A Deity reviews a Deity! "He said, 'let there be sound,' and it was so, and he heard that it was good. Thank you for this blessing, Curtis! I didn't think I would encounter a mic that I would consider in place of the Smic2, but this nudged its way in... I'm impressed in its functionality!
Thank you very much, between your videos, Gerald Undone and DSLR Video Shooter. I've learned a lot and I'm on my way to making my first short film. Thank you very much, I really appreciate this reviews and recommendations.💙
This review made me buy this mic! When you said it was a great mic for the price and it was for people who are looking to start working with quality audio I knew this was it! Man what a great buy this was. I’m considering pairing this with a rode wireless set up.
I already have the RODE VideoMic Pro+, and I love it. The D3 Pro looks like an excellent choice as well. I might pick one up as back up. It certainly seems worth the investment. Man, those Rycote windscreens are expensive. Excellent review.
Yes, Rycote charges higher prices I suspect for at least 2 reasons: 1) They do the R&D to make these designs which work really well and 2) they're based in the UK where employees are not cheap. But I can say that their gear is top notch in terms of performance and durability over time.
Thank you! Been going back and forth between this and the Rode Video Pro + and your review, examples and even showing using with boom make the Deity V Mic D3 Pro an easy choice. Appreciate your clear fact and testing methods. Thanks again!
Glad you did this video ! I was about to buy the Rode videomic pro + (for an ambiant mic on top of panasonic camcorder v770), but this one sounds at least equivalent to me. I have to check if it works with my camcorder and if it does I will probably buy it because it is significantly less expensive than the Rode.
As always, a thoughtful review. I would however like to hear it used as an on-camera mic instead of a close boom, since that's what it's designed to do. I worry about the short interference tube not dealing with longer distances well while still delivering some comb filtering indoors, and an on-camera test would give a little more insight into that.
Hi Colin, thanks. The samples were recorded on camera (GH5) at approximately 3 feet. You will note more "room" sound in those recordings vs. the rest of the talking head clips where it is boomed over my head. The Deity does ever so slightly better than the RODE in terms of "dealing with longer distances" because of its slightly more focused polar pattern, but once you get beyond about 3 feet, you'll pick up a fair bit more room or location sound.
THANK YOU for this review. I"ve been waiting for this. This looks like an awesome piece of kit for the money. Good quality and great versatility. This will make a nice Christmas present for my new Pansasonic G9 which is a Christmas present for me. Love the flexibility with this as a decent boom mic along with a camera mount, the many handy features, and quality. I'll make sure to purchase using your link, though I do prefer B&H.
I bought one, and it came with a faulty battery. I contacted Deity over social media and they sent out a replacement for me from their Hong Kong Office. Just be aware that these things happen, and I'm not sure how much quality control happens in the background, but I'm giving this company a try. I've already bought the VLAV, S Mic 2 and the D3 Pro. The replacement they sent holds a charge but I have not yet tested its longevity, but good on Deity for immediately replacing it with a new mic. I did open up the broken mic and it's (interesting) how they constructed it. Later on that.
Useful and thorough, as always. Thanks Curtis! I wish I had bumped into you at NAB. I would have introduced myself and thank you in person. Keep up the good work!
Hi Curtis, thanks for another excellent review. Really appreciate your considered in-depth assessments with a clear one screen summary up front. You are my goto audio kit reviewer and I subscribed 3 weeks ago. I now find myself 'binge viewing' your channel to learn more. As a photographer on a convergence journey to video, I'm a video novice who's sound knowledge and practice are a weakness - so your insights are valued. Just took delivery of this Deity V3 Pro as my first step towards decent sound in video. Maybe I will gravitate towards off-camera sound recording, into something like a SD Mix-3, with timecode sync in post.... but know I must 'learn to walk my Deity, before trying to run' with greater complexity (and cost). Anyway...top reviews.
Hello Curtis, i have been looking at these comparisons for awhile and there are 2 things that bother me about the de3. First and the most important is the battery. This seems to be a mic which will only last maybe 3 years and then it becomes thrash, or it will resell for little, like a smartphone. Second is reliability, i have seen some users comment about receiveing products with poor or damaged batteries. The only thing i dislike about the rode is the location of the 3.5mm cable. Right now if you shop you can find lightly used Rode pro+ at 200$. Which are your thoughts about this? Edit (removed freq response disparity)
I don’t use on-camera mics much so I haven’t stressed the battery over time but I follow your reasoning. In regard to batteries, it seems like the VMP+ draws on its battery constantly, even in standby so you have to recharge every 3 days or so, whether you use the mic or not. So there are trade offs on both.
Hey Curtis! I just purchased this microphone for my old Canon T3i. I have the internal gain set as low as possible while the knob set at +10. This is the most optimal way for reducing noise but I still get a decent chunk of white noise. Do you know if recording to a H4n pro vs. into camera will make a difference in terms of noise reduction?
Another great video by you. I also have a D3 Pro and I really like it. Normally for my voice over work I use Shure SM7B and when I just do not want to show my mic on the screen I use D3.
Mahmud, have u ever tried comparing the d3 vs the smb7? I have the d3 and luv it but debating whether it's worth the investment to upgrade to the smb7. I need it for simple vlogging on my canon m50 at home
Pulled the trigger and did order it from Amazon, deity it's making it easy to choose them over Rode. They should push it a bit more and compete with the RodeLink next.
Can this be plugged directly into the h1n or does it still need the TRRS to TRS adapter ? The combo in this video sounds superb! Wondering what your input level is on the h1n. I always try to keep my level at 50 when using the rode smartlav, but my audio never sounds smooth like this audio. I’m looking for an inexpensive option to boom my audio for interviews and have heard so many great things about the Deity D3 Pro. Great video, BTW.
Hi Ric, This was recorded into the original Zoom H1. I believe the input level on the recorder was set to 50 or so - it's been a while so this is from memory. Good luck!
New to the channel. I found this very helpful. I am interested in purchasing a microphone for recording wildlife, primarily bird song. What do you think would work best for subjects that would likely be greater than 6’ away?
That depends on whether you want a microphone to capture a wide stereo ambience sort of sound or want something more isolating that captures mainly the sound at which you aim the mic. A longer shotgun mic will be more isolating. A stereo pair of cardioid microphones will capture better wide ambient sounds.
I would love to hear a side-by-side of what this sounds like compared to mounting a Senny MKH-416 into the GH5's XLR adapter but in the same position as the top-mounted mic instead of boomed.
Curtis Judd cool! Hit me up. I’ve got about 6 other mics you could mess with while you’re out here if you need. Blue spark, blue baby bottle, rode vmp+, Sony wireless lavs, comica wireless lavs, that MKH 416, and a few other cheaper ones. I’m in the Valencia area (just north of la)
Great video. Just to clarify: Did you plug the mics directly into the GH5, or did this go via an external recorder? Do you reckon this would work to shoot a close-up dialogue between two people while mounted on the camera?
