Wireless mics step up the audio on videos using a mic and receiver – but one audio giant is working to allow iPhone and iPad users to shoot videos without a mic receiver at all. Rode has introduced firmware for the Wireless Pro and Wireless Go (Gen 3) mics that allows users working with iOS and iPadOS to skip the receiver that plugs into the smartphone or tablet’s port.

Instead, the feature, called Direct Connect, allows those mics to use the Bluetooth inside the mic and the Rode Capture app to connect to the wireless mic. That eliminates the need for plugging the receiver into the phone or tablet.

The company says that the update is due in part to the success of the Wireless Micro, a mic that gained Direct Connect last year through a major firmware update.

Eliminating a pesky dongle is only part of the equation. Connecting the Mic through Bluetooth allows creators to free up the USB-C port for other accessories, like external storage SSDs, external monitors, or actually using the charging port for charging.

The iPhone and iPad app also gives creators a few different controls for the mics, including the ability to record two mics to separate audio channels, adjusting the output gain for more volume control, and LED lightness for a more discreet screen.

The Wireless Go and Wireless Pro require a firmware update using the Desktop Rode Central software. Once the firmware is connected, connecting without the receiver works much in the same way as connecting a pair of Bluetooth headphones, but inside the Rode Capture app.

While the update is limited to iPhone and iPad – making the dongle a must for Android as well as working with dedicated cameras – the feature raises a few questions. Could this receiver-free Bluetooth connection eventually roll out to Android? Could dedicated cameras with Bluetooth eventually support such a feature? Regardless, the dongle-free connectivity is an interesting direction for the mics to take.

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Browse the best wireless mics or the best iPhone microphone.

If you admire the tiny, phone-friendly RØDE Wireless Micro system but find it awkward to use with your DSLR or mirrorless setup, here's some good news: the company is now addressing that gap.

The new Wireless Micro Camera Kit adds a purpose-built on-camera receiver with a 1.1-inch AMOLED display, designed to integrate cleanly with traditional camera workflows. For many photographers who also shoot video, this could be the missing link between convenience and professional-grade audio capture.

Streamlined workflow

The Rode Wireless Micro earned a strong reputation among smartphone creators for being lightweight, fast to deploy and surprisingly good-sounding for its size. But if you’re a photographer who occasionally shoots interviews, behind-the-scenes clips, product walk-throughs or event coverage, connecting those same mics to a camera felt like an afterthought.

The new Camera Kit makes that workflow far more streamlined. The included on-camera receiver features both 3.5mm TRS and USB-C outputs, ensuring compatibility with most current mirrorless and DSLR models. It mounts neatly using a cold-shoe, making it a far more natural part of a shooting setup than the previous smartphone-only receivers.

Just as importantly, the 1.1-inch AMOLED screen gives clear visual feedback on battery life, audio level and signal strength, removing the guesswork that can plague compact wireless systems.

Core appeal

The core appeal remains the same: two ultra-compact clip-on transmitters, each with an in-built omnidirectional microphone, that pair automatically and are ready to record almost instantly. For photographers who prefer shooting rather than fiddling with audio menus, RØDE’s Intelligent GainAssist manages levels in real time to reduce clipping and inconsistent volume. This is particularly valuable during live events, location shoots or unscripted interviews where subjects move and speak unpredictably.

Practical shooting needs have been considered, with integrated windshields helping to reduce plosive sounds and light breezes, while included furry windshields are on hand for more challenging environments.

The internal batteries offer around seven hours of recording time, and the compact charging case provides two full recharges, extending operating time to roughly 21 hours. This will be a relief for anyone used to juggling accessories, chargers and power banks on longer shooting days.

