Setup: Shure VP83F LensHopper Camera-Mount Condenser Microphone User Manual

Shure VP83F LensHopper Camera-Mount Condenser Microphone: Complete Product Manual

Introduction to Shure VP83F LensHopper Camera-Mount Condenser Microphone

The Shure VP83F LensHopper Camera-Mount Condenser Microphone is a compact, rugged shotgun mic designed for high-definition audio capture with DSLR cameras and HD camcorders. This electret condenser microphone features a highly directional supercardioid/lobar polar pattern for superior off-axis rejection, ensuring natural audio reproduction with full low-end response, wide frequency range (50 Hz to 20 kHz), and low self-noise (15.6 dB SPL-A at +30 dB gain).

Key benefits include integrated digital flash recording to microSDHC cards (up to 32 GB) in uncompressed 24-bit/48 kHz WAV format, offering up to 15 hours on an 8 GB card. It provides 60 dB gain adjustment in 1 dB increments, real-time headphone monitoring via a dedicated 3.5 mm output, and an easy-to-read backlit LCD with a 5-position joystick for controls like low-cut filter, track management, and playback. The integrated Rycote Lyre shock mount isolates vibrations, while durable all-metal construction with superior RF immunity ensures reliability in run-and-gun shooting.

Ideal for mobile journalists, vloggers, filmmakers, and content creators, the Shure VP83F LensHopper excels in video production, interviews, and field recording. Its standard shoe mount with 1/4-inch threading fits cameras or stands, powered by 2 AA batteries for 10 hours of life. Estimated price range is $300-$350, widely available at pro audio retailers.

Specifications

• Type: Electret condenser
• Polar pattern: Supercardioid/lobar
• Recording format: WAV, 24-bit, 48 kHz sampling rate
• Frequency response: 50 to 20,000 Hz

Sensitivity

• Open-circuit voltage: At 1 kHz, typical
• 0 dB gain: -35.8 dBV/Pa (16.2 mV)
• +30 dB gain: -5.8 dBV/Pa (512.9 mV)

Maximum SPL

• 0 dB gain setting: 129.2 dB SPL (1 kHz at 1% THD, 1000 Ω load)

Signal-to-noise ratio

• +30 dB gain setting: 78.4 dB

Self noise

• Equivalent SPL: 15.6 dB SPL(A), A-weighted, typical, +30 dB gain setting

Environmental conditions

• Operating temperature range: -18°C (0°F) to 60°C (145°F)
• Storage temperature range: -29°C (-20°F) to 74°C (165°F)
• Operating relative humidity: 0 to 95%

Housing

• Material: Cast aluminum

Power requirements

• Batteries: 2 AA batteries (alkaline, NiMH, rechargeable Li-ion)

Weight

• Net weight: 215 g (7.6 oz.)

Camera output

• Connector type: 3.5 mm (1/8") dual mono, unbalanced
• Output impedance: 47 Ω

Headphone output

• Connector type: 3.5 mm (1/8") dual mono
• Output impedance: 5 Ω

Notes

• Sound pressure reference: 1 Pa = 94 dB SPL
• THD: THD of the microphone preamplifier when the applied input signal level is equivalent to the cartridge output at specified SPL.
• Signal-to-noise ratio: S/N ratio is the difference between 94 dB SPL and the equivalent SPL of self-noise, A-weighted.

Features

Exceptional audio quality

• High-resolution recording (24 bit/48 kHz sampling, WAV format).
• Supercardioid/lobar pickup pattern rejects unwanted sounds.
• Interference tube for increased directionality.
• RF immunity.

Built-in flash recording

• Records directly to microSD card (32 GB maximum).
• Intuitive menu for easy microphone configuration and track management.
• Separate outputs for headphone monitoring and camera input with independent volume adjustment.

Rugged and reliable

• Durable, all-metal housing.
• Integrated shock mount.
• Shoe-mount adapter for easy installation.

Accessories

• Foam windscreen.
• 3.5 mm coiled audio cable.
• (2) AA batteries (except in Argentina).
• Rycote Windjammer (optional).

Installing the memory card and batteries

The VP83F requires two AA batteries to operate (compatible with alkaline, NiMH, or lithium). Installing a microSD memory card enables recording functionality. Audio is still passed through to the camera and headphone outputs if there is no memory card installed.

Opening the front panel

Squeeze the latches on each side and open the front panel to access the memory card and battery compartment.

Installing the memory card

Always turn the power off before removing or installing a memory card.

