I use the Rode NTG-1 and the Rode Dead Cat and i place the mic in the mic holder of the A1 but the fur did show up on the LCD so i gave the cat a little haircut on the bottom piece until it didn't show up on the LCD(zoomed out of course)

...And an instant offer of free replacement from the Rode UK reps. That's what I call service.

I think the SM3 could do with a washer between the tilt locking screw and the plate which it tightens against. Then if the tilt angle gets changed without loosening the screw, the plate doesn't get forced to turn and break the circular plastic enclosure.

UPDATE: Replacement arrived this morning.

... and another one bites the dust
 

Here we go again. RIP number 3 SM3 - it just Rode off into the sunset.

It saw a lot of use, sometimes on a camera sometimes on a mic stand or boom but I was really very careful with it. Same fault at exactly the same place - round the tilt locking plate. It passed away in its sleep, overnight on a mic stand without the mic fitted.

However, I will take it up with the Rode UK rep and I am confident that they will sort it out. Don't be put off Rode mics, but be very gentle with the shockmounts.

Hi everyone .. RODE HQ are looking into this now.

Cheers.

New bottom assembly on its way from Rode UK rep. I'm sure that Rode will sort out the design/manufacturing prob, but it's good to know that their support and service is first class meantime.

Hi Arif,
I would suggest using the Rode SM5 shock mount. It is very sturdy being machined aluminium, & will fit into the mic holder with a bit of gaffer tape to take up the slack between the two. This shock mount i have found to be very good at rejecting noise from the camera. You can also mount it from the front or the back of the mic bracket to make sure you don't end up with your mic in shot if you are using it with a fluffy or the like. This way will also leave your hotshoe free for other accessories.
Regards,
Bryce