By Robert Wrung
The NTG4 and NTG4+ are RODE’s newest contributions to their VIDEO line of microphones. Basically an upgraded version of the popular NTG1 and NTG2 shotgun microphones, the NTG4 and NTG4+ offer an impressive array of professional features at a price within the means of most independent filmmakers looking to improve the quality of the audio they capture on set.
The NTG4 and NTG4+
The NTG4 and NTG4+ are essentially the same mic and both provide outstanding clarity and low noise electronics compatible with 12v, 24v, and 48v phantom power. The only difference between the two is that the NTG4+ has an internal rechargeable lithium-ion battery that boasts an impressive 150 hours of operation off of a 2 hour charge. The NTG4+’s internal power function makes it possible to use it without external phantom power, which means you can have a great directional mic to use with your DSLR. The NTG4+’s charging is made possible by a micro-USB port seated inside of the XLR connector cavity. This mic can be charged by most commercially available USB chargers, which makes it a very convenient solution for filmmakers on the go.
The NTG4+ is plugged directly into our camera, but is powered from its own internal battery helping to conserve the camera’s battery.
The NTG4 and NTG4+ are rugged and durably constructed. The microphones come with a standard 1-year warranty that can be upgraded to an astounding 10-year warranty when registering the product online. Its buttons feel sturdy and have bright LEDs that notify you of their status. When you power the microphone off your settings are retained when it is powered back on, making it fast and easy to get audio up and running.
The buttons provide quick access to three essential features. First is a -10db pad, allowing you to quickly attenuate the signal. Next, the mic has a high pass filter that rolls off everything below 75hz, removing rumble and some handling noise. Finally, the mic features a high frequency boost, which can be useful if you’ve lost some of the high end due to wind protection. These are features you can expect to find on any professional grade audio mixer, but having them right on the mic gives the filmmaker easy access, demonstrating RODE’s attention to the needs of today’s videographer.
RODE, once a small microphone manufacturer in Australia, has transformed itself into a global innovator in the video microphone field. RODE’s NTG4 and NTG4+, both versatile and affordable mics, have made it simpler than ever to capture great sound for your next project.