• To install: Insert the card into the slot located above the battery door, with the contacts facing up. When fully inserted, the card locks into place.
• To remove: Press the card to unlock it, then pull it from the device.

Format the memory card in the device before first use. Refer to the memory card requirements section in the user guide for additional information.

Installing and replacing batteries

Open the battery door located inside the front panel by pressing the fastener down. Insert the batteries according to the polarity indicators.

Mounting the microphone

• On a camera:
  • Slide the microphone onto the camera shoe.
  • Tighten the knurled ring to secure.

• On a tripod:

  The 1/4 inch screw hole at the base of the shoe mount is compatible with tripods that have a 1/4 inch center column. Carefully rotate the microphone clockwise to tighten onto a tripod. For other mounting solutions, such as microphone stands or boom poles, an adapter may be required.

• Audio connections

• Camera output (red)

  The camera output passes the audio signal for recording a backup track on the camera. Use the 3.5 mm coiled cable to connect the VP83F camera output to the camera's audio input.

• Headphone output (black)

  Connect a pair of headphones to the headphone output for monitoring recordings and listening during playback.

Control panel

• Menu display

  Displays menu information and settings.

• Power button

  Turns the unit on and off.

• Five-position joystick

  Navigates through the menu. Push the center of the joystick to make a selection.

• Record button
  • Press to begin and pause recording.
  • Press and hold to stop recording.
  • When in the menu, press to return home.
• LED record indicator
  • Solid red: Recording.
  • Flashing red: Paused.

Troubleshooting Shure VP83F LensHopper Camera-Mount Condenser Microphone Issues

Common issues with the Shure VP83F LensHopper Camera-Mount Condenser Microphone include no audio recording, low battery warnings on the LCD, or handling noise. If no sound records, check microSD card insertion and format (FAT32, up to 32 GB); reformat if needed via the joystick menu. Verify gain settings (up to 60 dB) and ensure the one-touch record button is engaged—LCD shows levels, battery, and time remaining.

For headphone monitoring failure, confirm the 3.5 mm dual-mono connection and adjust volume via joystick. Battery drains quickly? Use fresh AA alkalines or NiMH; expect 10 hours in record mode. Vibration noise? Tighten the Lyre shock mount and use the included foam windscreen for wind reduction. RF interference? Reposition away from wireless devices due to built-in immunity.

Prevent issues by storing at -20 to 165°F, operating at 0 to 145°F, and cleaning connectors gently. Shure offers a 2-year warranty; contact support at www.shure.com or 1-800-323-8351 for repairs or replacements. Download the user guide for detailed menus.[1][8]

Pros and Cons of Shure VP83F LensHopper Camera-Mount Condenser Microphone

Pros

• Exceptional Audio Quality: Supercardioid/lobar pattern rejects background noise; 24-bit/48 kHz recording captures detailed, natural sound with 129 dB SPL max.
• Versatile Features: Integrated recorder, headphone monitoring, precise gain control, and LCD joystick make it user-friendly for field use.
• Build and Portability: Lightweight (215 g) all-metal body with Lyre shock mount reduces handling noise effectively.
• Long Battery Life: 10 hours from AA batteries, ideal for extended shoots.
• Value for Money: At $300-$350, outperforms basic shotgun mics like Rode VideoMicro in recording redundancy and controls.

Cons

• No Built-in rechargeable Battery: Relies on AA cells, requiring spares for long sessions.
• MicroSD Card Not Included: Users must supply their own, adding minor setup cost.
• Learning Curve for Menu: Joystick controls are intuitive but may overwhelm beginners compared to simpler mics.
• Limited compared to pro setups like Sennheiser MKE 600, lacking XLR output for advanced rigs.

Customer Reviews: Real User Feedback on Shure VP83F LensHopper

Users rate the Shure VP83F LensHopper Camera-Mount Condenser Microphone highly, averaging 4.5/5 stars for its pro-grade audio in a compact form. Praises include "crystal-clear recordings with zero handling noise thanks to the Lyre mount" (B&H reviewer) and “game-changer for vlogging—headphone jack lets me monitor perfectly.” Filmmakers love the flash recorder: “Saved my shoot when camera audio failed; 24-bit WAV files are broadcast-ready.”

Common complaints: occasional menu navigation glitches and AA battery dependency. One user noted, "Wish it had rechargeables, but 10-hour life is solid." Most recommend it over budget alternatives for DSLR video, citing durability and RF rejection. Ideal buy for run-and-gun creators seeking reliable shotgun mic performance.