Shotgun that sounds as good as the NTG-3 but with a broader pickup pattern?

D

doc_maker

New member
I've done some tests with the NTG-2, NTG-3, ME60 and MKH 416 and none quite does what I'm looking for.

I want a high quality sounding mic (like the NTG-3 and MKH 416) but with a broader pickup pattern like the ME60. And, ideally, it would cost somewhere between $600 and $1000 new.

The NTG-3 and the MKH 416 are both two narrow for run-and-gun documentary work. If the camera (and the shotgun mounted on it) is pointed at one person in a conversation then the other persons voice comes out significantly quitter. The ME60 is much better in this regard, but the sound quality is not in the same league.

Are there any other alternatives out there that I haven't come across yet?

Any help would be greatly appreciated...
 
doc_maker said:
Are there any other alternatives out there that I haven't come across yet?

Any help would be greatly appreciated...
Click to expand...

The biggest improvement I can suggest that would work with any microphone.... Take the Mic off the camera!

I know you feel you need it mounted there for what you are calling "run-N-gun", but there are a number of alternatives.

All the Best!

Dave
 
Broader? Wow. Most people need the opposite.

Camera Mounted? Most people feels camera mounted is way too far away resulting in roomy sound.

The solution to one person sounding off mic is to use a boom op.

But here's a thought. Check out this review of the BP4027 and BP4029.

Variable stereo mics that are also shotgun mics. If you mess with the M/S or use one of the matrix settings, you might get what you asked for, but perhaps not what you want.

Having thought about this overnight, if you are five feet or closer to your talent, then I think I understand your challenge. In that situation, a shotgun may be too directional and one of the above may work for you. The Sanken CSS-5 is another option. If you're farther away than that, the width of the NTG-3 should work. Am I understanding your situation?

Regards,

Ty Ford
 
Last edited:
Hi Ty,

Thanks for your response. The BP4029 might be just what I've been looking for. To clarify a little, the difference I'm looking for is pretty subtle, I think, and is found between shot guns - the MTK416 being the narrowest I've heard, the and the ME60 the broadest. The problem is the sound quality of the ME60 is well below NTK416 and the NTG-3.

What did you make of the sound quality of the BP4029? I'm looking online for samples but can't seem to find any.

Thanks!

Rupert
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top