Sennheiser MKH416 vs Sennheiser ME66 vs. ME64 vs RODE NTG3 vs RODE NTG2 vs NTG1

Sennheiser MKH416 vs Sennheiser ME66 vs. ME64 vs RODE NTG3 vs RODE NTG2 vs NTG1
A "new" type of shotgun microphone comparison by someone that owns most of the high-end microphones. (I did leave the Sanken out of this specific review for now).
There are ENOUGH "this sounds like this" sound sample videos / audio out there. LOTS.
......... So, I thought I would mention the OTHER ATTRIBUTES to consider when choosing a high quality shotgun mic.
Ive seen a LOT of hate for the Sennheiser ME66 and recommending the NT2 for example, OVER THAT of the ME66.......welllllll......
that leaves out VITAL INFO such as:...
NTG2, while it has more robust sound (to a degree) in a tight room for example......
NTG2 has NOWHERE near as much sensitivity as the ME66
and absolutely NOWHERE near as much side rejection as the ME66
not even close!!!
and is MUCH heavier than the ME66
.....and the ME66 is MUCH MUCH MUCH quieter than the NTG2.
etc etc in this fashion in the little video clip I made about the OTHER attributes of one mic vs. another mic.
also,... while the MKH416 is "IT", the ME66 is by far the superior foley effects MIC.

[@tims3477]

Thanks for this review. This is the kind of practical advice & opinion I was interested in. Comparing numbers printed on the tech sheet is a thing anybody can do, but this was really interesting.

[@ethanoffthechain]

Thank you! This is great. I'm about to order a ME66.

[@frubo_ssg]

Thanks for the comparison looking forward to see and hear the tests.

[@DavidHarry]

I know this has been up for a while but I've only just come across it. This is a great first hand report of all the microphones being mentioned and it's very refreshing to hear experience talking as opposed to someone who's been Googling. I've used most of the mics in the video and have owned a few of them and especially like your honesty about the ME66 and 64. Cheers, Dave.

[@TheBlueFlask]

Thank you for this video. It was incredibly helpful and I genuinely appreciated a valid comparison.

[@SteadicamCologne]

I really enjoyed your review. i use the mkh 416 for a number of reasons: 1. reliability - there is no point in getting a schoeps that doe not survive the hostility of "in the field" production 2. The sound - there is just clear audio (speech and noise) .... no attenuations, no "magically" giving more of something that wasnt there in the first place. 3. handling - basically the best booming mic in town .... heavy yes ..... but great to defend yourself from charging wildlife ( look at number one) the others are a mixed bag in my opinion, except for the rode ntg 3, wich is a very good mic. i just bought the 416 prior to the ntg3 and dont own it. i use it from time to time and as most rode products it is really great. the rest isnt bullshit, but nothing compared to thze ntg3 or the mkh 416 .... enough of my point of view.... again great review , great voice ( american and understandable ) .... greetz from Germany =)

[@leonjohnson1840]

Thanks so much for your incredibly helpful evaluation of these mics. Now leaning towards two of either the Sennheiser ME66 or ME64. Would either of these microphones be good for live musical stage plays, and, if so, what are your recommendations for how to set them up to minimize stage floor noise yet get good sound from actors/singers? Again, you're so appreciated.

[@MouseTrapKids]

This was so helpful thank you! I'm going with the 64

[@sma1968]

Definitely one of the more useful reviews. Thanks! so -- for a (majority of the time) oncamera mic -- how would you compare the me64 / or 416 to the Sanken CS1e? If price were no object? Thanks

[@SkillCult]

Stefan Avalos also what I'd like to know where are the Sanken? Good stuff though among these.

