Quick answer
The Rode SC17 is a USB-C to USB-C data cable for connecting USB microphones like the NT-USB Mini to computers; the SC3 is a 3.5mm TRRS-to-TRS adaptor for connecting a smartLav microphone to cameras or recorders. Choose based on your mic’s connector type.
Why these two cables serve different purposes
The Rode SC17 and SC3 look similar but solve completely different connection problems. The SC17 is a digital USB cable; the SC3 is an analog audio adaptor. Your microphone determines which one you need.
Trying to use the SC3 as a USB cable or the SC17 as a headphone adaptor will not work because their connectors and signal types are incompatible.
Trade-offs to consider
The SC17 offers a straightforward USB-C link for modern devices, but it only works with USB-C hosts and peripherals. If your camera lacks USB-C input, the SC17 cannot help.
The SC3 solves a specific problem: adapting a TRRS lav mic output to TRS camera input. However, it does not add any signal processing and requires a smartLav or similar TRRS microphone.
Rode SC17 vs SC3: How to choose
- Connector type: SC17: USB-C male to USB-C male. SC3: 3.5mm TRRS female to 3.5mm TRS male.
- Supported microphone: SC17 works with USB mics like the NT-USB Mini; SC3 works with analog TRRS mics like the smartLav. If you are not sure about your mic connector, check whether it uses USB-C or a 3.5mm plug.
- Best use case: Use the SC17 for computer-based recording or podcasting. Use the SC3 for on-camera lavalier recording.
Product facts
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Rode SC17 USB 2.0 Type-C Male Cable (5'): The SC17 is a shielded USB-C to USB-C cable, 1.5 m long, Hi-Speed certified. It provides a reliable, interference-free digital connection between a USB-C microphone (such as the NT-USB Mini) and a computer or RØDECaster Pro.
Rode SC17 USB 2.0 Type-C Male Cable (5')
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Rode SC3 3.5mm TRRS to TRS Adaptor for smartLav: The SC3 adapts a 3.5mm TRRS output to a 3.5mm TRS input, with gold-plated connectors. This lets you plug a smartLav microphone into cameras or audio recorders that only accept TRS plugs (common in video gear).
Rode SC3 3.5mm TRRS to TRS Adaptor for smartLav
Which cable fits your setup?
Best for
- Rode SC17: USB-C microphone owners who need a shielded, certified cable for desk recording
- Rode SC3: smartLav users who want to connect to a camera or audio recorder with TRS input
Not for
- Rode SC17: Connecting a smartphone to a standard microphone – the smartphone mic requires an analog adaptor
- Rode SC3: Linking a USB microphone to a camera – use the SC17 or a compatible USB cable instead