Although the new on-camera receiver is the headline upgrade, the Camera Kit also includes a USB-C smartphone receiver, ensuring the system remains equally at home with mobile recording. This makes it particularly attractive to creators who switch between a full-frame camera for main footage and a smartphone for social media edits or quick behind-the-scenes posts.

iOS users gain an extra advantage, with the ability to connect via Bluetooth through the free RØDE Capture app, bypassing the physical receiver entirely when shooting directly on an iPhone.

Should you buy it?

The compact wireless microphone market has become increasingly competitive over the past few years, with DJI in particular challenging RØDE’s longstanding dominance. DJI’s Mic Mini and Mic 3 systems offer strong feature sets and have recently become fixtures in hybrid shooting kits. RØDE’s move here feels like a response to that trend, bringing the Wireless Micro fully into the camera world rather than leaving that territory to the Wireless GO II.

However, this Camera Kit is not simply playing catch-up; its main strength is ease of use. By prioritising fast setup, automatic gain control and long life in the field, RØDE has created a system that should appeal to photographers who don’t want to become audio technicians to get good sound.

Røde is certainly finishing the year on a high. Hot on the heels of the release of its first dedicated smartphone mic (the Røde Micro), Røde is back with an upgrade to one of its most popular models – the Wireless Go (Gen 3).

The new model builds on the features of previous versions, offering advanced capabilities to meet the demands of modern content creators while maintaining the system's simplicity and portability.

The Wireless Go (Gen 3) includes 32-bit float on-board recording, a feature designed to capture audio with a wide dynamic range and recover clipped or quiet recordings during post-production. This is complemented by Røde GainAssist technology, which dynamically adjusts audio levels to ensure consistent output without requiring extensive editing.

You can choose between Auto and Dynamic modes for GainAssist or opt to manually control the audio levels, which have a flexible range of up to 30 dB. A safety channel feature records a second track at a lower volume to prevent audio loss due to overly loud signals.

The system boasts Røde Series IV 2.4 GHz digital transmission technology, which delivers stable, crystal-clear audio over distances of up to 260 meters. Each of the two transmitters is equipped with a built-in omnidirectional microphone, optimized for capturing clear speech even in less-than-ideal placements. Additionally, the transmitters feature over 40 hours of internal recording memory and dedicated buttons for starting and stopping recordings directly.

Designed for versatility, the Wireless Go (Gen 3) offers both analog (3.5mm TRRS) and digital (USB-C) output options, enabling users to connect seamlessly to cameras, smartphones, laptops, and other devices. It is compatible with other products in Røde Series IV lineup, including the RødeCaster Pro II, the RødeCaster Video, and other wireless receivers, making it adaptable to a variety of workflows.

The system's design retains its integrated clip, enabling quick attachment to clothing, belts, or camera mounts. The receiver also includes a 3.5mm jack for headphone monitoring with adjustable output levels.

Other features include plug-in power detection to conserve battery life, a bright LCD display, and intuitive controls for easy on-the-fly adjustments. The mic also works alongside the Røde Central app, which enabled users to tailor settings via a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

In addition to the traditional black and white versions, the Wireless Go (Gen 3) introduces a range of vibrant colors, such as red, orange and green, as well as more subdued tones like cobalt and stone. This marks the first time that Røde’s wireless microphones have been offered in a variety of finishes, giving creators an opportunity to personalize their gear.

With the launch, Røde has released the Charge Case+, which functions as a portable storage and charging solution for the Wireless Go (Gen 3). The case provides up to 21 hours of additional battery life, while also enabling data transfer and firmware updates.

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For more top choices for recording great audio, check out our guide to the best wireless microphones or best iPhone microphones.

RØDE is a company best known for the wide range of audio products that they manufacture, such as headphones and microphones. While mics like the RØDE Wireless Pro are aimed at professional video makers who want a reliable and great-sounding quality wireless mic for their DSLR or mirrorless camera, the new (and cheaper) RØDE Wireless Micro is aimed at the smartphone filmmaker who needs a simple, affordable but equally reliable way to capture a strong and drop-out-free sound recording when talking to camera or conducting an interview.