[@remektekmedia6641]

Great review. Only wish I had seen this 3 days ago, when I bought used 2x NT5 and 1x NTG2 :(

[@Norbury040780]

Thank you Bro! Stay awesome

[@mariaperezarevalo2985]

You are the best dude again the best advise, you helped me with the filters already. I need to record a short part indoors with almost no street noise with my nikon d800.. It is 4 guys seated around a table, do you recommend me the ME64 with a guy handlind the boom? the room is about 40 square meters so im a bit worried about some hall effect... Do you recommend me the Juicedlink Riggy-Assist RA202 to complete the gear? I wish you can help me bro. You've done it already. Thanks! :V

[@VladyVeselinov]

Great review! Thank you sir :)

[@alexaina81]

I own ME66, ME64 and ME62 (omni) with both K6p and K6 for more than 15 years (when I begun real video work in fact) and I confirm that these mics are really excellents and the best choice at this price level! They are still my 1st choice for video use. I've 1st bought a pair of cheap Behringer B-5 (both omni & cardio) for AB or XY recordings of my children's music sessions (astonishingly sweet and warm sounding for the price). Then a pair of Rode M3 for studio overhead. Next, I decided to try M-S recording and I used the astonished Shure VP-88 (very difficult to find used in France) which is huge and a little noisy but so tough you can use it everywhere for itw, field recording, music, overhead and so on... A desert island Mike for me! Then I finally buy my gems: a pair of Pearl MSH-10! This Swedish pro M-S mike is a jewel: so sensitive with very low self-noise and both so lightweight, tiny and robust... My best mics and my only pro level ones, but very pricey too: 1650€ news, 800€ used... So why did I bought 2 of them? 1st because I really love it, 2d cause I still get one in case of problem, and 3rd because it's an easy way to make excellent 5.1 recordings using them in reverse positions! Apophasis, my friend, I invite you to try and listen to this MSH-10 to discover it and make your own opinion : I'm sure you'll fall in love with this atypic guy! Thanks for ur wonderful job! 👍

[@TonyVirili]

Thank you +Theoria Apophasis! Finally a video/article that answered my question for lowest noise mic.

[@josephjwoods66]

I really appreciate the breakdown of the mics, it was a big help making a decision. The ME64 will probably be my choice.You mentioned the mic sound different using phantom power vs battery, does phantom power produce a better sound?

[@nordfresse]

I have seen that to be the cace with some mics in reviews yes. It also makes sense if the pro mics only have that option.

[@focuspulling]

Comes down a little harsh on the NTG-2 focusing on sensitivity apart from sound, but something to add is that the Sennheisers nicely include a power switch to cut off battery consumption, while the NTG-2 does not.

[@DreamwebMarocasa]

You are the best and honest person describing these type of shotgun microphones. Thanks for this great review. A big Like & Sub. Btw, what do you think about MKE 600 compared to ME66 & ME64? Thanks again & I wish you the best.

[@matthewharwood8866]

This was amazingly helpful! Thank you😌😌😌😌

[@vegasvoguy]

Would have loved to see the AT-875r included in this shootout

[@diragusa]

For the me 66 and 64 what preamp do you use? And how much gain do you generally use with them?

[@dr.charleschicui349]

Hello, Theoria, thanks for your informative comparison review. I've just bought an ME64 and K6. To my surprise the cable connector is not included. Iv'e searched hours but couldn't find what specific model of XLR connector with mini jack is best compatible for ME64/K6. Would you please let me know what specific XLR connector works best for ME64/K6 with Nikon D500? Thanks in advance.

[@GoodManPictures]

I was more inclined towards NTG 3 and now I am really confused :). Can you add some feedback on NTG 4+. Which mic would perform better when subject is up to six-seven feet away out of NTG 3 and ME 64/66. From another review I got feedback that ME 64 would not do well for increase in subject distance.

[@JoeWoody]

Thank you for this comparison! Have you ever used the Audio Technica AT897?

[@kathodosdotcom]

Joe Woody i have indeed! i found it to be a POO PILE

[@blueprintcarcrash5608]

What do you suggest for an external recorder and preamp combo? I'm looking at the Tascam DR 60D and the Sound Devices Mixpre D or the Juicedlink DT454. Is both the recorder and preamp needed? One over the other? Or anything else? Your videos are insanely informative.

[@kathodosdotcom]

the BEST preamp recorder is Sound Devices 702, but its $2000. The BEST FOR THE MONEY flat out is the ZOOM H6 for $400. I have both and have tested everything out there. Tascams are pure dogshit.

