the noise is a problem (you will find other posts about the noise of this camera) because it can be heard in video playback, making it un-usable for film-making. i would like to know how people have solved this problem. i already purchased an external rode video microphone and attached it to the top of the camera - but unfortunately it also picks up the grinding sounds because it is close to the camera and the noise is still loud enough to interfere. i want to be able to shoot handheld without carrying another microphone or needing an additional person to carry a microphone. if there is someone who found a mic that works, tell me !