RODE Stereo VideoMic Pro: Redesigned in 2016
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- Опубліковано 8 лют 2025
- RODE first shipped their Stereo VideoMic Pro in 2012. Now in 2016, they have updated the Stereo VideoMic Pro with the Rycote Lyre suspension system, redesigned the microphone capsules, updated the cable with kevlar reinforcement, increased the density of the foam wind cover, and added RF shielding. Let's have a listen and discuss when you might choose the Stereo VideoMic Pro vs the mono VideoMic Pro.
RODE was kind enough to send us the Stereo VideoMic Pro for review. Full disclosure: This microphone was given to me for this review, I did not purchase it with my money. I was not paid to do this review.
If you’d like to learn how to record and post process your sound, be sure to have a look at my sound for video courses at school.learnlig... My Dialogue Sound Post Processing with Adobe Audition course just launched at the end of August 2016.
Visit us at learnlightandso... for more updates on how to improve your lighting and sound for video. Also be sure to subscribe to get new episodes every week!
Gear used in this episode:
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RODE Stereo VideoMic Pro with Rycote Suspension - Better for recording ambience
Amazon: geni.us/BuxsD4N
B&H: www.bhphotovid...
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RODE Dead Kitten fur cover for Stereo VideoMic Pro
Amazon: geni.us/ins8f
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RODE (mono) VideoMic Pro with Rycote Suspension - Better for recording dialogue
Amazon: geni.us/Lp8ZK
B&H: www.bhphotovid...
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Aurora Aperture Power XND 2000 Variable Neutral Density Filter
B&H: www.bhphotovid...
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Panasonic GH4 m4/3 Camera
Amazon: geni.us/yt16
B&H: www.bhphotovid...
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Panasonic 12-35mm f/2.8 Zoom Lens
Amazon: geni.us/BgTR
B&H: www.bhphotovid...
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Olympus 45mm f/1.8 Lens (for talking head shots)
Amazon: geni.us/5W6do52
B&H: www.bhphotovid...
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iPhone 7+ was used for the outdoor shots of the microphones. You know where to find iPhones.
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Copyright 2016 by Curtis Judd
Ethics statement: Some of the links above are Amazon.com, B&H Photo, or other affiliate links.
Thanks, Curtis. You always do a wonderful job on equipment reviews. This was no exception.
Thanks Rhett!
Thanks Curtis, a very nice and thorough review. It told me just what I needed to know & hear.
Thanks Kevin!
This was a great, quick video reviewing the microphone! Loved the examples of the stereo audio
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that's a very precise review. Can't thank you enough!
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Not too many stereo mics out there, at least that I've seen.
Agreed. But if you use them right, they can create some great recordings.
Your videos are so informative and well edited ! Great job !
Great video, Curtis. Always appreciate your breakdowns of new gear. Just a heads up for your audience, Rode has a message on their website that they won't always honor their warranty if you purchase their product through Amazon, because of issues with counterfeit items. Probably best to use B&H or another camera shop for Rode stuff.
Thanks! Yes, more specifically, they will honor the warranty if it is sold by and fulfilled by Amazon, but not if it is sold by another retailer and fulfilled by Amazon. The links in the about section should be honored (as they are sold by Amazon). I hope that makes sense. Nevertheless, great point. I appreciate you pointing that out. It would be disappointing to end up with a counterfeit.
My understanding of what I read was that they do not authorize Fulfilled by Amazon, and that they actually have purchased counterfeit Rode products that were fulfilled by Amazon.
Yes, it is a little confusing. In their list of authorized online dealers, RODE list Amazon.com for the United States: www.rode.com/online_shops So it does not appear to be an issue with buying directly from Amazon, but instead an issue with buying from another reseller which is fulfilled by Amazon.
Thanks Curtis. Great review. The B-roll shots of the microphone outdoors was epic! Seemed like you shot it with a long lens due to Bokeh and compression but you mentioned in the notes you shot it with the GH4 with teh 12-35 F2.8?!! Really?! Wow! Must have been the foreground to background distance then. Great job!
Oh, no, the outdoor mic shots were actually an iPhone 7+. The GH4 was mounted on the same rig as the mic. Surprise!
OMG! Mind Blown!!! LOL! That's uper cool! I was going to say that was one of the most beautiful shots I've seen!!!
I was amazed too! I put it on a Zhiyun-Tech Smooth II gimbal which I'll be reviewing in the next couple of weeks. Fun little rig!
Great video Curtis as always. Nice countryside there too!
Thanks, yes, love the outdoors here!
great video - great editing, You work very hard for us, thank You so much
Thanks, much appreciated!
I agree, I've watched maybe 20-30 videos of yours, and they are all top professional quality. I am only doing UA-cam as a hobby for now, but I do hope to get to your level of editing someday! Your audio, broll, and color correction are superb!!
@@curtisjudd 4:11 I'm a cat lover and You've got a new subscriber :)
@@canopus-lab Hahaha! 👍
I have owned the Stereo Video Mic Pro for about 2 years now.
I have to admit, its fantastic.
I use it with my Canon HF G30 and it records crystal clear ambient sound at very high quality.
Its not cheap, but if you want to record better quality audio than what your camera captures, then this Mic is the way to go.
Thanks, great to hear the experience of a long-time owner!
Very nice review. Might be cool to show people (if anyone cares) the ease at which you can simulate those stereo footsteps with a mono recording. BTW...When I got to the part where you mounted the mic on top if the camera when you were talking - my internal organs exploded. :)
Dear Basic Filmmaker, I would like to offer my sincere apologies for the explosion of your internal organs. Perhaps a fruity umbrella drink will help speed your recovery. I will happily pay for that therapy when we meet in person some day.
And that is a great idea to show how to automate panning of a mono recording. Thanks!
LOL! Thanks Curtis!
Thank you Curtis!
