Rode NTG-3 noob question

F

funkmusicinstitute

Active member
Bought a NTG-3 last week to go along wiith the NTG-2 and NTG-4 that I've happily
been using for years. However, I clearly must be doing something wrong with it
as I can get any levels. I'm trying to use the NTG-3 with my Panasonic HPX170
and Panasonic HPX500. As far as I can tell, phantom power is enabled on both cameras.
However, I don't get a signal (perhaps a very very faint one if any) even with the camera audio
levels turned all the way up. I don't own a pre-amp so can't test it that way.
Any suggestions greatly appreciated!
 
You could take the battery out of the NTG-2, test that mic with both cameras to confirm if they're sending phantom power. If the NTG-2 works without a battery (meaning it does get 48V), then test the NTG-3 again. Same cameras, settings, cables, ect... if that doesn't work, then you may have a bad mic.
 
Thanks for the suggestion. I did try it and the NTG-2 works fine w/o the battery via
phantom power on both cameras. With the NTG-3 I can get a faint, tinny response
if I turn the audio levels all the way up and essentially scream into the mic.
I would venture to guess that that's not 'normal.'
Can a mic like this be 'bad' out of the box?
thanks!
 
It's rare, but there can be defective units from any manufacturer. RODE's warranty and replacement services are fantastic, too.

Before you go that rout, are you using the same cable on both mics?
 
I have no idea if this is the case for your models, but some camcorders simply do not provide enough power for hungrier microphones (5mA at 44 to 52V for the NTG-3, according to Røde).

Before you send it back, I would strongly suggest plugging it into some piece of dedicated audio equipment with proper phantom power.

From my limited experience quality control at Røde is outstanding. On the other hand: an authorized reseller tried selling me an NTG-3 that was rather obviously missing two screws, the other day. :huh:
 
Yes, I used the same cable to test. Seemed to work fine w/ the NTG-2. Thanks.

I'll try to track down some audio equipment to test other phantom power.
Or I'll just take it back to B&H and have them test it with my camera.

I've always also had great experience w/ Rode products in the past.
Thanks!
 
Yep does sound like a rare faulty NTG-3, and I too suggest you take it back, cameras, cables etc .. don't forget the receipt, manual and warranty card. :)

But you haven't said that you bought a brand new unit .. if so did you register it with the Rode site for its 10yr warranty? Let's know what happens.

Cheers.
 
Just an update. Got a hold of a mixer w/ dedicated phantom power. Tested the NTG-3 and NTG-2 on this mixer. Same results.
The NTG-2 sounds like it should sound. The NTG-3, I can get faint, tinny levels w/ it, only after all levels are turned way way up.
Hence, tons of hiss. Can't be right. Guess I will have to take it back. NTG-3 was purchased new a few weeks ago from B&H. Hope
I haven't missed the window for return. Thanks again for everyone's suggestions.
 
For what it's worth, the mic was indeed 'bad.' Took it back to B&H, we tested it next to another NTG-3 w/ my hpx170.
That mic worked great, the one I had bought, didn't. They swapped it no problem. So I guess it is indeed possible for these
mics, on occasion, be DOA.
 
Radiofox,

FWIW, both Panny cams used by the OP have decent audio capabilities, and will power and phantom mic, no problem.

Grant
 
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