I have been browsing and found this mic . It has a definite advantage in that it fits nicely atop a DVCam. On the down side, it is twice the price of the ATR55, and it might not be quite as directional. The ATR, however, has a bad point, too: A mic that long is obtrusive. If I get the ATR, I will save money on the front end and will probably have a better-performing directional mic. If I get the Sony, it will fit atop the DVCam nicely; but, its directional performance is unknown at this time. I can't find anything as yet where mics like these are evaluated. At present, I am leaning toward the ATR. I think I will make an inquiry as to its actual physical length. Reasoning out loud: ATR is in the mic business and is likely to have a better-performing microphone. Sony, on the other hand, although they do produce good products, will cut costs by using cheaper electronic components than their designers intend. Case in point here where it is apparent the designers intended larger capacitors in this radio circuit and Sony cut the size, probably to save money.