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Chuck Davis · Posted: Fri Nov 28, 2008 3:06 pm Post subject: Rode shotgun mics

The Sennheiser 416 gets lots of praise around these parts for VO work. I'm wondering though if anyone has tried or has experience with the Rode shotguns? There's an NGT1 and NGT2. I did find one review on Sweetwater that was written by a VO.
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Bill Campbell · DC Joined: 09 Mar 2007 Posts: 621

I have an NTG-1. There's a clip on Jowillies site vocal mic test.

I'll email you a voice sample on it, if you like.

Bill
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Chuck Davis · Posted: Fri Nov 28, 2008 4:54 pm Post subject:

That would be great Bill. I didn't see a link to a test on Jowillies page.
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Jowillie · Posted: Sat Nov 29, 2008 2:02 pm Post subject:

Here is your link: Rode NTG-1

I am really liking what I have been hearing about the newer NTG-3. Worth a test if anyone can get access to one.
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Eddie Eagle · M&M Joined: 23 Apr 2008 Posts: 2393

You might try recording with both at once side by side for a fair comparison. Otherwise you get a different read from each with different recordings.

I've heard nothing but good about the Rode mic.

Frank F · Posted: Sat Nov 29, 2008 3:20 pm Post subject:

It is a mistake to think of a shotgun mic as a magical device that can only selectively pick up a specific sound while totally rejecting all sounds to the side or rear of the microphone. The way sound behaves is more complex than can be explained in this short comment, but suffice it to say, a shotgun mic is the correct tool for many audio tasks but it is not an all-purpose solution to every audio challenge.

Shotgun microphones are "purpose designed" for field acquisition of audio for film and video. Microphones such as the Sennheiser 416 often make voice overs sound compressed or sterile due to their specific type of capsule pattern - Lobar/Gun. The other pickup patterns are Super Cardiod and Cardoid.

When choosing from the different types of so-called long barreled microphones with a narrow acceptance angle, you should determine the use of the microphone first.

Second, should be the actual sound of the "long barreled mic". Many higher end "shotgun mic's" such as the Schoeps and Sennheiser's have a richer fuller tone due to the low impedance requirements. The medium to low cost "shotgun microphones" may have less color or a unique frequency response. Some lower priced long barreled mic's when used properly can sound quite good in comparison to their higher priced counterparts.

Be cautious of reviews which are predominately slanted toward film or video audio acquisition. The people who work in the video industry use the term "voice over" for almost any audio which may be heard in the project, but which does not have moving pictures of people talking on screen.

With the above in mind consider a Rode along with an Audio Technica AT835b (or ST), Azden SGM-2X (one of my favorite choices for field audio), Beyerdynamic MC 836, AKG C 747, or for a bit higher priced "shotgun mic - a Schoeps as an item which will fill your requirements for the compressed sound of a shotgun microphone.

good luck and Toodles

F2
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Chuck Davis · Posted: Sat Nov 29, 2008 4:22 pm Post subject:

Thanks guys for all of the feedback. I'm absolutely not looking to a shotgun as a main mic...more as a new flavor to add to the menu. The 416 peaked my interest, but other brands...especially the Rode due to my long standing success with my NTK...are of interest.

F2....as usual you've given me lots to think about in terms of other mics to look at/listen to. Since this is going to be a second mic I've got the luxury of lots of time to play.

Anyone that would like to throw more wood on this fire is more than welcome to. Keeps us all entertained while it's cold and dark outside.
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Eddie Eagle · M&M Joined: 23 Apr 2008 Posts: 2393

Rob Ellis · M&M Joined: 01 Aug 2006 Posts: 2385 Location: Detroit

The 415 rocks! Try Madooma Vintage Microphones on e-bay. They had several when I bought mine.

Chuck Davis · Posted: Sun Nov 30, 2008 3:13 pm Post subject:

Rob/Eddie:

Cool...I have been looking into the 415's too. That needs an extra power adapter rather than phantom though, right? I like the character so far with the Senn's....alittle fatter....maybe a bit more compressed. Absolutely a "promo mic" though. I don't voice alot of promo stuff outside of my day gig so that might not be the best route.

Having a blast looking and listening though! :)
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MattKBaker · Guest

I've been using the Rode shotgun (1) for about a year now. Works great for me. Most of my promo and imaging work is done through it, though I have done some narration and it comes out well. Just my 2 cents.

Matt

Eddie Eagle · M&M Joined: 23 Apr 2008 Posts: 2393

Hey Chuck,
Yeah, there's a T_Phantom connector that usually comes with it. If it doesn't George Whittam has them for around $75.

georgethetech · Posted: Fri Dec 05, 2008 1:38 am Post subject:

Eddie Eagle · M&M Joined: 23 Apr 2008 Posts: 2393

Welll...... you said you could get one when I asked earlier this year Wink

The T-P48 connector. I figured you had them Laugh

georgethetech · Posted: Fri Dec 05, 2008 10:58 am Post subject:

Sure, I can get anything (almost), but I just don't have them on hand.
I DID have one here at one time, but it went on to a project. Thanks for the shout out, though!
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