I bought my Rode video mic Pro 10 years ago. 1 year ago my wire got pulled and came out completely. I contacted Rode and asked what I can do... They asked me to send it in and they fixed it for me for free. For that alone I will never stop buying Rode whenever it is an option.
My VMP just died on me the other week after around 8 years, I suspect it's just the cable. Will have to see if they can help me out. Thanks for your post!!
Hey Caleb, definitely hear what you're saying about more bass on the RODE VMP. I suspect they voiced it that way because most people put it on their camera and their camera is often 5+ feet from the sound source. I suspect they were trying to compensate for the thinner sound you get when you move the microphone away from the sound source. I find the Azden to sound more natural when close mic'ed (within 12 inches) but rather thin when farther away. The Deity D-3 Pro sounds a little more mid-range focused which can sound right on the right voice, but not as good on mid-range heavy voices. Thanks for covering this. Always great to get your perspective!
I’ve only had my Deity D3 pro for about a week and my rode microphones are already looking at me sad because they know they’ll probably never get used again. Great video Caleb!
I have the just the Deity D3 and it's fantastic, I see no reason to go to Rode for an on camera shotgun mic unless I want to switch up to my Rode Micro or Rode Wireless Go
Personally, I think they all sound pretty fantastic. I'm happy with my Rode for now, but thanks for the video as I might look into other options in the future (mostly for the price difference)
Your tutorials are top notch, and guaranteed they help so many people save so much time and have much better experiences out in the field. Gotta give you huge props for what you're doing, man. Thank you so much.
I've really been enjoying the Sennheiser XSW-D system. However the XLR receiver came apart and ceases to work after a month of use. Thankfully B&H took care of it and exchanged it.
Yeah dudes! Looking to up my audio game with a lav mic and mic for my Galaxy S8 Edge, and will plan to binge watch all your mic reviews. Thanks for putting this info out, helps us make better decisions to improve our own videos on our channel.
This is a great video and I really appreciate it. One request for the future: It's generally considered, at least with headphone amps, that higher volume changes our perception of the audio quality and characteristics. Especially on the NTG4 vs the Diety, would have appreciated a comparison of the two recorded at the same level. It's interesting that the Diety is louder, but obviously we'd all record the Rode at a higher setting too. That volume difference will likely impact our perception of the two mics. The Diety definitely sounded better, but I can't compare the two directly as we'd actually record with them. Great video, though. Always nice to see real comparisons between the perceived king and everyone else.
You were one of the first to show off the deity vmic d3 pro. I bought mine just a little over two months ago because of you and a few people who talked highly about it. Thanks for this
Wow, the Azden, Rode, Deity comparison at about 6:25 ... amazing, Deity clearly more full and crisp. I've been on the cusp of buying a short on camera mic, very useful comparison. As to the NTG-4 vs. S-Mic-2, when I boosted the NTG-4 level 6db in Audacity, the loudness sounded the same, and the quality very similar, but the NTG-4 sounded a little thinner, with more room tone (probably because of the level boost). Excellent video Caleb. Yours is one of the most useful channels I follow. Keep up the good work.
I understand why most would be attracted to the Diety's sound with this close-to-source test. It's less boomy and has a bit more sparkle, but the reason that I think the Rode is best for event filmmakers is because the the recording distance is usually 5-8' indoors, with a very boxy sounding room. The Videomic pro naturally balances that out and would be better sounding in that common situation. Both could be Eq's to match though.
Agreed on all, although I LOVE my Rode NTG-3 but super expensive compared to the Diety S-Mic 2 which is similar and way cheaper. Replacing the Rode VideoMicPro battery ALWAYS pisses me off. :) Love my Deity D3. VideoMicro for under $100 is awesome. Yeah, I'm done with the Rode Wireless - awesome for its time, but there are way better options out there now. Can't wait for the Deity wireless, they are totally kicking it, which doesn't surprise me as being an offshoot from Aputure. Thanks for the video!
This is a great video! I'm a bit stuck in "choice paralysis" (so many choices that I don't make any). The sound comparisons here were great AND the links at the bottom of the video-- outstanding! Thanks for taking the time to do this!
Another great vid Caleb! As a professional producer and sound engineer I’ve been steering people clear of Rode mics for years. Their sound is way to stuffy and there’s no richness to the tonal curve. Personally I’m a big fan of Sennheiser. And a couple cheap on- camera options are the Comica and Takstar, both have richer sound than the Rode’s. Thanks again! Adam
Bought the Deity and returning the Deity, it doesn't work with my 3.5mm TRS extensions cables and I'm not replacing all my cables. Back to Rode because I'm not dealing with this nonsense.
I think I've watched and rewatched this video about 5 times. So much information that I'm now using it as my general microphone reference as I build up my kit. Thank You!!
I’m just a beginner looking for a microphone... I don’t know much about mics, but your video has helped me so much! You have a very nice and understandable way of explaining stuff! Absolutely amazing video!
Thank you so much for this comparison video! I've been hearing recommendations here and there for different models, but this video was easily the best at real world comparisons.
I haven't read the 961 comments but it would be nice to have linked the MixPre-3 at the bottom of the microphone list since it was mentioned in this video. I love this vlog. Awesome audio, video, focus, lighting, edits, research, and dialog. Love the vintage Mac computer in the background. Nice work.
I totally agree, the Deity is really going to make the other companies sweat. I've been blown away at the offerings and quality and they've been super great to interact with and are open to feedback. That's a great thing for all of us!
Aputure has really been taking the filmmaking scene by storm in the last years... speaking of 'storm', their lightstorm series lights are another great example of that! They're really stepping up the game in terms of high quality affordable price levels. Though... because of the increase in quality, the prices also take a bit of a hike. Wish there were still even cheaper gear to be had from them. Then again, we now see Chinese brands such as Yongnuo, Meike, Godox etc booming to fill that gap.