Thanks for all you do, Curtis. I am primarily a still shooter, but like most shooters I have had to start doing more video. I have a client with a large West Coast style open office, complete with 30' ceilings, lots of glass, concrete floors, and white noise generators. I need to do a series of talking head videos in their space which presents obvious issues from the audio front. I will do what I can to bring moving blankets in, but I have a mic question. I have a Joly modified Oktava 012 hypercardioid which I use as my primary boom mic (thanks for that review BTW), along with a Rycote BBG, as well as a decent wired lav and a couple Samson cardioid mics (for backup). I plan to pick up a Fethead Phantom to help push to my Zoom H5, but my question is this... Should I consider a D3 Pro or another "true" shotgun mic for this particular boom application? I know that shotguns are really meant for outdoor applications, but these wide open spaces and sound reflections worry me. I will need to feature a decent amount of the office environment when framing, so getting in closer than 12"-18" is a non-starter. Thank you in advance for your valued opinion. Cheers!
Hi Scott, no, a shotgun can run into phase issues via its interference tube when in reverberant spaces and the mic is slightly off axis of the talent. In this case, I’d rely on the lav mic and look to boom from under the frame with the Oktava. Wide interviews are a challenge and I usually end up using a Lav.
@@curtisjudd Thanks so very much for the prompt response. One clarification... If I have enough headroom with the composition, would you still suggest booming from underneath the subject rather than from above? My guess is that I should be able to get the mic within 15" or so from the subject. Again, thank you for all of your videos... You have been a tremendous resource as I learn more about the video side of the business. Cheers!
Could this be a better option than say those Samson C02 mics? more of an all around that does well for inside dialog, or would they be better at indoor dialog recording in possibly echoing environments?
I think it's a tradeoff. I prefer the sound of the Deity overall. But the Samson C02 has the benefit of not having an interference tube which will generally avoid phase issues when recording in a reverberant room. I'd choose based on how often you shoot in reverberant/echo-y rooms vs. outdoors.
Great review, you're the best outhere for audio. How would you connect it to the pocket 4k? The provided cable doesn't work so I got a trs to trs, but it still seems quiet to me on 75% gain on the camera and +20db on the mic. Would it be better to run it to the xlr? That would be quite cumbersome though... Thanks
Filip Mašek did you ever get the Deity D3 Pro working? Mines constantly in sleep with my pocket 4K. Works fine on my Nikon and one of my work mates GH5. I’ve tried TRS to TRS, TRRS to TRS, TRS patch cable, Mini XLR to XLR with a XLR to 3.5 😂 nothing works for me
Hey Curtis, been going through your many videos on mics, and I'm wondering if this one with the D-XLR adapter provides balanced output. If so, does this mean it can be used with cable runs over 20-ft? Also, if I'm using the D-XLR adapter, will I be able to plug it in to the mini-XLR on my BMPCC 6K Pro? I understand that the included TRS cable isn't compatible with BMPCC, but I'm hoping that if converted to XLR, that eliminates those compatibility issues. Also, your channel is the gold standard for this kind of information. Thank you!
Hi ekko808, I learned after I made the video that the DXLR adapter does something called impedance balancing which is not the same as using a transformer and I'm not sure whether it is just as effective. If you wanted to be sure, you might look at the RODE VXLR Pro instead, which does use a transformer to create a transformer balanced signal and with which you can make longer cable runs - easily 20+ feed. And yes, a standard XLR to TA3 adapter should work fine with the 6K pro.
@@curtisjudd thanks Curtis. Do you think you'll make a comparison video showing difference between recording straight into a camera with XLR like the 6K and into a recorder? As a mostly one person shooter, I'd be really interested in your take, or any tips on that.
@@ekko808 I did years ago. My take is this: Test your equipment. If it sounds good, it is good. So go with it. Trust your ears and get out there and make some great videos. Here's the video from years ago if you think it would be helpful: th-cam.com/video/2oZp_k7AmXs/w-d-xo.html
Hi Curtis. Your channels are fabulous! I'm a small film maker I rely on them. Question on RF interference on the D3 pro: you demonstrate the RF issue with your Rode transmitter close to the mic on a boom. I want to mount this on my laptop with wifi running. However, I checked the low reviews on Amazon and B&H and 5-10 complain about constant and unrelenting rf noise, even after many remedy attempts. Is this the fault of an unshielded cable? have they upgraded the shielding? 🧐
Good question. I would suspect the cable, yes. I don’t know whether they’ve done anything to address that but you might try contacting their support to see? Best wishes!
Hey Curtis. I came back to watch this because I am in the market for a camera mount mic. The thing that had me interested in the Rode Video Mic Pro Plus, is the auto on/off. What about this mic, does it have the auto on/off feature?
Hi Jay, good to hear from you! It sort of does, but you must first put it in standby mode. It’ll stay in that mode for 15 minutes and if it doesn’t detect your camera recorder on in that time, it shuts off completely. What I have noticed with the RODE VMP+ is that it is basically always in standby mode which is cool but if you don’t use it for a few days, it runs the battery out. So it is a trade-off.
@curtisjudd Hey Curtis! Great channel! One quick question = If I need an extension cable to run between the mic and the camera (running from the Deity directly to a Fuji X-t3), what type of cord do I need to get and how long do you think it could be, at most, for the signal to be able to travel through without phantom power from the camera, relying solely on the internal battery of the mic? Thanks, best /Leo
Thanks Curtis, this is really really helpful. I actually just purchased the D3 Pro. Do you think the zoom h1 is the most affordable recorder? I’m trying to find something super portable while also not having to use my phone, or carry a tablet or my computer around to plug into. Though it is nice to have the option. My camera doesn’t have an audio input either :( thanks again!
Hi Curtis! Is there an elegant solution to use this on the Blackmagic Pocket 4K seeing as the camera doesn't provide plug-in power? Is there a 3.5mm to mini-XLR cable that can convert phantom to 3V ‘Plug-in Power’? I've just purchased it and would sometimes like to have it on the camera. I've got the 3.5mm to XLR adapter from Deity but then I'd be using 3 parts (3.5mm cable + adapter + XLR to mini-XLR cable)
Hi Diego, the mic does not need plugin power as it supplies its own power. The problem with the P4K is the way it is wired which is completely unique. You may need a TRS cable to trick it. But contact DEITY support for details.
Hi Judd, I already own a Rode VMP+ and love the features and it serves me well. One thing I never liked about OVM+ was the frequency response (especially the spike at 4k). I always correct it afterwards to a more neutral/flat sound. You say the audio quality between the two mics are on par, but to me the D3 seems to have a nicer roll off and more neutral tone. What is your experience testing this? I am considering selling the VMP+ and getting the D3 instead although I like the safety track feature.
Hi Lisa and Glitch, It really depends on the voice you're recording. They both favor voices a little differently and both are generally good so it is really hard to say. You might but it from a retailer that will take returns and give it a test to see if you like it.
Hi Curtis. Very impressive assessment as usual. Could you inform me about its sound quality compared with Rode VideoMic Pro+ in term of several aspects like: bass, treble, clarity, sibilance, etc? Which one is better? Thank you!
Hi Nata, I believe the D3 Pro may have been discontinued so keep that in mind. I think I preferred the sound of the RODE VMP+ right out of the camera, but both of them are reasonably balanced for this class of microphone.
can you help me understand. Why around 3 minutes in do you have on the left screen all the infor about the D3 and above it says "you are listening to he rode. I'm easily confused. Which is it and not to be a wise guy but why would you do that? I hope it's just me being confused. Thank You, PS. Big fan of you and your channel and videos. UNDONE suggested I watch this video on one of his videos
Very clean and clear review Curtis. I think...even though d3 pro provides more futures...d3 may the better option with it’s removable AAA battery. D3 pro is useless when the inbuilt battery is dead. This is my personal opinion.