I own the Rode Video Mic Pro but because I also own a Zoom H5 and H6 I believe I have it covered and would benefit more with keeping my older model.
Appreciate your time and knowledge always.
Cheers, Pete
Thanks Pete.
Nice job Curtis. I'm new to your channel. Just found you tonight while during some research on mics. I've subscribed to you. I like the way you present your reviews.
+Lance Guilin thanks Lance!
Man you live in beautiful country, Curtis! And great fiddler, too!
Thanks Al!
Thank you, great video! Just bought one thanks to your review!)
I hope it works well for you!
Thank you so much for a great review!
+Them Playahz you're welcome!
Thanks a lot Curtis. Looks like it's the Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro.
+Condor1 👍
Great video. I have owned this mic for 6 years now and do love it for recording ambient sound and music but I looking to upgrade my sound recording capability later this by a substantial amount and wish to try a different set up
Thanks and happy recording to you!
Still undecided, i might go with the shotgun for when i'm doing run and gun stuff (lots of talking) and then have with me a zoom h-1 for ambience and music. (and in an ideal situations combine the two)
Just wanted to say, great video, much appreciated!
Thanks and good luck Gregory!
Thanks Curtis for another quality, concise review.
I have both the Mono and the Stereo VideoMic Pro units, but BOTH are the pre-Lyre mount versions. You mentioned that the new versions have improved capsules. Do you find this improvement actually audible, or more theoretical? I.e. should I upgrade mine (at some cost!), or would that be unnecessary in your opinion?
Thanks,
Paul
Hi Paul, I have to confess that I haven't personally used the older versions of either, though I've heard a lot of recordings with the original VideoMic Pro. I haven't noticed a big difference. I suspect that the noise floor may be a tiny bit better but would like to test that to be certain. I would say that if you're happy with the results you're getting, keep making cool stuff and upgrade when one of them falls off a cliff or gets crushed when you get that epic shot! ;-)
Thanks for getting back. I'll follow your advice. :)
Very good review Curtis, thank you. It will really help me regarding buy this mic or not.
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Nice review. Man, you live out in the middle of nowhere. But it is the kind of nowhere I sometimes wished I lived in!
Thanks! I'm always near my UA-cam friends, even out here in the sticks. ;-)
Thank you for this great review. I like the calm way you speak. You've got a new subscriber :)
Thanks for the feedback and welcome to the community!
what about for recording sound effects on location , plugged into a h4n or something?
Yep, good option there.
Hi Curtis. Very informative video! I was about to buy a Rode Videomic Pro for my Sony AX53 video recorder, but as I mainly video trucks, trains, motor racing etc outside, I’m wondering if the stereo mic in your video would be better? Sometimes I’ll pan the camera to follow the vehicle, but other times the camera will be stationary as the vehicle passes, in which case stereo would be better. Do you think I should change my mind and buy the stereo mic, and will the “dead cat” be good enough for wind noise filtering? There won’t be any video recording inside. Thanks in advance.
Hi gm16v149, yes, I'd think the Stereo VideoMic Pro for sounds like trucks, trains, etc. I'm not sure how loud those will be but if very, very loud, you may need to add an attenuation cable to reduce the output level to the camera. The dead cat will be good enough for light wind. Once the wind gets up into the 15+ MPH range, it will not protect flawlessly - would need a bigger, pro level blimp in those cases.
I just bought the Rode stereo mic this morning with a Rode Dead Kitten. I think I made the right choice Curtis! Thanks for your input.
Congratulations! Happy recording!
Hello!
I'm currently looking to buy a microphone that will help with my video tutorials, right now I'm recording videos where I'm not on screen but I'm looking to narrate what I'm doing, eventually I'll be on screen in my own kitchen. So my question is which micro will you recommend for both kind of jobs.
Thanks again!
I would look at the Video Mic Pro which is better for dialogue/speaking: ua-cam.com/video/B_esjF1KtVw/v-deo.html Best wishes on your baking videos!
Curtis Judd Thank you so much!
Curtis Judd one more question, could that be connected to an iPhone 6 Plus?
You can with a RODE SC4 adapter: amzn.to/2in8gZH
Would a sensible policy be to record an ambient track from the camera's point of view with this, then add in closely miced dialog on top?
That seems entirely sensible!
Super helpful and informative. Thank you!
+Michael Allen thanks!
Another thumb from me! Awsome. Just answerd my question right away! Thanks a lot!
Thanks!
I like the idea of using both a shotgun and a stereo mic on many shoots, and recording with both, then mixing between them as appropriate. I've got the NTG4+ and Stereo VideoMic X (along with Zoom H6 recorder) for just this purpose. I've recently gotten the VideoMic Pro R for a smaller setup, to which I'll probably add the new Stereo VideoMic (R?) for a small combo setup. I also have a lav mic for recording my own voiceover commentary in the field. Sometimes you just want more. :) I was really happy the expensive Stereo VideoMic X came with foam/blimp as well as furry cover. For that price, though, it should.
I hope to test this setup this month with a short doc/interview piece, using my BMPCC for the video portion.
I agree, having both puts you in a good position to get nice clean dialogue and add ambience to taste. Sounds like you have a nice kit. Best wishes on your upcoming film!
great sound examples!
Thanks!
Which would be better for recording wildlife sounds out in the wilderness?
If you want broad, stereophonic, ambient sound, a stereo mic like this would be a good choice. If you want to isolate a specific animal, a shotgun microphone may be a better choice.
Does the Stereo turn on and off with the camera?
No.
Thanks Curtis for all your work .
I have a question, recently I purchased a rode videomic pro to improve sound on my short comedy sketches , mostly indoor.
I was left dissatisfied, when speaking loud it was too loud and it didn't pick up the more subtle sounds , I had it directly into the zoom H1 , at input 40 . With the rode at +20 .
