RØDE NTG5 microphone

The RØDE NTG5 is a short, ultra-lightweight shotgun microphone designed for demanding location recording and professional filmmaking. It uses a revolutionary acoustic design with circular ports to deliver transparent, natural sound with a tightly controlled frequency response and very low self-noise. The microphone is compact and light—around 76 g and just over 20 cm long—making it suitable for boom operation and extended shoots. The NTG5 kit includes a WS10 deluxe windshield, PG2-R pistol grip, and other accessories, and the microphone features RF-bias circuitry for reliable performance in high humidity, cold, damp, and dusty conditions.

Advantages

The NTG5 provides a neutral, uncoloured tonal balance and a smooth off-axis response, achieving clear capture with a sensitivity of −23.5 dB, a frequency range of 20–20,000 Hz, and a signal-to-noise ratio of 84 dB. Its very low self-noise (10 dBA) and low total harmonic distortion (1%) ensure accurate reproduction of dialog and location sound. The lightweight, short-barrel form factor reduces strain for boom operators while RF-bias circuitry improves reliability in adverse environments.

Suitable for

• Location sound recording for film and TV
• Boom pole operation and ENG work
• Documentary production and interviews
• Professional voice and dialog capture on set

Key specifications

• Model: RØDE NTG5
• Sensitivity: −23.5 dB
• Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz
• Self-noise: 10 dBA
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): 1%
• Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR): 84 dB
• Connectivity: Wired
• Power: 48 V phantom power
• Colours: Black, Grey, Red
• Weight: ~76 g
• Length: just over 20 cm

How to use

Mount the NTG5 on a boom pole or pistol grip and connect it to a recorder or mixer with a balanced XLR cable. Power the microphone with 48 V phantom power. Position the microphone toward the sound source, keeping the barrel aimed at the subject while avoiding excessive proximity that may cause proximity effect. Use the supplied WS10 windshield outdoors to reduce wind noise and the PG2-R grip for comfortable handheld or mounted operation.

Recommendations

For best results in location recording, position the NTG5 slightly above or in front of the talent, maintain consistent distance, and use the windshield and proper windscreens when shooting outdoors. Check levels and monitor with headphones to ensure clean, undistorted capture.