Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I have a Canon HG10 High Definition camera that I use for recording my small kids and family events. The camera's built-in sound was just poor.With my default mic, the targets could barely be heard, and whenever the cameraman spoke the sound was overly pronounced.So I researched many mics over months and decided on this one.
The sound is superb, but you have to make sure you know what you are working with.Different mics are better for different situations.I am not an expert but here are the rules of thumb I have picked up.
*Super-Cartoid Stereo Mic*
The Rode Stereo mic is a "Super Cartoid Stereo Mic".It yields high-quality sound at a close range, less than 8 feet or closer is best .It emphasizes sound in front, and de-emphasizes sound from behind (i.e. the cameraman) It does not do well at long range.
*Shotgun mics*
Shotgun mics (i.e. Rode VideoMic directional Video Condenser w/microphone) on the other hand do well at isolating sound at long ranges.However, the sound will never be as good as a well-placed Supercartoid stereo mic. Those are good for school plays, football games, and such.
*Bonus*
It also comes with a Dead-cat wind guard, and it works great! Even in very gusty wind no sound is made from the wind.
*Tips for good sound*
For absolutely super quality sound with ANY mic you must get really close!Just think of those boom mic guys who hold the mic right inches over the actors heads!You have several options.
1- Stand as close as possible
2 - Buy a wide-angle lense for your camera (Canon WD-H43 0.7x Wide Angle Converter for HV20 & HV30 Camcorders). I did this and it makes a huge difference. The lense allows you to get much closer to the subject and the sound is super.
3 - Buy an extension cable and mini-tripod.This is only practical in some situations, but is not expensive. I did this when I wanted to film thanksgiving dinner.I placed the mic close to the table, just out of shot. I placed the camera far away, and then ran a 15' cable between the mic and camera. I got a great shot and top-notch sound.
4 - Buy a boom pole (Rode Mini Boompole Microphone Boom Pole) and have a friend hold it over the subject's head when filming.This is not practical since I do not own a boom pole and I do not have any friends. But Rode does sell a boom pole for this mic that requires no adapters.
*Warranty*
My 4-year old accidentally knocked the mic off a table and broke a small aluminum part. I contacted Rode and was amazed at how incredibly kind, accommodating, and prompt they were in helping me out.
Be sure to register your mic to get a 10-year warranty!
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Product Description:
Now videographers can use true 'studio' stereo recording techniques in the field with ease. The X/Y configuration enables the StereoVideoMic to capture the true ambience of the recording space, while still offering a high level of rear rejection and low noise. Fitted with a shoe mount, the StereoVideoMic has the same low noise circuit design as the best selling VideoMic. The StereoVideoMic offers 9V battery operation, an LED battery status indicator, high pass filter switch, and a -10dB pad switch which allows for the mic to be used on most cameras with perfect level control. You can also use the StereoVideoMic as a remote mic on a stand, or a RØDE boom pole (optional), which truly makes this versatile product well suited for all video applications including Electronic News Gathering (ENG), Weddings, Sports Events and Interviews.
StereoVideoMic Features
Stereo X/Y Condenser Microphone
Broadcast Sound Quality
Low Noise Circuitry
Two step High-Pass Filter - Flat or 80Hz
Rugged cast aluminium body
Custom designed integral windshield
Low handling noise
9V battery powered
Integrated camera-shoe mount
Ten-year warranty
StereoVideoMic Specs
Power:9V Battery PoweredAcoustic Principle:Pressure gradientDirectional Pattern:Super CardioidFrequency range:40 Hz - 20 kHzOutput impedance:200ΩSignal noise ratio:74 dB SPL (A - weighted per IEC651)Equivalent noise:20 dB SPL (A - weighted per IEC651)Maximum SPL:134dB SPL (@ 1kHz, 1% THD into 1KΩ load)Sensitivity:-38 dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (12.6 mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHzWeight:288gmDimensions:65mm x 170mm x 102mm (H x W x D)
Polar Pattern and Frequency Response
What's in the Box
RØDE StereoVideoMic, Custom Windscreen, 3.5mm Cable, Shock Mount, Accessory Shoe, 3/8" Thread Adaptor, User's Manual, Warranty Card
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