I'm considering getting the stereo mic in place of it for a more fuller sound , microphone placement was on the camera , it just seemed too limiting and didn't pick up the subtleties,
Could changing mic position work ? Or would you recommend changing to the NT5 ? Or something else ? It doesn't have to be super professional but around 300 dollars to improve sound .
Thank you
Hi PolAndDazShow, microphone placement is key. Leaving it on camera will be a problem for any microphone, including the stereo VideoMic Pro. Here's an episode on improving the sound of the VIdeoMic Pro that might help: ua-cam.com/video/TUEmQBZKoBs/v-deo.html
Hey Curtis. Awesome review! Thanks for posting this. I'm really torn between the VideoMic Pro and the Stereo VideoMic Pro. I can see myself using an external microphone on my Canon 70D for both events and interviews, but sadly I can only afford one. If they were both the same price, which would you purchase?
I'd go with the VideoMic Pro. For interviews, the Stereo VMP picks up too much ambience and room/space sound.
Yeah, I watched a few videos and I agree. If I had the extra $$ I'd get them both. :)
Hi Curtis! Thanks to past you for this great video.
I have just bought one of these mics to use with my GH5s. On camera and in the test recordings, only the left channel seems to be working.
I'm hoping you can provide some professional insight here!! I'm thinking the microphone may be faulty, the GH5s may be a mono input, or just incompatible. It's really hard to find any reliable information on this issue.
Thanks,
Dave
The GH5S mic input is stereo so that shouldn’t be the issue unless your copy is faulty. Most likely there’s and issue with the cable.
@ thanks Curtis, I think so too, I’m returning the mic!
Which company violin and where to buy one?
Custom violin made in the early 1980s at a luthier school called Peter Paul Prier in Salt Lake City, Utah. Not sure whether they still make violins.
I bought the original rode stereo video mic a few months ago. Bought it used for $80 local. Sounds alright to me. I already have a couple of shotgun mics so having a stereo mic helps be get the ambient sounds to complete the scene :) I also used it to record a loud concert and performed wonderfully. The stereo pro sounds great here in this video. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Daniel. Great to hear your experience with it as well. I too use it for recording concerts.
Hi Curtis, Have you had a chance to test out the Rode Stereo Videomic X? Would to get your take on it.
Hi SpiderWayne, I haven't, unfortunately. I'd like to try it some time but don't have the budget at the moment since I don't do a lot of stereo recordings.
Great video as always
Thanks Johnny.
Awesome video! Which one do you recommend for family videos?
Thanks,
Christian
Thanks Christian! I would go with the Stereo VMP if you're shooting mainly multi-person events. If you're doing more interview style videos, then the mono VideoMic Pro is probably a better choice. Best wishes!
Hi Curtis. Great review! Question for you: I see you are using the Rode Dead Kitten. Does this fit OVER the standard foam windscreen on the Rode Stereo Videomic Pro Rycote? I'm asking because I just received both the microphone and the dead kitten, but it doesn't look like the Dead Kitten will fit over the foam windscreen without damage. Maybe I am just being too cautious? Thanks again.
Hi Lisa, yes, it fits over the foam wind screen. It is intentionally tight to ensure it stays in place.
Can I connect it to my iphone without any extra amplifier?
I believe you'll need a TRS adapter like the RODE SC4: geni.us/tQ7AeU
Full disclosure: This is an affiliate link. I earn from qualifying purchases.
Excellent video as always Curtis. Wondering if had time to give me your thoughts on this. I have been planning to get the Zoom H1 for outdoor ambiance and also great to plug my lav mics into. But wondering which would have better outdoor ambiance sound, the H1 or the SVMP? I still think I am going to go with the H1 for more versatility and price. But wondering which would give the best results. Cheers, Joe
Joe's Photo & Video Channel You are asking about the difference between a mic and a recorder, but I know what you mean. I got a blue H1 new from B&H for $65 recently, at that price nothing else comes close in capability, sound quality, and features. I ran it through many tests and was pleased with the results, all things considered. I would suggest using an H1 for ambience and a mono shotgun type mic connected to the camera. With ambience you don't need lip sync so you can use the time of day clock setting in the H1 and camera to coordinate the H1 tracks with the dialog mic.
RallenMan Hey Ryan, thanks for commenting. I actually have many microphones, just no stereo ones which is one reason I was asking. I have the RVMP I use for outdoor vlog style recording. But in my studio I use the AT2035 & 2i2 for VO and the Rode SmartLav+ for sudo wireless recording. I have the AT875R ordered and it should arrive in a few weeks to use in my studio as well. So I sync A/V up all the time in FCP. Its really no issue what so ever. I always clap 2 or 3 times at the start of the recording and then give 10sec of silence to get my BG noise level. Never had any sync issues since I been doing that and its just terribly easy.. :-) Wanting to get the H1, will be getting the H1 as I have been using my iPod and iPhone with my Lav+ mic for sometime now for when I am making tutorials were I am moving around a lot. But 2 weeks ago the screen came loose on my iPod, despite me taking very good care of it. Then 3 days ago the home button on my iPhone decided to crap out.. So this sucks, cant use my Lav mic LOL.. Got a new phone on order, but will be ordering the H1 and the TRS to TRRS adapter for my Lav+ mic to use with the H1. I just wanted to know how much better or worse the stereo sound was as I thought if it was a lot better I could get the RSVMP-R at some point as well. Cheers, Joe
In my experience, the H1 and Stereo VideoMic Pro are pretty similar - both quite good given their price. Thanks for the dialogue here - I'm learning a bunch from both of you. :)
Curtis Judd Thank you Curtis. Much appreciated.
great review Curtis. I'm planning a short film. would it be best to record my dialog with the Rode Video Mic Pro connected to the camera or should I buy an external recorder like the Zoom H1 or Tascam DR-60D MKE II and connect the mic to the recorder?
