Shotgun microphones
IMPORTANT
By exclusively featuring Rode microphones in this discussion, the aim is to streamline the choices and provide clarity in comparing specifications and features within a similar price range.
The audio equipment market is saturated with numerous models from various brands, and including all of them would make the decision-making process overwhelming.
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Rode is a trusted brand in the filmmaking community, and their products are known for delivering impeccable sound quality.
The competition among brands often revolves around offering similar specifications at competitive prices.
Therefore, whether you choose a Rode microphone or a comparable product from another brand at the same price point, the difference in sound quality is likely to be minimal.
This approach allows filmmakers to make informed decisions based on their preferences and budget, confident in the quality that Rode and similar reputable brands provide.
The Rode VideoMicro serves as a solid starter for both actors and filmmakers.
If you're an actor, it's a reliable choice that's likely to meet your needs for years to come. ​
For filmmakers, it provides a robust foundation, taking you far in your craft. While you may eventually upgrade to more advanced equipment, the VideoMicro remains valuable for practice takes and situations where you prefer not to use expensive or intricate gear. It strikes a balance between performance and practicality, making it a versatile tool for both actors and filmmakers.
~$95 USD
The Rode VideoMic Go II represents a noticeable improvement in sound richness compared to the VideoMicro. While it may not be the absolute best, it's a solid choice, especially for those with a slightly larger budget.
In my personal opinion, if you're an actor, the VideoMicro is the clear choice due to its affordability. The money saved can be redirected toward other equipment that compensates for any minimal loss in sound quality.
For filmmakers starting with non-budget movies, the VideoMicro is recommended. However, if you've been working on films for a decent period and are on a tight budget, the VideoMic Go II is a worthwhile upgrade, striking a balance between performance and cost.
It's essential to recognize that there are more expensive and higher-quality microphones available, but their prices can be three times or more than that of the ones mentioned. The recommendation is to consider investing in such high-end equipment only when your movies are gaining significant recognition, and there's a likelihood of being noticed by directors or festivals for major productions. In these scenarios, the subtle differences in sound quality become more apparent and may be worth the investment. For most filmmakers, especially those starting out, the mentioned microphones offer a solid balance between performance and affordability.
Add-ons
Made for rode recording microphones. Perfect for an extension cord for recording. I personally own this one.
Made for rode microphones. Perfect for holding you microphone on a small stand and hiding the wires inside.
I personally own this one.
NTG Series
If you're considering investing more in a shotgun microphone, the Rode NTG series is a solid choice. Introduced after the Rode VideoMic Pro, the NTG microphones not only incorporate essential features but also offer additional advancements. Specifically designed for precise directional audio capture, they excel in applications like dialogue recording, podcasts, voiceovers, and more. The NTG series is renowned for its focus on directional audio picking, making it a top choice for filmmakers and audio professionals seeking exceptional sound quality in various scenarios.
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It's imperative to invest in a windscreen or deadcat for any microphone or recorder you choose. These accessories are crucial for minimizing wind noise and ensuring clean audio capture. We've compiled a list of all accessories and attachments for each microphone mentioned below to make it easier for you to find the necessary additions to enhance your audio recording setup. Most of these will come with a windscreen, but we still recommend to take a deadcat, as these are more effective for outdoor shooting
~$240 USD
The RØDE NTG1 stands out as a lightweight condenser shotgun microphone crafted for professional applications in film, video, television, and production. Its impressive full frequency response, low noise, and audio transparency make it an excellent choice for film, video, and voice-over work, while its lightweight design positions it as an ideal boom microphone.
Featuring a native 20Hz-20kHz frequency response and a selectable high-pass filter at 80Hz to eliminate low-end noise, the NTG1 offers a balanced and versatile recording experience. With a reasonable price point, it's a microphone that sits above entry-level options like the Rode VideoMicro or VideoMic Go II. If you're considering an upgrade beyond these entry-level choices, saving up for the NTG1 is a wise investment for enhanced audio quality.
~$275 USD
The RØDE NTG-2 shares similarities with the NTG-1, with the main distinction being its longer casing and enhanced 'reach' due to a 'narrower' polar pattern design. This increased reach proves valuable for filming wider shots that require keeping the microphone further from the source. Powered by 48V phantom, the NTG-2 also incorporates an internal 1.5V AA battery, a practical feature for compatibility with devices lacking phantom powering, such as portable DAT players or 'handycam' cameras.
The NTG-2's off-axis response drops off slightly sooner than the NTG-1, making it ideal for precise boom work in the field and well-suited for recording distant sounds like bird calls or vehicles in wide shots. Equipped with an 80Hz high-pass filter, it's well-equipped for outdoor recordings. While it comes with a foam windshield suitable for light breezes, a dedicated wind gag with additional covers is recommended for windier conditions.
For field mic duties, the NTG-2 is a preferred choice, excelling in capturing distant sounds. However, for dialogue tracking, the NTG-1 is favored for its warmer response and more forgiving off-axis characteristics.