If you own an iPhone 16 then you’ll already be impressed by the new Audio Mix tools that enable you to capture better-sounding audio while keeping background noise at bay. However, these post-production tools (and the iPhone 16’s four built-in mics) are only effective when you’re in close proximity to your iPhone. When you step a few meters away from your iPhone’s mics, the audio quality drops dramatically and your voice is more likely to be drowned out by ambient background sound sources such as passing cars.

By wearing a wireless transmitter mic such as the RØDE Wireless Micro your voice will always be in close proximity to the mic clipped to your shirt. Your voice can then be transmitted wirelessly to the transmitter plugged into your iPhone and it will still sound as good at 100 meters away as it does at 1 meter!

RØDE Wireless Micro: Specifications

RØDE Wireless Micro: Design & Handling

The RØDE Wireless Micro is similar to many other wireless kits that I’ve tested - with a charging/carry case that contains two smooth plastic wireless transmitter mics and a wireless receiver that slots straight into your smartphone. What sets it apart from many other kits is the small size and weight of its mics and the receiver. The receiver itself is tiny (only 44mm in length) and it slots straight into your iPhone via a USB-C plug. It’s comparable in dimensions to the tiny receiver in the Godox Cube-SC though the RØDE receiver is a negligible 1 gram heavier than its Godox equivalent.

The RØDE Wireless Micro kit that we tested had a USB-C connector on the receiver for iPhone 15 models and newer. You can also purchase a Lighting connector version for older iPhones. We tested a black color kit but the Wireless Micro is also available in white - which will complement a white iPhone 16 nicely.

As it’s aimed at the smartphone user the RØDE Wireless Micro is designed to minimize the need for post-production tweaks such as level adjustments. The RØDE Capture smartphone app enables you to manually control the sound levels of each wireless transmitter using sliders, or boost gain in a few taps. However, if you have no background in audio recording then the mics’ Intelligent Gain Assist feature is designed to automatically adjust audio levels on the fly for an optimum quality sound recording (regardless of which application you are recording in). This should make the RØDE Wireless Micro an attractive purchase if it’s your first wireless smartphone mic kit.

The two wireless transmitters and the receiver fit nicely into the compact carry/charging case that prolongs their battery life during a shoot. However, the transmitters’ two supplied furry windshields are stored in the cardboard box that the kits ship in, so there is a danger of heading off to a shoot with the kit in the carry case while leaving the windshields behind (which is indeed what happened to me on my first test shoot!)

RØDE Wireless Micro: Performance

When testing a wireless mic kit I start with a distance test (as you’ll see if you watch this review’s supporting video). I headed to a quiet country road, popped the iPhone 16 Pro on a tripod, and plugged the receiver into the iPhone. I used the transmitter mic’s supplied clip to attach the mic to my shirt (though there is an alternative attachment option thanks to the magnet attached to the clip.)

I tend to find that magnets can cause a mic to become detached so I will always use a clip option when available. When the receiver is getting a signal from a mic one of its two flashing green lights will turn solid, so you can tell that both transmitter and receiver are connected wirelessly (two green lights on the receiver will turn solid if you’re recording an interview using two mics).

The RØDE Capture app gives you a clear display of the mic levels and you can manually adjust them with a slide of your finger (or tap to go from a Low to High gain setting). You can also use the app to merge a single mic's audio so that the sound fills both channels. Alternatively, you can place two mics onto separate left and right channels for an interview. There is a little buzz/crackle when you change a gain or channel setting but this doesn’t occur during interviews etc.

I must point out that I had to do the distance test twice. On my first attempt, my iPhone 16 Pro was inside a Moment case. The case’s thick edge meant that the RØDE Wireless Micro’s short USB-C receiver plug wasn’t as securely connected as it could be to the iPhone, resulting in poor-quality audio. Once I realized that the case was a problem I returned to the location to perform the distance test sans case. I also brought the supplied furry windshield which fits securely around the omnidirectional transmitter mic that I clipped to my shirt.