Hey Curtis, does this mic pick up the dslr lens autofocus noise when recording video? thanks.
Yes, if the lens makes a lot of sound, it'll pick that up.
is is suitable for documentaries and interviews ? any other you recommend ?
The VideoMic Pro+ is generally a better option for dialogue recordings. Here’s a sample and review with my observations: ua-cam.com/video/gcMVSzVt-LI/v-deo.html Good luck!
Hey Curtis. I like your review. But I request your advice. Which do you recommend me, Rode stereo videomic pro or Sennheiser MKE-440?
What are you recording? If dialogue, I would NOT recommend a stereo microphone.
@@curtisjudd no no, I would like to record ambient sound, such as in a church or a mosque.
Ah, ok. I haven’t used the MKE440 so I cannot say which is better but I like the RODE.
Hello Curtis. I would like to know how does this microphone compare to the Stereo Videomic X and the Rode NT4.
Is paying for the more expensive models worth it? And if yes, which one should I choose? The SVMX or the NT4? Thank you
+Cristi Balteanu hi, I haven't used the others but here are my impressions: the SVMX can handle higher sound pressure levels and may have more dynamic range. It has 2 pad settings for very loud sound sources and two independent outputs via mini xlr or 3.5mm. The NT4 outputs via XLR.
The biggest difference is that the NT4 and SVMX are made for more sophisticated workflows with separate sound though the SVMX can also record directly to camera.
So whether it is worth it depends on what you're shooting, whether you need/want the additional control, need to record 24 bit vs 16 bit recordings, isolated microphone channels, etc. the more expensive mics probably sound a little better but I haven't tested them yet.
I hope that helps a little!
Curtis Judd Thanks for the reply. I think the SVMX will best suit me due to its ability to be mounted on camera and also high quality sound (from what samples I have heard so far). Besides that, it also has built in shock mounts in order to reduce handling noise so it won't require extra accessories. The NT4 seems the kind of mic which needs to be handled by a separate person and sadly, my crew is not that numerous.
+Cristi Balteanu sounds like good reasoning. Best wishes!
Hi Curtis, I really dig your work. You try to be as precise as one can be. I had one question where you might help me. I know the rode stereo videomic pro X is 3 times more expensive but is it worth it the difference? Yes it has a better bill quality so you could keep it longer. But it is "futur proof"? More specifically upgrade proof? If not his build quality wouldn't be such useful.
Hi, thanks, grégoire. I haven't used the Stereo VideoMic X but one of the big differences is that it has an XLR output in addition to 3.5mm so it is equipped to work with pro-grade audio recorders and cameras. That means that you could use higher grade preamplifiers rather than just rely on the preamp in the microphone itself. I don't know whether the build quality is better. It probably does have more metal in it but I'm not certain on that. I think the price difference has more to do with the XLR output and perhaps the quality of the microphones. Some day I'll get my hands on it for a test.
Great video! Thanks for the info.
Thanks John!
Hi Curtis, been a fan of your reviews and tutorials. I just have a question about this video (and it's actually not about the mic, sorry!). The footage of the mic you shot outdoors, the image seems to have very good dynamic range, almost as if you had a graduated ND filter on. But then I also noticed that the horizon was not ... well completely horizontal so that cannot be right. So my questions is, how did you achieve that kind of tone? Color grading in post? The microphone was also properly lit, which makes me even more curious (reflector?).
Ah you actually answered a similar question before. Shot on an iPhone 7+! That is incredible.
+Rintaro yes, surprised me too!
Thanks a lot for your review, you are the best !
I have a question : Do you have any idea which kind of microphone people doing relaxing video use (I only know is binaural record) ? Like record rain in a car in very High Quality, record a storm, a thunder ? Thanks again for your great job
Hi Zap2Cynops, usually binaural, stereo (like this) or ambisonic (much more expensive) are used for ambience recordings like the relax videos.
Curtis, please help if you can find the time.
Gosh...am new to video but am heading straight into doing a documentary film, guns a blazing!! Full speed ahead!!
I am unsure whether to get the Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro or the Rode VideoMic Pro. I will be shooting in outdoor situations (families living in a garbage dump and elsewhere). I plan on using Lavalier mics (worn by my subjects) to a separate sound recorder (called a dual system I believe) and the VideoMic Pro (one of the versions stereo or not) directly into my camera (Canon 5D Mark 3) off a Beachteck DXA-SLR (for better physical dial pre-amps).
Since I am using Lavalier mics as my main audio source on my subjects to record audio on the go (lots of movement and running about by the people I will be recording). Do you think I should record a wider sound with the stereo Rode or a narrower sound with the Rode VideoMic Pro? I expect my subjects to be 5+ feet in front of me most times. Would a stereo mic be better to just record general sounds that I could separate and use later in post? Garbage trucks, wild dog sounds and the like? I am wondering what this second audio source going into my camera should be like and the best mic to record it on.
Hope I got all that video talk jargon correct, just starting learning all this stuff recently. I am a still-film photographer most days :)) Been doing that all my life, in a darkroom. Hope you understand my question and situation. I should also mention it is just me, myself and I on this documentary film project so I need to do everything myself. That is why I am trying to get as good and as many sources of audio as I can.
What do you suggest? Which mic should I buy? Love your channel been devouring your vids. Thank you so much for all your help, your vids have been an inspiration, am learning tons and slowly progressing into this new type of shooting.
I linked some photos to the people the documentary will be on. Just thought I would include that so you could see the shooting environment better.
Thanks again Gerry
gerryyaum.blogspot.ca/2016/11/maybe-more-aggressive-approach-to.html
Hi Gerry, If all the dialogue will be captured with lavalier mics, the stereo VideoMic Pro may be the best way to capture the ambience. Good luck!
Thanks for the suggestion Curtis, all your help is HELPING me. Gerry
Good video... I've been searching for Rode mic wind covers. should i search under windjammers or something else.
