise immediately went away. My only criticism is that once the microphone is snapped onto the flexible attachment to the camera, it does not appear that it will come off easily without breaking the fairly fragile-looking holder. The whole kit (mic, holder, foam windscreen, and fuzzy windscreen) comes in a nice container, but it will not fit back in the container with the mic attached to the holder. This is not a deal breaker; I just will leave it assembled and tucked into a corner of my bag. ... More

Nice Rode alternative.

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Jun 23, 2021

Reviewed by Kareem on B&H Photo Video

I 'm coming from the Rode VideoMicro, and these 2 buddies are long lost twins!!!! I use this mic along with my A7iii when shooting interviews or events. It is a great mic for the price, and even comes with a nice carrying case to ensure you don't lose any essential wires or connections. The mic delivered great sound and really saved me when i was in a pinch. [I have received this product in exchange for my honest review]

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Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders
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B&H Photo Video
Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Love The Audio!

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Feb 10, 2022

Reviewed by Morgan on B&H Photo Video

I really like this little mic. I like the size. The aluminum body feels well made. I like the audio. Admittedly I'm using this mic indoors with some acoustic assistance. The only drawback is that it doesn't include a longer 3.5 mm cord. The two that are included are great for use with a DSLR or Smartphone attached immediately below the mic (it's intended use, I know) but I am trying to use the mic as a stand alone as well, and the included cords make that impossible. You would need to also purchase a longer cord for this purpose. Not a huge drawback, but notable. ... More

Very Versatile

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

May 29, 2021

Reviewed by John on B&H Photo Video

Works great, much more sensitive than built-in mikes. And a great bonus is, even though I bought it primarily to use with a portable recorder; it also does well plugged into a smart phone. Typical of B&H the product was packed well with no shipping damage and arrived as promised.

Small mic, big sound

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Nov 7, 2021

Reviewed by Shawn on B&H Photo Video

This is a terrific microphone and sounds great without being bulky or adding weight to my rig. The little extras like the windscreens, compatibility cables, and carrying case are a very nice touch. Perfect for run & gun work!

Perfect for my camera

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Dec 6, 2021

Reviewed by Steven on B&H Photo Video

Use this on my Nikon DSLR when recording video. It fits great on the hot shoe and is the perfect size. The sound quality is also excellent. I haven't used it outside yet but I can't wait to use the fur parka wind screen cover. If it works half as good as it does silly it will be amazing!

Quite impressed

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Mar 3, 2022

Reviewed by Devon on B&H Photo Video

For the money, I'm really impressed at the quality. I don't think there's a better deal out there on a sub$100 mic. I'd go for a Rode Videomic Go 2 over this, but I don't think I would choose any other mic under that price over this.

work excellent

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Jan 23, 2022

Reviewed by Stelios on B&H Photo Video

They replaced a much bigger name mic we had on all our cameras. works much better for half the price.

Perfect for your Camera and Osmo

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Dec 24, 2021

Reviewed by Eno on B&H Photo Video

Tested it with a zoom H1 and it works well. Other mics generate a hum. Tested it with the Canon 5D Mark ll and works perfectly. Next test its going to be in windy conditions.

Great sound atan affordable price

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Mar 15, 2021

Reviewed by S. Bryan on B&H Photo Video

Easy to use and exceptional sound quality. Great coverage pattern. I'm usingbitbboth weith my I-Phonecand my DSLR. Very happy with this unit.

Works well!

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Mar 14, 2021

Reviewed by Norton on B&H Photo Video

Much better audio into my ipad for live-streams. I can keep it close, but out of camera, so works well. Compact, nice zippered case + windscreens included!

Simple, Persion, Does The Job

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Jun 1, 2021

Reviewed by Todd on B&H Photo Video

I have several iPhone "Grips" (iPhone Clamp Combinded With Handle/Tripods). This gives me true Directional Auto...

Great little mic for the price!

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Jul 4, 2021

Reviewed by Matthew on B&H Photo Video

Great little mic for the price! Suprised to see that it comes with two wind screens, cables and a nice case (again, for the price)!

Improvement over camera mics.

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

Jul 13, 2021

Reviewed by William on B&H Photo Video

Useful as a replacement for camera mic for event video. Sound improvement is definitely noticeable when stand alone mic's aren't feasible.

Not much difference

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

May 20, 2021

Reviewed by eric on B&H Photo Video

Compared to on camera mic I honestly can't tell much difference between the 2

Actually really good.

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders Review

Polsen MVP-3 Micro Directional Shotgun Microphone for DSLR, Smartphones, and Portable Recorders

May 3, 2022

Reviewed by Devon on B&H Photo Video

I'm pleasantly surprised. For the price, it's hard to beat.

Showing 1 to 19 of 19 Reviews