The Sanken CS-3e is the most directional mic I'm aware of. It is favored by folks working hard-core ENG and news work because of it's ability to attenuate off-axis sound.

・ Unique design combination of line mic array and second pressure gradient method
・ Very sharp pinpoint directivity
・ Provides rich human voice characteristics

The CS-3e stands out among shotgun microphones because it maintains directivity over an extremely wide frequency range, especially in the low frequencies. Because of its unique design, the CS-3e is an excellent choice for use in difficult applications, such as close-to-ceiling positions or locations near a noisy camera. Even in such challenging situations, the excellent side and rear rejection of the CS-3e helps to capture the targeted dialogue without ambient reverberation problems. The CS-3e delivers sharp directional sound even in the lower frequencies. Sanken's original design results in a low proximity effect which facilitates working in a scene close-up and wide, while producing little change in sound character.

In the CS-3e, three directional capsules are arranged in a front-back array to combine line microphone performance and second-order pressure gradient response in a single system. With this unique design, the CS-3e achieves phenomenal supercardioid directivity in the lowest frequencies and throughout the full range in a microphone only 10 inches in length. It is significant that the CS-3e picks up the targeted frontal sound sources with exceptional clarity over a wide frequency range - even in noisy ambient environments by rejecting undesired noise and sounds coming from the rear and sides.

The CS-3e comes with a carry case. The mount shown in the picture is optional. The CS-3e uses all standard 19mm accessories and is sized similar to a Sennheiser MKH 416.

Availability: Typically in stock.

Additional Information

Click here for the Sanken website.