Rode NTG-3 Basic Shotgun Microphone Kit

Comments about Rode NTG-3 Basic Shotgun Microphone Kit:

I work as a professional audio mixer for reality TV, film and documentary. The staples of my work are the MKH 416 and MKH 60, but I have also used Scheops and the MKH 50 and MKH 70's as well.

After reading a few reviews of the NTG-3 and how it is comparable to the MKH-416, I recommended my audio supervisor pal check it out. He purchased a couple for a casting shoot involving dialog and live musical performance.

During the 2nd day of our shoot, we had full bands (guitar, bass, keys, drums and a vocal section) performing at SIR studios in New York. Due to the high SPL of this set up, I and the other mixer decided to point our booms toward the sound proof ceiling to catch a bit of the reflected sound (for reference as the performances were being sent to multitrack). This was the quietest signal we could get.

About 2 hours into the shoot, my NTG-3 started cutting out a bit. Within an hour the NTG-3 was dead. I've had similar shoots with the 416 and never had this problem. The other mixer's NTG-3 made it through, which makes me wonder if it was a manufacturing defect verses a defect in the design.

The NTG-3 sounded fine up to that point and I haven't followed up with my supervisor friend to see if Rode has replaced or refunded him. It definitely makes me nervous about using one professionally again. You might have better luck picking up a 416 used for the same price as a new NTG-3 if you do sound for a living.

Comments about Rode NTG-3 Basic Shotgun Microphone Kit:

The rode NT3 shotgun is a worthwhile high class location microphone that really does a great job. It has an ever so slightly wider pick up pattern than a Sennhieser 416 shotgun, but that's a good thing, as you don't have to swing as much between talent. Considering the cost, it's a great buy for broadcast spec audio. Rode also has a 10 year warranty, and an excellent standard of finish. The only small issue is it is it will not run into the Lectrosonics buttplug transmitter, as I am told it draws slightly to much current. Testing it beside a Sennhieser 416 and MKH 60 revealed the same quality punchy definition in the voice, and a rich bottom end.