Røde has released a next-generation update to the best-selling VideoMicro on-camera shotgun microphone. As the first microphone in the world to bring professional sound quality to such a compact form factor, the VideoMicro is iconic and has become a classic amongst everyone from amateur content creators to professional filmmakers. The VideoMicro II takes everything that made the original such a success and introduces several new features for enhanced performance, redefining the gold standard for ultra-compact on-camera audio.

The VideoMicro II is an ultra-compact on-camera microphone that is lightweight and easy-to-use, perfect for run-and-gun filmmakers and content creators.

Key Features Of The VideoMicro II

• Professional-grade on-camera shotgun microphone
• Supercardioid polar pattern for highly directional audio capture
• Røde’s annular line tube technology for unmatched transparency and natural, full-bodied sound
• Innovative HELIX isolation mount system for superior protection from knocks, bumps and handling noise
• 3.5mm TRS output with plug-and-play connectivity and no complicated controls – incredibly easy to use
• Ultra-compact and lightweight — just 39g
• Rugged, all-metal body and premium components
• Deluxe foam and furry windshields and cables for connecting to cameras and smartphones included
• Designed and made in Røde’s state-of-the-art facilities in Sydney, Australia

“The VideoMicro was groundbreaking when it was released almost a decade ago,” said Røde CEO Damien Wilson. “Never before had creators been able to record crystal-clear audio with a microphone as compact, lightweight and easy to use. It has since become the world’s best-selling on-camera mic and has spawned many imitators, though none have replicated the professional performance of the original. Over the past ten years, we have continued to innovate across our entire VideoMic range, and we are excited to now update the VideoMicro with next-generation features for today’s creators.”

Pro Audio, Simple As Plug In & Go

The VideoMicro II makes recording professional audio directly to a camera or smartphone incredibly simple. It is a true shotgun condenser microphone, with a supercardioid polar pattern for highly directional audio capture that focuses on what it is pointed at while reducing background noise. 

The body has been completely redesigned, utilising Røde’s revolutionary annular line tube technology for unmatched transparency and natural, full-bodied sound. The circuitry has also been overhauled, offering enhanced sensitivity and lower self-noise. The VideoMicro II delivers incredible sound quality never heard before in such a compact form factor, but it is just as simple to use as the original. 

With no batteries required to operate and no complicated controls, it is the perfect microphone for creators who want to instantly elevate the audio quality of their camera or smartphone with no fuss.

Superior Protection From Knocks, Bumps & Wind Noise

One of the most striking new features of the VideoMicro II is the sleek red suspension mount. This is the HELIX isolation mount, a highly innovative shock mount system developed in-house at Røde specifically for the VideoMicro II. 

Featuring a groundbreaking design expertly crafted to the exact specifications of the microphone, it solves many of the issues that other shock mounts face when used with compact, lightweight microphones. Moulded from a single piece of advanced Hytrel thermoplastic, it fully isolates the capsule from vibrations that occur from knocks, bumps and general handling, which can result in rumbles and other audio artefacts in a recording. It is designed to the exact size and weight of the microphone, ensuring optimal stabilisation and acoustic performance, while being super low-profile. It also features handy cable management slots and a standard mount for attaching to a camera cold shoe, plus a 3/8-inch thread for mounting onto a boom-pole and other accessories. 

The VideoMicro II also comes with deluxe foam and furry windshields for protection from wind noise, making it suitable for recording in a wide range of environments, indoors or in the elements. Also included is a 3.5mm TRS to TRS cable for connecting to cameras and a 3.5mm TRS to TRRS cable for connecting to smartphones.

Compact, Lightweight & Rugged

At just 39g, the VideoMicro II is incredibly compact and lightweight, making it ideal for use with DSLR and mirrorless cameras, compact and action cameras, and smartphones. It is super portable, taking up minimal space in a creator kit, camera bag, or simply a backpack or handbag. It is also incredibly tough, designed and made in Røde’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Sydney, Australia using premium components, including a rugged, all-metal body and broadcast-grade capsule.

