Rode is an Australian-based company that specializes in manufacturing high-quality microphones and audio equipment for various applications, including studio recording, live performances, filmmaking, podcasting, and more.
They offer a wide range of microphones designed to meet the needs of different users, from professional audio engineers to content creators and hobbyists.
if you’re shooting video, you may just need an upgrade to your camera’s built-in microphone. For that, I would recommend a shotgun mic. I would recommend RØDE for shotgun mics.
The unboxing of the Rode microphone
When you unbox a Rode microphone, you will typically find the following items:
- The Rode Microphone: The main product, which could be a condenser microphone, shotgun microphone, or any other type depending on the specific model you purchased.
- Microphone Accessories: This may include items such as a shock mount, foam windscreen, or pop filter, depending on the microphone model and package.
- Cables: Rode microphones usually come with the required cables to connect the microphone to various devices like audio interfaces or cameras. Common cables include XLR cables or TRS cables.
- Documentation: You’ll find the user manual, warranty information, and any other relevant documentation included in the box.
- Packaging: The microphone and accessories will be securely packed to prevent any damage during shipping.
Remember to carefully unbox the microphone and keep all the packaging and accessories in case you need to transport or store the microphone safely in the future.
Some popular Rode microphone models include:
- Rode NT1-A: A large-diaphragm condenser microphone widely used for studio recording, vocals, and instruments.
- Rode NTG series: A series of shotgun microphones designed for video production, filmmaking, and outdoor recording.
- Rode VideoMic series: On-camera microphones tailored for use with DSLR cameras and camcorders, commonly used by vloggers and content creators.
- Rode PodMic: A dynamic microphone specifically optimized for podcasting and broadcasting applications.
- Rode Wireless GO: A compact and versatile wireless microphone system suitable for content creation, filmmaking, and vlogging.
- Rode SmartLav+: A lavalier microphone designed to be used with smartphones for interviews and mobile recording.
Rode microphones are known for their excellent audio quality, durability, and value for money. They have gained popularity in the audio industry and among content creators due to their reliable performance and user-friendly features.
About Rode
Be sure to buy from an authorized dealer. I have the VideoMic Pro and the VideoMicro, the ladder is a perfect companion for the smaller mirrorless cameras. Both microphones are used by many top YouTubers.
If you want to take things to the next level, for maximum broadcast quality, the professionals’ choice is the NTG4. A microphone built on Rode’s award winning NTG1 microphone. The NTG4 is used by many of YouTube’s top professional filmmakers. The NTG4+ is typically $300 on Amazon .
And for mobile filmmakers, the RØDE VideoMic Me-L is a great shotgun microphone that plugs into your phone’s headphone jack. It is portable, lightweight and quite powerful.
SmartLav+: The Best Lavalier Microphone
There is a saying in photography: “the best camera is the one you take with you”. I think the same about lavalier microphones, I have many but my favorite is the RØDE smartLav+.
It is the easiest to use, you just have to connect it to your smartphone. For any other lavalier microphone, you’ll need to pair it with an audio recorder first.
Lapel mics are great for when you don’t want a big mic in the shot. They’re great for interviews and a must-have for wedding photography (in the groom’s or minister’s pocket, for example).
If you’re going to be recording outdoors or anywhere ambient noise might be an issue, a lavalier microphone is a great option.
The downside, of course, is setup time. You’ll have to pass it under your clothing, and sometimes with excessive movement, you’ll hear your clothing rub against the microphone. Also, you will need to spend a few minutes testing the setup and reproducing it before using it for production.
Another specific downside to the smartLav+ is that, since it’s used with a smartphone, you’ll need to use it on Do Not Disturb to bypass notifications, and you’ll need to make sure it doesn’t unlock in your pocket and pause the audio. Personal audio recorders have lock switches that prevent this from happening.
Final Thoughts: Even the Best Microphones Fail
The last advice that I leave you is that you consider having a backup audio. If you have audio set up for a big podcast interview, things can happen. Devices fail, batteries die, memory cards fill up, etc.
So if your budget is $800, instead of buying two Shure SM7Bs because that’s what the pros use at the highest level, consider a pair of Blue Yeti’s and a good shotgun mic or personal audio recorder as a backup. Especially if you’re starting a new podcast or stream, and ROI is a consideration.
Always make sure to check the specific model’s specifications and features to find the one that best suits your needs and intended use.