Feature:
With a switchable 10db and 20db pad and a highpass filter. This mic has everything you need. What's more, it can run off phantom power or a 9V battery! What more do you need? It comes with a sturdy case, pop filter and very firm mic clip. The mic is incredibly rugged too and should last you forever. To top this off, Rode also has a ten year warranty on the mic.
Quality:
Rode quality is superb. Even in Durban, with it's high humidity, I have seen almost no rust in the two years I've had this mic (there is some on the grill now, but that could easily happen from singing without the windshield)
Value:
I think Shure PG81s are probably better for the price but honestly, these come way ahead of the PG81 quality in my opinion and are much, much more versatile.
Desirability:
It's a Rode condenser. It's black :D It looks nice. A little on the big side but meh.
Sound:
The sound on this is absolutely perfect for pretty much every application I have used it in (and there are lots): Drum Overheads (recording and live), Electric Guitar, Piano, Vocals, Saxophone, Recorder, Violin, Cello, Podium/speech.
Ease of Use:
Well.. it's a mic. You plug it in and go. The pad switch is located inside the mic body so you need to unscrew the lower half to access it and you'll need a toothpick or screwdriver to switch it. Besides, this it takes ten seconds to have everything plugged in, mounted and running.
Support:
They do reply and give straight answers and are generally helpful. :) They did take a little while to reply though.
Overall:
I will be buying more M3s in the future and some of Rode's other products too. These are inexpensive and well worth it in terms of quality. Take care of them and they'll last forever.
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