The VideoMicro II is now shipping worldwide and available for US$79. 

More information here.

Røde introduces another addition to its range of on-camera microphones. Introducing the VideoMic GO II, a lightweight and compact shotgun microphone with features aimed squarely at today’s content creators. Like the original VideoMic GO, the VideoMic GO II offers quality sound while being very simple to use, while also having a few new tricks up its sleeve for more power and versatility.

Key Features:

• Novel acoustic design first introduced with the VideoMic NTG and NTG5 shotgun microphones – delivers transparent and rich, full-bodied sound
• 3.5mm TRS output for use with cameras and USB-C output for use with smartphones, tablets and computers
• Lightweight (89 grams) and compact, making it highly portable and useful in a wide range of content creation applications
• Easy to use – no batteries required and no complicated switches or controls
• Compatible with Røde apps for accessing advanced features, powerful audio processing, and high-quality recording on any device
• Designed and made in Røde’s facilities in Sydney, Australia

Pro Audio With Ease

The VideoMic GO II features the same acoustic design as the VideoMic NTG and NTG5 professional shotgun microphones, which utilises Røde’s innovative annular line tube technology to deliver transparency and full-bodied sound. The VideoMic GO II runs off plug-in or USB power, meaning no batteries are required to operate, and with no switches or controls, it is simple to use, allowing creators to just pick it up, plug it in and go.

One Mic For Every Device

Like all Røde VideoMics, the VideoMic GO II features a 3.5mm TRS output and is an excellent solution for filmmakers and content creators in need of a compact, easy-to-use microphone for capturing audio with a camera. It also features a USB-C output for plugging directly into smartphones, tablets and computers.

This technology has huge creative potential, making the VideoMic GO II suitable for everything from creating content for TikTok on a smartphone to recording a podcast on a computer. When used in USB mode, the 3.5mm port functions as a headphone output for zero-latency audio monitoring and playback, essentially turning the VideoMic GO II into a fully-featured USB mic.

Small But Mighty

Weighing 89 grams and measuring 150mm in length, the VideoMic GO II is ultra-lightweight and compact. It is perfect for use with compact cameras, smartphone recording rigs or as a desktop USB microphone, and is small enough to be taken anywhere – ideal for creators on the move. Despite its diminutive size, the VideoMic GO II packs a punch, with a shockmount and windshield included, and all-metal body ensure it can take on the rigours of creating.

Processing Power

Connecting the VideoMic GO II to a smartphone, tablet or computer via USB allows access to the Røde app suite: Røde Connect, Røde Central and Røde Reporter. Here, the mic can be configured, recorded with and signal processed.

Røde Central is a desktop and mobile companion app that gives users access to advanced features, including a high-pass filter, high-frequency boost, pad, and control over the input level and headphone output level.

The VideoMic GO II is fully compatible with Røde Connect, Røde’s free podcasting and streaming software. This allows up to four VideoMic GO IIs (and other compatible Røde microphones) to be connected to a computer, with control over the microphone’s input level, access to the high-pass filter, high-frequency boost and pad, plus studio-grade audio processing, including the legendary APHEX Aural Exciter and Big Bottom effects, and a compressor and noise gate.

For creators looking for a simple solution for recording broadcast-quality audio on a mobile device, the VideoMic GO II can also be used with the Røde Reporter app for iOS and Android devices.

Compatibility with Røde Central, Røde Connect and Røde Reporter via its unique USB output transforms the VideoMic GO II into a powerful and versatile microphone, perfect for everyone from mobile content creators to podcasters and livestreamers.