I set the RØDE Capture app on my iPhone to record and started walking away from the iPhone while talking. The sound was rich and clear as you’d expect for a RØDE mic. When I faced the iPhone (and the mic transmitter had a line of sight with the receiver on the iPhone 16) then the sound was sound and clear - even from 100 meters away. If you turn your back at 100 meters then the signal will drop out and the sound will become intermittent, but at that distance, you’re barely visible in the camera. Plus in most locations, you’ll be unlikely to leave your iPhone 16 Pro 100 meters away from you! Have a look at our test video to hear the RØDE Wireless Micro mic in action.

I then popped into town to do the obligatory noise test. I was intrigued to see (or hear) how the RØDE Wireless Micro would deal with noisy background traffic, especially as it has no built-in noise reduction feature like most other wireless mics. Thanks to the Intelligent Gain Assist feature the sound quality of my voice was good, though I could hear the noise of passing traffic too. However, this lack of built-in noise reduction isn’t a big issue as most post-production video editing apps (including the free iMovie) have a software noise reduction feature that will do a better job than the software noise reduction feature found in most wireless mics.

RØDE Wireless Micro: Verdict

The RØDE Wireless Micro is the perfect entry-level wireless mic kit for smartphone users. Its omnidirectional transmitter mics will replace mediocre audio captured by your smartphone with professional-quality sound, even when you’re speaking at a distance of 100 meters away from your smartphone (as long as you’re facing the camera). Thanks to its Intelligent Gain feature you can simply plug the receiver into your smartphone, clip on the transmitter, and start recording in your smartphone’s native camera app without worrying about manually setting sound levels. The lack of built-in noise reduction might be a concern to some, but you’ll get a better noise-reduction result using most non-linear video editing apps. Before testing the RØDE Wireless Micro I regularly used the Godox Cube-SC to record smartphone audio due to its compact size. Now I have a RØDE equivalent I think that will become my go-to smartphone wireless mic kit for future jobs.

Alternatives

RØDE has unveiled its smallest wireless microphone to date. Building on the success of its WirelessGO microphones for mirrorless and DSLR cameras, the new RØDE Wireless Micro is designed specifically for smartphone content creators, and offers RØDE’s advanced wireless audio technology in a super-compact mobile-friendly form, aiming to simplify on-the-go recording.

As smartphones increasingly serve as primary tools for video creation, the Wireless Micro aims to provide an audio upgrade to phones' built-in microphones, and with the freedom of wireless connection, more flexibility for complex shooting setups. The Wireless Micro features a slimline receiver that connects directly to a smartphone and is available in USB-C or Lightning options making it compatible with new and old iPhone models as well as Android devices.

The Wireless Micro system includes two ultra-lightweight transmitters with built-in microphones, designed to clip easily onto subjects or attach magnetically, usually to a lapel or collar, and the kit is available in both black and white to fit you’re style, which should also help keep the setup more discreet on camera.

Packed with the latest RØDE tech, the Wireless Micro also has a patent-pending acoustic chamber that houses each microphone, reducing wind noise and enhancing audio clarity, as well as RØDE’s GainAssist technology automatically balances audio levels, enabling creators to achieve consistent sound quality without manual adjustments.

The system also comes with a pocket-sized charging case that can recharge the microphones twice, allowing for up to 21 hours of use, and includes optional furry windshields for additional wind protection for very blustery days shooting outdoors.

The Wireless Micro is compatible with RØDE Capture, RØDE’s iOS video app, which is sadly not available on Android devices as of yet. RØDE Capture offers direct control over all the microphone settings as well as a picture-in-picture mode for recording on both front and rear cameras at the same time – perfect for reaction videos or demos where you want to record yourself and what you are doing.

The RØDE Wireless Micro is available to preorder now for $149 / £139.