But why would it ever go dead if it lasts for 50 some hours? You'd have to neglect charging it for an incredible amount of time for that to happen I think.
Great review. You are costing me money... I’ll probably get one of these mics due to its amazing auto detect capability and the rest of its features. But I have to say the RØDE mic sounded creamy delicious good where the Deity sounded more hollow not as good.
Dear Allen, I hereby grant you full permission to NOT purchase any of the gear reviewed on this channel. :) I agree, by the way, on my voice, I preferred the VMP+ but I find that the D3 Pro works well on most voices.
Hi Curtis! I need some advice. If you consider buying one of the two devices: the Zoom F1-SP or the Deity D3 to record dialog directly to camera input, mainly on-top mounted occasionally boomed which one would you choose or recommend? I mean if you would have to weigh sound quality against features.
Hi Curtis great video. Sounds like a great microphone for me. But one question does it alson turn on automatically like the røde? I have forgotten so many times to turn on my current microphone when run and gunning.
No, I had to turn it on first, then it would go into a sleep mode when I turn the camera off. If you left it in that sleep mode, it turns back on when the camera turns on but I'm not sure how long the battery will last in "sleep" mode. I find that the RODE VIdeoMic Pro+ is essentially in sleep mode and when I go to use it after a week or two of storage, its battery is completely depleted so I have to recharge. So it is a trade off.
Curtis Judd thanks for the quick reply. Sounds great about the sleep mode. That was one of the things I was looking for. I always remember to charge my batteries, but when things go fast during a shoot I have sometimes forgotten to turn the damn thing on :D But this sleep mode will prevent this. Thanks for your answer. Keep up the good work with all your videos.
Hey Chris, Firstly your content is insane! I really enjoy all your work. Do you know what TRS cable would work with the D3 Pro to a Blackmagic Pocket 4K? I’ve tried contacting Deity with no reply in over a week. I think you said in a comment the Rode SC3 worked for you I just wanted to check because I’m trying one and it’s not working. Hope you’re well 😀
Love your videos, I learn so much! Quick question: I have this mic and the H4n. Are there any settings you would recommend? Should I turn down the H4N gain as much as possible and bring the microphone gain up or the other way around? Thanks!
This looks interesting. Curtis, have you tested the Deity V-Mic D3? It's half the price of the Deity D3 Pro but missing several features like the HP filters and the gain control. What I like about it is that it has the same smart TRRS chip in the V-Mic D3 that lets it work with many devices that supply _plug-in power_.
Hi Curtis, thanks for reviewing this mic! I actually just picked one up to check it out and was wondering if you thought it would be a good one to add to a kit for travel field recording? I wasn't sure if I should replace one of my more expensive mics with it so that I can worry a bit less about taking it out into the great outdoors. :) I appreciate your insight!
Its ok for a few years, and then the battery dies. Mine no longer charges. So if you just need something for a couple of years and are willing to either DIY replace the battery or work with DEITY to replace the battery, it is pretty good.
Great video, thanks for the review! Question: I noticed that the internal battery is only 320mAh. Do you think that would really last for at least 3 years or so?
I would think so, even with daily use it should handle 500+ recharge cycles, possibly more. Since the battery can power the mic for up to 51 hours per charge, you should be good.
Did you think about comparing these two to the Sennheiser MKE 600? As you note, shotgun mics have limited utility, but the Sennheiser is okay, and the price is not bad.
Long shotgun mics like the RODE NTG8 and Sennhesier MKH8070 or ME67: NTG-8: bhpho.to/2Ju8WNf Sennheiser MKH8070: bhpho.to/2JRyMdr Sennheiser ME67: bhpho.to/2JST32i
@@curtisjudd thanks Curtis - I think the base one would be right for me plus a boom pole adaptor of some sort. I see there is a location kit but it has a XLR adaptor that I wouldn't use.
@@markshirley01 Hi Mark, the D3 base model comes with a shock mount with a cold shoe. I'm not sure, but it might have a 3/8" tap on the bottom (the D3 Pro version does) so that will work with a boom pole, but cannot be adjusted like a proper pole shock mount like those from Rycote. You could just buy a Rycote shock mount like this, though they're not super inexpensive: bhpho.to/2rCXswC
Curtis excellent review I am new to audio capture what mic would you recommend for on camera ambient recording? I will not be recording any voices, just ambient sound. Thanks
This would be a good choice. Or perhaps the RODE Stereo VideoMic Pro if you'd like stereo recordings which work well for ambient: th-cam.com/video/GnH7oR2pYsI/w-d-xo.html
Thanks Curtis. I am going to buy this one. Talking about the high pass filter, I will use my Zoom H1n as recorder. Should I use the high pass filter on this mic or to use the filter on H1n? What's your suggestion? Appreciate it.
Been sesrching everywhere for someone who can say something about using it with a zoom, thank god you mentioned it here! Didn't think it was gonne be on their website! Haha. Thank you for this! Tho im curious as to how you would set the gain on the h1n and the mic if you attached them together?
I'd. probably put the Zoom at 50/100 (or is it 5/10 on the H1n) and then use the D3 Pro's gain to optimize the level until the meters top out at -12dB.
Another great review Curtis. If I was using one of these on a mic stand for an interview to plug directly into a GH5 what would be the correct way of wiring it please? Does it have to connect into an xlr for the run to camera etc? Thanks
Hi Curtis. Congrats for another excellent review! This mic gives me goosebumps man, what a precious product... Horns up to Deity, they are -without a doubt- the last big revolution in the audioverse! Well, that said, I think that I'll buy one... I'm getting into something new, trying to make fieldwork videos with the latest smartphone models, a gimbal and good sound. As you didn't discussed about smartphone uses, I'm wondering about gain controlling. One of the greatest features of this little beast is the gain controller on the back, so how can I listen (or see) to what I'm controlling, using it with a smartphone? Do I plug a TRS splitter for my headphones (and if possible do I plug it directly to the mic, or -more logically- by line out of the phone?) or is there a way to see it in a sound panel or something? If you have any tips or tricks about this, I'll be glad to hear 'em. Thanks Curtis, and cheers! PS : Do you know if it works with a Zoom H6, not on their official list?
Hi Vincent, thanks. Not sure how it works with Android phones, but on iOS, once you plug the mic in, the phone uses the mic for audio input in any app that records audio. No settings to set in the phone. As for monitoring, that is tricky with phones. The two main options are to use an app with audio level meters or to add an additional audio hardware adapter which has a direct monitor capability so you can listen while you record.
It's 2020, I'm on a budget, don't own a boom, right now my potential "boom" is a stand and flash bracket, I'm recording using an 80mm lens (so there's significant distance), for indoor vlog. Should I get this product or something more like the Sony ECM673 shotgun? Strange scenario, but thanks for your input!
Thank you for this. You've really helped me a lot and I'd love your opinion on a mic selection, specifically a deity mic. I shoot you tube videos and educational e-Learning courses. I've been using an SM57 to Fethead to Scarlett in my home office and it works quite well. When I'm on the road, I take an AT875r and plug it into a Saramonic Smartrig 2. This is a fairly compact light weight set up that allows me to plug into my smartphone but also into my laptop headphone jack and record very good audio without a USB interface .... BUT I've got micitis ... and started thinking about a MKH416 until I saw the new S-Mic 2. I know 416 and S-Mic 2 can be used as both shotguns and for Voice Work quite well. But now I see this D3 Pro and I have to ask could I use the the D3 Pro be used effectively from my desktop? Would it sound good enough to do Podcasts with and is the sound comparable to the S-Mic 2? Thanks for considering offering an opinion on this. I don't mind having 2 or 3 mics for different uses but If I could pare down the amount of equipment I have without compromising quality of sound that would be awesome. I may just sell everything I currently have and get and get these two Deitys. Thanks again!
