The CSS-5 Stereo Mono Switchable Shotgun Microphone from Sanken is designed for capturing stereo or mono signal and can be used for television, film, concert recording, sound design and much more. The flexibility of the CSS-5 lies within it's ability to capture in Normal (stereo), Mono and Wide (stereo) modes.

The accurate, transparent signal reproduction is based on an array of five directional condenser elements, with PPS (Polyphenylene-Sulfide) diaphragms to provide optimum humidity / temperature stability. The CSS-5 is equally responsive in the horizontal and vertical planes with high sensitivity, wide frequency response and excellent dynamic range. The CSS-5 is small and lightweight with switchable mono / stereo functions. The standard 19mm diameter permits use of a wide range of accessories developed for enhanced performance and field mobility.

Mono, Stereo & Wide Stereo Modes    Array of 5 Directional Elements    Stable Operation in Humid Conditions

Normal mode provides an accurate, transparent stereo pick up of the targeted source. Stereo angle is approximately 115 degrees.

Wide mode provides a generous stereo pick up area and is ideal for ambiance or sound effect recording for film, sound design etc. Wide mode allows a 140 degree pick up area.

Mono mode provides sharp directivity over a wide frequency range. Signal is accurately reproduced at the front of the microphone capsule while off-axis ambient sound is greatly reduced.

Close range, low-frequency proximity effect is eliminated due to the sophisticate array of the capsules.

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Does this thing have an ability to be mounted on a threaded mount on he end of a pole?

A: Yes, you can use a cold shoe adapter to mount the Zoom M3 MicTrak Stereo Shotgun Microphone and Recorder on a boompole or stand. The Frio Hold Universal Shoe Mount (B&H # FRENLFRC2A) has 3/8"-16 and 1/4"-20 threads on the bottom. The Vello Cold Shoe Mount with 1/4" Thread (B&H # VECS20) or the JOBY Cold Shoe Mount Adapter (B&H # JOJB01528) can be used with a thread adapter like the Impact Female 1/4"-20 to Male 3/8"-16 Thread Adapter (B&H # IMCA109) to attach to a boompole.

Q: 2. Could you mount VideoMic NTG to Manfrotto PIXI Mini tripod without adapter?

A: No. The tripod is a 1/4-20 thread and the mic will have a 3/8 thread. An adapter is needed .

Q: 3. Did manufacturer solve RF interference problem with this model?

A: https://zoomcorp.com/en/us/news/mictrak_notice/ According to this they have, at least for the initial batch.

Q: 4. What is the part number of a deadcat I can purchase for use with the Zoom M3?

A: Zoom has confirmed that the Zoom HWS-6 Hairy Windscreen (BH #ZOHWS6) will fit the Zoom M3 MicTrak Stereo Shotgun Microphone and Recorder.

Q: 5. What is the S/N Ratio and the Dynamic Range?

A: The RODE NTG5 Shotgun Microphone Kit with Auray Boompole (BH # RONTG5ABPK) has an S/N ratio of 84 dB. The dynamic range specification is not published, but estimated to be about 120dB SPL.

Q: 6. Can this be used as a mic for the pc, mac, or portable device as well as on camera?

A: I have used it successfully on my android phone (Nexus 6)

Q: 7. Frequency response indicates an impressive 35 Hz - 20 kHz, ±3 dB, but how good is the sound quality for music recording?

A: The audio quality is surprisingly good and exceeds expectations at this low pricing.

Q: 8. can I use this on my Canon R5?

A: Yes, the is compatible for use with the RODE VideoMic Pro+ Camera-Mount Shotgun Microphone.

Q: 9. What is the estimated run time of the Rode Videomic Pro+ when using AA batteries?

A: The estimated run time for the Rode VideoMic Pro+ when using standard alkaline AA batteries is approximately 70 hours. Lithium batteries are typically higher capacity than alkaline batteries and higher capacity batteries will last longer. Keep in mind that there are additional factors like temperature and humidity that will directly affect battery performance.

Q: 10. What is the pickup pattern of the mic, omni, cardioid, super-cardioid, shotgun? How well does it eliminate background noise?

A: The built in mic is stereo (pattern) condenser mic. There are no filters on it, so no background noise mitigation.