The perfect shotgun microphone for your DSLR/Camcorder recording kit, RODE VideoMic Pro is able to capture sounds in very high quality with very low noise.
Having tried different mics recommended by various experts, I realized that the RODE VideoMic Pro is the ultimate value for money for someone like me – someone who doesn’t want to spend hours attaching a microphone to a camera.
My Take on RODE VideoMic Pro
Many of you may already know that a shotgun microphone is used to isolate the target sound and eliminate all unnecessary background noises. Understandably, that means the microphone is unidirectional, or in simple words, records sound only from one target direction.
I’m not a professional vlogger or a news reporter but this mic has helped me capture sounds in exactly similar instances. So if you ask me what the RØDE VideoMic Pro is ideal for, here’s my answer.
- Video blogging, especially for creating viral videos asking questions from people. This light weight mic can be used without any other accessory, in quiet or noisy surroundings.
- News reporting. You can quickly catch a newsworthy instance without wasting time to set up the rig.
- Recording speeches and lectures. RØDE VideoMic Pro is ideal for recording a speech from a reasonable distance. You don’t have to place the microphone on the speaker’s desk to capture clear sound.
- A true shotgun microphone designed for camcorders, DSLR cameras and portable...
- The 1/2" condenser capsule provides broadcast-quality audio via a 3.5mm...
- The Rycote Lyre based shock mounting system provides isolation from external...
My Opinion on RODE VideoMic Pro Pros and Cons
My Experience with RODE VideoMic Pro’s Build Quality
As soon as I unboxed the RØDE VideoMic Pro I was impressed by what I got. But If I’m being honest with you, I’m not quite sure that the overall looks reflect the price range of this microphone.
The RODE VideoMic Pro is a very small gadget understandably built for DSLR cameras, for vloggers and journalists who need good performance and ultra-portability.
The controls and the indicator LED are on the rear face of the microphone, a well-thought-out feature in terms of convenience and control. You will know if the microphone is switched on or not before it’s too late.
The casual user I am, I don’t have the need to buy a boom pole or record at a professional level. But the RODE VideoMic Pro features a 3/8″ threaded screw mounting it on a boom pole in addition to the standard-sized shoe mount for the camera.
Integrated shock mounting
This is one of the reasons why I bought this particular shotgun microphone. The integrated Rycote® Lyre® shock mount cuts off unnecessary sounds stemming from the hardware and other external physical vibrations.
It’s made from thermoplastic – a material that doesn’t wear out easily and stays solid while providing highly satisfactory acoustic suspension.
Integrated windscreen
I could save some more money thanks to the foam windscreen attached to the RØDE VideoMic Pro. As I expected it’s not the best windscreen you would get on a microphone but it gets the job done.
It’s not ideal against strong winds but sufficient to filter the wind and pop-under average conditions.
However, the overall feedback of users on Amazon and other websites is not the best about the integrated windshield.
My evaluation is that if you are not going for extreme environments, then this windscreen is the stuffiest. But the better news is that there’s an artificial fur windshield that can be purchased separately if you need considerable improvement.
My Experience with RODE VideoMic Pro Performance
Battery Life
I was skeptical when the specs mentioned that the 9V alkaline battery of this device will keep you going for 70 hours according to the manufacturer, and after using it several months I realized that it actually does. The LED will turn red when the battery needs recharging but with the warning on you’ll be able to use it for more than 8 hours.
I found the battery more than adequate for my day’s recording using the Sony A6 camera. Although I didn’t use it until the battery ran out I’m sure it would’ve taken me through another day if needed.
Three position level control
The RODE VideoMic Pro has 3 position level controls (-10dB, 0, +20dB) that would help you in recording under different conditions and using different equipment. You may record at 0 when you have a good preamp while the +20db would enhance your recording when you’re using equipment that is average or not purpose-built (for videography) such as DSLR cameras. If the environment is too noisy then the -10dB option is there for you.