Hi Howard, The D3 Pro is good, but for some situations, I'd feel a lot better having the superior RF rejection capabilities of the S-Mic 2 and especially the MKH416 (which uses an RF bias design). If you're going to pare down to fewer microphones, I'd spend a little more and get one of the higher end mics which does better with RF. Our world is only getting more noisy in terms of RF. Its a bummer when you lose a take to interference.
I don’t have the Comica, but you can pull up my VideoMic NTG video in another tab to compare how it sounds: th-cam.com/video/c4Pu72J5BRE/w-d-xo.html I prefer the sound of the DEITY.
@@curtisjudd was getting ready to get the D3 Pro when I came across another video where you would choose the Rode NTG over the D3 Pro in a close call. Can you elaborate on why? The D3 Pro is currently $139 while the NTG is $199. I'm assuming sound is comparable so the NTG has some additional features? or is it sound that persuaded you?
Great as always! first source on youtube for audio! I have a question about this mic Curtis, I have seen there is a compatibility list since this could be incompatible with many devices like audio recorders, I actually own a Tascam 70D and they say I would need a TRRS cable to connect it, do you think if I use a mini to XLR adapter to the audio recorder I will work? also, there are no Nikon cameras listed, have you tried this mic on any on your Nikon cameras? Any other issues you can think of this mic?
Hi Jose, I just tested this as follows: D3 Pro with the included 3.5mm TRRS cable to the 3.5mm to XLR adapter from Deity (you must use this one because it converts the phantom power which is important) into a Tascam DR-60DmkII. It worked great. If you need an extension cable, then I would use an XLR cable rather than a 3.5mm cable. Good luck!
@@curtisjudd Amazing! I asked Gerald Undone the same question and he told me that you can replace the original cable with the standard one and he had no problems at all, even with the Fuji XT3 that is incompatible
Thanks for the great review 😊 I just connected my brand new V-Mic D3 Pro to the back of the Zoom H4n ('EXT MIC' input) using the supplied TRRS cable. I turned on the Plugin-Power in the Zoom, turned on the microphone (green light is on). I'm trying to record, but nothing. No audio. I wonder if you know what did I do wrong with the Zoom... Thanks, Edo
Hi Edo, just tested the same setup here. Make sure you are in stereo mode (menu->Mode->Stereo). With all the settings you mentioned, once I press the record button on the H4n, I can see that the D3 Pro is moving the levels as I talk. Hopefully that helps. Best wishes!
Just starting out with a canon c100, putting the kit together and I think this is the mic for us. Thank you for your valuable, no nonsense vids.
👍 Happy filming!
And....HE’S BACK! Hooray! Very nice review and great coverage sir! I also have this mic and it’s really nice.
Thanks BFM!
I’ve been binging your videos this week and just wanted to say thanks for the great info
Thanks Tyler!
I just got this today, and this review video still holds up. Thanks for the analysis!
👍
A Deity reviews a Deity!
"He said, 'let there be sound,' and it was so, and he heard that it was good.
Thank you for this blessing, Curtis! I didn't think I would encounter a mic that I would consider in place of the Smic2, but this nudged its way in... I'm impressed in its functionality!
Haha! Thanks again Insanejughead! Happy recording! And you again win the price for the first comment to make me literally LOL!
LMAO, you should write poetry my dude
haha this is an amazing comment
The presenter Curtis Judd is an outstandingly excellent communicator.
Thank you, Michael.
I purchased this microphone a couple of months ago and I'm more than happy with it. The gain knob is a really nice touch.
👍
VERY helpful video, thank you Curtis!
👍
Thank you very much, between your videos, Gerald Undone and DSLR Video Shooter. I've learned a lot and I'm on my way to making my first short film. Thank you very much, I really appreciate this reviews and recommendations.💙
Thanks and happy filming!
This review made me buy this mic! When you said it was a great mic for the price and it was for people who are looking to start working with quality audio I knew this was it! Man what a great buy this was. I’m considering pairing this with a rode wireless set up.
Thanks Adam!
I received mine today... Great mic. First expensive mic in my kit
👍 Happy recording!
Thanks Curtis. Excellent teaching as usual. Could you please do a video covering all of your mics, why you chose them and what you use them for?
Yes
I already have the RODE VideoMic Pro+, and I love it. The D3 Pro looks like an excellent choice as well. I might pick one up as back up. It certainly seems worth the investment. Man, those Rycote windscreens are expensive. Excellent review.
BOYA and MOVO make some as low as $9 that will work. It needs to be atleast 13cm interior depth.
Yes, Rycote charges higher prices I suspect for at least 2 reasons: 1) They do the R&D to make these designs which work really well and 2) they're based in the UK where employees are not cheap. But I can say that their gear is top notch in terms of performance and durability over time.
Thank you! Been going back and forth between this and the Rode Video Pro + and your review, examples and even showing using with boom make the Deity V Mic D3 Pro an easy choice. Appreciate your clear fact and testing methods. Thanks again!
Thanks Bruce! Happy recording!
Glad you did this video ! I was about to buy the Rode videomic pro + (for an ambiant mic on top of panasonic camcorder v770), but this one sounds at least equivalent to me. I have to check if it works with my camcorder and if it does I will probably buy it because it is significantly less expensive than the Rode.
👍
Thank you Curtis for your very comprehensive video
👍
super clean explanation and review of this mic. really enjoyed the video!
👍
This is a good one. Giving Rode Pro a run for its money especially with the adjustable gain. I may just have to get one. Thank you Curtis. -Will
Thanks Will. Yes, Nice to see this type of competition.
As always, a thoughtful review. I would however like to hear it used as an on-camera mic instead of a close boom, since that's what it's designed to do. I worry about the short interference tube not dealing with longer distances well while still delivering some comb filtering indoors, and an on-camera test would give a little more insight into that.
Hi Colin, thanks. The samples were recorded on camera (GH5) at approximately 3 feet. You will note more "room" sound in those recordings vs. the rest of the talking head clips where it is boomed over my head. The Deity does ever so slightly better than the RODE in terms of "dealing with longer distances" because of its slightly more focused polar pattern, but once you get beyond about 3 feet, you'll pick up a fair bit more room or location sound.
Jeez - you even said as much in the video. Not sure how I missed that!
@@colinfrangos9653 No worries at all. Happy recording! 🎤
Curtis just tested the mic out today. Its amazing thank you for the suggestion. I feel its has more clarity then my video mic pro.
👍🏻🎤
Looks like this will be my first shotgun mic :)
Happy recording. 🎤
You really deserve more subscribers. Been following for years. So thankful for your content.
Thanks!
This looks like a great versatile mic for beginner creators :)
👍
Good demo. I heard more ambient room reflections in the Rode. You confirmed this with the off-axis test. Maybe this is my new mic.
👍
Good to have you back. This looks like my next upgrade on sound. Thank you for a great review.
Thanks Mark!
I am so glad a human like you exists. Thanks for the great reviews, bud!
Wow, thanks, that made my day!
