Rode M3 Review
Versatile End-Address Condenser Microphone
- Heavy-Duty Metal Body
- 9V Battery, 24V or 48V Phantom Power
- On-Mic Selectable High-Pass Filter
- Heat-Treated High-Strength Mesh Head
- Includes Windshield and Mic Clip
- Battery Status Indicator
- High Level of RF Rejection
- Zip Pouch
- Internal Capsule Shockmount
Introduction
In this article, we delve into a detailed analysis of 10,148 user reviews from various languages worldwide to examine the Rode M3. This analysis is performed by the RR artificial intelligence and updated daily with newly submitted reviews. The RR AI utilizes a complex algorithm to first scrutinize user reviews for credibility, filtering out unreliable ones. It then proceeds to dissect and evaluate the valuable insights within these reviews, providing users with ratings regarding the features of this product. Based on these assessments, users can make informed decisions about whether this product is suitable for them or not.
Ratings Based on Features
These results are a summary of user reviews of the Rode M3. For example, 90% of 2,797 users who have commented on the Value for money of the Rode M3 have given positive feedback.
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 17 of 17 Reviews
Wonderful Swiss army knife.
Rode M3 Versatile End-Address Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Roland Ciuoderis on B&H Photo Video
I have used many microphones throughout the years. It's important to know this for what it is. It's an all around mic, but a very good one at that.Kind of like an olympic triathlete. It Is very, very good at many things, but not great ant any one thing. Reminds me of a vehicle that is good on the highway able to hold its own off-road as well. Because it does both well, there will be compromises. On the highway it might not be the most quiet, and off road might not be able to manage the biggest bumps. So it goes- we have the Rode M3. A combination of condenser and dynamic characteristics...has the frequency response of a condenser (40-20k) and smooth highs (just a tad bright but in NO way hyped), with lower sensitivity like a dynamic and a natural bass roll off for noisier environments. Has a natural Bass rolloff that is fairly steep to around 200 hz. Has a 3-way switch--Off position, On, and High pass filter to extend bass roll off even more steeply..is great for noisy environments outside and wind noise. Can be used with phantom power ; or without it if you don't have it(just pop in a 9v battery which will power the mic. If you leave it in you can still connect it to phantom power..the battery will not be used). Rode claims battery will last 200 hours). Construction seems tank-like, and quality is truly beyond its price. How does it sound? to my ears very very'good'..not hyped, natural, with a slight 'crispness' in the top end like some MXL mics, but not cheap in any way.The M3 Sound much more expensive than the price would suggest (I agree with the Sound on Sound review) I would recommend this for vocal, acoustic guitars, snare drums, overheads...interviews and spoken word as well, and recording outdoors. Because of its natural roll-off vocals and acoustic guitars would be my choice. Downsides are: it is heavy, and really long, so not suitable for every situation... is much more susceptible to wind noise than a dynamic or LDC..so if using outdoors, the foam windscreen is a must, and engaging high-pas filter often necessary. If you need one mic that can do a lot, this is it.Can it replace an LDC? YES... SDC? yes.. Dynamic? yes, in certain situations. For a a mic to elegantly go from studio to recording an interview to an recording event says a lot. Should this be your only mic? No, but it would be difficult to outgrow, as I'm sure you'll always find a use for it. I HIGHLY recommend it.It it truly a bargain. ... More
Work Horse!
Rode M3 Versatile End-Address Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Travis on B&H Photo Video
This mic is a great all-around, general purpose mic and is my go-to for field recording. I've just purchased a second one because my first (purchased in 2009) stopped working after it fell into the Gulf of Mexico earlier this year (2015). It works great shoe-mounted on an ENG camera which is how I've used it primarily. Lately I've been pistol gripping it for audio only interviews. I usually put a dead-kitten on it. Shot a documentary with it in West, Texas where the winds are fierce and the dead-kitten cut the wind-noise to near nil. Not a good mic for a boom pole. It's very heavy. Love the pickup pattern of this thing. It has a broad, but still very clear sweet spot so you don't have to be so surgically precise when pointing it at someone like you do with shotguns. ... More
Excellent quality at a very good price
Rode M3 Versatile End-Address Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Wild Biker Bill on B&H Photo Video
I used a pair of these mics for recording a Beach Wedding. With the mics lowcut filter enabled, they worked extremely well to minimize the background high wind and surf noise while still picking up the minister, groom, and brides voices. I am extremely happy with the results I got. The only caveat I might mention was the need to remove the small washer inside the M3 mic so the XLR cable mic connector could insert into the mic fully and lock on.