I used this microphone with my DSLR camera in a relatively quiet environment with a position set to 0 and the recording turned out clear and rich.
Capture
I used the RØDE VideoMic Pro with my Nikon D7200 and my friend’s Sony A6 both had high-quality sounds recorded with the videos. In recording people and events the microphone was able to capture clear sounds from a distance of 25 feet in undisturbed environments.
However, using a boom pole is a great idea if your recording involves other noises in a rambunctious atmosphere. For the declared purpose of being a reliable mic for a vlogger, the RODE VideoMic Pro stays true to its reputation.
RODE VideoMic Pro Specifications
| Acoustic Principle | Line Gradient |
| Active Electronics | JFET impedance converter |
| Capsule | 0.50″ |
| Address Type | End |
| Frequency Range | 40Hz – 20kHz (selected HPF @80) |
| Output Impedance | 200Ω |
| Maximum SPL | 134dBSPL |
| Maximum Output Level | 6.9mV (@ 1kHz, 1% THD into 1KΩ load) |
| Sensitivity | -32.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (20.00mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz |
| Equivalent Noise Level (A-weighted) | 14dBA |
| Weight | 85g |
| Dimensions | 100mmH x 75mmW x 170mmD |
Compatible accessories
There’s a list of accessories that would extend the compatibility of the RODE VideoMic Pro to many other devices and equipment, and broaden its capabilities.
- Micro Boompole Pro (Ultra-Lightweight 2.2m)
- DeadCat VMPR – Artificial Fur Wind Shield
- Pivot Adaptor (3/8″)
- Boompole (3.3m/ 2.1m/ 2m)
- VC1 – Minijack/3.5mm Stereo Extension Cable (3m/10′)
- VXLR – Minijack to XLR Adaptor
- PG1 – Cold Shoe Pistol Grip
- Padded Zip Pouch (standard/large)
Was RODE VideoMic Pro Worth the Money?
As per my evaluation, the RØDE VideoMic Pro is worth the money and doesn’t disappoint you in its performance. When I say performance I mean for a microphone with a 3.5 jack. However, there are some factors that deserve your attention before you order this microphone.
This mic cannot be used with your laptop as it doesn’t have a USB port. But I didn’t find it a deal-breaker as I needed it for DSLR recording.
The buttons look a little bit flimsy. Nothing happened to my microphone but I feel one might come off if I’m not being careful.
If you’re budget concerned you may be able to find a cheaper option from another brand but for the price you pay, you get an excellent microphone here.
Rode markets this as a “Broadcast recording quality condenser microphone,” to which I agree if you do your recording in the right conditions.
Where to Buy RODE VideoMic Pro
You can buy RODE VideoMic Pro on Amazon, but RODE does not support a warranty for items bought on the “fulfilled by Amazon” program.
They explicitly mention “If you purchase any RØDE microphone from an unauthorized dealer or via Fulfilled By Amazon or any other method you will not receive any US warranty or technical support.”
The standard price of RØDE VideoMic Pro in 2021 is $229.
You can easily find a dealer in your area using their Where to buy RØDE page.
Alternatives to the RØDE VideoMic Pro
The RØDE VideoMic Pro is solid in its build, reliable, and needs no other accessories. But if you must look for a substitute, then here are some worthy replacements.
| Mic | Price | Stereo | 3.5mm plug | Super cardioid | Max gain | Weight | Auto Power off |
| RØDE VideoMic Pro | $229 | No | Yes | Yes | +20 dB | 85g | No |
| Azden SMX-30 | $249.00 | Yes | Yes | Yes | +20dB | 145g | No |
| Deity V-Mic D3 Pro | $199 | No | Yes | Yes | +20 dB | 143 g | No |
| Shure VP83F LensHopper | $299.00 | No | Yes | Yes | +30 dB | 215 g | No |
| Sennheiser MKE 400 | $199.95 | No | Yes | Yes | +20 dB | 93.5 g | Yes |
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Last update on 2024-10-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
