External Microphone

I have a Cannon Vixia s21. I plugged in a new external microphone just to test it. It didn't work. I changed all the setting and still nothing. the only thing I can think of is that it needs a mic with it's own battery source. the mic I am using does not have it. Am planning on buying the right mic but was wondering if this camera requires external battery source for mic.

thanks

With this, you don't need a battery operated mic:

http://www.amazon.com …B0012ILNK0/ref=​pd_sim_p_5

What external microphone you were trying to use?

i know about other options and I am buying a high end mic on Monday. But right now i am using a cheap olypus me15 condenser mic. was just wondering if you needed a battery source.

thanks

actually I'm trying to figure out why it's not recording sound and that was my final solution. the camera records sound when using the on board mic and the mic works with other devices.

Simple question, but did you go into the camera's menus and select External mic as opposed to the internal mic?

It could be that simple, but it might also be a function of the mic powering as well. Not all mics are created equal. I'm not familiar with the mic you have nor the camera. It could be that your camera doesn't supply any power to the external mic.

If your mic is a condenser-style you need some form of supply voltage, either by an internal battery, external supply, or phantom power through your camera.