Hey Marcy, I found them here: amzn.to/2eGO6Lo by searching for RODE Wind Cat :)
Hi Curtis,
Just wondering. Have you seen any evidence that the self-noise level of the mic decreases when set to " -10db" .
I know Rode added the +20db so you will be abble to reduce the level of the camera pre-amps.
Will it work the other way around as well when working with a recorder that has better pre-amps than the mic?
Love you channel BTW!
Hi Remco, I haven't specifically tested that. Usually "unity" gain is the optimal setting for a preamp, in this case 0dB. So I would hypothesize that 0dB is the quietest in terms of self noise. Worth a test!
what's the difference to the old stereo microphone?
00:17
The shock mount, re-designed capsules, kevlar reinforced cable, RF shielding, and denser foam wind screen for better outdoor performance.
Hello Curtis. Would you recommend this microphone to record a string quartet in a church? Is it not too bright of a microphone for strings?
Hi Richard, I haven't recorded strings with this microphone but I have recorded brass and it worked nicely for that.
Hi Curtis. I just wanted to ask you that I am planning to shoot a short film. Would you recommend the stereo one for it?
Hi Bagabondoo, for dialogue I would use a mono microphone. For ambient sound, I would use a stereo microphone. If you can only choose one, I'd go for a mono boom microphone.
@@curtisjudd in my short film there will be mini dialogues and also ambient. I am so confused.
@@bagabondoo8657 If you can only buy one microphone, a mono microphone like the RODE VideoMic NTG is a great option: ua-cam.com/video/c4Pu72J5BRE/v-deo.html
You can also record ambient sound with this microphone and stereo-ize it in post. Don't worry. You can do this. Don't let all the tech get in the way of making your film. Best wishes!
@@curtisjudd Thank you so much
Hi Curtis!
Would you recommend using the 3.5mm jack of an audio recorder for these types of microphones, like a Zoom H5 or H4n Pro, when we boom the mic?
Would these mics work well with those preamps?
Thanks in advance! :)
Hi Sankararaman, Depending on the camera you use, the camera can be just fine. I tested this with my Panasonic GH4 and the audio was as good as a Zoom H1 from my subjective point of view so I didn't find an H1 to be a great advantage over my camera. On the other hand, the H1 probably would be an advantage over many DSLRs or if you were just recording ambient sound without video.
You do not mention any non-Røde alternatives in your review. I'm curious to know if that was entirely your own choice, or possibly “part of the package” for getting the microphone. I'm asking primarily because I know of a few other stereo mics that could potentially be interesting options. E.g. the Sennheiser MKE 440.
Hi Lau. It is mainly because I don't use stereo microphones often so I'm not intimately familiar with the options out there. RODE did not review this or my comments before posting and my agreement with them is that if they send me something for review, I get complete journalistic freedom (get to say whatever I fancy).
Sennheiser is a great company as well and I don't have anything against their products. In fact, my favorite boom mic at the moment is their MHK 8050.
If you have experience with other stereo microphones, by all mean, jump in and give your recommendations. :)
Hi, Curtis. I can not choose between stereomic pro and stereomic pro x. What do You think about them?
+Kuti tamás what are you recoding? And are you feeding the sound from the mic to a camera or audio recorder?
I would like to record ambience voices with it. As I heard, the X is much better than little broder. But it much expensive too......firstly, I would like to use it on camera, but later maybe with recorder too. What is the different between two way? Thanks for your answer!
The X can output to 3.5mm to connect to most DSLR and mirrorless cameras and also has mini XLR outputs to connect to a proper audio recorder or professional camera. So the X is more future proof if you plan to do that in the future.
Thank You!
I recently fell into a gig where I am recording off road racing and rock crawling, both in windy/dusty conditions. Handheld, rarely on a tripod. And, sometimes, in a cold environment. (The Mojave Desert can be chilly in February.)(And hot as Hades in the summer.)
With the off-road race recording I am limited to a minimum distance of 50' from the vehicles. Crawling not so much.
I am currently using the built in mic on both my Vixia video cameras and my DSLR. (REALLY sucks!) I have yet to do any interviews and I don't do any indoor recording.
I know there is no such thing as a one size fits all, but I am looking for one microphone for outdoor use.
Would you recommend this mic (mono or stereo?) or some other choice for my application?
TNX!
The VideoMic Pro (non-stereo) will be more directional and since you're working at a distance, that might be helpful. The Stereo VideoMic Pro is also good since it gives you some stereo imaging, but it is not nearly as directional and will even potentially pick up noise from behind and camera operation noise. If I had to choose, I'd probably start with the non-stereo version: amzn.to/2gboFRZ Best of luck!
Thank you for the information! I'll have to give it a try.
I see there is quite a few comments and questions, so sorry if this has been asked, but how would you compare this to the Tascam DR-40 for the purpose of recording ambient sounds like the examples you have shown? My intended use is recording ambient sounds in towns, and for some detailed (stereo) close up sounds of doors open ring and such. My concern is over all audio quality. Thank you for the great reviews. Really like the channel!
Hi Andre, the DR-40 is ok. It is one of Tascam's older generation recorders and its preamplifiers are a little dated and noisier than their newer generation preamps. That being said, if you already have one, it can be a decent tool for capturing ambient and foley sound with the in-built microphones.
Curtis Judd thanks for the really fast replay!
Keeping the price point of the DR-40, and adding maybe an extra $200 or so, if I was to replace it with something newer and better to better suite my needs, what would you recommend? I do have the ability to return the DR-40. But would like to keep the same handheld form factor.
I would probably look at the Zoom H5 at the least. Here's a look at several of the recorders I've used: ua-cam.com/video/PRd-nZGGSv4/v-deo.html
Curtis Judd awesome, thank you very much for all your help. Much appreciated!
Hi Curtis. Do you find, that the fan in the atomos recorders is a problem for audio in close-micing situations?
