So, you want to buy a shotgun mic in order to record videos with better audio quality. There are many people who would recommend Rode VideoMic models. After all, these are indeed very good entry-level shotgun mics suitable for DSLR cameras. However, there are several different models in the product line, designed for different needs and purposes. Two of the most popular options are Rode VideoMic Pro and Rode VideoMic Go. Yet, there is a considerable price gap between Rode VideoMic Pro vs Go. So, what is the difference between these shotgun mics of the same line?
Design
If you put the two mics side by side, you can see that Rode VideoMic Pro is indeed bigger. It actually measures 100 mm tall, 170 mm deep, and 75 mm wide. The weight is approximately 85 grams. Although it is bigger than the Go model, it is still considered compact, very lightweight, and portable. It is equipped with the Rycote Lyre shock mount, which is very effective for reducing handling noise. The cable is straight.
On the other hand, Rode VideoMic Go is the lightest mic in the line at just 73 grams. It is highly portable, as it measures barely 79 mm tall, 167 mm deep, and 73 wide. It is equipped with a somewhat similar shock mount which is quite effective for reducing handling noise. The audio cable is coiled. Don’t forget to check our previous post about Rode VideoMic Pro vs Takstar SGC 598 if you are looking for a budget-friendly mic.
Technical Specs
| Rode VideoMic Pro | Rode VideoMic Go |
|---|---|
| - Frequency Range : 40Hz - 20kHz (selected HPF @80) | - Frequency Range : 100Hz - 16kHz |
| - Output Impedance : 200Ω | - Maximum SPL : 120dBSPL |
| - Sensitivity : -32.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (20.00mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz | - Sensitivity : -35.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (17.80mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz |
Features
Rode VideoMic Pro comes with more additional features than the Go model. This mic is quite versatile and adjustable. It has a selectable high pass filter at 80 Hz which you can activate to reduce low-frequency noise. There is also a three-position level control which is adjustable to -10dB, 0, and +20dB. So, you can reduce or increase the sensitivity as needed. However, note that this mic requires a 9V battery to operate.
On the other hand, Rode VideoMic Go has neither the high pass filter nor the level control. The special feature is that it does not need any battery to operate. The power is supplied by the camera. It is convenient in a sense that you don’t need to worry about battery replacement.
Performance
In terms of performance, Rode VideoMic Pro is much better. It has a wider frequency response range of 40 Hz – 20 kHz, and the maximum SPL handling is also higher. Its self-noise level is very low at 14 dBA. This mic is able to capture sound with excellent accuracy and clarity. It is suitable for interviews, music, and film projects.
On the other hand, Rode VideoMic Go has a much narrower frequency response range of 100 Hz – 16 kHz. The self-noise level is considerably higher at 34 dBA. This model may have some noise issue, so it is only suitable for purposes like interviews and documentary reports.
Rode VideoMic Pro Vs Go
Conclusion
Between these two models, Rode VideoMic Pro is indeed more recommended. It is more versatile, thanks to the selectable high pass filter and level control, and the sound quality is much better. But, if you really want to save some bucks, Rode VideoMic Go makes a viable alternative for interviews and documentary reports.