Great vid as usually. Great approach on showing how mics are evolving and competitive being crucial for us the consumer. Grabbing a Deity mic for my setup as soon as B&H shows it in stock.
It's still a great microphone. If it wasn't, thousands of creators (both amateur and professional) wouldn't be using it. Don't worry so much about what you COULD have, and focus more on making awesome things with what you DO have :)
@@thepoliticalfederationofeq1216 You might wanna try an external audio recorder. DSLR's aren't cinema cameras so their audio pre-amps are...... Yeah... Also talking behind the mic is obvs not the direction the mic is built to pick-up sound from soo
@@thepoliticalfederationofeq1216 I watched the first bit of your video (great edit on the intro by the way) and I would recommend one of two things to improve your audio quality for your voice over: A- turn the Rode around on your camera so that your speaking into the front of of the mic. B- shoot your footage and record your voice over inside with some sound dampening material (thick blankets or foam mattresses work) around where your recording. To reduce the hiss, turn the dB to +20 on your mic and adjust the audio level on your camera to compensate (your maximum audio levels should be peaking at around +11dB). Also, push the "on" switch all the way to the right to enable the high pass filter, this will help eliminate low drones of distant vehicles, ceiling fans, etc. Hope this helped!
@Žan Stermecki You made an excellent choice! Rode mics rock. Do not forget you’re just listening to Caleb Pike’s taste, which doesn’t have to match yours. Enjoy your Rode Videomic Pro Plus!
Good video, just a test outside with some background noise and wind would be great. Seems like depending on the mics and deadcats used, there are big differences.
@@JetLagRecords I don't know anything about the others, but I can wholeheartedly recommend the Deity. It sounds amazing outside. It doesn't come with a wind sock (the fuzzy one), but a little button on top helps make up for it (I can't remember the name for it... Attenuation maybe?). Anyway, I've been using it outside a lot, and it sounds awesome. A video I shot recently (it's not up yet), I was worried about the wind and a busy road nearby, but the dialog was crisp, and the wind wasn't an issue.
If I have the Deity D3 Pro connected directly to the camera, will it turn off when I turn the camera off, and then turn on when I turn the camera back on? (without me pushing any buttons?)
I religiously avoid stuff with builtin or proprietary batteries. Swapping batteries = instant recharge which at times I absolutely need for some of those really longer shoots. Builtin batteries = builtin expiry date for the hardware.
The Rode VideoMic Pro+ has a flatter frequency response on the 40 - 100Hz range than the SMX-15. That's one of the most important spec (if not the most important) when in search of a new mic when sound quality is your number 1 priority. It's better to have a flat response across the full frequency range in an audio recording making it easier for you to sculpt the sound in post using mixing tools like an EQ for instance. Assuming that in your comment "you can add that easily but it's harder to remove" you are referring to the low-end, then I couldn't disagree more. It's better and easier to attenuate unwanted frequencies than to boost. By the way, the SMX-15 has a small boost around 20 - 50Hz which the VideoMic Pro+ doesn't.
Thanks for putting out this video. I have had so many issues with my Rode mic. Just got the Deity D3 Pro from your link. The lows are crazy on the Rode and I did not realize by how much until I hear the Deity.
its just me or I can hear some noise starting with azden the most and rode almost no noise. I prefer deity because of clearness on the voice but Rode seems to eliminate that noise in between the speakers pauses. Using AT-M50X
I noticed the same thing. I'm listening with Audio Technica headphones with my volume up all the way. There's noticeable noise from Azden and Deity, and almost none from the Rode Mic.
@@lucashuston821 im still thinking of getting Deity just to try it out. At first when I got rode I thought my settings were off but its just a different sounding mic that I think I don't need
Yeh using San 660s and yeh I heard a ton of noise from the other mics. Not the mention in his video, I can hear a lot of air conditioning in the main video footage. The rode mic made all of that noise disappear. The bass is definitely a bit much, but I actually find that easier to turn down with a preamp as apposed to the difficulty of getting rid of noise.
Just wanted to let you know I am getting exceptional value from your videos and have been using your Amazon links to purchase new gear! Just purchased the deity pro thanks to your review!
It is good to see someone looking at the alternatives to Rhode microphones. Rhode has got themselves into a position where for youtube they are the de facto go to microphone a bit like Shure when it comes to performance microphones. In both cases there are some great alternatives, but to be taken as a professional, you have to use the market leader or else be considered not so professional, even if the sound is better or the alternative fits your equipment or workflow better.
Professional audioguys says just opposite. Rode #1 and after that Deity. There’s many other features with audio that isn’t included in the video. Don’t make hasty decisions. Investigate. But still respect Caleb’s input!
Hi Caleb, As always great video, man ! Rode is a great company. They revolutioned the entry-level market about things really important like microphones and other stuff... And they earned a lot of money for that and it's well deserved ! That said, I wanted to tell you that I'm a bit tired of video content creators that have nothing to say and copy/paste all that was already said a million times... So, THANK YOU to bring new stuff !!! Thank you to share new ideas with your points of view as a user, with new products that could help thousands of people ! Please, simply ignore the haters, without wasting your energy. Thanks for doing your job very well because every video you make is calm, well prepared, compact, cristal clear, inspiring and it's always a treat to watch ! You are my favourite tech video creator for these reasons ! Your video guides are awesome ! So again, Thanks for your good work ! Hope to meet and have a chat soon... Lazy people can't realize the efforts needed to produce such good content... ;-)
In my opinion small diaphragm microphones do better indoors than a shotgun mic. Unless you have tons of acoustic treatment. Still not sure I'd use a shotgun mic close quarters.