[@costashaniaalejpoly]

@@kathodosdotcom how about the h5? i don't need 4 xlr's.....

[@PhilippeMaurice]

this was really helpful thank you , i bought the ME 66 & 64 , and i was wondering is it possible to have a tutorial on getting the most out of a zoom h6 or h4n connected to ME66 or 64 ? thanks Philippe

[@kathodosdotcom]

there could be no tutorial on using the H6 zoom and ME66, plug them in,and let em rip! Make sure you have phantom ON or OFF, depending on WHAT you have connected to your ME66, the phantom module, or the battery module (which does both battery or phantom).

[@PhilippeMaurice]

Will do thanks again for the fast reply !

[@Yonoko6]

Hello @Theoria Apophasis I have found your video very useful thanks a lot for sharing! :) I wish to ask you have you tryed also the MK 600? I wish to take the audio of indy movies, I have already bought the zoom H6 and now I need a shotgun microphone. do you think for my work sounds better a microphone "without noise"? I'm confused because you said that MKH416 and NTG3 have more noise than ME64 and ME66 but the industry use the MKH416 (and NT3 is more pricey than the two sennheiser). I do not understand why. can you explain this concept please? thanks a lot for help! :)

[@antoineinniss5586]

Between the ntg 2 and ntg 1 , which is better for voice over, in terms of robust and warm sound...which would you recommend?

[@costashaniaalejpoly]

''also,... while the MKH416 is "IT", the ME66 is by far the superior foley effects MIC.'' you sold it right there....just bought it for 175Euros ,hope i get great foley effects with my zoom h5...thank you my inked friend,i ll buy you a beer or raki if you ever visit Crete,Greece

[@valealvarez96]

I was plannimg on getting a fethead amp for my future boom mic, in that case i think the noise of the ntg-2 will go away pretty much, what do you think? I did used the Me66+k6 and i agree with your review, extremely lightweight, dead quiet, on studio enviroments with decent gain the noise floor on audio levels barely appear, i had to download roomtone because the me66 was very quiet

[@crooklynx972]

To reduce noise on the NTG2 you need to find a preamp that matches its impedance... Else you'll be adding gain to catch an already weak signal..

[@kathodosdotcom]

Marc Enette i can cut out all the noise in Audition APP. I use a $2000 sound devices recorder, nothing better exists.

[@crooklynx972]

Agree with you with post cleaning, It is always good to have a clean start.. I have used the Sound Device too, cool beast, but I think it cost a bit much for what it is... I am coming from the recording studio world and there is a lot of over priced video oriented audio devices out there...

[@kathodosdotcom]

well, im not a gear whore, best is best, price be damned. the ZOOM H6 is 95% of what the sound devices is, and its only $400

[@crooklynx972]

That's right! At some point when we have reached great quality that suits our needs, we are starting to pay just for the right to carry a brand name.. Lol

[@crooklynx972]

You are On Point! I have the ME66 and I love it... The NTG2 Rode is cool for voice over if you have a good powerful clean preamp. On shoots film, tv nature I go with he ME66.. It is so much better I'll eq if I need to.. ME 66 is is a quiet, sensitive, and powerful mic..

[@kathodosdotcom]

get the ME64 next and above all get the rode NTG3, sooooooooooooo sensitive, and well built. its far far more sensitive than BOTH the ME66 and NTG2

[@crooklynx972]

I tried the NTG3 great sound! I don't know if it is exactly what I want for movie sets.. I'll get it when i have more $$$.. Thank you for your great tutorials!

[@kathodosdotcom]

have fun man!!! you only buy shotgun mics?

[@crooklynx972]

Theoria Apophasis No just shotguns lol .. I have sold my studio babies ..I have been doing video and film so I am comparing these shotguns with similar condenser studio mics, in terms of dynamics and sound quality.. We have to compromise in video with distance for shotguns...

[@kathodosdotcom]

true, and understood.

