A practical on-camera upgrade mentioned by users is the Audio-Technica Pro 24 CM. It’s a compact stereo microphone that can mount in the camera’s hot shoe, includes a shock mount, and has a short coiled lead that works neatly on-camera. Based on the feedback provided, it offers noticeably better results than the built-in mic without moving into a more complex professional XLR setup. If your goal is simply cleaner, more usable audio for 7D video, an external shoe-mounted mic like this is a sensible step up.