Hi Caleb. I have several mics. You might call attention to the Azden SMX-30 ($249), which offers the same features as the SMX-15, but also includes a stereo capsule, so effectively you have either a mono shotgun or a stereo mic in one on-camera unit. Very clean, low-noise audio. My primary studio mic is the Azden SGM-250 Shotgun Microphone ($229), which can be operated with a built-in AA battery and 1/8" TRS plug or via XLR phantom power. Again, very clean and low-noise (especially with the phantom power option); also with a low-cut filter. For additional studio recording, I secured a Neewer 2-Pack Pencil Stick Condenser Microphones with Interchangeable Omni, Cardioid and Super Cardioid Capsules ($70), which, despite the low cost perform remarkably well, and with the different capsules giving you different ambient sound options. For a three-person recording, with or without video, I employ a Tascam DR-60D Mark II 4-Channel Portable Recorder ($175), with the Neewer mics with super-cardioid capsules in left and right channels via phantom power, and the Azden SGM-250 using AA-battery power to channels 3 & 4, so you have audio separation left, right, and center for each voice. Works great. My take-anywhere just-in-case on-camera mic is a tiny Takstar SGC-698 stereo mic ($38), which, though inexpensive, performs quite well. A bit noisier, but not bad, with decent sound reproduction. If I want compact mono on-camera recording, I have two Movo VXR10 mics ($40), again chosen because cheaper than the Rode micro, with much higher gain, which translates to lower noise. And for wireless, primarily for cost savings, I acquired two Audio-Technica Pro88W sets, which have been trouble-free for me. Bought both sets used, each with the superior MT830mW lavalier mic ($79 new - most sets come with a lower-quality lav mic), each for less than $100 for the set. For lavalier mics direct to camera or recording unit, I have a couple Aputure A.lav mics ($35), which again perform well at reasonable cost. While the Diety mics look attractive, I'm good for now.
I've had nothing but feedback on my two Rodelink systems. Not sure if it's just my units, but I'll be looking to change over to one of those new options you mentioned. Thanks Caleb!
Quick question: 9:04 - if you can do that in post, why can't you do the same thing with the videomic pro? Also if you have very loud sound, you can't do the -10db in post. Also (2:56) bass can't be added if it doesn't exist but can easily be filtered either in the recorder or in post. Overall I kind of understand what you are trying to say but as you see, you have not chosen your words very well. Thanks for the video and for the other recommendations though!
I have and love the Azden SMX-15. I like the sound except for Vlogging, the shock mount is rather noisy. Lots of noisy clicking from it bouncing on its own mount. Rather annoying to me. But I keep using it.
Great video as usual! Great review and also great to get a confirmation on what I was thinking when I went to buy my first shotgun mic for my DSLR...I tried the Rode and couldn't figure out why people loved it so much ESPECIALLY for the price, and the moment I tried the Deity D3 Mic Pro, I promptly returned the Rode. I also got the Deity V.Lav which is also very good! Ironically, I bought the Sennheiser wireless mic system BEFORE I got the shotgun mic, so I could use it for interviews at NAB and it is AMAZING! Thanks again for the video!
I couldn't agree more. I've been a Rode customer for almost a decade. I just stopped using my Rode gear when I got the Deity D3 and the Deity V-lav (another great little Mic BTW). Thanks for the great video man!
Guess this is a bit of an emotive subject, however I have to chip in. Firstly on the shoe mounted video mics. Pros have been paying $1k for Neumann mics and the Rode VideoMic Pro has beautiful broadcast sounding rich bass sound for a fraction of the price. You obviously hadn't noticed the switch on the back that rolls off the bass however, for situations when it is not needed! Duh. Also I have no issues using an EQ in post and contrary to Caleb's statement, I feel that removing something is always better than trying to add something that isn't there in the first place. And for price differences - really? Who cares about 100 bucks, when you spend over a thousand on camera & lenses and you are going to use it for years. Shotguns: Personally I've never been a fan of the NTG4/4+, however the NGT1/2 and NTG3 are outstanding. The Deity is a good alternative if you are after a thinner sound instead of accuracy. It's a personal thing. Regarding levels - my Zoom F8 has no problem turning up the gain by 10dB. I rather do that, if it gives me a clearer sound, than having a mic with built in inferior preamp. (I ma not inferring that the Deity is inferior, just sayin'). Wireless: The Rode FilmMaker wireless Lav kit, broke new ground in tech and ease of use, with WiFi digital transmission and ability to mute/unmute mic from the receiver and +/- 10/20dB gain/pads . The actual Rode Lavalier mic is outstanding. Recommending the Sennheiser for size, well I guess this video was made before the new Rode Wireless Go announcement... Service: I've had unbelievable good warranty service from Rode. Their warranty is 10 years! but really it is lifetime. They stand behind their products, unlike some brands that don't want to know you if you are1 day out of the warranty period! Conclusion: Choose wisely on what suits you. Rode is certainly not the only game in town, however if you have already invested in Rode, then don't switch just for the sake of it. You would have got prosumer (or pro) gear at a fair price that will probably serve you well for years. Concentrate instead on making good content. Sorry about the long post. :)
Totally agree with many of your points and EQ'ing done best is a subtractive process; not additive. Adding noise is what you do when you start adding. Call me a snob but there is a reason why expensive mics are expensive. That said, if you know what you are doing, you can make a decent mic sound great. Before you spend big dollars, learn gain staging to understand what you are doing first and foremost then you may learn why you want to get expensive mics and chances are you may find better use for that extra cash if you are primarily making videos and not audio recordings because what you have is cutting it for your needs.
The extra bass on the Rode sounds better on the iPhone 11 Pro speakers. The Deity d-3 sounds better on standard AirPods. Sound test within a sound test.
For me, as a fairly new channel, cost has been the deciding factor on just about everything I've purchased so far. I watched your video comparison of the Rode and the Takstar shotgun mic, and actually preferred the Takstar audio, which was a win-win for me. I bought one, and have used it on just about every video I've made, with the exclusion of one or two that I made using my lavalier mic before it died.