For more, check out our guide to the best iPhone microphone or best wireless microphones.

Røde has a long and healthy reputation for creating good quality accessories for filmmakers, with a range of microphones and, more recently, audio tools for podcasting such as the Rodecaster consoles, which have been well received.

Now, they add to that range with the Rodecaster Video, a comprehensively featured production switcher that provides a one-box solution for video switching, audio editing, and more.

The robustly built console houses a massive range of inputs for its size, including 4 HDMI and 2 USB-C ports, wireless mic inputs, Bluetooth, and a pair of Neutrik combo XLR jacks with phantom power. 

For monitoring, there are both speaker outputs and a pair of ¼” headphone jacks, while video feeds can be previewed on a separate screen before being sent to final delivery, whether that’s a live stream or stored on external media for further editing later.

The Rode Rodecaster Video has a few very useful tricks, too, enabling users to set up scenes that can be accessed at the touch of a button – including adding chromakeyed footage, overlays, and sound effects. And if pushing a button is too much, you can even set up the console to switch inputs for you based on preset rules, where the user defines the priority of any given feed, which could prove invaluable for indie artists, YouTubers, and the like.

With all of those audio inputs in mind, there’s a suite of tools on offer, from a multi-channel mixer to effects such as EQ, compressor, and enhancers. 

For more polished final results, Rode has built-in transitions, meaning adding dips and wipes is intuitive, and you can add these, as well as controling the entire console via its two-inch touchscreen.

For more granular control Rode Central gives access to deeper options when connected to a Mac or PC.

The Rodecaster Video is available to order now for US$1,199 / / £999. It ships with the console, two wireless antennae, and the USB-C power supply.

See our guide to the best video switchers currently on the market, and read our full Rode Rodecaster Video review

Trying to find the best video production console has been a challenging task in the past. There are a number of requirements that need to be met, from the simple number of video sources, to mixing in the audio in a controllable way, on to adding lower thirds and other graphics, alongside previewing outputs before sending them to a live stream. We’ve all seen broadcasts where technical hitches break the flow and that’s something I’m keen to avoid, especially when I’m trying to deliver content for a video or visual effects based audience.

I’ve had good results from devices like Blackmagic Design’s Atem Mini Pro switcher and its siblings but I was keen to see if the Rodecaster Video could become an all-in-one solution.

Rode has built a solid reputation with its solutions for audio, with excellent wireless mics (more on this later) for filmmakers and their well received podcasting gear. The Rodecaster Video looks like it may well be the solution to the user needing a compact and comprehensive controller.

Specifications

Processor: Octacore

Screen: 2” touchscreen

Inputs: 4x HDMI. 2 x USB-C, Bluetooth, Wireless, 2 x XLR combo

Outputs: 2 x ¼” headphone, ¼” Speaker outs

Price and availablity

The Rodecaster Video was launched in September 2024 for a recommended retail price of $1,199 / £999. That works out a little more than some of the competition but a fair price, considering the features and quality of components, alongside the excellent performance.

Build and handling

The Rodecaster Video has a huge range of in and outs on the rear, including four HDMI ins and a pair of outs, two Neutrik combo jacks, USB-C ports as well as wireless receivers and Bluetooth connection, allowing for multiple video and audio inputs. 

The power enters on this panel as well, by way of a USB-C port and there are two ¼” headphone jacks sitting alongside a pair of ¼” speaker outputs. Personally, I’d like to have seen at least one headphone jack on the front of the device, as I like to use cans for multiple tasks, and that would save fishing around each time I want to listen to something else.

The top/front face is where all the control happens, dominated by the two rows of rubber buttons, used for selecting channels and scenes, as well as shortcuts to things like selecting overlays and keying options.

There’s also a bright touchscreen that is used for settings and deeper controls. Two rotary controls sit above, one for menus and the other for audio output levels, pressing to switch between the two headphone and speaker levels. The levels are shown by a growing ring of coloured LEDS, which works well but it is a shame you can’t instantly see the three together.

