What microphone type is best for picking up sound from a long distance?
Assuming you are wanting a highly directional one, rather than just a sensitive one. A parabolic mounted Microphone (like the outdoor animal programs use), and by far the simplest/cheapest solution, as you can in theory mount any microphone at the focul point. Failing that, a directional stick microphone, but these will have a wider beam of pickup, and you may have a lot of side sound pickup. Also, in a closed area, picking up sound at that distance will be quite hollow/echoey. If however, all you want is a stage/audience monitoring microphone.. and basic omni directional one will do.