What you want is a sensitive mic that pics up everything. Noise unfortunately is a by product of a mic that picks up a wide range of frequencies. The Rode for example would be a nightmare if you recorded in a location with a lot of low end noise. The others are cutting the low end because the human vocal range at least on location wouldn’t go that low.... you’re not trying to capture someone’s beautiful baritone. Noise cancellation can happen during editing if you set a noise gate and a good compressor. Unfortunately there is nothing you can do about the noise in the background while someone is talking. That’s where the skill of a good on-location sound recordist comes into play :)
First of all, thanks for yet another awesome review comparison video. Just bought the Rode VideoMicro couple of days ago as the Movo VXR 10 isn’t available in this part of the world i.e. India/China atleast officially.
I've been using an Azden SMG-1X shotgun mic since 2011. In a comparison among 5 other shotgun mics at a meeting of our local Cleveland Indie Club my Azden was voted as the best sounding, while recording the same person on the same equipment, merely switching mics. With the Azden dead cat it does phenomenally in wind.
The auto on/off switch from the Rode Video MicPro+ is the one feature which has made the VMP+ my go to video mic. Good to know the Azden has that feature too. Thanks Caleb! -George
Glad to hear you still like the Movo. My gear needs are modest but I still like good quality and know I can polish things well in post. The Rode equivalent sounded very brittle; I returned it immediately. I haven't picked it up yet but I saw yours and others review of the Movo and it was very helpful pointing me toward an alternative.
One point on mic comparisons. If you are comparing especially shotgun mics you should test them on some outdoor use, since in a studio or quiet room the difference isn't that big and you can controll everything so it doesn't really matter which mic you're using.
I bought my Rode video mic Pro 10 years ago. 1 year ago my wire got pulled and came out completely. I contacted Rode and asked what I can do... They asked me to send it in and they fixed it for me for free. For that alone I will never stop buying Rode whenever it is an option.
That's great customer service 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
My VMP just died on me the other week after around 8 years, I suspect it's just the cable. Will have to see if they can help me out. Thanks for your post!!
They didn't had choice you have 10 years warranty on rode mic pro
@@rollforever85 any update on thht?
They also replaced the broken bracket/mic for me.
Hey Caleb, definitely hear what you're saying about more bass on the RODE VMP. I suspect they voiced it that way because most people put it on their camera and their camera is often 5+ feet from the sound source. I suspect they were trying to compensate for the thinner sound you get when you move the microphone away from the sound source. I find the Azden to sound more natural when close mic'ed (within 12 inches) but rather thin when farther away. The Deity D-3 Pro sounds a little more mid-range focused which can sound right on the right voice, but not as good on mid-range heavy voices. Thanks for covering this. Always great to get your perspective!
Thanks Curtis and Caleb.
I’ve only had my Deity D3 pro for about a week and my rode microphones are already looking at me sad because they know they’ll probably never get used again. Great video Caleb!
Hi Dunna! I'm subscribed to you. Great videos man. You two should collab!
Hahaha I’m about to make the jump as well
Are you still loving your Deity D3 pro?
I have the just the Deity D3 and it's fantastic, I see no reason to go to Rode for an on camera shotgun mic unless I want to switch up to my Rode Micro or Rode Wireless Go
Did the Deity mics work out for you and last?
Pretty much the best video I have seen for any mic for any video situation. Learnt a lot! Thank you.
Personally, I think they all sound pretty fantastic. I'm happy with my Rode for now, but thanks for the video as I might look into other options in the future (mostly for the price difference)
Your tutorials are top notch, and guaranteed they help so many people save so much time and have much better experiences out in the field. Gotta give you huge props for what you're doing, man. Thank you so much.
I've really been enjoying the Sennheiser XSW-D system. However the XLR receiver came apart and ceases to work after a month of use. Thankfully B&H took care of it and exchanged it.
Yeah dudes! Looking to up my audio game with a lav mic and mic for my Galaxy S8 Edge, and will plan to binge watch all your mic reviews. Thanks for putting this info out, helps us make better decisions to improve our own videos on our channel.
This is a great video and I really appreciate it. One request for the future: It's generally considered, at least with headphone amps, that higher volume changes our perception of the audio quality and characteristics. Especially on the NTG4 vs the Diety, would have appreciated a comparison of the two recorded at the same level. It's interesting that the Diety is louder, but obviously we'd all record the Rode at a higher setting too. That volume difference will likely impact our perception of the two mics. The Diety definitely sounded better, but I can't compare the two directly as we'd actually record with them. Great video, though. Always nice to see real comparisons between the perceived king and everyone else.
You were one of the first to show off the deity vmic d3 pro. I bought mine just a little over two months ago because of you and a few people who talked highly about it. Thanks for this
So we've come to the end of the Rode? .....Sorry
I see what you did there.
Diety sounds good too.
No pun intended. lol
*chuckles*
😄😄😄
Caleb channel is one of the few with great audio in every video. Thanks for sharing some great info
Good video, Caleb. I'm a big fan of the Deity D3 Pro. Appreciate the roundup. 👍
Lets get undone.
@@neotheek put your trousers back on, damn...
so you can dial the db's up and down? not just at particular stop points like +10 +20 etc.?
Wow, the Azden, Rode, Deity comparison at about 6:25 ... amazing, Deity clearly more full and crisp. I've been on the cusp of buying a short on camera mic, very useful comparison. As to the NTG-4 vs. S-Mic-2, when I boosted the NTG-4 level 6db in Audacity, the loudness sounded the same, and the quality very similar, but the NTG-4 sounded a little thinner, with more room tone (probably because of the level boost). Excellent video Caleb. Yours is one of the most useful channels I follow. Keep up the good work.
I understand why most would be attracted to the Diety's sound with this close-to-source test. It's less boomy and has a bit more sparkle, but the reason that I think the Rode is best for event filmmakers is because the the recording distance is usually 5-8' indoors, with a very boxy sounding room. The Videomic pro naturally balances that out and would be better sounding in that common situation. Both could be Eq's to match though.
I also wanted to thank you for these amazing videos over the years. I have been watching/ learning from you for years but never said thank you.
