Quick answer

Choose the Rode SC3 if you need to connect a smartLav to a camera or recorder via 3.5mm TRS. Choose the NTH-CABLE24 if you need a replacement or upgrade cable for your Rode NTH-100 headphones.

Why the connector type matters

The Rode SC3 and NTH-CABLE24 serve completely different purposes, so your choice depends on what you're connecting. The SC3 is an adapter that converts a TRRS signal to TRS, letting you use a smartLav with devices that have a standard 3.5mm TRS input. The NTH-CABLE24 is a dedicated headphone cable designed specifically for the Rode NTH-100, with a locking connector for secure attachment.

Trade-offs to consider

The SC3 is a compact, shielded adapter with gold-plated contacts, but it only works for the specific use case of connecting a smartLav to TRS devices. It won't help with headphone cable replacement. The NTH-CABLE24 offers a locking mechanism and includes a threaded ¼-inch adaptor and COLORS ID rings, but it's only compatible with the NTH-100 headphones. If you need a cable for other headphones, look elsewhere.

Decision rules

  • Choose the SC3 if: You need to connect a smartLav microphone to a camera, audio recorder, or other device with a 3.5mm TRS input. The SC3 converts the TRRS signal from the smartLav to TRS. Ensure your device uses a 3.5mm TRS input; if it uses TRRS, you don't need this adapter.
  • Choose the NTH-CABLE24 if: You own a Rode NTH-100 headphone and need a replacement or spare cable. The locking connector and included ¼-inch adaptor make it ideal for studio or field use. This cable is only compatible with the NTH-100; it won't work with other headphone models.
  • Consider both if: You have both a smartLav and an NTH-100 headphone. The SC3 and NTH-CABLE24 address different needs, so owning both makes sense for a versatile audio setup.

Product facts

  • Rode SC3 3.5mm adaptor: The SC3 is a high-quality shielded adaptor, designed to allow the smartLav to connect to 3.5mm TRS devices such as cameras and audio recorders. The gold-plated contacts are colour coded, with grey indicating the TRRS input. This adapter is essential if you own a smartLav and want to use it with a camera or audio recorder that has a standard TRS input.

    Rode SC3 3.5mm adaptor

    Rode SC3 3.5mm adaptor

  • Rode NTH CABLE24 Headphone Cable for NTH-100 (2.4m) - Black: High-quality flexible cable for use with the RØDE NTH-100 headphones. Features locking connector that attaches to the earcup for complete security. Includes threaded ¼-inch adaptor and COLORS ID set. The locking connector prevents accidental disconnection during use, and the included adaptor and colour rings make it versatile for professional studio or field recording.

    Rode NTH CABLE24 Headphone Cable for NTH-100 (2.4m) - Black

    Rode NTH CABLE24 Headphone Cable for NTH-100 (2.4m) - Black

Which cable fits your workflow?

Best for

  • Creators using a smartLav with cameras or recorders (SC3)
  • NTH-100 owners needing a secure, professional headphone cable (NTH-CABLE24)

Not for

  • Connecting a smartLav to a TRRS device (SC3 not needed)
  • Replacing cables on non-Rode headphones (NTH-CABLE24 only fits NTH-100)