[Andy Wilkinson]

Hi Brian,

I haven 't been to Columbia, Missouri for a while (did some work there at the Uni a few years ago!)

I can't help with all your questions except that I highly rate the Rode NTG-3 (and Rodes after sales service/10 year guarantee should you ever have any issue with it - It does happen as another thread on here by me will inform). Seems a bit too new to be available second hand though so I guess that's $600 spent....and VERY well spent. Lovely mic. The very cheap WS7 windjammer is also excellent and very well worth buying for the NTG-3 and will help you with any outdoor work with it, ideally with the Rode Pistol Grip for boom. However, I sometimes use a (cheap) Rode Supension mount or an alternative make of wind protection (Rycote S Series 330) when it's on the Boom.

I have a 3 meter (5 section) Rode Boom Pole which is brilliant for a starter pole and very inexpensive. Looks very Pro too but maybe a tad heavy. They also do a shorter Mini Boom Pole (3 section, 2 Meters, I think off-hand) which will be even cheaper and a little lighter. Length/weight depends on your needs. Sure, there are lots of nice carbon fiber poles but those seem potentially out of your budget right now!!!

I'm sure others will chip in and answer your other questions. Good luck!