Rode video mic question
 

Is the Rode Video Mic a stereo or mono mic? Also, if mono is it defaulted to the left or right channel? Thanks.

Mono (I think all shotguns are mono, but I could be wrong). Output is the same to L and R channels.

Not all shotguns are mono, but the Rode is indeed such.

Can't speak for the Rode, but most (all?) mono mics of this type have a mono 3.5mm (1/8") mono plug on the end which supplies signal to the left channel (tip/sleeve) and grounds the right channel (ring/sleeve) so there is no signal on the right.

You can easily make/buy a cable to allow two mono mics to be captured - one to each channel, so you can mix them in post. You just have to watch your levels if your camera can't set the levels of L and R individually.

Cheers

Hey Kyle, what would that type of cable be called so I can look it up?

The videomic is a mono mic with a stereo mini-jack. It outputs the same signal on both channels (left and right). You will have to create a special cable if you want to combine the videomic with another mic. Basically you need to drop one of both channels.

rumor has it that there is a stereo Rode Videomic in the works:

http://mixonline.com/rode-videomic-aes-101005/

Justin,
I have seen them at places that stock assorted audio adaptors and cables. It would be called a "Y-cable" or "stereo 3.5mm to 2x mono 3.5mm" or something similar.

Check out this page http://www.buyreliant.com/pfan/y_cables.htm
and go down to "TVMICY2" that's what I'm talking about except you want the males and females reversed (ie 1 male stereo and 2 female mono)

I made one for myself, but I've since lost it. If you make it, be sure to get good quality female sockets as the cheaper ones can crackle when they are moved.

Cheers

It's no rumor. The stereo Videomic will be out in February 2006 at under $300.