Agreed on all, although I LOVE my Rode NTG-3 but super expensive compared to the Diety S-Mic 2 which is similar and way cheaper. Replacing the Rode VideoMicPro battery ALWAYS pisses me off. :) Love my Deity D3. VideoMicro for under $100 is awesome. Yeah, I'm done with the Rode Wireless - awesome for its time, but there are way better options out there now. Can't wait for the Deity wireless, they are totally kicking it, which doesn't surprise me as being an offshoot from Aputure. Thanks for the video!
I’ve been looking for a video like this for a month! This is by far the best review and comparison I found. Nicely done. thanks!
Correction: It's a high-pass filter / low-cut filter. Opposite end of the spectrum would be low-pass / high-cut
This is a great video! I'm a bit stuck in "choice paralysis" (so many choices that I don't make any). The sound comparisons here were great AND the links at the bottom of the video-- outstanding! Thanks for taking the time to do this!
Audio Technical AT897 is still my favorite budget mic! The Deity has a nice low noise floor, but mine is very bass heavy & almost sounds muffled
Cameron Gallagher isn’t the AT897 like $250?
Yeah! roughly $100-$250 cheaper than Rode & Deity options@@sinjon
Agree. My AT897 is still rocking after 15 years of field work. Also my AT lavs and AT4073.
The AT 897 is probably the best budget mic out there.
Another great vid Caleb! As a professional producer and sound engineer I’ve been steering people clear of Rode mics for years. Their sound is way to stuffy and there’s no richness to the tonal curve.
Personally I’m a big fan of Sennheiser.
And a couple cheap on- camera options are the Comica and Takstar, both have richer sound than the Rode’s.
Thanks again!
Adam
I've been using my takstar for 3 years now. I've filmed live music and I've done interviews without problems.
Good ol' SGC-598. Both that one and the HTDZ HT-81 were the pretty budget solutions back in the day.
Matthew Livingston how good is it for short films/documentaries
@@danyalvisuals th-cam.com/video/aQWdMTdVOis/w-d-xo.html
@@danyalvisuals All my videos I've used the Takstar 598
Same! For $30 it sounds amazing, especially paired with my beachtek preamp
Always good to hear your balanced and tested opinions, Caleb. Tons of good info coming from your channel. Thanx!
Greetingz, Wim
Bought the Deity and returning the Deity, it doesn't work with my 3.5mm TRS extensions cables and I'm not replacing all my cables. Back to Rode because I'm not dealing with this nonsense.
same.
I think I've watched and rewatched this video about 5 times. So much information that I'm now using it as my general microphone reference as I build up my kit. Thank You!!
Deity D3 Pro
sounds the best in my opinion, and great features too.
Great topic and content as always!
Thanks John!
Just purchased the Deity D3 pro yesterday! This makes me even more excited. So many great features that i cannot wait to test out!
The NTG-3 is still my jam for narrative but Deity is pretty unbeatable for on camera. Nice Caleb!
I’m just a beginner looking for a microphone... I don’t know much about mics, but your video has helped me so much! You have a very nice and understandable way of explaining stuff! Absolutely amazing video!
"Here's a little Deity about microphones"
*pulls out acoustic guitar
Ohhh you...
_Golf Clap_
This is the 2nd time you have altered a gear upgrade. Really appreciate you always providing multiple options.
Such an awesome video, thanks for making it! Your audio in this video sounds amazing, might be time to upgrade my shotgun!
Thank you so much for this comparison video! I've been hearing recommendations here and there for different models, but this video was easily the best at real world comparisons.
I've found the VMP does capture a lot of frequencies sub 150hz. But if you just flick on the high pass filter then that's no longer an issue.
I haven't read the 961 comments but it would be nice to have linked the MixPre-3 at the bottom of the microphone list since it was mentioned in this video. I love this vlog. Awesome audio, video, focus, lighting, edits, research, and dialog. Love the vintage Mac computer in the background. Nice work.
I used to love the bass of the Rode mics, I thought that meant quality. Now I realize I was just an uncouth heathen of the night.
But that Rode Sound is like Canon Colors! Rode knows their Bass Science! Unexplainable magic!
All night heathens are uncouth!🤘
You will always be an uncut heathen LOL
This is top notch man you guided me to both camera and Mic now you're videos are the truth my man! Diety seems to be best by landslide.
welcome back :) I pre-ordered the "wireless go" as well.
I saw the Twitter post about this... It looks cool. I'm seriously curious about how good it works. Still dont know how much it costs tho
#RODE
199$ pre-order available at BHphoto
@@Holyeddybear thanks!
Same here. It’s amazing. Selling my rode pro plus. If I need a shotgun, I’ll buy it later, but, probably, it will be smth with usb-c :)
I really appreciate your channel. I am new to the video field and I'm learning so many awesome things from your willingness to share.! THANKY
I totally agree, the Deity is really going to make the other companies sweat. I've been blown away at the offerings and quality and they've been super great to interact with and are open to feedback. That's a great thing for all of us!
Thanks, Caleb. All good info. Have a nice day!
Aputure has really been taking the filmmaking scene by storm in the last years... speaking of 'storm', their lightstorm series lights are another great example of that!
They're really stepping up the game in terms of high quality affordable price levels.
Though... because of the increase in quality, the prices also take a bit of a hike.
Wish there were still even cheaper gear to be had from them. Then again, we now see Chinese brands such as Yongnuo, Meike, Godox etc booming to fill that gap.
Great vid as usually. Great approach on showing how mics are evolving and competitive being crucial for us the consumer. Grabbing a Deity mic for my setup as soon as B&H shows it in stock.