Very Questionable Durability
Rode M3 Multi-Powered Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Charlie on Guitar Center
The mic had a great sound when it worked. The first one I bought used. When I opened it up, as you have to do this to access the pad switch, as well as put in the 9v battery to do field recording, it was difficult to open. When I was finally able to do so, all that was inside was shards of plastic. Guitar center was awesome and refunded me no questions asked. The second one I bought new with a protection plan, cause I thought it was a fluke and liked that it could be used to do field recording. The second one, a week after recieving it, started producing an aweful buzzing sound, and this was after switching cables and mxl inputs in my mixer. I was only able to use it for one recording session. All in all, there are better, more dependable options at this price range. I would not recommend this mic. ... More
M3 is an amazing mic
Rode M3 Versatile End-Address Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by James on B&H Photo Video
I have owned many mics over the years including the AKG C1000 which is the only other contendor in this category. I can honestly say the M3 now sets the standard for mics such as this. Low noise, great sound and cool features such as a high pass filter and battery status LED. The fact that you can use it on phantom power or battery for location work makes this an unbeatable deal. If you need a multi purposes mic for recording or live use, you cant go past the M3 in my opinion. Amazing value.
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hoooooooo d@mn
Rode M3 Multi-Powered Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by brandon Leitch on Guitar Center
great sounding mic for the price, holy cow. the features and quality seem way out of this price range but if you're looking for a good small diaphragm condenser on a budget, this is a great choice. have only used on acoustic instruments and vocals so far but the sound is incredibly accurate and agreeable. when i upgrade my preamps im sure i'll be further blown away by the capability of these mics. was my first Rode purchase but won't be my last xD
Great Multipurpose MIC
Rode M3 Multi-Powered Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by M. Williams on Guitar Center
This is a great everyday microphone to use in various situations. Power or no phantom power is no problem and this mic works very well in any and all situations. I've used for Nat Sounds, Spoken Word, and Mic'd various instruments. Exceeded expectations in all uses. Worked so well I bought a second.
Great Mic Until Its 5th Year
Rode M3 Versatile End-Address Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Daniel on B&H Photo Video
I use the M3 to record video voiceover, and this is my third M3 in 10 years. The first M3 worked for about 5 years and then the output level dropped to less than -50 dB regardless of the input level. Rode replaced it under warranty, and the replacement also worked about five years until it added a high-pitched noise during voice recording. Turning the switch off and on solved the noise problem temporarily. Since the problem was intermittent, I purchased my third M3 rather than return the second M3 to Rode. I've had the third M3 about a month and like the first two it performs as expected. Time will tell if the life of the third M3 will surpass the five-year limit of the first two. ... More
Great Mic
Rode M3 Versatile End-Address Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Rusty on B&H Photo Video
A great microphone. The forward only sound field had made this my mic of choice when I do not want ambient sound on interviews. At this price point this IS the mic of choice. It is self powered so it does not put a load on the video camera battery.
Rhode M3 mic
Rode M3 Versatile End-Address Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Pete on B&H Photo Video
I bought two of these and, so far, they meet my expectations. Sensitive, apparently fairly robust and free from phantom power challenges. Pete
Sounds and Works Great
Rode M3 Versatile End-Address Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Hugh on B&H Photo Video
I use this for close up recording when I shoot video. During closeups, my sound man holds this close to the source and I get fabulous full, rich sound. No regrets with this purchase.
Excellent microphone
Rode M3 Versatile End-Address Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Jacques on B&H Photo Video
Excellent microphone and 10 years warranty
Just an excellent Mic,
Rode M3 Versatile End-Address Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Michael on B&H Photo Video
Just really clear. Zero self noise and perfect for normal video recording Well worth the $150
Wery good sound and quality at the best price
Rode M3 Versatile End-Address Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by 3eski on B&H Photo Video
I am an amator. Using microphone for 6 months. The voice is awesome quality.
Great mic!
Rode M3 Versatile End-Address Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Christian on B&H Photo Video
This is my second M3. I use it to mike loud speakers at wedding receptions. And it's been great!
Great Mic
Rode M3 Versatile End-Address Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Steve on B&H Photo Video
Sturdy, high quality sound at good price!
RODE M3 Multi-Powered Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Brent B. on Reverb
Great multifunction mic.