“When we released the VideoMic NTG in 2019, we completely re-thought on-camera audio,” says Røde CEO Damien Wilson. “With its innovative acoustic design and USB recording capabilities, it pushed the boundaries of what a compact shotgun mic was capable of. Not only was it ideal for on-camera use, but it also became a go-to for mobile content creators, an excellent portable recording solution for podcasters and streamers, and a do-it-all microphone for filmmakers.”

He continues: “The VideoMic GO II combines these same features with the ultra-lightweight and easy-to-use form factor of the original VideoMic GO to offer a versatile yet approachable microphone ideal for a wide variety of creators.”

Røde Microphones has announced three additions to its market-leading range of creative solutions for vloggers. Introducing the Røde Vlogger Kits. Featuring a high-quality Røde VideoMic, tripod, phone grip, LED light and accessories, the Vlogger Kits contain everything an aspiring superstar needs to create incredible video content on a smartphone.

Røde Vlogger Kit Key Features

• All-in-one mobile filmmaking kit that includes a Røde VideoMic, Tripod 2, SmartGrip, MicroLED and accessories
• Options for iOS (Lightning) and Android (USB-C) devices, plus a Universal Edition (3.5mm)
• High-quality microphone that delivers professional, directional sound in any recording situation
• Three-position tripod with gimbal head – perfect for either handheld or tabletop use
• MicroLED on-camera light with diffuser and eight coloured filters for flawless shots
• Lightweight all-metal mount with rubberised grips, accommodates phones 65mm to 85mm wide

All-In-One Mobile Filmmaking Solution

The Røde Vlogger Kits are the perfect all-in-one solution for anyone looking to take their mobile content creation to the next level.

The range caters to every type of smartphone, with options for iPhone, which includes a Røde VideoMic Me-L with a Lightning connector, and Android devices, which features the new Røde VideoMic Me-C with a USB-C connector.

There is also a Universal Edition, which includes a Røde VideoMicro for use with smartphones that feature a 3.5mm input, such as older iPhones and Android models. This can also be used with Lightning and USB-C equipped smartphones using a certified adaptor. A Vlogger Kit for everyone!

In addition to these compact microphones, each Kit includes the new Røde Tripod 2, a sturdy three-position tripod with a gimbal head, the new Røde SmartGrip, a lightweight all-metal mount with rubberised grips for keeping smartphones stable and secure, and the new Røde MicroLED on-camera light, which slots neatly onto the SmartGrip.

Incredible Sound, Incredible Vision

Attention-grabbing vlogs are as much about great sound as they are great video, and the Vlogger Kits will ensure every moment is captured in full definition.

The single most powerful way to improve smartphone audio is to use an external microphone. The high-quality Røde VideoMic in each Kit will deliver crystal-clear sound in any recording situation. These are directional microphones that reduce background noise while focusing on what they are pointed at, ensuring audio is clean and intelligible. They are light, compact, and even include a furry windshield for filming outdoors.

In a first for Røde, the Vlogger Kits have been designed to help vloggers capture incredible video as well as incredible audio. Together, the Tripod 2 and SmartGrip will ensure every shot is stable and perfectly framed, while the MicroLED provides a professional look to any situation. There is also a clip-on diffuser with eight coloured filters for capturing warm skin tones, cool outdoor scenes, and everything in between.

Simple & Versatile

The Vlogger Kits have been specifically designed to vastly improve the look and sound of smartphone content while being incredibly simple to use. Anyone can be vlogging in seconds.

The VideoMic in each Kit plugs directly into a smartphone and connects seamlessly with any recording app. Just plug it in and go. They can also be configured for main or ‘selfie’ camera use for maximum flexibility, and the accessories are quick and easy to set up, ensuring vloggers never miss a moment.

The included accessories are super-versatile, with the ergonomic Tripod 2 supporting both handheld and tabletop use and its gimbal head allowing for flexible positioning. The MicroLED and its diffuser and eight coloured filters ensure vloggers can adapt to any recording environment, with over four hours of operation available on a single charge​ – more than enough for even the longest vlogs.

