NTG-2 audio hum

[Bill Kennedy]

Using a Rode NTG-2 shotgun mic with the HVX 200 in an extremely quiet nature setting my base noise level is -40dB. The camera audio levels are set at about 75%. This seems unacceptably high. With a lav mic I'm at -60 dB. Has anyone else had this problem or do I have a defective microphone?

[Angus_Findlay]

Are you using phantom power? AA battery? Both? These all affect noise level. Phantom power, offering the highest voltage to the microphone, should give you the lowest noise floor. AA batteries work well, but under NO circumstances should you mix the two.

[ullanta]

How are you determining a "base noise level"? The Rode may just be more sensitive... calibrate the lav and rode to a specific constant sound source, then compare the "base noise" level wih those settings.

[Bill Kennedy]

Thanks ullanta!

I believe i've compared oranges and apples. The mic and camera are fine and what I perceived as a substantial nature sound (out here in the bush) required too much gain.