Introduction
The Rode Videomic Pro Shotgun is a popular choice for videographers and content creators. In this review, we’ll delve into its main features and performance.
Design and Build Quality
- Solid build: The microphone feels sturdy and durable.
- Lightweight: Easy to carry around for on-the-go shooting.
- Compact design: Fits perfectly on various camera setups.
Audio Quality
- Crisp sound: Captures clear audio with minimal background noise.
- Shotgun design: Highly directional, focuses on the subject’s audio.
- No distortion: Even at high volumes, audio remains distortion-free.
Ease of Use
- Plug and play: Simple setup for beginners.
- Battery-powered: No need for power sources.
- User-friendly controls: Easily adjust settings on the fly.
Battery Life
- Long-lasting: Battery can last for multiple recording sessions.
- Energy-efficient: Minimizes power consumption.
Versatility
- Compatible with various devices: Works with DSLRs, smartphones, and more.
- Shock mount included: Reduces handling noise during recording.
- Windshield included: Effective in windy conditions.
Cons
- Price: It’s relatively more expensive than other shotgun microphones.
- No XLR support: Limited to 3.5mm connections.
Conclusion
The Rode Videomic Pro Shotgun is an excellent choice for content creators who prioritize audio quality. Its impressive audio performance, ease of use, and versatility make it a valuable addition to your gear. However, the price might be a barrier for some, and the lack of XLR support may limit its usability for professional videographers.
Robert Redden –
I have not even used it yet, but I am ticked off. Given the ready availability of the internet, an up to date user’s manual should be readily available online, but it is not. Instead, the purchaser receives a folded paper 8″ x 14″ in area, with full instructions in eight different languages on that tiny surface. To make it all fit, the font is so tiny as to be practically illegible. Of course, there is one diagram with a numerical key, but it is left as absurdly unnecessary work to hunt down what the numbers stand for and then understand what each is supposed to mean.If the manufacturer is too cheap to include a booklet with the instructions printed in a reasonable size for all languages meant to be included, they plainly should have referred the user instead or additionally to a website where it all could have been provided full screen in each language meant to be included, with a full sized image labeled in detail, rather than using a numerical key where one should not have been needed.In particular, the diagram for installing the batteries is so small as to be barely useful, when the battery installation proves to be somewhat tricky. I looked online, only to find instructions for a prior model by exactly the same name, where the battery cover came right off, and there was an indentation at one end that made it clear to see where you were meant to push to loosen it. Now instead it is hinged in place, and that was practically obvious to me, but to reach the release clips that allowed it to fold down on its hinge, I was not at all sure I was doing the right thing, and I had to push so deeply into the foam cover that I feared tearing it. I was on the verge of sending it back, and that is a sad shame when it would have been so easy for the manufacturer to provide more useful instructions with some description as to what one should expect.Finally, while it is actually a good thing that the mic comes with a new format lithium battery that lasts up to 100 hours of use, they proved sure to mention that you should have a second battery on hand, just in case, while their new format battery costs currently $49.95, and while they say you can use an ordinary 9 volt battery or two AA’s in its place, it is not at all clear how they would be inserted.
Chad Gilbert –
I recently upgraded to the Rode VideoMic Pro+ for my video production, and the improvement in sound quality has been nothing short of remarkable. Here’s what makes this microphone an essential piece of equipment:Focused Sound Capture: The shotgun design of this microphone is excellent at isolating the sound you want to capture while minimizing background noise. My videos now have a clean and clear audio quality that enhances the overall experience.Premium Sound Quality: Describing the sound from this microphone as “liquid gold” is no exaggeration. The richness and clarity are astounding, adding a professional edge to my productions.Easy Integration: Mounting and connecting the VideoMic Pro+ to my camera was a breeze. It worked seamlessly, allowing me to focus on creating great content.Robust Build: The build quality of the microphone is solid, giving me the confidence that it will last through constant use in various shooting environments.Battery Performance: With the rechargeable battery, I never have to worry about unexpected power loss during critical shooting moments.Value for Money: Considering the drastic improvement in audio quality, this microphone offers great value for its price. It’s an investment that pays off by taking your videos to the next level.Summary: If you’re looking to elevate your video production with exceptional sound, the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is the way to go. From vloggers to filmmakers, this microphone is a versatile tool that delivers professional-grade audio. It’s a game-changer that turns ordinary videos into extraordinary content. Highly recommended!
Michael Scott Forbes –
I bought 2 of these in order to do stereo recording. Have been pretty satisfied with them. However, I do have 1 complaint. The gain choices are a a bit disappointing. -10db 0db +20db. Honestly, I would have traded the -10db for +10db. I have never had an instance where I need to cut the input down on the mic. My camera can already do that. But sometimes +20db is a little too much, and +10db would have been a better choice.It does suffer a bit when trying to record a marching band from the stands, as it also picks up the crowd in between. Still it does manage to do OK in the situation.
Anahata –
I can’t tell yet if it is truly worth the money because I have yet used it on a shoot. But all of my testing of the mic tells me that it is multi-dimensional with many possible settings. I love the size. It is exactly what I was looking for.
bridget thomas –
It’s a good product, but I sent mine back because it’s too complicated to use with the phone. You need too many adapters to make it work. If you’re getting it to use with your DSLR camera it’s great. Has a lower internal noise than some of the other mics that I’ve tried. Probably the biggest problem with the audio is that it picks up way too much low end which can make it sound comparatively less clear and crisp than some other mics. But honestly, that can be fixed in post and it really only matters if you’re literally listening to side by side audio comparisons.
Michele W. –
I have a Nikon D850 and there have been occasions where it would have been a great video camera when I needed a backup camcorder. I did extensive research, having previously used a smaller Nikon M-1 type (I believe). This came fully charged. I went on YouTube to see how this microphone should be configured with my camera, and I followed those recommendations and tested it out today. It sounded terrific. I appreciate that it can take AA batteries should the charge, which they rate at 100 hours, were to run out. I always keep extra AA around. I appreciated that it came with a Lithium battery. Reviews on YT are consistently good as they are on Amazon, and it is great when reviewers supply with before and after sound comparisons. Love that the microphone turns off when you turn the camera off. Since it has its own power source, using this mic will not run down your camera battery.