[@ifn_media]

I was seriously considering the older ME80 but don't know its sensitivity and side rejection compared to the ME66 can anyone advise please ?

[@takrinke]

I am sold on the ME 64+k6 but am having a heck of a time finding the combo used anywhere (ebay, craigslist). Your support of this combo has driven up demand and prices I believe. I can buy the combo new for $419. What do you think of the MKE 600 vs the ME64/K6? The MKE 600 is $329 new. Thanks!

[@kathodosdotcom]

takrinke i JUST made a recent video telling everyone to buy it, its likely my fault!!! Well, i dont control supply !!heheheehe Oh crap, the MKE600 SUCKS!!!!!!! Im ashamed of Sennheiser on that one. There is also a video comparing those too that damn mic is MUDDY MKE600 sucks-ass!!~~~! ME66 (got 3 of em) is also JUST as awesome as ME64, but of course a lot bigger

[@capwkidd]

How about the Sanken CS3e and CS1e? My purpose is for interviews primarily....

[@joonajks]

What are your thoughts on that Sennheiser ME 80 K3-U? Is it a good mic for podcasting In your opinion?

[@MarcelNL]

I am about to buy a microphone for my camera. What would be a better choice: a Sennheiser ME66 or a MKE 600?

[@skakdosmer]

ME66 + K6 is far better. But the MKE600 is far less expensive.

[@AudioBoi1]

great video, thjank u

[@user-jb3kg1pw9u]

Спасибо!

[@m.h.9700]

we wanna see comparing test

[@Canoneosmiami]

How do they compare to Azden SMX- 30 ?

[@adamsdan1]

I would love to see a comparison of RF interference rejection. I have been happily using a NTG2 for a while with a marrantz pmd661. I was doing a video shoot in a very active office, and for a few setups the NTG2 was picking up digital interference. I saw an active WIFI base and I suspect that was the culprit. Anyhow I was using two mics on two people. the mkh416 was clean, the NTG2 was picking up interference badly. Could you do a shootout comparing the microphones getting cozy with cel phones, bluetooth devices, WIFI routers, etc? I think that might be the spec that is becoming most important to me. how are the others vs. RF noise?

[@Nullllus]

All day long thanks.

[@jeanclimbcinema]

I'm about to buy a shotgun mic and I don't know wich one to pick between the MKE 600 and the NTG-2. What do you think ?

[@kathodosdotcom]

+Dixy Fx neither one, get a Sennheiser ME66

[@jeanclimbcinema]

+Theoria Apophasis yep but the me66+k6 is a bit more expensive i guess.

[@SirDoctorofTardis79]

+Theoria Apophasis I just got the NTG-1 as my first shotgun mic. I've been loving it so far. But I'm just recording in my home studio.

[@finmoorhouse4007]

From what I've heard, the MKE 600 sounds a lot nicer- if I have phantom power would you still recommend the ME66?

[@thomasagre1279]

Do you need to get the K6 for the ME66? I want to know if I can just use it with a interface.

[@kathodosdotcom]

yes, all the ME series need the K6 (battery or phantom).......the K6P is phantom only module..., and SCREW THAT, dont get it....... the ME66 ME64 ME67 ME62 are all useless tubes without that K6 module buy them used like new on Ebay, screw the NEW option .

[@Smokeycam1]

Theoria Apophasis I picked up an AKG C568 EB a few months ago and have been impressed with the sound, although it does have noticeable self-noise and I'm not sure about side rejection. Can you comment on it versus the mice you discussed here?

[@kathodosdotcom]

versus which one? there are MANY in this vid.

[@Smokeycam1]

Theoria Apophasis Versus the MKH416? Thanks for your insights.

[@gabrielspalletta]

What do you prefer a NTG3 or MKH416; with a Zoom H6 or Tascam DR680?

[@kathodosdotcom]

Gaby Sp ntg3 and zoom H6

[@SteadicamCologne]

+Gaby Sp zoom h6. definately ....

