Thanks for the clarification and the heads-up on Azden. What about the Audio-Technica AT897... it seems to be priced and sized about the same as the NTG-2, and has a similar signal-to-noise ratio (77 dB for the AT-897 versus 76 dB for the NTG-2). Would I hear much difference between these two mics?

I haven't used the AT so I can't speak from first-hand knowledge. A 1dB difference is signal/noise ratio won't be noticable.

Inside you're Videomic box should be an extra set of silicone bands. Double up your bands and you'll have less shake.

You're not going to hear much difference between an AT897 and a RODE NTG-2
You can listen to them against your existing Videomic here DVeStore’s Shotgun Shootout at DVcreators.net

To get these shotguns to really sound good you need to get them close to the subject and you need a little clean pre-amp (if your camera doesn't have clean pres), and that's what the Juicedlink will do.

I think you'd be better off spending the money on an inexpensive Audio Technica Pro88 wireless and getting the mic closer to your subject. You don't have to mount it on the person, just "plant it" nearby. For example, if you're shooting a kids party and they're going to cut the cake, just drop it on the table and stand back 5-7 feet. Send the wireless to the Left channel and the on-camera mic to Right channel.

You can find a 1/8" "Y" cable to feed both the Videomic and the wireless into your HG20.

Hope this helps,

May I enter this thread with a question that is related, though not totally on point?
I am also looking at the Rode NTG-2 (unfortunately, not with one at hand, which would answer the question for me). I shoot wildlife with the mike that comes on the Canon XLH1, and a fuzzy cover. It works fine. The question is, would a Rode work better. I do not care about isolating the sound with a narrow recording pattern. In wildlife video, ambient sound is a good thing to have. The trouble is in removing low frequency and wind noises in post. Even with the fuzzy cover there always is some wind noise. The resultant sound track is shot through with warbling artifact. I'm wondering if a better microphone (higher signal to noise?) can prevent the artifact.

You will definitely hear a difference. The NTG-2 will sound clearer and less tinny, that stock mic, as many others sound "thin". You really just have to experience it for yourself in your environment to realize what you're missing.
I'd be happy to loan you one, along with the windmuff or even a RODE Blimp if you're interested, we're a RODE dealer and a sponsor of DVinfo.net
The NTG-2 also has a bass roll off switch that you can enable to cut out low end rumble. You'll also experience less handling noise.
Should you decided to keep either, I can offer a 10% discount off the lowest advertised price you can find. How's that sound?

Guy,
That's a wonderful offer. Thank you. How do I contact you?

Steve

Steve,
I have the NTG2 on a boom pole with the Rode pistol grip shock mount and WS6 wind screen.. works pretty well. I'm happy with it...
I use the AT 897 as a camera mounted mic.


cheers
Gareth

I can confirm this. I own both mics. The Videomic is now in my museum of purchase failures. It just picked up too much handling noise no matter what I did.

IMHO The NTG-2 is so much better with regard to handling noise I almost can not overstate it.

Wow, can't ask for more than that! Guy, I am sending you an email regarding a job specific audio kit I am working to build. I would welcome your help!

This is one of the fantastic things about this site - a newbie (me) can access unbelievable expertise and quality gear. Thanks DVI!

Coming late to this thread. Here's info on the RODE Videomic problem with loose, floppy and noisy suspension.

In late 2006, RODE received a shipment of faulty 0 rings for the VM. Unfortunately some got into the system and out to dealers before being halted. Prior to that there were no problems.

Not being content with just replacing the faulty rings RODE completely redesigned the 0 ring to a configured 8 which also stops it from being pulled off as some people found when jamming the VM into a small space in their cam bags. One guy did this together with an open can of soda; the soaked mic still worked, for a while anyway :(

If anyone happened to buy a VM with faulty 0 rings, by emailing RODE they received a set of the new rings FOC, as CEO Pete Freedman explained on their site.

Dealers also corrected the problem with their stock, so by now I\'d expect it\'s history, but you never know.

RØDE Microphones - VM Bands

Cheers.