Audio Accessories
Essential add-ons that protect your investment and dramatically improve recording quality. The little things that make a big difference.
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Why Audio Accessories Matter
Even the best microphone can be ruined by wind noise, handling vibration, or poor monitoring. The right accessories solve these problems and elevate your recordings from amateur to professional.
These aren't glamorous purchases, but they're often the difference between usable and unusable audio. A $10 windscreen can save an irreplaceable outdoor interview.
How to Use Audio Accessories
Windscreen Selection
Foam windscreens for indoor use (slight breeze protection). Furry windscreens (dead cats) for outdoors - they look ridiculous but they work. Blimp windshields for extreme conditions like beach interviews.
Monitoring Headphones
Wear closed-back headphones whilst recording to hear exactly what your mic is capturing. Open-back headphones sound better but leak audio. For monitoring during interviews, closed-back are essential.
Cables and Adapters
XLR cables for professional mics - buy quality ones (Neutrik connectors). 3.5mm TRS for consumer gear. Keep cables coiled loosely to prevent damage. Carry adapters: 3.5mm to 6.35mm, XLR to 3.5mm, etc.
Our Recommended Accessories
Sony MDR-7506 Headphones
~$75-125Industry standard monitoring headphones. Comfortable for hours, accurate sound, coiled cable. These have been on professional sets for 30+ years for a reason.
Check Price Affiliate linkRode WS11 Windscreen
~$10-18Furry windscreen for Rode VideoMic. Transforms outdoor recording. Essential if filming garden parties, outdoor memorials, or countryside walks.
Check Price Affiliate linkRode SC7 TRS Cable
~$10-18Connects Rode VideoMic to smartphone. Essential adapter for mobile recording. Better than using camera audio when filming on phone.
Check Price Affiliate linkRycote Softie Wind Kit
~$75-125Professional wind protection for shotgun mics. If you do any outdoor recording, this investment pays for itself with usable audio.
Check Price Affiliate linkRode PG2-R Pistol Grip
~$75-125Shock mount for handheld recording with shotgun mics. Walking interviews become possible without handling noise. Rycote Lyre suspension system is superb.
Check Price Affiliate linkPro Tips
- Buy cables twice as long as you think you need - better too long than too short
- Label your cables with tape flags - saves hunting in your kit bag
- Keep spare batteries for everything - AA, AAA, button cells
- Microfiber cloth for cleaning mics after use (especially important for sharing equipment)