Great question Martin. I have only found it to be a problem when miking from the camera position and using a non-shotgun microphone (i.e., not as directional as a shotgun) which I almost never do. I wish it weren't so noisy, but it hasn't been an issue to date. That said, if I were to record with the shogun and the Stereo VideoMic Pro on camera, it would most definitely be a problem.
Great video, thank you. I've used this mic for about 6 months now and love it. The only problem that I have is the noise I pick up in very quiet environments. It's almost not possible to edit out. I think that I have my camera sound setting cranked up too high. When setting the mic to +20dB for very quiet nature scenes, what would you suggest for the camera setting? I'm shooting on a Nikon Z6, and generally set the mic to 15 (max is 20).
Hi, glad to hear the mic is working well for you! I also have the Z6 and it is a great camera except for that microphone input. I'd recommend turning the mic input level down as much as possible and then adjust the audio level in post. Best wishes!
Thanks for the quick reply! I guess I will have to test it on my next trip. It’s impossible to figure out in the loud city environment :D What camera setting do you generally use? Am I way too high with 15? I honestly have no audio and filming background, so I’m learning as I go.
@@adventuresandreams For nature ambient recordings, I'd set my Z6 to the lowest mic input setting. Because the camera's mic input produces so much self-noise, I don't use it often. But when I must, I set it to the lowest setting (1).
@@curtisjudd Thank you, Curtis. Your tips will be super helpful. The self-noise really is crazy and ruined many of my shots.
Thank you for such useful information, would you let us know what sort of mic holder over the mobile phone pictured in this video, it's not mentioned in the description, thank you
Hi, that is the Varavon Zeus Uni Camera Cage: bhpho.to/2Mavvb8
Hi Curtis,
I use a Sony HDR-SR11 camcorder when on vacation and usually do some dialogue "behind" the camcorder to describe the particular scene I am shooting. Which of the 2 mics would be better in this regard? Thanks.
+Condor1 hi, if your goal is to capture the dialogue with as little ambient sound as possible, the RODE VideoMic Pro would be a better option. If you want capture the ambient sound along with your dialogue, then the Stereo VideoMic Pro is a good option. Good luck!
Hello. Thank you for making this videoclip - it's as professional as I would like all "reviews" on the tube to be. One question: For me, as a semi-pro user and together with a semi-pro videocamera from Panasonic, is it worth choosing this "Rycote-model" instead of the old one? The difference in price is not that big, from what I have read. I was also a bit concerned if this is the best mic for, lets say airshows etc - or if the "punch" from the afterburners etc will not be recorded as good as possible. Would it be better with a directional mic, or could you combine different kinds of microfones in som way? Regards! =)
...btw, is there similar microphones that lets you adjust the angel of the microphones to get more narrow stereo or wider?
Hi, thanks! I would definitely spend the little bit more for the Rycote version. This is a much better suspension system and won't need as much maintenance as the "rubber band" version.
I haven't recorded afterburners at airshows so I'm not sure whether the -10dB will be enough attenuation to handle the sound pressure levels, but my guess is that it should be fine if you set the input level on your camera down.
I don't know of any camera-top mics that allow you to adjust the width aside from the Zoom H4n, H5, and H6 but that's a different type of product. Best wishes!
Thank you for the information, Curtis! I also checked the levels the mic could stand, and it seems ok for high pressure sounds.
👍
3:30 how is the mic linked to the camera ? Because the cable is rather short on these cameras. I own the VideoMic Pro but I don't really like it…
I used the RODE VC1 extension cable: amzn.to/2joAG8Pd The VideoMic Pro can sound awesome if you boom it up close to the talent. The secret for any microphone is that they sound better close to the person talking so I always do what I must to get them off camera and closer. Here's how I boom the VideoMic Pro for talking head or interview shots: ua-cam.com/video/TUEmQBZKoBs/v-deo.html
can you add link to deadcat for Videomic pro?
Yes, added a link to the description. 👍
Can i ask where you have buy that DeadKitten ? Because that windseal is bigger on that Rycote than that older modell !?
Here: bhpho.to/2pQjI5x
Thank you 😀
Thx a lot for the video dude, so just I wanna doble check , I need it for cine ambient ,nature, wind, walking etc
Is it good enough?
It sounds good enough to me!
I’m in the market for a decent, compact on-camera microphone for my Sony a6100. I’ve been considering a compact shotgun mic (Deity D3 Pro), but wonder whether a stereo mic like the Rode VMCP or Rode VM X would also work for first person blogging as well as recording outdoor events/interviews? These older top end models are cheaper than some newer products. Thoughts?
If you're recording dialogue, I would NOT use a stereo microphone. Better off with a VideoMix NTG or DEITY D3 Pro.
Hi Curtis, how to choose between Rode Stereo Videomic Pro and X? I'm using it to record the sound of playing badminton match indoor
Not sure, I’ve never used the X. But I believe it has and XLR output so you could use it with audio recorders or cameras with XLR inputs.
Hi Curtis! Have you got any experience with prevoius version of Rode SVM? For stereo live music recording I am using Sony ECM-STXY1 with my sony camera currently but I am not satisfied with the sound (a bit thin and brittle). I am looking for something with fuller bass response. I was thinking about old SVM as based on the frequency response chart it seems to have fuller sound than the one you have just reviewed. On the other hand I am about to get Rode NT4. Do you think I could use it instead od SVM with same results?
Hi Pawel, unfortunately I never had the chance to use the older SVMP but I would think an NT4 would get you a better result overall.
I've watched several of your video and am very impressed with your knowledge. I would like to ask a question if I may...... I have a GoPro hero 5 black. I hate the audio!! I use my camera mostly outdoors for fishing, but also some indoor use. I'm looking for a small compact Mic that is powered that will provide better audio that the camera does. I've looked at shotgun mic's but am not sure that is a good all around solution. Most of the shotgun Mic's look huge on the camera.The mic must be powered by a separate battery so I can use all of the features thr camera offers.
