Sound Comparison: Rode NTG-5 vs NTG-3 vs Sennheiser MKH416

How does the new Rode NTG-5 stack up against some strongholds like the NTG-3 and the Sennheiser MKH416?
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[bryanmichaelblock]

I bought an NTG-3 years ago and every time I hear it against the NTG5 or the venerable Sennheiser, I'm always convinced I made the best choice with the NTG-3.

[javidhaghiabi]

Ntg 3 has a powerful presence. A cinematic and rich sound.

[chiyolate]

I like the NTG-3, the low end is more full and a tiny bit crisper. But it can be done with a slight EQ adjustment in any audio software... so the cheaper should be the wisest choice.

[samshalim]

i don't know who need to know this but i was there when the video was filmed haha

[michaelpoczynek]

I had to listen to this on headphones and I like the sound of the NTG3 the best. Thanks for making this video.

[Enliamusic]

On your voice, I prefer the NTG-3 ! Super super smooth ! Thanks a lot for this review :)

[tonapacpictures]

Prefer 5 over 3. 3 has a bit too steep decline into the low end IMO, crushing the low-mid details, and sounds sorta unnaturally overhyped for that reason. 5 has smoother and less crushed transition to lows, and more transparency mid-highs. Just sounds more natural.

[voicetube]

I use the 416 and have for over 10 years as a professional voice artist it's nice to hear how similar it is to other excellent mics. As a side note, I'm actually using that 416 microphone with my speech to text program to make this comment :-)

[loudandclearmedia]

FWIW, being that close to the mics will certainly introduce proximity effect and accentuate the bottom end. I suspect the NTG3 would sound quite a bit thinner moved up 10-12" out of the frame.

[GraduatedMoney]

Wow, I really like the sound of the NTG-3

[TheoHeartsill]

Nice video. I think the NTG5 sounds a bit cleaner and crisper. The NTG3 has some bass but also muffles the lower tones.

[Glen.Danielsen]

Z, another video of supreme quality and excellence! Your comparison setup is just beautiful, and gives copious comparison. Absolutely marvelous and smartly done.
Cheers brother! Xièxiè (my wife is Chinese).

[ishudshutup]

NTG5 is clearly the all arounder, can do voice, sounds, music, good but not great in any. The 416 is similar but at a higher level than the NTG5. The NTG3 is the best for voice with very clean roll offs and seems tuned for that purpose. Great video as always!

[MikeAzul]

Awesome comparison between the three very helpful

[MarkBennettCameraCrisis]

This video has made me obsessed with the NTG3. I must have watched this 50 times. I would love to offset my squeaky voice with it.

[AudioBoi]

NTG 5 looks like a winner for me for it's price and good noise+sensitivity combo.

Thank u so much for helping me with this decision <3

[Mr.MikeTaylor]

I have the NTG5 and I love it, the self noise is so low that, that in itself makes it worth it.

[JamesClark]

They all sound good. The price, weight, length and accessories of the NTG5 are REALLY impressive though.

[CristuelCasto]

The NTG-3 seems to be the more balanced and pleasant to listen to of the three.

[justin-kelsey]

Just ordered my NTG5 thanks to this review -- thanks so much!