Just got this mic. This video was incredibly helpful. Thank you so much for making these intuitive videos.
Thanks!
Thanks.
I wonder if your self-noise tests would be different with 'A-weighting', to match the ear's response?
Dominated by
👍
THANK YOU for this review. I"ve been waiting for this. This looks like an awesome piece of kit for the money. Good quality and great versatility. This will make a nice Christmas present for my new Pansasonic G9 which is a Christmas present for me. Love the flexibility with this as a decent boom mic along with a camera mount, the many handy features, and quality. I'll make sure to purchase using your link, though I do prefer B&H.
Hi Art, good to hear from you! I'll add the B&H links once they start selling them (not listed on their site at the moment).
Welcome back Curtis hope you had a great time 👍😎🙏
Thanks! I had a restful time which is what I needed. 🙂
To my ears, they sound crazy similar. And the deity you can CHARGE, and has a better build quality.
Not bad. Thanks for the review Curtis!
👍
I bought one, and it came with a faulty battery. I contacted Deity over social media and they sent out a replacement for me from their Hong Kong Office. Just be aware that these things happen, and I'm not sure how much quality control happens in the background, but I'm giving this company a try. I've already bought the VLAV, S Mic 2 and the D3 Pro. The replacement they sent holds a charge but I have not yet tested its longevity, but good on Deity for immediately replacing it with a new mic. I did open up the broken mic and it's (interesting) how they constructed it. Later on that.
Thanks for telling us about your experience. Good info!
Useful and thorough, as always. Thanks Curtis! I wish I had bumped into you at NAB. I would have introduced myself and thank you in person. Keep up the good work!
Thanks alonzojt. Maybe next year!
Getting close to that silver TH-cam Play button I see ;) Great video as always.
Thanks Saphir3000!
Super great and comprehensive video Curtis, thanks for sharing!
Thanks Tomas!
this mic looks like a nice addition to the audio kit. thank you for the effort and the sharing. i am a very satisfied subscriber. thumbs up.
Thanks smalltalk.productions.
Fantastic as always
Thanks Andrew.
Than you Curtis! very nice review!
Thanks Family Guy!
Wow! You are truly a audio pro! I like your white noise test! Great content!
Thanks Alan!
Hi Curtis, thanks for another excellent review. Really appreciate your considered in-depth assessments with a clear one screen summary up front. You are my goto audio kit reviewer and I subscribed 3 weeks ago. I now find myself 'binge viewing' your channel to learn more. As a photographer on a convergence journey to video, I'm a video novice who's sound knowledge and practice are a weakness - so your insights are valued. Just took delivery of this Deity V3 Pro as my first step towards decent sound in video. Maybe I will gravitate towards off-camera sound recording, into something like a SD Mix-3, with timecode sync in post.... but know I must 'learn to walk my Deity, before trying to run' with greater complexity (and cost). Anyway...top reviews.
Thanks Ricky and best wishes on your journey!
Hello Curtis, i have been looking at these comparisons for awhile and there are 2 things that bother me about the de3.
First and the most important is the battery. This seems to be a mic which will only last maybe 3 years and then it becomes thrash, or it will resell for little, like a smartphone.
Second is reliability, i have seen some users comment about receiveing products with poor or damaged batteries.
The only thing i dislike about the rode is the location of the 3.5mm cable.
Right now if you shop you can find lightly used Rode pro+ at 200$.
Which are your thoughts about this?
Edit (removed freq response disparity)
I don’t use on-camera mics much so I haven’t stressed the battery over time but I follow your reasoning. In regard to batteries, it seems like the VMP+ draws on its battery constantly, even in standby so you have to recharge every 3 days or so, whether you use the mic or not. So there are trade offs on both.
Hey Curtis!
I just purchased this microphone for my old Canon T3i. I have the internal gain set as low as possible while the knob set at +10. This is the most optimal way for reducing noise but I still get a decent chunk of white noise.
Do you know if recording to a H4n pro vs. into camera will make a difference in terms of noise reduction?
It is definitely worth a try. Camera preamps on older DSLRs were notoriously poor. If you've got an H4n Pro, that'd be my first choice. Best wishes!
Nicely done. I like the straightforward "thumb's up"!
Thanks Otis!
Another great video by you. I also have a D3 Pro and I really like it. Normally for my voice over work I use Shure SM7B and when I just do not want to show my mic on the screen I use D3.
Nice combination!
Mahmud, have u ever tried comparing the d3 vs the smb7? I have the d3 and luv it but debating whether it's worth the investment to upgrade to the smb7. I need it for simple vlogging on my canon m50 at home
Pulled the trigger and did order it from Amazon, deity it's making it easy to choose them over Rode. They should push it a bit more and compete with the RodeLink next.
They’re working on it. 😀
I thank you for the effort you put on doing these reviews. Hug!
👍
Great video, thank you. I will pick this Mic up as a replacement of my Rode Video Micro
Happy recording!
Imo the D3Pro would be a true competitor to the vmp+ if it had the duplicate recording option the Rode does.
Thanks al a.
Can this be plugged directly into the h1n or does it still need the TRRS to TRS adapter ?
The combo in this video sounds superb! Wondering what your input level is on the h1n. I always try to keep my level at 50 when using the rode smartlav, but my audio never sounds smooth like this audio.
I’m looking for an inexpensive option to boom my audio for interviews and have heard so many great things about the Deity D3 Pro.
Great video, BTW.
Hi Ric, This was recorded into the original Zoom H1. I believe the input level on the recorder was set to 50 or so - it's been a while so this is from memory. Good luck!
New to the channel. I found this very helpful. I am interested in purchasing a microphone for recording wildlife, primarily bird song. What do you think would work best for subjects that would likely be greater than 6’ away?
That depends on whether you want a microphone to capture a wide stereo ambience sort of sound or want something more isolating that captures mainly the sound at which you aim the mic. A longer shotgun mic will be more isolating. A stereo pair of cardioid microphones will capture better wide ambient sounds.
Deity D3 Pro or Deity D4? Only difference is the low-pass-filter?
And replaceable batteries in the D4. And the D4 sounded a little better on my voice.
Yes, forgot that desirable feature. Thank you for the review and taking your time to answer here.
I would love to hear a side-by-side of what this sounds like compared to mounting a Senny MKH-416 into the GH5's XLR adapter but in the same position as the top-mounted mic instead of boomed.
Me too! Know where we can borrow a 416 and the XLR1 adapter?
@@curtisjudd I've got a 416 in my studio if you're near LA, but no XLR1
@@TommyCallaway I might just call on you next time I'm in the area.
Curtis Judd cool! Hit me up. I’ve got about 6 other mics you could mess with while you’re out here if you need. Blue spark, blue baby bottle, rode vmp+, Sony wireless lavs, comica wireless lavs, that MKH 416, and a few other cheaper ones. I’m in the Valencia area (just north of la)
Will do!
Well done, excellent presentation Curtis!
Thank you!
Great video. Just to clarify: Did you plug the mics directly into the GH5, or did this go via an external recorder? Do you reckon this would work to shoot a close-up dialogue between two people while mounted on the camera?
To camera. It’ll sound like a camera mounted microphone meaning it will pick up more room sound than if you boom it closer to the talent.
Thanks for all you do, Curtis. I am primarily a still shooter, but like most shooters I have had to start doing more video. I have a client with a large West Coast style open office, complete with 30' ceilings, lots of glass, concrete floors, and white noise generators. I need to do a series of talking head videos in their space which presents obvious issues from the audio front.
