BOYA BY-MM1 Shotgun Microphone An alternative to the RØDE VideoMicro at half the price
Overview
As part of my journey to keep improving the sound quality of my videos, I keep testing different types of microphones for the different devices I use to shoot.
Right now I chose to focus on shotgun microphones, which are quite practical and popular today for anyone shooting video content. This type comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. To play it safe, I first wanted to buy the most recommended model on the market, the RØDE VideoMicro.
However, I saw that there is also the BOYA BY-MM1, at half the price. Since I already had a good experience with the brand through the BOYA BY-M1 lavalier microphone, I told myself I was willing to give it a chance, and I want to share that experience with you here so you know everything you need to know about this microphone.
Product details
The BOYA BY-MM1 is a compact cardioid shotgun microphone that connects to a camera, a smartphone or a computer, and it is often compared to the RØDE VideoMicro.
It has a cardioid polar pattern, which means it picks up sound mainly from the front. It measures ⌀22 x 81 mm and weighs 86 g.
It comes with two 3.5mm cables: a TRS cable for cameras and audio recorders, and a TRRS cable for smartphones, tablets and Mac computers. The box also includes a shock mount, a furry windshield and a storage bag.
Specifications
Audio
| Transducer | Electret Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Frequency Response | 35 Hz - 18 kHz +/- 3dB |
| Sensitivity | -42dB +/- 1dB (0dB = 1V/Pa, 1kHz) |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 76dB SPL |
Connections
| Plugs | 3.5mm TRS connector (camera, audio recorder) 3.5mm TRRS connector (smartphone, tablet, Mac) |
| Power | No battery required |
Physical
| Material | Aluminum |
| Mount | Camera hot shoe |
| Length | 81 mm |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Net Weight | 86 g |
Inside the box
Pros
Audio Quality This depends on your expectations and the way you plan to use the microphone, but overall the sound quality of the BOYA BY-MM1 is good. Compared with the RØDE VideoMicro, it is quite similar.
Durability After using the BOYA BY-MM1 for almost two years, I can confirm that it served me well, without showing any signs of falling apart, audio degradation, or problems with the connections.
Compatible With Various Devices You can use this microphone with smartphones, tablets, computers, camcorders, and DSLR or mirrorless cameras. The box includes two different cables for that: a 3.5mm TRRS cable for smartphones, tablets and Mac computers, and a 3.5mm TRS cable for cameras, camcorders and audio recorders.
Furry Windshield Included The box includes a furry windshield (dead cat) for outdoor shooting, together with a storage bag.
Affordable A budget-friendly alternative to more expensive brand-name microphones such as the RØDE VideoMicro.
Cons
Windshield Quality The furry windshield is not that bad, but as you can see in the video, I managed to pull off the fur easily. I did that for demonstration purposes only, but the finish could be better.
Plastic Shock Mount The mount is less elastic than the one on the RØDE VideoMicro, which makes placing the microphone harder and can scratch it if you take it off often. I also worry it will eventually break.
Audio Falloff Off-Axis As expected from a directional cardioid microphone, the audio clarity drops significantly when you speak from the sides or from behind the camera.
Overall Verdict
The sound quality of the BOYA BY-MM1 is good, and it is quite similar to the RØDE VideoMicro. It works with cameras, smartphones, tablets and computers, and it held up well after almost two years of use.
On the downside, the shock mount is made of simple plastic, the fur of the windshield comes off easily, and as with any directional microphone, the sound drops when you speak from the sides or from behind.
The BOYA BY-MM1 is a good choice for creators who want better audio on a budget and can live with a few build trade-offs compared with pricier brands. If you move around a lot, or want consistent levels regardless of your distance from the camera, a lavalier microphone like the BOYA BY-M1 may suit you better.
Where to buy
Below are links to purchase the BOYA BY-MM1 shotgun microphone (or similar models):
Photos
Additional links
BOYA BY-MM1 Official Product Page
boyamic.com
FAQ
Can I use the BOYA BY-MM1 with a smartphone, tablet or Mac?
Can I use the BOYA BY-MM1 with a DSLR, mirrorless camera or audio recorder?
Should I choose a shotgun microphone or a lavalier microphone?
Got questions about the BOYA BY-MM1?
Already purchased the BOYA BY-MM1 yourself?
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