i know this isn't a $1000 but I have both the NTG2 and the Rode VideoMic. The VideoMic does NOT make any hum noise. This NTG2 does. I have to cut the overall volume in half to remove the hum. I would have to say, the volume cut in half sounds better than onboard mics on cameras.I tried the mic on the camera (HMC70) and off the camera. I tried using AA and no-AA Phantom power. I tried attenuation. I tried on other camcorders. really bad BUUUUUUZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZI bought this for better sound but sounds worse. I guess I will have to return and get the more recommended NTG3 or 416 someday.