[@Anivisum]

Even though Rode and Sennheiser are head to head in comparison, I go with Sennheiser

[@RizHail]

Hi can you please help me on this. I'm going to do documentary shoots, interviews, short films, concert/event video recording and local tv commercials with live sound and Voice overs with Zoom h5 with DSLR. i'm low on budget so MKE 600 will do it or i should only get me64+k6 or me66+k6 ?? my budget is $200 for shotgun :(

[@kathodosdotcom]

the BEST FUCKING $$$$ for your buck is the ME64 and K6 honestly, i have 4 ME66, and 2 ME64, they have almost EQUAL side rejection. The ME64 is the cats ASS (thats a good thing!)

[@RizHail]

Theoria Apophasis thanks for quick replay. i'll get me64+k6 now. but can you recommend a good solid shockmount which can be used on camera and also on boom pole. also can you recommend used k6 seller on ebay? i'll buy me64 from bhphoto new. But i think a used k6 (save money) will do the job as mic is the one capturing the sound.

[@kathodosdotcom]

shockmount, yup, the pearstone for $50 from B and H. i cannot recommend a K6 ebay-er!!! sorry bout that. make sure you cover the SCREW on the side of the K6 module with tape, or glue it, it has a very very very SLIGHT design flaw, the slightest corrosion from hand sweat will cause SHAT SOUND due to grounding issue!!!!

[@RizHail]

thanks :) if i have more questions i'll ask you later

[@kathodosdotcom]

sure thing man

[@tracyeaves4847]

Do one on the MKH416 vs Sanken CS-3e. Thanks

[@plitovkin7366]

How is ME66 with field recording?

[@schwegch]

Thank you very much! I am a voice-over artist and will be traveling a lot in the future. A studio technician advised me to buy a shotgun microphone and not a "normal" mic. Which of those you presented would you recommend for "hotel room" recordings? Thanks in advance, Christoph

[@kathodosdotcom]

Christoph Schwegler the TRUE voice over shotgun mic is the Sennheiser MKH416, same used in million $$$$ movies however the best TRUE TRUE voice over mic isnt a shotgun, but rather the CAD E100s, did you see my video on same? tons of voice over artists (top dollar ones) are buying that "cheap" mic (its not cheap at all, it should be a $1000 mic, but isnt). cadaudio.com/e100s.php ive got a pair of them, theyre just damn incredible.

[@schwegch]

Thank you so much, that's the one I am getting!

[@inceleCo]

Am I the only one thinking that fur as a cat at the very beginning of the video?

[@tims3477]

+Burak Kara The fur is actually called a dead cat. ;) So I guess not.

[@SteadicamCologne]

+Burak Kara some call it hairy harry / the zwelsch / santa / the mob / "the soft thing"

[@Audiomonkscollective]

why should I forgot about Money 😂

[@antoineinniss5586]

Hi....we are a group of aspiring voice over artists from the caribbean...we just viewed this video presentation. Very different, informative and in-depth. We are searching for at least one good , used or preowned microphone , that we can use for voice over recording, until we can upgrade to really good equipment. Do you have anything that we can buy at a reasonable price from you?....we will pay for the shipping......thank you

[@jiwateshwar]

Can you do a fresh review... Your reviews matter

[@paweradwanski8100]

hahahha 19 minutes and you haven't compared sound live.... wtf

[@Mile26point2films]

Paweł Radwański hi there, I actually own a Sennheiser ME 66 and it's the best Mic I've ever had. If you're starting out as a boom operator I encourage you to buy this mic.

[@ArkansasMediaGroup]

He does not video edit. Long time subscribers will know this. High video output and no edits. The info is there. What more do you want. He even said he isn't going to compare audio cause there are so many other videos already.

[@nordfresse]

@@ArkansasMediaGroup I actually found this one to be more helpfull than some other videos... I do feel though like I was watching the same video 3-4 times over. Kinda redundant..

[@StephanAndreMusic]

Came here expecting a comparison video... Leaving here thinking you need a new tattoo artist... With no new information on which of these microphones SOUNDS better vs the others. Hmph. Misleading title.

[@kathodosdotcom]

Stephan Gagné thats in other videos, the MKH 416 sounds best.