I will do what I can to bring moving blankets in, but I have a mic question. I have a Joly modified Oktava 012 hypercardioid which I use as my primary boom mic (thanks for that review BTW), along with a Rycote BBG, as well as a decent wired lav and a couple Samson cardioid mics (for backup). I plan to pick up a Fethead Phantom to help push to my Zoom H5, but my question is this... Should I consider a D3 Pro or another "true" shotgun mic for this particular boom application? I know that shotguns are really meant for outdoor applications, but these wide open spaces and sound reflections worry me. I will need to feature a decent amount of the office environment when framing, so getting in closer than 12"-18" is a non-starter.
Thank you in advance for your valued opinion.
Cheers!
Hi Scott, no, a shotgun can run into phase issues via its interference tube when in reverberant spaces and the mic is slightly off axis of the talent. In this case, I’d rely on the lav mic and look to boom from under the frame with the Oktava. Wide interviews are a challenge and I usually end up using a Lav.
@@curtisjudd Thanks so very much for the prompt response. One clarification... If I have enough headroom with the composition, would you still suggest booming from underneath the subject rather than from above? My guess is that I should be able to get the mic within 15" or so from the subject.
Again, thank you for all of your videos... You have been a tremendous resource as I learn more about the video side of the business. Cheers!
@@ScottClintonPhotography If you can get within 15" by booming above, that is almost always the preferred position.
Could this be a better option than say those Samson C02 mics? more of an all around that does well for inside dialog, or would they be better at indoor dialog recording in possibly echoing environments?
I think it's a tradeoff. I prefer the sound of the Deity overall. But the Samson C02 has the benefit of not having an interference tube which will generally avoid phase issues when recording in a reverberant room. I'd choose based on how often you shoot in reverberant/echo-y rooms vs. outdoors.
Great review, you're the best outhere for audio. How would you connect it to the pocket 4k? The provided cable doesn't work so I got a trs to trs, but it still seems quiet to me on 75% gain on the camera and +20db on the mic. Would it be better to run it to the xlr? That would be quite cumbersome though... Thanks
It sounds like you got farther with the P4k and this mic than I did! Good work. I'll need to get an adapter cable and see how it goes. Thanks!
Filip Mašek did you ever get the Deity D3 Pro working? Mines constantly in sleep with my pocket 4K. Works fine on my Nikon and one of my work mates GH5. I’ve tried TRS to TRS, TRRS to TRS, TRS patch cable, Mini XLR to XLR with a XLR to 3.5 😂 nothing works for me
Hey Curtis, been going through your many videos on mics, and I'm wondering if this one with the D-XLR adapter provides balanced output. If so, does this mean it can be used with cable runs over 20-ft? Also, if I'm using the D-XLR adapter, will I be able to plug it in to the mini-XLR on my BMPCC 6K Pro? I understand that the included TRS cable isn't compatible with BMPCC, but I'm hoping that if converted to XLR, that eliminates those compatibility issues. Also, your channel is the gold standard for this kind of information. Thank you!
Hi ekko808, I learned after I made the video that the DXLR adapter does something called impedance balancing which is not the same as using a transformer and I'm not sure whether it is just as effective. If you wanted to be sure, you might look at the RODE VXLR Pro instead, which does use a transformer to create a transformer balanced signal and with which you can make longer cable runs - easily 20+ feed.
And yes, a standard XLR to TA3 adapter should work fine with the 6K pro.
@@curtisjudd thanks Curtis. Do you think you'll make a comparison video showing difference between recording straight into a camera with XLR like the 6K and into a recorder? As a mostly one person shooter, I'd be really interested in your take, or any tips on that.
@@ekko808 I did years ago. My take is this: Test your equipment. If it sounds good, it is good. So go with it. Trust your ears and get out there and make some great videos. Here's the video from years ago if you think it would be helpful: th-cam.com/video/2oZp_k7AmXs/w-d-xo.html
FYI. The Deity D3 Pro is nearly half off on Amazon. Really sweet deal.
👍
Hi Curtis. Your channels are fabulous! I'm a small film maker I rely on them. Question on RF interference on the D3 pro: you demonstrate the RF issue with your Rode transmitter close to the mic on a boom. I want to mount this on my laptop with wifi running. However, I checked the low reviews on Amazon and B&H and 5-10 complain about constant and unrelenting rf noise, even after many remedy attempts. Is this the fault of an unshielded cable? have they upgraded the shielding? 🧐
Good question. I would suspect the cable, yes. I don’t know whether they’ve done anything to address that but you might try contacting their support to see? Best wishes!
@@curtisjudd Thanks Curtis. I think I’ll do that and I’ll try to share that answer with you and your followers.
@@VirtualVillageStudio Thanks!
I think you should do a test outdoors, since DSLR cameras are More often use that way. The lowend of Rode is Better, don't you think?
Good idea, thanks for that. There is more low end on the RODE. The D3 sounds closer to my actual voice.
Hey Curtis. I came back to watch this because I am in the market for a camera mount mic. The thing that had me interested in the Rode Video Mic Pro Plus, is the auto on/off. What about this mic, does it have the auto on/off feature?
Hi Jay, good to hear from you! It sort of does, but you must first put it in standby mode. It’ll stay in that mode for 15 minutes and if it doesn’t detect your camera recorder on in that time, it shuts off completely.
What I have noticed with the RODE VMP+ is that it is basically always in standby mode which is cool but if you don’t use it for a few days, it runs the battery out. So it is a trade-off.
Curtis Judd Thank you!!!
@curtisjudd Hey Curtis! Great channel! One quick question = If I need an extension cable to run between the mic and the camera (running from the Deity directly to a Fuji X-t3), what type of cord do I need to get and how long do you think it could be, at most, for the signal to be able to travel through without phantom power from the camera, relying solely on the internal battery of the mic? Thanks, best /Leo
Hi Leo, I'd try this: bhpho.to/2EEPmeP I'm not positive it will work, but pretty sure
Thanks Curtis, this is really really helpful. I actually just purchased the D3 Pro. Do you think the zoom h1 is the most affordable recorder? I’m trying to find something super portable while also not having to use my phone, or carry a tablet or my computer around to plug into. Though it is nice to have the option. My camera doesn’t have an audio input either
:( thanks again!
Hi Michael, yes, the Zoom H1n is a fine option. Here’s my review: th-cam.com/video/hi5x5Go4eIY/w-d-xo.html
Hi Curtis! Is there an elegant solution to use this on the Blackmagic Pocket 4K seeing as the camera doesn't provide plug-in power? Is there a 3.5mm to mini-XLR cable that can convert phantom to 3V ‘Plug-in Power’? I've just purchased it and would sometimes like to have it on the camera.
I've got the 3.5mm to XLR adapter from Deity but then I'd be using 3 parts (3.5mm cable + adapter + XLR to mini-XLR cable)
Hi Diego, the mic does not need plugin power as it supplies its own power. The problem with the P4K is the way it is wired which is completely unique. You may need a TRS cable to trick it. But contact DEITY support for details.
Hi Judd, I already own a Rode VMP+ and love the features and it serves me well. One thing I never liked about OVM+ was the frequency response (especially the spike at 4k). I always correct it afterwards to a more neutral/flat sound. You say the audio quality between the two mics are on par, but to me the D3 seems to have a nicer roll off and more neutral tone. What is your experience testing this? I am considering selling the VMP+ and getting the D3 instead although I like the safety track feature.
