MESSE12: Rode SVM Pro

US Mini Stereo Video Mic from Rode 22/03/12

No flash plug

MP4

4:7 mins

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The DSLR revolution has seen an awful lot of new video guys hit the scene, tempted by the luscious images from big-format sensors... but few of them seem to have much of a clue about getting decent audio to go with their filmic masterpieces :-/

Still, there's always someone to step up to fill a need, and well-established Australian microphone manufacturer Rode has always been quick off the mark with new innovations - their original VideoMic was widely adopted and could be seen atop many a DSLR.
But frankly, it wasn't the greatest ergonomic design in the world, and the slightly lop-sided weight distribution didn't help.

It was followed by the Stereo VideoMic and the VideoMic Pro - so I guess a logical progression results in the latest version seen at Messe - the Stereo VideoMic Pro.

It's a much more compact design, still retaining the 9V battery for power, as it gives a voltage/weight advantage over 3xAA batteries, and is designed with a fixed polar pattern for ambient recording, either on camera, with an optional pistol grip, or on a boom pole.

Shipping now at $249 (USD) it seems to offer a cost-effective way to get a field recording - we'll try to snag one for testing soon.

Meanwhile, here's what Benedict Sweeney has to say about it - enjoy

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