I would really appreciate any advice you could provide.
Thanks,
Roger
ro32901 I use a audio-technica pro24cm stereo mic. Only a little bit bigger than a gopro, has awesome sound when hooked up. Have to buy a separate cable from gopro converting the 3.5mm to micro USB. Hope this helps
That looks like a great little Mic, but it needs to be powered by a battery and not from the camera otherwise one of the better features on the Hero 5 Black will not work.
After looking at it again I see it does have a battery option. Might just work. Thanks for the help. I appreciate it.
ro32901 no problem! Its a smallish watch battery type. I've only had to change it twice since I've owned it. I use a mounting frame I found at Campbell Cameras to attatch the gopro, and the mic then mount that to a tripod, or decoy stake.
Hello Roger, I'm afraid that I'm not particularly familiar with microphones for GoPro cameras. But you might check out Mic Bergsma's channel here: ua-cam.com/users/micbergsma He does a lot with GoPros. Good luck!
Would you recommend this for recording stock ambient audio ?
Can be with a good recorder behind it.
Which mic do you recommend for Motorsports ??
Thx and great video =)
This is a good choice.
Can you tell me what colour setting you're using on your GH4 when you're outputting to your atomos? I'm experiencing a magenta/red shift in skin tones when I use vlog and add the Panasonic vlog lut. Thanks. :)
Hey Colin, I'm using the Standard picture profile and sending that out 4:2:2 10-bit. I have not had good results with VLog in terms of noise so I'm still learning how to shoot log. Best wishes!
Thanks for the video! I have a question. If I were to be recording a concert, should I select the -10 and the high pass setting or which setting would you use for the best sound? Thanks again!
Hi Gonzalo, it depends on how loud the sound reinforcement at the concert is. If your camera has an audio meter, you'll want to adjust the gain setting on the SVMP. Many concerts will require you to set it to -10 but that's most, not all.
@@curtisjudd thank you! What about the flat line or high pass? Thanks again for the fast response!
@@gonzalodanielloayza2926 Experiment with that as well. Many venues will sound better with the high pass turned on.
If I am filming Kids around large swimming pool - many people spread over large distances at BBQ's - when I am trying to pick up sound from the front but I am also commentating from behind the camera - which would you feel would be the better the Pro or Stereo
Hi Ron, the Stereo VideoMic Pro would probably be better. Both are somewhat directional but the stereo version is less so. Good luck!
Thanks for informative review, I have a 3 question, please help if you have a time. I watched too many videos but I'm a little bit confused.
I need microphone for dialog and background sound recording (nature sound, music...).
1) I have zoom h5 with XYH-5 shockmount X/Y mic capsule, so as I understand I don't need Rode Stereo VideoMic, am I right?
2) Is a big diference beatween Rode Videomic Rycote and Rode VideoMic Pro, is it overpaid 70$ if I planning recording using zoom h5 + Rod VideoMic (Pro or Rycote)
.....I'm confused becuse Rode Videomic Rycote comes with Boom Pole and Headphone extension cable...it's very cheap;
3) which is better for dialog recording Rode NTG 2 and Rode VideoMic Pro?
Hello. I'm looking to use this mic with my iPhone 6s. Do you know what I would need to buy? Thank you
The RODE SC4 adapter should do the job: amzn.to/2rEIbwI Good luck!
Excellent video
Thanks!
Hi, I've just bought this mic, What would be the best settings to use to record an acoustic guitar and vocal performance ? Many thanks.
Hi Ben, I'd start with the mic at 0 on the gain switch and reduce the camera's input level as low as possible without turning it off. If that leaves the level too low, try the +20 setting. Best wishes!
Hey Ben 😊 I consider buying this mic for the same purpose as mentioned above. How has it worked for you? And do you know if I can get it into a cold shoe mount somehow? Thanks ✌
Thanks!
👍
Dear Curtis,
Thank you for great Audio videos!
I have a problem with my Røde Stereo Video Mic.
Is is connected to a Zoom F4 but i only get a mono audiofile. How can i get a stereo file?
All the Best,
James Flensted
Hi Family In The Forest, Which input do you have it connected to on the F4? Note that the XLR inputs are mono.
Hi, thanks for this great video! Could you give me a link for the video that you mentioned regarding booming at an affordable price, I searched your previous videos but cant find it. Thanks a lot!
ua-cam.com/video/TUEmQBZKoBs/v-deo.html
Hi there, I am about to buy a dslr microphone for my canon 5d mark IV. I am a photographer but would love to take some landscape sort of videos on a tripod like waterfalls, birds, relaxation videos with no movement of the camera, just the ambient sounds just on tripod which microphone would you recommend. Thank you
I think you're in the right place - the Stereo VideoMic Pro would be a great option for your use cases.
@@curtisjudd Thank you very much. Appreciate it :)
Hi, Curtis
I'm going to shoot a video, as a one-man team
,
Which document a conversation between 4 people
In a quiet room.
Is this microphone,When placed on a stand above them,
somewhere in the middle of the group,
Can match the task?
cheers
Hi Gilad, yes, this could work nicely for that, ideally the 4 people should sit in a square facing the center of the square they form, with the mic boomed above and pointed down at them.
Thanks !
I think it is worth noting that a shotgun microphone placed on camera is the worst possible position for it. It is kind of like shooting at a burglar in your house with a .357 Magnum; it's going to go through through your wall and into your neighbor's house. It seems that the super cardioid pattern is over-rated for on-camera mounting and actually, a cardioid pattern would be better, especially if you are doing an interview and the subject is within 3-5 feet from you. But all you see is shotgun microphones. For me, even though the SVMP picks up a lot of ambience, it has a better pattern for interviewing people closer to the camera. Extraneous noise is going to be an issue no matter where you are filming, whether you have a shotgun or not. In fact, with the shotgun mounted on the camera horizontally, you are still going to pick up a sound way behind the subject, maybe even more than the stereo is getting the side to side noise. Just my two cents.