Hi Lisa and Glitch, It really depends on the voice you're recording. They both favor voices a little differently and both are generally good so it is really hard to say. You might but it from a retailer that will take returns and give it a test to see if you like it.
Hi Curtis, thanks for your reply, I stayed with the VMP+ might buy a deity next to it in the future.@@curtisjudd
Hi Curtis. Very impressive assessment as usual. Could you inform me about its sound quality compared with Rode VideoMic Pro+ in term of several aspects like: bass, treble, clarity, sibilance, etc? Which one is better? Thank you!
Hi Nata, I believe the D3 Pro may have been discontinued so keep that in mind. I think I preferred the sound of the RODE VMP+ right out of the camera, but both of them are reasonably balanced for this class of microphone.
@@curtisjuddThank you, Curtis. Very clear and helpful.
can you help me understand. Why around 3 minutes in do you have on the left screen all the infor about the D3 and above it says "you are listening to he rode. I'm easily confused. Which is it and not to be a wise guy but why would you do that? I hope it's just me being confused. Thank You,
PS. Big fan of you and your channel and videos. UNDONE suggested I watch this video on one of his videos
It was a mistake. Please accept my sincere apologies. You were in fact listening to the RODE at that point.
Great informative video. Would it work okay for outdoor video of wildlife 100 yrs away
Thanks George. Not really. For capturing sound at that distance, you really need a rather specialized microphone such as a parabolic.
Very clean and clear review Curtis.
I think...even though d3 pro provides more futures...d3 may the better option with it’s removable AAA battery. D3 pro is useless when the inbuilt battery is dead. This is my personal opinion.
Good point. Thanks RK RK.
@@curtisjudd
Thank You Curtis
But why would it ever go dead if it lasts for 50 some hours? You'd have to neglect charging it for an incredible amount of time for that to happen I think.
Great review. You are costing me money... I’ll probably get one of these mics due to its amazing auto detect capability and the rest of its features. But I have to say the RØDE mic sounded creamy delicious good where the Deity sounded more hollow not as good.
Dear Allen, I hereby grant you full permission to NOT purchase any of the gear reviewed on this channel. :) I agree, by the way, on my voice, I preferred the VMP+ but I find that the D3 Pro works well on most voices.
Hi Curtis! I need some advice. If you consider buying one of the two devices: the Zoom F1-SP or the Deity D3 to record dialog directly to camera input, mainly on-top mounted occasionally boomed which one would you choose or recommend? I mean if you would have to weigh sound quality against features.
If I do not need it to be a recorder, I'd choose the Deity D3 Pro without hesitation.
Hi Curtis great video. Sounds like a great microphone for me. But one question does it alson turn on automatically like the røde? I have forgotten so many times to turn on my current microphone when run and gunning.
No, I had to turn it on first, then it would go into a sleep mode when I turn the camera off. If you left it in that sleep mode, it turns back on when the camera turns on but I'm not sure how long the battery will last in "sleep" mode. I find that the RODE VIdeoMic Pro+ is essentially in sleep mode and when I go to use it after a week or two of storage, its battery is completely depleted so I have to recharge. So it is a trade off.
Curtis Judd thanks for the quick reply. Sounds great about the sleep mode. That was one of the things I was looking for. I always remember to charge my batteries, but when things go fast during a shoot I have sometimes forgotten to turn the damn thing on :D But this sleep mode will prevent this. Thanks for your answer. Keep up the good work with all your videos.
Hey Chris,
Firstly your content is insane! I really enjoy all your work. Do you know what TRS cable would work with the D3 Pro to a Blackmagic Pocket 4K? I’ve tried contacting Deity with no reply in over a week. I think you said in a comment the Rode SC3 worked for you I just wanted to check because I’m trying one and it’s not working. Hope you’re well 😀
Hi Alex, I've been using the included TRRS cable and then plug that into the RODE VC1 extension cable.
Brilliant! Thank you for replying so quick I’ll give it a go!
Great Video!
What do you think about this microphone for filmmakers? (dialogue for short films, documentarys, etc)
I’d look at the D4 in 2023: th-cam.com/video/FPw77qwIgGc/w-d-xo.html
Love your videos, I learn so much! Quick question: I have this mic and the H4n. Are there any settings you would recommend? Should I turn down the H4N gain as much as possible and bring the microphone gain up or the other way around? Thanks!
Thanks Fred. I'd set the ZOOM's input level to around 25 and adjust the gain on the microphone from there until the meters top out at around -12dB.
Can you do a video on blimps and windscreen etc...how they work, when use them, and price.
Yes: th-cam.com/video/0WuHVobIQUs/w-d-xo.html
This looks interesting. Curtis, have you tested the Deity V-Mic D3? It's half the price of the Deity D3 Pro but missing several features like the HP filters and the gain control. What I like about it is that it has the same smart TRRS chip in the V-Mic D3 that lets it work with many devices that supply _plug-in power_.
Hi Robert. I haven't tested the D3 yet. Perhaps I can get one in for review as well.
Well done. Really enjoyed it.
Thanks
Hi Curtis, thanks for reviewing this mic! I actually just picked one up to check it out and was wondering if you thought it would be a good one to add to a kit for travel field recording? I wasn't sure if I should replace one of my more expensive mics with it so that I can worry a bit less about taking it out into the great outdoors. :) I appreciate your insight!
Its ok for a few years, and then the battery dies. Mine no longer charges. So if you just need something for a couple of years and are willing to either DIY replace the battery or work with DEITY to replace the battery, it is pretty good.
Great video, thanks for the review! Question: I noticed that the internal battery is only 320mAh. Do you think that would really last for at least 3 years or so?
I would think so, even with daily use it should handle 500+ recharge cycles, possibly more. Since the battery can power the mic for up to 51 hours per charge, you should be good.
Curtis Judd Awesome! Thank you!
Did you think about comparing these two to the Sennheiser MKE 600? As you note, shotgun mics have limited utility, but the Sennheiser is okay, and the price is not bad.
Hi Steady Rolling, yes, but alas, I do not have an MKE 600 on hand to include in the comparison.
Hey Curtis, what IS a shotgun mic that could handle much more distance from the subject?
Long shotgun mics like the RODE NTG8 and Sennhesier MKH8070 or ME67:
NTG-8: bhpho.to/2Ju8WNf
Sennheiser MKH8070: bhpho.to/2JRyMdr
Sennheiser ME67: bhpho.to/2JST32i
Curtis I own a Rode videomic-go will the Deity D3 be a better mic on a Nikon D750 - I often use a boom when I use the Rode.
Definitely, yes, both in terms of audio quality and output level.
@@curtisjudd thanks Curtis - I think the base one would be right for me plus a boom pole adaptor of some sort. I see there is a location kit but it has a XLR adaptor that I wouldn't use.
@@markshirley01 Hi Mark, the D3 base model comes with a shock mount with a cold shoe. I'm not sure, but it might have a 3/8" tap on the bottom (the D3 Pro version does) so that will work with a boom pole, but cannot be adjusted like a proper pole shock mount like those from Rycote. You could just buy a Rycote shock mount like this, though they're not super inexpensive: bhpho.to/2rCXswC
Curtis excellent review I am new to audio capture what mic would you recommend for on camera ambient recording?
I will not be recording any voices, just ambient sound.
