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We pit two well known shotgun microphones (Rode NTG-2 pictured) against the ‘Reasonably Priced Mic’. Listen in!

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While using my trusty Sennheiser MKH416 shotgun mic for a narration, the idea sprang to life. In one of the mic lockers sits a new Rode NTG-2. We’ve tried them separately, but how would the ‘LA’ mic of choice compare to the (much less expensive) Rode?

Shotgun microphones are designed mostly for video work, where you want pinpoint pickup along with silencing collateral noise. Long known for its punchy articulation and crispy sound, the Sennheiser MKH416 is a mic of choice in many vocal booths. Possibly, the 416 has a greater following in the voiceover world than in video. Street prices for the 416 have been fluctuating around $1000.

Not a newbie, but relatively fresh on the scene are the Rode NTG shotguns. In the Rode lineup, there are three models; the NTG-1, NTG-2 and NTG-3. I picked up the NTG-2 because of its bargain price (street prices float around $270). Performance wise, the NTG-2 is a champ, showing it can reach out there and grab audio. However, I have to give the nod to the reigning champ – the 416. The great gap in price has to be considered as well, meaning the NTG-2 may be a better value …considering you could buy three of them for the price of one 416.

Of course, a better comparison would have been to pit the 416 against an NTG-3, or possibly even the newly released Shure VPs? First, have a listen to these models. Then, I’ll ‘reload’ the shotgun models and we’ll try a few more!

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Be sure to check out the NewMediaGear YouTube Channel!

Every once in a while, a piece of gear really surprises me. Most everything that makes it to the virtual airwaves of NewMediaGear is good stuff, but there are stand-outs.

USB mics. I have mixed feelings about them. A USB port can only supply a small amount of current, which generally results in a compromised large condenser microphone. A real time headphone amplifier only draws more power away from the exciter.

When I noticed the Shure PG27USB model (there is also a PG47USB available), I had to try it out.

In flat black, with white trim, the PG27USB looks very professional. Except for the low profile level controls and headphone jack on the side and back, it looks identical to the PG27, which is the XLR version. In the box, you’ll find a leatherette pouch, base mount (for attachment to a stand or boom) along with a generously long 3 meter USB cable and manual. No drivers are needed for connection to Windows XP (or above) and Mac OS X.

A quick trip around the capsule reveals the small volume, mic gain and monitor pots. As well, a 3.5mm headphone jack and 20db pad are very discrete as you look at the side address 27USB. Everything is very tight. Fit and finish is classic Shure.

I fired up Sound Forge, checked that “Shure Digital” was my input and output device and that’s it. What really caught me by surprise was the mic sound and clarity of the headphone amp. This mic is ultra-crisp, tight and smooth all at the same time. It reminded me of my 416, and that’s quite an achievement. Soon, I was working in both Sound Forge and Audition, voicing tracks and listening to the playback – all through the PG27USB. The monitor is a ‘mix’ that allows you to sample the mic, your computers audio output, or a mix of both. There is plenty of mic gain and adjustment. Most surprising, is the sheer quality usability of the headphone amp. I sometimes forgot I was working completely in USB.

By far, the PG27USB is the most ‘usable’ USB mic I have ever tried. Everything comes together with great sound, zero latency monitoring and (did I mention) great sound. Have a listen for yourself and let me know what you think?

Shure PG27USB Street Price at Post Time: $199 USD

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Best,
Mark Jensen & Laura