Thanks. I don't love mounting mics on top of the camera either. It is simply not optimal whether shotgun or stereo mic.
hi there, I'm wondering whether to change my stereo video mic pro for a zoom h5n, using the x y that comes with the zoom, would this offer any improvement in sound? thanks a lot
Hmm, possibly but probably not. What kinds of problems are you having with your VideoMic Pro recordings?
Thanks for the reply! not any particular problems, the sound has been good apart from some user error, and im not 100% sure the rycote mount helps during windy shoots, it seems to make a lot of noise.. i was mainly considering the change for greater versatility, being able to connect contact mics etc, i was just wondering if there would be any added bonus in sound quality from the x y that comes with it zoom h5 as well as being more versatile :)
That makes sense. The H5 is definitely more versatile so I'd definitely endorse that. You can also potentially get the mics up closer to the sound source so that will help as well. But the XY mics on the H5 are not stunningly better than the VMP so I just wanted to make sure not to give the wrong impression. Good luck!
ok, thanks for the helpful answer and video! this videos the reason i bought a rode stereo in the first place and i havnt been disappointed, just maybe need something different now!
Anyone know if there are websites that are geared toward production video and audio work? Or just simply on set work as well. I'm curious to see what kind of work that's available in this type of craft.
Do you mean job/work opportunity types of boards? If so, that's a good question. I think a lot of it happens via word of mouth but would be interesting to hear if there are public online places as well.
Yes, sorry I guess I wasn't totally clear on that. I've heard of one but don't know what it is. I'm going to a screening for some short films tonight. I'll ask the guy who was telling me about it and find out what he was talking about.
how far can you clearly record voices and conversations ?
Hi Christopher, I'd keep the mic within about 2 feet for the best dialogue sound. You can push it to 4 feet but you'll pick up a lot of room or ambient sound as well which generally doesn't sound as good (as demonstrated later in this video). This mic is really meant more for capturing ambient sound. For dialogue, I generally recommend the VideoMic Pro+ which we reviewed recently over here: ua-cam.com/video/gcMVSzVt-LI/v-deo.html
Curtis Judd , 2 to 4 feet sounds terrible, but I'm new to making video's, so I don't know any better. Is there a better longer ranger mic then this one?
Yes, the Mono RODE VideoMic Pro+: ua-cam.com/video/gcMVSzVt-LI/v-deo.html You still need to keep close to the person speaking (within 4 to 5 feet) but it is much more focused than the stereo version here.
Curtis Judd , good explanatory video's you make. Thanks. What do you think is better stereo, mono, or stereo/mono?
Curtis Judd and one last question, I have a cheap tripod, and makes lots of noise when turning it side to side or up and down, can you please recommend one for me, thank you. Also of you were curious what camera I have, I have the canon 80D
Question hoping someone can help me with. I recently recorded a live band with the Stereo Videomic Pro. Audio was captured on a tripod, directly center of the stage about 20 feet back. However, roughly 80% of the sound ended up all in the right ear. Is this normal? I know it is stereo, but I figured I had the sound pretty well centered.
Any help or thoughts is much appreciated!
Hi Zachary, no that doesn’t seem normal. Which camera did you use? Sometimes when the plug isn’t entirely inserted you can get funny things like this.
Curtis Judd Canon G15. Pretty sure plug was all the way in. So, should it stereo mic pro always record the same levels in both ears?
Yes, as long as sound is coming from both directions at equal sound pressure levels, the two stereo mics use the same gain setting so the sound should be recorded at the same level to both channels.
Curtis Judd Interesting. Only thing I can guess then is somehow I didn't center the sound, even though I was smack in the middle of the PA system...
Does it work ok in a test recording where you talk around the mic? You should get the same levels on left and right as you talk around it. If not, then the mic may be defective.
Ah than the Stereo 1's for me. I'm more an ambiance guy. I like the Sttereo 1 not only cause it's stereo, but I like the crispness. If the Rode IXY were like the Stereo Video mike I'd totally buy it right away. Also if it had thet width. Which is my problem with the NT-4 as well. For people or things right around you it's fine but get firther out and epic fale. As teens were saying for a while. They've stopped that for some reason. Anyways so yeah epic fale and why I went ultimately with the Audio technical AT 8022. Now the Video stereo mike is kinda 8022 sounding so I like it. But I really wish they'd do a Stereo version of the NT1-A. that would be just too epic.
Thanks for your insights!
What about voices?
+Ian H this would not be my first choice for recording dialogue. For that I prefer the RODE VideoMic Pro: ua-cam.com/video/TUEmQBZKoBs/v-deo.html
Curtis Judd So this is more of a studio mic, best locked off?
And I've used the Video Mic Pro; the issue is that noise transfers from the mic bracket to the cam if you're not absolutely still.
Hmm, I have not experienced that issue except with fairly extreme movement. Same with the Stereo Video Mic Pro. The Rycote Lyre system works quite nicely.
Curtis Judd And I suppose if my cam doesn't have a headphone input, I won't be able to monitor the sound anyway.
Yes, true.
Note, that that Rycote mount is wobbling a lot and producing loud grunting noise into the microphone. So it's only intended for still usage. And because it's wobbling it cannot be mounted on camera, when using gimbal. So the whole point of this mount is.. well.. pointless.
Sounds like something may be defective. Mine didn’t wobble that much.
@@curtisjudd But in the test it's standing still.
@@elksalmon84 I hand-hold shots with it in a few of the tests here and in some of my other videos. If you're running or jogging, no, it isn't going to smooth all that out. But hand held shots and ninja walking worked fine.