Posted by JM Dapena - Summer 2012
(Updated Summer 2014)

If you want to record high-quality audio for your videos, you shouldn’t rely on the built in camcorder microphone.
Options:

1/3 External mic for camcorder
You will not need to sync the audio to the video when editing and that will save you time. My camera doesn't have a manual audio control and at high volumes the sound will peak.
To avoid this, try using an extension cable for better sound.

4/5 Audio Recorder
The first applause of the audience can be used to sync the audio to the video, using a video editor of your choice. Any external audio recording system will enhance the quality of the recording and yield a nice sound.

I have been recording with set up 4 or 5 all the time. It is worth the effort …"

José Manuel Dapena.
Santiago de Compostela, July 2012

Audio:
Sevilla camcorder microphone (1) vs Sevilla Audio Technica AT4040 (5)
Sevilla_camcorder_microphone_vs_AT4040.mp3

Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-vTjqTCkKA

Video:
Das Wandern camcorder microphone vs Das Wandern AKG C3000 & Audio Technica AT4040(5)
http://manueldapena.com/video/das_wandern_camcorder_vs_external.mp4