Seeing a video with title like this hurts a little after just a month since I bought my Rode
@@thepoliticalfederationofeq1216 I've bought Rode Mic Pro+ tho, the most expensive one haha
It's still a great microphone. If it wasn't, thousands of creators (both amateur and professional) wouldn't be using it. Don't worry so much about what you COULD have, and focus more on making awesome things with what you DO have :)
@@thepoliticalfederationofeq1216 You might wanna try an external audio recorder. DSLR's aren't cinema cameras so their audio pre-amps are...... Yeah... Also talking behind the mic is obvs not the direction the mic is built to pick-up sound from soo
@@thepoliticalfederationofeq1216 I watched the first bit of your video (great edit on the intro by the way) and I would recommend one of two things to improve your audio quality for your voice over: A- turn the Rode around on your camera so that your speaking into the front of of the mic. B- shoot your footage and record your voice over inside with some sound dampening material (thick blankets or foam mattresses work) around where your recording. To reduce the hiss, turn the dB to +20 on your mic and adjust the audio level on your camera to compensate (your maximum audio levels should be peaking at around +11dB). Also, push the "on" switch all the way to the right to enable the high pass filter, this will help eliminate low drones of distant vehicles, ceiling fans, etc. Hope this helped!
@Žan Stermecki You made an excellent choice! Rode mics rock. Do not forget you’re just listening to Caleb Pike’s taste, which doesn’t have to match yours. Enjoy your Rode Videomic Pro Plus!
Good video, just a test outside with some background noise and wind would be great. Seems like depending on the mics and deadcats used, there are big differences.
wow the Deity S Mic 2 sounded REALLY good!
Wow, you got here quite fast :D
Crazy how much louder the output is too!
I bought the Deity D3 Pro a few weeks ago, and I absolutely love it.
@@JetLagRecords I don't know anything about the others, but I can wholeheartedly recommend the Deity. It sounds amazing outside. It doesn't come with a wind sock (the fuzzy one), but a little button on top helps make up for it (I can't remember the name for it... Attenuation maybe?).
Anyway, I've been using it outside a lot, and it sounds awesome.
A video I shot recently (it's not up yet), I was worried about the wind and a busy road nearby, but the dialog was crisp, and the wind wasn't an issue.
Dang it, Caleb. I just bought the Rode Video Mic GO for a live gig and it sucks?? Shoot!
Lol I know this was a year ago Scott but it made me chuckle a little bit
Well, it's a little bit too cheap to be excellent.
If I have the Deity D3 Pro connected directly to the camera, will it turn off when I turn the camera off, and then turn on when I turn the camera back on? (without me pushing any buttons?)
I religiously avoid stuff with builtin or proprietary batteries. Swapping batteries = instant recharge which at times I absolutely need for some of those really longer shoots. Builtin batteries = builtin expiry date for the hardware.
EXACTLY!!!
The fact that the scene with the Deity filter made the cut is all I needed to convince me to subscribe. 😂 And, of course, thanks for the review. lol
The Rode VideoMic Pro+ has a flatter frequency response on the 40 - 100Hz range than the SMX-15. That's one of the most important spec (if not the most important) when in search of a new mic when sound quality is your number 1 priority. It's better to have a flat response across the full frequency range in an audio recording making it easier for you to sculpt the sound in post using mixing tools like an EQ for instance. Assuming that in your comment "you can add that easily but it's harder to remove" you are referring to the low-end, then I couldn't disagree more. It's better and easier to attenuate unwanted frequencies than to boost. By the way, the SMX-15 has a small boost around 20 - 50Hz which the VideoMic Pro+ doesn't.
so the VideoMic Pro+ is better than the Deity D3 Pro?
can you recommend me which is better azden smx 30 or deity d3 pro
This is a very fair and solid, well-hung evaluation. Thanks. You do the scout work so we don't have to!
Happy with the Rode NTG3 it's a great working , good value mic .
B.L Thackrey was about to say, I’ve seen videos on TH-cam comparing multiple mics and a deity compared to the ntg, ntg is nicer sounding
Thanks for putting out this video. I have had so many issues with my Rode mic. Just got the Deity D3 Pro from your link. The lows are crazy on the Rode and I did not realize by how much until I hear the Deity.
its just me or I can hear some noise starting with azden the most and rode almost no noise. I prefer deity because of clearness on the voice but Rode seems to eliminate that noise in between the speakers pauses. Using AT-M50X
I noticed the same thing. I'm listening with Audio Technica headphones with my volume up all the way. There's noticeable noise from Azden and Deity, and almost none from the Rode Mic.
@@lucashuston821 im still thinking of getting Deity just to try it out. At first when I got rode I thought my settings were off but its just a different sounding mic that I think I don't need
@@lucashuston821 Would get Deity but I am not trusting the lithium battery. It is not replaceable and it will worn out in 2-3 years
Yeh using San 660s and yeh I heard a ton of noise from the other mics. Not the mention in his video, I can hear a lot of air conditioning in the main video footage. The rode mic made all of that noise disappear. The bass is definitely a bit much, but I actually find that easier to turn down with a preamp as apposed to the difficulty of getting rid of noise.
Thank your for the awesome review, I loved hearing all of them side by side and your honest option. Keep it up!
If you don't want the low end, flip the high pass filter on the Rode. That's what it's for. ;)
Outstanding review, Caleb. As usual. Great presentation style, insightful, easy to watch. Really helpful in deciding which mic to buy.
I have had so many Issues with my Rode Video Mic Pro Plus.... Definitely Picking up the Deity for a test run in the field.
Just wanted to let you know I am getting exceptional value from your videos and have been using your Amazon links to purchase new gear! Just purchased the deity pro thanks to your review!
In Rode videomic Pro you can cut low frequencies ...High Pass Filter (flat, 80Hz) ... Can't understand why you saying about rumble....
PortaroMusicStudio nah rode sucks
PortaroMusicStudio everyone knows it’s just a name brand
What's the deal with Deity and Aputure Deity? Are they the same thing?
Great review!! 👍I’ll take the Rode, I prefer the sound out the rode over the other options. Just my opinion.
Gimme dat bass boi! 😂 In all seriousness, still a great mic.