The Røde Vlogger Kits are the perfect all-in-one mobile filmmaking solution for home moviemakers, mobile content creators, YouTubers, TikTokers and run ‘n’ gun journalists – anyone who wants to capture unforgettable content that looks and sounds incredible.

The Røde Vlogger Kits are currently shipping worldwide and will be available in-store in the coming weeks.

RØDE Microphones announces a major update to the ground-breaking VideoMic NTG. The VideoMic NTG is now officially MFi-certified, unlocking complete compatibility with Lightning-equipped iOS devices, including iPhone, iPad and iPod. This coincides with the release of a new RØDE Lightning Accessory Cable, the SC15 – a high-quality USB-C to Lightning cable that’s perfect for connecting the VideoMic NTG to Apple mobile devices.

With an innovative acoustic serving up serious audio quality and an expansive feature set unlike anything else on the market, the VideoMic NTG redefined on-camera audio. It has since been adopted by many filmmakers, vloggers and content creators.

One of the most ingenious features of the VideoMic NTG is the USB-C audio output, which allows it to be plugged into a computer, tablet or smartphone and used as a full-featured USB microphone.

Previously, the VideoMic NTG was only compatible with Lightning-equipped iOS devices using the 3.5mm output. Now, creators can plug the VideoMic NTG into their iPhone, iPad or iPod via USB with the RØDE SC15, unleashing the full potential of the mic, including:

• Headphone monitoring with complete volume control using the variable output knob
• Two-way audio transmission for making video calls
• Access to the safety channel, which creates a second output at -20dB in case the main channel distorts
• 24-bit/48kHz digital audio conversion

The SC15 has been designed specifically for connecting the VideoMic NTG to Apple mobile devices with a Lightning port. At 30cm long, it’s the perfect length for use in a compact mobile recording rig, and even features a junction box that slots neatly into the VideoMic NTG shock mount cable management system.

Shure’s original Motiv MV88 was a reasonably svelte iOS stereo condenser mic. Sure, its chunky base plate gave it similar dimensions to an early Rode iXY, but it packed in the features to compensate. By opting for a Mid-Side stereo mic configuration, the MV88 allowed you to tailor your capture width in degrees from mono through to raw MS and every stereo flavour in-between.

The Motiv M88+ is a bit plus-sized when compared with the original. It has the same finger-width capsule head, but its rear end has some real girth. The added bulk allowed Shure to squeeze it into a standard mic clip, and stuff in a headphone amplifier for real-time monitoring. With only a few volts of power available for phone peripherals to siphon off, these sorts of headphone amps tend to be relatively weak. The MV88+ is no different here, it enhances the sensation of what you’re recording but isn’t loud enough to isolate you from the raw sound.

In the app you can slide the monitoring source between the mic and playback, but I’m not sure why as the app doesn’t have any overdubbing features, nor does the slider adjust the headphone volume from its fixed level.

APP-Y DAYS

There are actually two free-to-download apps you can use: Motiv Audio and Motiv Video. The audio controls are exactly the same on both, with the Video app additionally tapping into your phone camera. At first glance, it appears to allow WAV recording in your video files. I’m unsure what internal processing this may relate to, but all the videos on my iPhone outputted with the standard AAC-encoded audio regardless of the setting I chose.

Besides that, the apps are very well-designed. They allow up to 36dB of mic gain, which tends to be enough when paired with the sensitivity of the capsule. There’s also a switchable dual-stage high-pass filter; a limiter you can turn on or off; a compressor with three strength settings; and a five-band graphic EQ. If you manage to miss the big L and R markings on the mic barrel, there’s also a left/right swap function.

These are all user-adjustable, or you can opt for one of five preset DSP settings with icons for sources like Speech and Guitar. These tailor all the settings at once, including the stereo polar pattern.

Beyond that, the Audio app has a relatively straightforward marker and editing system. While the Video app simply sends the videos to your camera roll.