I normally use XLR shotgun (e.g. Audio-Technica AT-835) and mini-shotgun mics with professional video equipment. However, for consumer type camcorders without XLR inputs, your choices are to add a Beachtek XLR interface box (pricey) - or get a nice mini-shotgun mic with mini-phone plug connection for direct connect to most any camcorder with an external mic input. The mic is powered by a 9v battery with a claimed 100 hours of use per 9v battery (I have not tested that claim). The sound quality is very good, the directivity is very good - a great addition for anyone wishing to greatly improve the audio quality of small camcorders.