Thanks
This would be a good choice. Or perhaps the RODE Stereo VideoMic Pro if you'd like stereo recordings which work well for ambient: th-cam.com/video/GnH7oR2pYsI/w-d-xo.html
Thanks Curtis. I am going to buy this one. Talking about the high pass filter, I will use my Zoom H1n as recorder. Should I use the high pass filter on this mic or to use the filter on H1n? What's your suggestion? Appreciate it.
Hi Hugo, I'd use the filter on the microphone to potentially leave more headroom in the H1n's preamp.
@@curtisjudd Got it! Thanks.
Been sesrching everywhere for someone who can say something about using it with a zoom, thank god you mentioned it here! Didn't think it was gonne be on their website! Haha. Thank you for this! Tho im curious as to how you would set the gain on the h1n and the mic if you attached them together?
I'd. probably put the Zoom at 50/100 (or is it 5/10 on the H1n) and then use the D3 Pro's gain to optimize the level until the meters top out at -12dB.
@@curtisjudd Thank you!
Another great review Curtis.
If I was using one of these on a mic stand for an interview to plug directly into a GH5 what would be the correct way of wiring it please? Does it have to connect into an xlr for the run to camera etc?
Thanks
No, you can use a TRRS to TRRS extension cable but I'd recommend you not run that more than about 20 feet.geni.us/59ZpGn
Hi Curtis. Congrats for another excellent review! This mic gives me goosebumps man, what a precious product... Horns up to Deity, they are -without a doubt- the last big revolution in the audioverse!
Well, that said, I think that I'll buy one... I'm getting into something new, trying to make fieldwork videos with the latest smartphone models, a gimbal and good sound. As you didn't discussed about smartphone uses, I'm wondering about gain controlling. One of the greatest features of this little beast is the gain controller on the back, so how can I listen (or see) to what I'm controlling, using it with a smartphone? Do I plug a TRS splitter for my headphones (and if possible do I plug it directly to the mic, or -more logically- by line out of the phone?) or is there a way to see it in a sound panel or something? If you have any tips or tricks about this, I'll be glad to hear 'em. Thanks Curtis, and cheers!
PS : Do you know if it works with a Zoom H6, not on their official list?
Hi Vincent, thanks. Not sure how it works with Android phones, but on iOS, once you plug the mic in, the phone uses the mic for audio input in any app that records audio. No settings to set in the phone. As for monitoring, that is tricky with phones. The two main options are to use an app with audio level meters or to add an additional audio hardware adapter which has a direct monitor capability so you can listen while you record.
It's 2020, I'm on a budget, don't own a boom, right now my potential "boom" is a stand and flash bracket, I'm recording using an 80mm lens (so there's significant distance), for indoor vlog. Should I get this product or something more like the Sony ECM673 shotgun? Strange scenario, but thanks for your input!
I would opt for this over the Sony, get an extension cable and boom this just above and in front of you. Best wishes.
@@curtisjudd Thank you for your thoughtful expertise and immediate response !!
Thank you for this. You've really helped me a lot and I'd love your opinion on a mic selection, specifically a deity mic. I shoot you tube videos and educational e-Learning courses. I've been using an SM57 to Fethead to Scarlett in my home office and it works quite well. When I'm on the road, I take an AT875r and plug it into a Saramonic Smartrig 2. This is a fairly compact light weight set up that allows me to plug into my smartphone but also into my laptop headphone jack and record very good audio without a USB interface .... BUT I've got micitis ... and started thinking about a MKH416 until I saw the new S-Mic 2. I know 416 and S-Mic 2 can be used as both shotguns and for Voice Work quite well. But now I see this D3 Pro and I have to ask could I use the the D3 Pro be used effectively from my desktop? Would it sound good enough to do Podcasts with and is the sound comparable to the S-Mic 2? Thanks for considering offering an opinion on this. I don't mind having 2 or 3 mics for different uses but If I could pare down the amount of equipment I have without compromising quality of sound that would be awesome. I may just sell everything I currently have and get and get these two Deitys. Thanks again!
Hi Howard, The D3 Pro is good, but for some situations, I'd feel a lot better having the superior RF rejection capabilities of the S-Mic 2 and especially the MKH416 (which uses an RF bias design). If you're going to pare down to fewer microphones, I'd spend a little more and get one of the higher end mics which does better with RF. Our world is only getting more noisy in terms of RF. Its a bummer when you lose a take to interference.
would love to see you compare this to Comica CVM-VM20 and the Rode Videomic NTG.
I don’t have the Comica, but you can pull up my VideoMic NTG video in another tab to compare how it sounds: th-cam.com/video/c4Pu72J5BRE/w-d-xo.html
I prefer the sound of the DEITY.
@@curtisjudd was getting ready to get the D3 Pro when I came across another video where you would choose the Rode NTG over the D3 Pro in a close call. Can you elaborate on why? The D3 Pro is currently $139 while the NTG is $199. I'm assuming sound is comparable so the NTG has some additional features? or is it sound that persuaded you?
@@kevinhurt7119 Mostly reliability and warranty. I have to EQ both of them to get the sound where I really want it.
gogo 100k :) ... and cheers for another great review!
Thanks Gregor!
Как всегда самый лучший обзор! огромное спасибо
Спасибо.
Great as always! first source on youtube for audio! I have a question about this mic Curtis, I have seen there is a compatibility list since this could be incompatible with many devices like audio recorders, I actually own a Tascam 70D and they say I would need a TRRS cable to connect it, do you think if I use a mini to XLR adapter to the audio recorder I will work? also, there are no Nikon cameras listed, have you tried this mic on any on your Nikon cameras? Any other issues you can think of this mic?
Hi Jose, I just tested this as follows: D3 Pro with the included 3.5mm TRRS cable to the 3.5mm to XLR adapter from Deity (you must use this one because it converts the phantom power which is important) into a Tascam DR-60DmkII. It worked great. If you need an extension cable, then I would use an XLR cable rather than a 3.5mm cable. Good luck!
Oh, and I’m in between Nikons at the moment. The Z6 is supposed to arrive next week.
@@curtisjudd Amazing! I asked Gerald Undone the same question and he told me that you can replace the original cable with the standard one and he had no problems at all, even with the Fuji XT3 that is incompatible
Very good review, Curtis! How does this compare to the Azden SMX-30 (the mono part)?
Hi Kelna91, I prefer the sound of the Deity and the D3 Pro is quite a lot more adaptable (e.g., adapts to balanced XLR with Location kit)
Thanks for the great review 😊
I just connected my brand new V-Mic D3 Pro to the back of the Zoom H4n ('EXT MIC' input) using the supplied TRRS cable. I turned on the Plugin-Power in the Zoom, turned on the microphone (green light is on). I'm trying to record, but nothing. No audio. I wonder if you know what did I do wrong with the Zoom...
Thanks,
Edo
Hi Edo, just tested the same setup here. Make sure you are in stereo mode (menu->Mode->Stereo). With all the settings you mentioned, once I press the record button on the H4n, I can see that the D3 Pro is moving the levels as I talk. Hopefully that helps. Best wishes!
Superb video. Thanks.
Thanks!
I would like to ask you in your opinion, is d3 pro better than azden smx 30? In the details of the sound and the degree of sound reproduction.
In my opinion, yes. I prefer the sound of the D3 Pro.
Welcome back, Curtis!
Thank you Tim, good to be back!