What would be the advantage of the Rode NTG-2 be over the Rode Videomic? It seems to me that the Videomic is pretty versitile. I was looking for an "off camera" mic for my XL2. I don't need anything serious. Just something I can shoot some shorts (just for fun) with, maybe some interviews or voiceover. I also have a GL2 that I could use the Videomic with, which interests me.

What makes the NTG-2 worth $100 more, other than you can use phantom power with it? The numbers on paper between the two look pretty close but the is labled "broadcast quality" and the Videomic "studio quality".

build quality would be at the top of the list as far as differences. One is plastic, the other is metal. The difference between phantom (48v) and a 9V power supply means more headroom and less noise. Balanced out is another difference.

NTG2 has XLR connection (balanced out as Michael notes). This might change your choice. I don't know what audio connection the GL2 uses...

How you attach it to the camera could change your choice as well. Videomic has its own connector with shock mount, but uses up the accessory shoe that you might want to leave clear for a light or something. There's a good review of it here:

http://www.videomaker.com/article/12163/

I Have the NTG2, which I'm happy with for my Z1, but I was able to use the Z1's mic mount and leave my accessory shoe clear. Also, I can use phantom power and not worry about batteries, and I have balanced connection with XLR.

This is a stupid question, but what's a "balanced out" and why do you want it?

@ Adam: Wikipedia is your friend:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balanced_audio

Ahhhh.....gracias.