RØDE has released the VideoMic NTG, a new on-camera shotgun microphone based on RØDE’s new NTG5.
The VideoMic NTG features annular line tube technology employing acoustic perforations along the length of the microphone in place of the linear slots found in other shotguns and on-camera microphones. This acoustic design claims to deliver better transparency, and a more natural, uncolored sound.
The VideoMic NTG also contains a flat frequency response, a directional supercardioid polar pattern, and low self-noise. A switchable high-pass filter (at 75Hz or 150Hz) to curtail troublesome low frequencies from wind, traffic, air conditioners, and other environmental noise, plus a high frequency boost to enhance detail and clarity, as well as a switchable -20dB pad for recording very loud sound sources, and for added security, a switchable safety channel that records a separate channel at -20dB in case the main channel clips, adds to RØDE’s new VideoMic NTG already impressive specs.
The variable gain control on the rear of the mic allows users to precisely tailor the output level to their recording device. This is an active control that has a greater output range than any other microphone on the market – it can deliver anything from mic level signal all the way to a headphone level output, providing flexibility and improving DSLR sound quality.
An auto-power function automatically switches the mic on when the camera is turned on, ensuring it’s ready to record at a moments notice, and also helps conserve battery life by switching the mic off when it’s unplugged or the camera is turned off. The VideoMic NTG contains a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides 30+ hours of recording. This is charged via USB-C (empty to full in 2 hours), meaning continuous recording is possible with a power pack.
On top of these features, an auto-sensing 3.5mm output intelligently switches between TRS and TRRS to accommodate both cameras and mobile devices – no need for adapter cables! Finally, a handy dB peak warning light indicates when the internal preamp is clipping – this is particularly useful when recording loud sound sources. In these situations, the -20dB pad can be quickly engaged to attenuate the incoming signal.
The VideoMic NTG is also a fully-featured USB microphone. Its class-compliant USB-C output allows users to plug directly into a computer, tablet, or smartphone, turning it into a studio-quality desktop USB mic, perfect for recording voiceovers, podcasts, gaming or livestreaming.
Headphones can be plugged into the 3.5mm output for seamless monitoring of audio while using the USB output. The headphone level can be adjusted by the variable gain control. This also means the VideoMic NTG can be used as a desktop headphone amp.
The VideoMic NTG is so much more than just an on-camera mic. With its included shock mounting, sliding cold shoe rail, and integrated cable management, it’s perfectly suited for mounting on a DSLR or mirrorless camera. But it’s also light and compact enough for use with smartphone rigs and small cameras, and rugged enough to be used on a boom pole or pistol grip on-location.
Never before has a microphone packed in so many features. The VideoMic NTG is a do-it-all, Swiss Army Knife microphone that is capable of handling anything thrown at it. Forget what you thought you knew about VideoMics. This changes everything.
The VideoMic NTG costs $249 and is available now.