Everything looks and feels well built and, while I’m not a fan of rubber buttons, everything is nice to engage and that touch screen is both bright, clear and responsive.

You will need to download the Rode Central software for your Mac or PC, using which you can control the device, as well as setup scenes, update the firmware, and add media to your library.

Performance

Setting up the Rodecaster Video is straightforward and takes just a few minutes. I had a particular setup in mind, with two cameras, a mic for my vocals and an output from my guitar amp, for an instructional final video on how to get certain tones from effects pedals.

Plugging everything in and setting up channels and audio levels for each was a doddle, using the mixer section of the Rode Central software.

At this point, I realized that a single operator is limited in what they can achieve as, for my use case, I’d need to interrupt the flow of my content to swap between the different sources. I could edit after the fact as you can record to an external drive with the different sources fully intact. Very useful. The scene system is a real winner for any user, allowing you to assign a number of different setups, with varying inputs, overlays, and audio mixes, for single-click recall at any time, making engaging live streaming simplicity itself for any operator, even single users.

Better yet is the Auto mode. I had thought this might be somewhat gimmicky, but in use, it turned out to work very well, making a laborious task quite enjoyable. Using this system you can select a source and set a level of priority for it, using incoming audio as a guide. Then I could let the device switch between a wide shot, close up on the guitar as well as mixing the audio of both voice and instrument.

Which brings me on to the audio quality. I’m a stickler for good audio, which as we all know is the most important element of a media package. The Rodecaster Video uses Neutrik combo jacks for all levels of incoming signal from phantom-powered mics, synthesizers or guitars etc. These inputs, along with excellent Revolution preamps, producing excellent signal-to-noise ratios.

Each audio channel can also access a number of useful effects including compressors, de-essers and noise gates. All useful stuff but I’d like to see this expanded in future to allow VSTs to run, allowing more flexibility. I’d love to be able to use my preferred reverbs or delays. That said the audio quality is excellent and if I really needed to I could process the recorded audio through Logic or Davinci Resolve’s Fairlight page.

Audio can be sourced not just from the combo jacks but via USB, Bluetooth or wireless, using the two antennas that come in the box. I was excited by this, as I’ve used Rode’s wireless (and wired) mics for years and was hoping I could use either my Video Mic Pros, or Wireless Go set with it. Unfortunately, only certain models are supported, but it’s a feature I’d love to take advantage of, so it looks like I'll have to upgrade to the Wireless Go II, which is compatible.

Although they have their place, I’m not always a fan of straight cuts and like to use transitions of which luckily the Rodecaster Video has a number, easily selectable, either in software or directly on the front panel. These range from wipes, dips and fades and are easily accessible. 

There’s more on offer too. If you have a project needing keying you can chroma key your footage directly on the device, although to dial in your result Central is the place to do it, with controls for spill suppression, luma compensation and more.

If you have graphics that you would like to use, for logos, lower thirds or splash screens, these can be loaded onto a microSD card, which is mounted via the rear panel. There’s a dedicated overlay button the front panel, so you can easily add them to your production with a single click.

A useful tool, especially for the streamers. Is the ability to preview on a second screen, before sending to your live feed. This is really handy and allows you to ensure what you make public is exactly what you’re expecting.

Verdict

Alternatives

RØDE is best known for the wide range of audio products that they manufacture, such as headphones and microphones (see our review of RØDE Wireless Pro). As more and more high-end video is being shot on smartphones RØDE has produced several accessories to make it easier to mount mics (and LEDs) to our mobiles. 

The problem with some wireless mic kits is that their cable-attached receiver can end up dangling from a smartphone’s USB-C port. You could use a smartphone cage like the RØDE Phone Cage and slide the RØDE Wireless Pro’s receiver nice and securely into one of its cold shoe mounts. 