I have to be honest too.......The Rode sounds flatter to me and i prefer that as a sound guy. I can easily eq in post and dial in what I want.
Features of the Diety are way better though!!!
It is good to see someone looking at the alternatives to Rhode microphones. Rhode has got themselves into a position where for youtube they are the de facto go to microphone a bit like Shure when it comes to performance microphones. In both cases there are some great alternatives, but to be taken as a professional, you have to use the market leader or else be considered not so professional, even if the sound is better or the alternative fits your equipment or workflow better.
Professional audioguys says just opposite. Rode #1 and after that Deity. There’s many other features with audio that isn’t included in the video. Don’t make hasty decisions. Investigate. But still respect Caleb’s input!
Professional audioguys don't use Rode.
Hi Caleb, As always great video, man ! Rode is a great company. They revolutioned the entry-level market about things really important like microphones and other stuff... And they earned a lot of money for that and it's well deserved ! That said, I wanted to tell you that I'm a bit tired of video content creators that have nothing to say and copy/paste all that was already said a million times... So, THANK YOU to bring new stuff !!! Thank you to share new ideas with your points of view as a user, with new products that could help thousands of people ! Please, simply ignore the haters, without wasting your energy. Thanks for doing your job very well because every video you make is calm, well prepared, compact, cristal clear, inspiring and it's always a treat to watch ! You are my favourite tech video creator for these reasons ! Your video guides are awesome ! So again, Thanks for your good work ! Hope to meet and have a chat soon... Lazy people can't realize the efforts needed to produce such good content... ;-)
In my opinion small diaphragm microphones do better indoors than a shotgun mic. Unless you have tons of acoustic treatment. Still not sure I'd use a shotgun mic close quarters.
Hi Caleb. I have several mics. You might call attention to the Azden SMX-30 ($249), which offers the same features as the SMX-15, but also includes a stereo capsule, so effectively you have either a mono shotgun or a stereo mic in one on-camera unit. Very clean, low-noise audio.
My primary studio mic is the Azden SGM-250 Shotgun Microphone ($229), which can be operated with a built-in AA battery and 1/8" TRS plug or via XLR phantom power. Again, very clean and low-noise (especially with the phantom power option); also with a low-cut filter. For additional studio recording, I secured a Neewer 2-Pack Pencil Stick Condenser Microphones with Interchangeable Omni, Cardioid and Super Cardioid Capsules ($70), which, despite the low cost perform remarkably well, and with the different capsules giving you different ambient sound options. For a three-person recording, with or without video, I employ a Tascam DR-60D Mark II 4-Channel Portable Recorder ($175), with the Neewer mics with super-cardioid capsules in left and right channels via phantom power, and the Azden SGM-250 using AA-battery power to channels 3 & 4, so you have audio separation left, right, and center for each voice. Works great.
My take-anywhere just-in-case on-camera mic is a tiny Takstar SGC-698 stereo mic ($38), which, though inexpensive, performs quite well. A bit noisier, but not bad, with decent sound reproduction. If I want compact mono on-camera recording, I have two Movo VXR10 mics ($40), again chosen because cheaper than the Rode micro, with much higher gain, which translates to lower noise.
And for wireless, primarily for cost savings, I acquired two Audio-Technica Pro88W sets, which have been trouble-free for me. Bought both sets used, each with the superior MT830mW
lavalier mic ($79 new - most sets come with a lower-quality lav mic), each for less than $100 for the set. For lavalier mics direct to camera or recording unit, I have a couple Aputure A.lav mics ($35), which again perform well at reasonable cost. While the Diety mics look attractive, I'm good for now.
What did you use to record the audio for this video? Audio is wonderful!
I've had nothing but feedback on my two Rodelink systems. Not sure if it's just my units, but I'll be looking to change over to one of those new options you mentioned. Thanks Caleb!
Quick question: 9:04 - if you can do that in post, why can't you do the same thing with the videomic pro? Also if you have very loud sound, you can't do the -10db in post.
Also (2:56) bass can't be added if it doesn't exist but can easily be filtered either in the recorder or in post.
Overall I kind of understand what you are trying to say but as you see, you have not chosen your words very well.
Thanks for the video and for the other recommendations though!
I love that you often talk about cost as well as the pure quality. As a hobbyist almost as good (at much lower price) is often a deal breaker for me.
Something worth mentioning is the fact that RØDE mics come with a 10-year warranty. And I haven't needed to use mine yet.
Wait till year 9, day 364 😄
Just joking. That's pretty amazing. They clearly stand by the quality of their products
I have and love the Azden SMX-15. I like the sound except for Vlogging, the shock mount is rather noisy. Lots of noisy clicking from it bouncing on its own mount. Rather annoying to me. But I keep using it.
I think the Deity sounds best, but honestly my cheap ass Takstar has been great for the last few years.
And sounds amazing for what it cost.
Nicholas Monteleone how long have you had it ??!!
@@Lospollos24 Like 3-4 years. It's been great.
Nicholas Monteleone awesome, thanks for responding
Would it work with smartphone?
Great video as usual! Great review and also great to get a confirmation on what I was thinking when I went to buy my first shotgun mic for my DSLR...I tried the Rode and couldn't figure out why people loved it so much ESPECIALLY for the price, and the moment I tried the Deity D3 Mic Pro, I promptly returned the Rode. I also got the Deity V.Lav which is also very good! Ironically, I bought the Sennheiser wireless mic system BEFORE I got the shotgun mic, so I could use it for interviews at NAB and it is AMAZING! Thanks again for the video!
Just a little reminder, the MOVO one is just rebranded BOYA, which goes for about 23 bucks with shipping from ebay 🤔👌
I couldn't agree more. I've been a Rode customer for almost a decade. I just stopped using my Rode gear when I got the Deity D3 and the Deity V-lav (another great little Mic BTW). Thanks for the great video man!
Sennheiser XSW Wireless System review please.