~$690 USD
The RØDE NTG3 stands out as a top-tier shotgun microphone, often considered one of the best for filmmaking. Despite being released before the NTG4, NTG4+, and NTG8, its close specifications and lower price compared to the NTG8 make it a compelling choice. Unlike the NTG4 and NTG8, which are geared more towards broadcast applications, the NTG3 is specifically crafted for film and television production.
Designed to excel in challenging recording sessions, the NTG3 delivers superlative audio quality with a rich, warm character and a full frequency response. Its RF bias technology renders it nearly impervious to moisture, making it the go-to option for demanding environments where condensation is a concern. Machined from solid brass, the NTG3 is robust yet lightweight. Its precise yet forgiving polar pattern ensures clear audio capture whether mounted on-camera or on a boom pole, making it an excellent choice for discerning filmmakers seeking top-notch performance.
~$400 USD
The Rode NTG4+ serves as a bridge between the NTG2 and NTG3, offering an attractive option for those seeking superior performance without the higher cost of the NTG3. It comes in two versions: the NTG4 and the NTG4+, with the latter featuring a slightly longer barrel for a minimal extra cost, making it a more comprehensive choice.
Continuing the legacy of the RODE NTG2, the NTG4+ boasts an all-new condenser capsule with low noise, high sensitivity, and the convenience of on-board equalization/level control via digital switching. Notably, it is the first microphone to incorporate an in-built battery, providing over 150 hours of operation and supporting USB charging. Digital switching on the microphone body allows control over the in-built high-pass filter, pad, and high-frequency boost, with persistent states retaining settings even when the microphone is switched off.
The NTG4 & NTG4+ feature an all-new condenser capsule with a low noise floor, higher sensitivity, and a rich, smooth character, ensuring impressive audio quality for filmmakers and content creators.
Make sure to check the available bundle price as you may be able to get the exact same deadcat as shown in the accessories, but for cheaper.
~$505 USD
The NTG5 is a short, ultra-lightweight shotgun microphone designed for demanding recording applications. With a revolutionary acoustic design featuring circular ports, it delivers unmatched transparency and a natural, uncolored sound. Its controlled frequency response, smooth off-axis response, and low self-noise (just 10dBA) make it excellent for location recording and demanding filmmaking. Weighing only 76g and measuring just over 20cm, it's a boom operator's dream for long shoots. The NTG5 features RF-bias circuitry for reliable performance in adverse conditions, including high humidity, severe cold, damp, and dust. The package includes a WS10 deluxe windshield, PG2-R pistol grip, and other accessories for a complete location recording kit.
~$970 USD
Based on the award-winning NTG3 shotgun microphone, the RØDE NTG8 stands out as a broadcast-quality RF-bias shotgun microphone, offering increased directionality across a wide frequency response range. Ideal for film, television, sports, outdoor broadcasting, live performances, and professional distance miking applications, the NTG8 delivers exceptional performance.
Similar to the NTG3, the NTG8 features low self-noise, providing natural sound without coloration both on and off-axis. RF bias technology ensures remarkable resistance to high humidity environments, a feature that sets it apart from other condenser microphones.
Finished in matte black, the NTG8 comes with a specially designed shock mount (SM8) that isolates handling noise, manages cables, and provides versatile mounting options. A rugged weatherproof aluminum cylinder offers ultimate protection during transport or storage, and the WSNTG8 windshield provides light environmental protection.
While the NTG8 is an impressive microphone, considering its price, it might be advisable to opt for the NTG3 combined with a deadcat and a reliable recorder like the Zoom H6. This combination offers a cost-effective solution without compromising on audio quality, ensuring a versatile and durable setup for various filmmaking scenarios.
Accessories
Here are the essential accessories for each microphone; while there are more options available, we've focused on highlighting the key ones.
For any general accessories such as wires, there is a dedicated section in the recorder section.
~$60 USD
Enhance your audio recording in windy conditions with the Rode WS6 Deluxe Shotgun Microphone Windscreen. Designed for outdoor use, it effectively reduces wind noise for smoother recordings. Compatible with shotgun microphones like Rode's NTG1 and NTG2, it serves as both a windscreen and pop filter.
Compatible with NTG1, NTG2 NTG4 and NTG4+
~$60 USD
Enhance your audio recording in windy conditions with the Rode WS7 Deluxe Shotgun Microphone Windscreen. Designed for outdoor use, it effectively reduces wind noise for smoother recordings. It also serves as both a windscreen and pop filter.
Compatible with NTG3
~$9-15 USD
XLR cables are essential for audio connections. It's advisable to have cables of various lengths to avoid inconvenience—too long can get in the way, while too short may limit flexibility. Opting for multiple lengths ensures versatility. Fortunately, XLR cables are cost-effective.
~$100 USD
The PG2-R is a Pistol Grip Shock Mount designed to minimize handling noise during handheld or boompole-mounted recording with shotgun microphones. It features dual Rycote Lyre mounts for maximum isolation from handling vibrations, four mounting points to accommodate various RØDE shotgun microphones, and an integrated cable management clip. Compatible with NTG1, NTG2, NTG3, NTG4, NTG4+, and NTG5.