With three capsules for even sharper, more uniform directivity than that of the CS-1e or CS-M1, the Sanken CS-3e short shotgun microphone gives professional sound recordists high-end audio quality for capturing clear dialogue, foley, and sound effects in challenging environments.

Its long and focused reach, low noise, and strong output yield top-tier audio performance in a lightweight design. Plus, it features a selectable 100 Hz low-cut filter for minimizing rumble and bass buildup. Thanks to the CS-3e's multi-capsule design, proximity effect is nearly eliminated while maintaining a consistent tonal signature at various distances.

The CS-3e shotgun microphone exhibits a steady supercardioid polar pattern across the frequency spectrum, allowing it to attenuate the 90° off-axis points by about 14 dB from 1 to 2 kHz, by 18 dB at 4 kHz, and by 24 dB at 8 kHz. For independent and major film, television, and location recording gigs, the CS-3e is Sanken's flagship mono shotgun microphone.

For Film, TV & Location Recording    Lightweight, Short Design    3 Capsules for Sharp, Even Directivity    50 Hz to 20 kHz Frequency Response    Supercardioid across Frequency Spectrum    Selectable 100 Hz Low-Cut Filter    Low 15 dBA Self-Noise    High Sensitivity of -28 dB

In order to achieve high directivity in middle-low frequencies, traditional shotgun mics would need a length of over 39 inches. Though only 10.6" long, the CS-3e grants reliable supercardioid polar performance even in the mid-lows due to its 3-capsule design, which uses three directional condenser elements in a front-back array to combine line mic performance and second-order pressure gradient response in a single system.

The CS-3e picks up targeted frontal sound sources with clarity over a wide frequency range—even in noisy ambient environments or in long reverberation spaces—by rejecting undesired noise and sounds coming from the rear and sides.

The CS-3e was built for use by professional videographers and veteran sound recordists alike. Its 50 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response incorporates a gentle rise above 5 kHz to increase intelligibility without sacrificing neutrality. Its low self-noise of 15 dBA and high sensitivity of -28 dB produce signal purity that's ready to be mixed.

Thanks to its 3-pin XLR output and compliance with 44 to 52 VDC phantom power, the CS-3e is compatible with a variety of handheld audio recorders, field recorders, and mixer adapters as well as built-in preamps on many camcorders and cinema cameras.

Since the CS-3e isn't bundled with a mic clip or shockmount, consider the separately available Rycote INV 7HG MKIII shockmount. It is perfect for mounting the CS-3e on a boompole or traditional mic stand, and it prevents the transfer of vibrations to the microphone. The CS-3e's body features a lusterless black finish to prevent distracting visual reflections.

To reduce unwanted wind noise from light breezes, fans, heaters, and air conditioners, add a foam windscreen such as the Sanken CS-3FW (available separately). For maximum reduction of wind noise in outdoor shoots, consider the Rycote 18cm Super-Softie windshield (also available separately).

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Will this mic fit the Sony FX3 mic holder?

A: Yes, the ECM-VG1 will fit in the mic holder on the Sony FX3.

Q: 2. Is this microphone compatible with a Canon 5D Mark III?

A: No, the Sony ECM-VG1 Short Shotgun Microphone uses an XLR output whereas the Canon 5D Mark III has a 3.5mm mic input.

Q: 3. Is this microphone part number 1-542-296-25?

A: No, it is not. It looks like the 1-542-296-25 was an accessory for a DS-400K camcorder. It had a hardwired cable and no controls. The ECM-VG1 would be an alternative, though.

Q: 4. Does the mic fit on the Sony NX100 attachment without an adapter?

A: The Sony ECM-VG1 will fit into the microphone clamp of the NX-100 using the included microphone spacer.

Q: 5. What is the diameter of this microphone so I can buy a k-tek mic holder?

A: The Sony ECM-VG1 Short Shotgun Microphone has a diameter of 0.79" (20 mm) and it measures 8.27" (210 mm) long.

Q: 6. How does sound quality compare to Senneiser MKH 416? Don't want to mismatch audio too badly with multiple input sources.

A: The Sony ECM-VG1 offers very good quality but the Sennheiser MKH-416 is more preferred for commercial applications.

Q: 7. Low-cut. M for Music & V for Voice. I think? Crazy! The V position activates low-cut and M turns it off. Can I get an Amen?

A: The Sony ECM-VG1 Short Shotgun Microphone 'M' setting is for a flat frequency response and the 'V' setting is to engage the low-cut filter.

Q: 8. Does it come with the xlr cable?

A: Yes, it comes with a 15-inch XLR cable.

Q: 9. Well this work on the Sony fs700R

A: Yes. It will work with any device that sports an XLR mic input connection with +48v phantom power.

Q: 10. Will this mic fit the Sony PXW-X70 mic holder without augmenting the diameter? Thanks for your time in advance.

A: Yes! This mic works perfect with the camera!