Yes!
And compare to the rode wireless go!
Great comparison man. Have a merry Christmas 🤶, Andreas 🇸🇪
Guess this is a bit of an emotive subject, however I have to chip in. Firstly on the shoe mounted video mics. Pros have been paying $1k for Neumann mics and the Rode VideoMic Pro has beautiful broadcast sounding rich bass sound for a fraction of the price. You obviously hadn't noticed the switch on the back that rolls off the bass however, for situations when it is not needed! Duh. Also I have no issues using an EQ in post and contrary to Caleb's statement, I feel that removing something is always better than trying to add something that isn't there in the first place. And for price differences - really? Who cares about 100 bucks, when you spend over a thousand on camera & lenses and you are going to use it for years.
Shotguns: Personally I've never been a fan of the NTG4/4+, however the NGT1/2 and NTG3 are outstanding. The Deity is a good alternative if you are after a thinner sound instead of accuracy. It's a personal thing. Regarding levels - my Zoom F8 has no problem turning up the gain by 10dB. I rather do that, if it gives me a clearer sound, than having a mic with built in inferior preamp. (I ma not inferring that the Deity is inferior, just sayin').
Wireless: The Rode FilmMaker wireless Lav kit, broke new ground in tech and ease of use, with WiFi digital transmission and ability to mute/unmute mic from the receiver and +/- 10/20dB gain/pads . The actual Rode Lavalier mic is outstanding. Recommending the Sennheiser for size, well I guess this video was made before the new Rode Wireless Go announcement...
Service: I've had unbelievable good warranty service from Rode. Their warranty is 10 years! but really it is lifetime. They stand behind their products, unlike some brands that don't want to know you if you are1 day out of the warranty period!
Conclusion: Choose wisely on what suits you. Rode is certainly not the only game in town, however if you have already invested in Rode, then don't switch just for the sake of it. You would have got prosumer (or pro) gear at a fair price that will probably serve you well for years. Concentrate instead on making good content.
Sorry about the long post. :)
RemekTek Media If these guys weren’t constantly switching they wouldnt have content...🤷🏻♂️
Totally agree with many of your points and EQ'ing done best is a subtractive process; not additive. Adding noise is what you do when you start adding. Call me a snob but there is a reason why expensive mics are expensive. That said, if you know what you are doing, you can make a decent mic sound great. Before you spend big dollars, learn gain staging to understand what you are doing first and foremost then you may learn why you want to get expensive mics and chances are you may find better use for that extra cash if you are primarily making videos and not audio recordings because what you have is cutting it for your needs.
What Neumann can be had for $1K...a u47 costs as much as a Mercedes...
The extra bass on the Rode sounds better on the iPhone 11 Pro speakers. The Deity d-3 sounds better on standard AirPods. Sound test within a sound test.
For me, as a fairly new channel, cost has been the deciding factor on just about everything I've purchased so far. I watched your video comparison of the Rode and the Takstar shotgun mic, and actually preferred the Takstar audio, which was a win-win for me. I bought one, and have used it on just about every video I've made, with the exclusion of one or two that I made using my lavalier mic before it died.
I just picked up a Sennheiser MKH-416.
Really Really great job on being honest! I enjoy that a lot from you and your channel!
A comparison video between the Sennheiser XSW and the Sony ECM-AW4 or similar systems would be much appreciated🥺
I picked up the Deity D3 Pro thanks to this video. Just got it in the mail toady! Thank you for such a great in-depth review.
the rode clearly has less noise in the background!!!
I also noticed that, like WTF...!?
I'm not a pro, but isn't that kind of the main sign of quality?
On camera deity had lots of noise. As shotgun the Deity killed the rode.
What you want is a sensitive mic that pics up everything. Noise unfortunately is a by product of a mic that picks up a wide range of frequencies. The Rode for example would be a nightmare if you recorded in a location with a lot of low end noise. The others are cutting the low end because the human vocal range at least on location wouldn’t go that low.... you’re not trying to capture someone’s beautiful baritone.
Noise cancellation can happen during editing if you set a noise gate and a good compressor. Unfortunately there is nothing you can do about the noise in the background while someone is talking. That’s where the skill of a good on-location sound recordist comes into play :)
You always give the best content ...I lays look forward to your posts
Oh stop! You're too kind!
At this point I’d buy whichever mic doesn’t have its logo splashed
All over the windshield.
First of all, thanks for yet another awesome review comparison video. Just bought the Rode VideoMicro couple of days ago as the Movo VXR 10 isn’t available in this part of the world i.e. India/China atleast officially.
Well rip, I bought the video mic go because you recommended it in a video on budget sound setups
He said in the video that he still recommends it
@@kokoronai594 in the beginning he says he'd avoid it with a "burning passion"
I've been using an Azden SMG-1X shotgun mic since 2011. In a comparison among 5 other shotgun mics at a meeting of our local Cleveland Indie Club my Azden was voted as the best sounding, while recording the same person on the same equipment, merely switching mics. With the Azden dead cat it does phenomenally in wind.
End of the Rode, I meant road :)
The auto on/off switch from the Rode Video MicPro+ is the one feature which has made the VMP+ my go to video mic. Good to know the Azden has that feature too. Thanks Caleb! -George
What do you think about recording audio separately with a Zoom H5 or other device like that and synching with video in post?
Glad to hear you still like the Movo. My gear needs are modest but I still like good quality and know I can polish things well in post. The Rode equivalent sounded very brittle; I returned it immediately. I haven't picked it up yet but I saw yours and others review of the Movo and it was very helpful pointing me toward an alternative.
Now I know, how they made the sound of the rusty windmill in the beginning of "Once upon the Time in the West". :-)
One point on mic comparisons. If you are comparing especially shotgun mics you should test them on some outdoor use, since in a studio or quiet room the difference isn't that big and you can controll everything so it doesn't really matter which mic you're using.
Great points! Definitely should have.