HDR-XR500E - is there a hotshoe adaptor for my external microphone?

[Cigarshaped]

Just bought the amazing HDR-XR500E HDD camcorder, slightly used. I already have a great external stereo microphone, with fluffy dog, but Sony has fitted a non-standard hotshoe. They call it the Active Interface Shoe 'to mount Intelligent Accessories - lights and microphones'. There is little in the manual on the subject.

Great if I finally buy the £170 bluetooth radio mic, but meanwhile I just want a mechanical mounting. I am searching the world for a suitable fitting as I cannot see a Sony designed adaptor. Anyone found or made one??

[Mick2011]

HI, welcome to the Sony Forums

You can get a 'cold' shoe adaptor and plug in via the audio-in port, but the Active Interface is designed for specific mics etc, as you already noted.

We had a similar question recently for the XR520 which turned up a few links to suitable adaptors and accessories.

Hope that's of some help.

Mick