How to Use the Sennheiser MKE600 on a Camera
By Ritz Camera | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to attach, power, and position the Sennheiser MKE600 shotgun mic on your DSLR or mirrorless camera for clear, professional audio.
Quick Answer
Mount the MKE600 on your camera's shoe, connect it to the mic input, choose phantom power or the internal battery, then set the low-cut filter based on your environment.
Why the MKE600 Works Well On-Camera
The Sennheiser MKE600 is a super-cardioid shotgun microphone, which means it picks up sound mostly from the front and rejects noise from the sides. That makes it a strong choice for run-and-gun video, interviews, and documentary work where you can't control the environment.
Its all-metal housing is built for the field, and the included shock mount helps isolate the mic from handling noise. The switchable low-cut filter is useful when you're shooting outside or in a room with rumble from HVAC or traffic.
Powering the MKE600: Phantom vs. Battery
The MKE600 can run on either 48V phantom power from your recorder or a single AA battery. Many cameras don't provide phantom power, so check your camera's manual first. If it does, use it and save the battery for backup. If not, the battery switch on the side lets you power the mic independently.
The battery switch also has a low-battery indicator, so you'll know when it's time to swap in a fresh AA. Always carry spares—running out of battery mid-interview is a classic mistake.
Step-by-Step Setup
- Mount the microphone: Slide the MKE600's shock mount foot into your camera's hot shoe and tighten the screw. Make sure the mic is centered and pointing forward, parallel to the lens. Check that the shock mount is secure; a loose mount can cause rattling in your audio.
- Connect the audio cable: Plug the included XLR cable into the mic's output, then connect the other end to your camera's external mic input. If your camera only has a 3.5mm jack, you'll need an XLR-to-3.5mm adapter. Confirm the cable is fully seated; a loose connection can cause intermittent audio dropouts.
- Set the power source: If your camera provides 48V phantom power, enable it in the menu. Otherwise, insert a fresh AA battery into the mic and set the power switch to 'Batt'. Check the low-battery indicator before a long shoot; replace the battery if the light is red.
- Adjust the low-cut filter: Set the low-cut switch to 'On' when shooting outdoors or in a room with rumble. Turn it off for indoor dialogue when you want full bass response. Listen through headphones to confirm the filter setting matches your environment.
- Position the microphone: Aim the mic at your subject's mouth, about 12–18 inches away. If the subject moves, adjust the camera or use a boom pole for better placement. Avoid pointing the mic at the ground or ceiling; you'll pick up reflections instead of clear dialogue.
- Set recording levels: On your camera, set the audio input level to manual and adjust so the peak meter stays around -12 dB. Speak at your normal volume and check the meter. If the meter hits red, lower the level; clipping ruins audio and can't be fixed in post.
Product Facts
- Sennheiser MKE600 Super-Cardioid Video Camera Shotgun Microphone: The MKE600 has pronounced directivity and maximal rejection of side noise. This means you can aim the mic at your subject and capture clean dialogue even in noisy environments.
Sennheiser MKE600 Super-Cardioid Video Camera Shotgun Microphone - Sennheiser MKE600 Super-Cardioid Video Camera Shotgun Microphone: It offers a switchable low-cut filter to minimize wind noise and a rugged all-metal housing. The filter helps outdoor shoots sound clearer, and the metal build can handle the bumps of location work.
