How to set up your Rode Videomic NTG via USB for the best sound.

In this video, I cover how to properly go through the steps of gain structuring your Rode VideoMic NTG and computer to ensure you're getting the best audio quality and lowest noise when using the mic connected directly via USB to your computer.

I also cover some very basic audio principles that EVERYONE should know that will help you with ANY audio signal chain and set of equipment.

And lastly, there are a couple of minutes devoted to a couple of specific caveats of the Rode VideoMic NTG specifically.

Link to my overview of the Rode Videomic NTG:    • The best microphone for Youtube AND Z...  

But, it is quite long, and although I encourage you to watch the entire video and learn some audio basics, below are some time stamps so you can jump to the section you want to watch.

00:00 - Intro
0:37 - Why I made this video
1:11 - What this video covers
2:04 - Why settings alone aren't always the answer
2:44 - Differences in how I record using the videomic NTG
3:13 - How I use this mic via USB
3:38 - My settings for the Rode Videomic NTG when using via USB
4:47 - 2 features of this mic you need to know about
8:18 - OVERVIEW of steps
9:17 - How my mic is mounted
9:24 - Step 1 - Plug it in
10:10 - Step 2 - 20db pad or not? - Signal to noise ratio explanation
13:14 - Step 3 - Watch the clip indicator
15:11 - Step 4 - Computer input level & Gain Structure - MacOS & Windows
15:43 - Signal Flow explanation
16:15 - Mac OS audio input levels
17:12 - Windows audio input levels
17:28 - Step 5 - Adjust operating system input level
17:38 - "Gain knob" function (or lack thereof) when connected via USB
18:40 - Testing the "gain knob" when connected via USB
20:00 - Crucial audio check point
20:47 - Use the Pad or not? - Testing the PAD, Pros and Cons
23:23 - Lo Cut Filter or not?
23:54 - Using the mic at a closer distance to my voice, testing the pad again and operating system options
26:16 - Closing and Sut-up


Below are some affiliate links that help me grow and support this channel.

Leave me a COMMENT if you've learned something in this video. And thank you!

Audio Gear I use:
Awesome shotgun mic that's also a USB Mic: https://amzn.to/3j1nW5b
Industry Standard Headphones, Sony MDR-7506: https://amzn.to/3FOfoIG
Rode Wireless Go: https://amzn.to/3JrbKql
GREAT budget USB Mic: https://amzn.to/34FnrKB

Cameras used to film this video:
Panasonic GH5 (with 12-35 lens): https://amzn.to/31iwKOO
Secondary Lens: https://amzn.to/3fXFT2N
Panasonic 12mm f1.4 for Micro Four Thirds: https://amzn.to/3IvGN2I

B-Roll Camera for overhead and cut-away/side shots: https://amzn.to/3BqsgTP
Lens: https://amzn.to/3HWbGxJ
Secondary Lens: https://amzn.to/3uWvJs8

Other cool camera gear I use:
Manfrotto Pixie Tripod: https://amzn.to/3F8aepK
Smallrig Mini Tripod: https://amzn.to/3JQd0Ud
Articulating arm for my microphone: https://amzn.to/3f8Km2p
Backup and Cheap Microphone - Movo VXR10: https://amzn.to/3G9EUbi
K&F Concept Camera Tripod (Goes up to almost 7 feet!!): https://amzn.to/3f7x3zi
External Monitor, Atomos Shinobi: https://amzn.to/3tfxTSH
For Recording Externally with my Sony A7iii: https://amzn.to/3JUwZB2

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