Rode’s new PodMic USB also sports an XLR socket

It looks as if Rode has began a brand new design development in a few of their microphone releases. A minimum of, they have got with microphones probably destined for lifestyles subsequent to a pc. It all started with the fifth Technology Rode NT1 (purchase right here), and now they’re enforcing it once more with the brand new Rode PodMic USB. Yup, the newly introduced PodMic USB (purchase right here) gives each USB and XLR connectivity.

Because the successor to the unique Rode PodMic, the brand new PodMic USB gives the similar nice sound you’re used to from the unique, however with additional versatility. As a USB microphone, it options Rode’s Revolution Preamps and comprises the entire same old APHEX audio processing options we’ve began seeing in Rode’s different virtual USB-capable microphones, such because the Rode Wi-fi GO II (purchase right here) and Rode NT-USB+ (purchase right here).

Rode PodMic USB – Each USB and XLR

Whilst this isn’t the primary Rode microphone to supply each XLR and USB output, its use right here differs moderately from its earlier implementation. A minimum of, it differs so far as the format is anxious. Whether or not or no longer it impacts capability is any other subject solely. Within the Rode fifth Technology NT1, the USB socket was once embedded deep inside the XLR socket. This intended that you just had been compelled to select both one or the opposite. If a USB cable was once plugged in, it was once bodily unattainable to put in an XLR cable – and vice versa.

At the new Rode PodMic USB, the association of the sockets permits for each XLR and USB to be plugged in concurrently. This raises an evident query. Does it imply you’ll be able to digitally transmit into your laptop over USB and concurrently ship an analogue sign to a mixer, audio interface or box recorder? We’ve reached out to Rode to determine extra and we’ll replace right here if and after we obtain a reaction.

The XLR and USB sockets of the Rode NT1 fifth Technology (left) and the Rode PodMic USB (proper)

Despite the fact that the 2 outputs are in a position to paintings concurrently, any APHEX results implemented will most probably no longer elevate directly to the XLR socket and handiest follow to the virtual USB output. It’s conceivable that Rode would possibly’ve found out a approach to use it on the analogue XLR sign, however I wouldn’t get my hopes up. We nonetheless don’t know if the 2 sockets can be utilized concurrently – despite the fact that I’m leaning against the solution being sure. Else why separate the 2 sockets out as an alternative of going with the NT1’s design?

0-latency headphone output

You’ll understand that there’s additionally a headphone socket at the backside finish of the microphone, subsequent to the XLR and USB sockets, in addition to a large gold dial. That is the zero-latency headphone output, offering realtime comments immediately to the listener.

This makes lifestyles such a lot more practical when the usage of this sort of microphone in a podcast state of affairs. Everyone is in a position to listen themselves without delay from their very own microphones as they communicate to verify they’re at all times in a primary talking place. There’s no messing round with headphone amplifiers and looking to path the appropriate microphone to the appropriate pair of headphones. Right here, each and every speaker simply wishes to take a seat down, plug of their cans and so they’re able to head.

It additionally makes it more straightforward for such things as voiceovers, in particular YouTubers. It signifies that you’ll be able to plug the microphone immediately into your laptop, report your voiceover in Audition or Reaper, and even without delay inside of video enhancing programs similar to DaVinci Get to the bottom of with out coping with any lag that would possibly were brought about within the procedure. You’ll be able to listen your self in real-time with out the standard lengthen you get going thru device.

No 32-Bit waft recording

Not like the Rode NT1 fifth Technology, the PodMic USB isn’t an “unclippable” microphone. There doesn’t seem to be any give a boost to 32-Bit waft over USB – they don’t explicitly say there’s no 32-Bit, but when it had it, I’d be expecting Rode to be making a large deal of it – so you’ll have to set your ranges accordingly on your device to forestall it from peaking and shedding the loudest sounds.

At the vivid facet, the PodMic USB is a broadcast-quality dynamic microphone and no longer a condenser microphone, which means that it’s tough to clip the microphone into distortion sooner than it is going into your laptop or audio interface. So, so long as your ranges are set smartly, you will have to be excellent to head. It additionally options an inner pop filter out to assist minimise or do away with plosives.

Value and Availability

The Rode PodMic USB is to be had to pre-order now for $199 and is predicted to start out delivery within the coming weeks.

DIYP’s protection of NAB 2023 is backed by means of Sennheiser, Zhiyun, B&H, and SmallRig.