The Azden AZDEN-SMX-100 is a professional stereo shotgun microphone designed for high-end video production, broadcast, and film location sound recording. It employs a sophisticated dual-capsule array housed within a precision interference tube to capture a realistic, directional stereo image while maintaining the focused rejection characteristics of a shotgun microphone. This design allows it to excel in capturing immersive ambient soundscapes with accurate spatial imaging, while still isolating and emphasizing on-axis dialogue and sound sources, making it versatile for both narrative film work and documentary-style production. The microphone outputs a true stereo signal via a single 5-pin XLR connector, which can be split into two discrete mono channels (Left and Right) using the included breakout cable, providing flexibility for connection to mixers, field recorders, or cameras with either a dedicated stereo input or separate mono inputs.

Constructed with a rugged, all-metal body, the SMX-100 is built to withstand the demands of field use. It features a versatile three-position polar pattern switch, allowing the sound recordist to select between a tight "Shotgun" (supercardioid) mode for maximum frontal focus and off-axis rejection, a true "Stereo" mode that engages both capsules for a natural left-right image, and an "MS" (Mid-Side) mode where one capsule captures a forward-facing cardioid signal (Mid) and the other captures a bidirectional figure-eight signal (Side). The MS mode enables advanced post-production manipulation of stereo width. The microphone requires 12-48V phantom power and includes a built-in high-pass filter to reduce low-frequency rumble and a 10dB pad to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion.

The microphone is typically mounted on a boom pole or camera via its integrated shock mount, which minimizes handling noise, and is used with an external furry windscreen for effective wind protection outdoors. The inclusion of the 5-pin XLR output and comprehensive accessory kit makes it a complete, professional solution for location sound. By combining directional shotgun performance with true stereo and MS capabilities, the Azden SMX-100 provides location sound mixers and videographers with a powerful, adaptable tool for capturing rich, nuanced audio that significantly enhances the production value of any visual project, from independent films to broadcast journalism.