However, if you want to travel really light then the RØDE Magnetic Smartphone Accessory Mount enables you to attach up to three accessories to your smartphone and it is slightly cheaper than the RØDE Magnetic Phone Cage. For more on the best iPhone grips check out our guide.

RØDE Magnetic Mount: Specifications

Magnetic mount disc: 
Weight: 75g
Dimensions: 57 x 12 x 57 mm

Long Cold Shoe Arm:
Weight: 15g
Dimensions: 22  x 97 mm

Short Cold Shoe Arm:
Weight: 9g
Dimensions: 22  x 52 mm

1/4 Inch Tripod Mount:
Weight: 31g
Dimensions: 28  x 113 mm

RØDE Magnetic Mount: Design & Handling

The RØDE Magnetic Mount ships in a card box containing four metal components. The key component is a black RØDE-branded metal disc measuring 57 x 12 x 57 mm (and weighing a mere 75g). This is designed to magnetically clamp to the rear of a MagSafe smartphone such as the iPhone 15 Pro Max. The magnetic disc will also stick to other brands of smartphones if they are contained in a MagSafe-compatible case. 

It has four slots at the top, left, bottom, and right. These slots are designed to accommodate the other metal accessories in the RØDE Magnetic Mount kit - a long cold shoe arm (measuring 97 mm in length), a short cold shoe arm (measuring 52 mm in length), and a tripod mount (measuring 113 mm in length). 

The tripod mount slides into the bottom slot on the circular magnetic mount. It has a 1/4-inch mounting thread at its base so that you can attach it to a tripod (or tripod plate).  You can slide the other two cold shoe arms into any of the other three slots to configure accessories such as a shotgun mic, wireless receiver, or LED light for example.

RØDE Magnetic Mount: Performance

To test the RØDE Magnetic Mount I took it along to a video shoot in London on a beautiful sunny day. I filmed my model (Paulina Cherry) with a Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI stabilizer as I needed to perform smooth pans, tilts, and occasionally rolls (for POV shots) - see our supporting video. The gimbal was fine for general camera moves but as my iPhone 15 Pro Max was clamped up against its roll motor there was nowhere to plug in a microphone. 

To interview my model I detached my iPhone 15 Pro Max from the gimbal and clamped the disc-shaped RØDE Magnetic Mount onto the back of my iPhone. I then slid the short cold shoe arm into the top slot on the circular disc. I then attached a JOBY Wavo Plus shot-gun mic to the cold shoe mount at the end of the metal arm and attached its cable to my iPhone’s USB-C port. This enabled me to record an interview with Paulina without needing to clip a wireless mic onto her.  

I plugged the RØDE kit’s long cold shoe arm into the slot on the right of the magnetic disc. I was then able to attach an LED light from a SmallRig Creator Kit onto the metal arm so that I could illuminate Paulina with a fill light in a dark alleyway (away from the tourists in our main location).  I slid the tripod arm into the bottom of the circular magnetic mount and attached a mini metal tripod from the SmallRig Creator Kit. I then used the tripod to hold my rig steady while interviewing Paulina about our sunny shoot. The three sold shoe mounts slide easily into the slots on the magnetic disc but they stay firmly attached, so there’s no danger of one of your attached accessories dropping off. The metal arms are also fairly easy to pull out when you need to pack up your kit.

With some smartphone cages, such as the Neewer iPhone 15 Pro Max Phone Cage, the cage and its handles block the iPhone’s USB-C port, so you can’t plug a wireless receiver (or cabled shotgun) mic into the iPhone. However, the RØDE Magnetic Mount’s cold shoe arms are long enough to give you space to attach mics to your smartphone without the constraints of the phone being in a cage.  The RØDE mount’s magnetic disc kept a strong grip on my iPhone and it only dropped off once (compared to the RØDE Magnetic Phone Cage which was more prone to losing its grip if you placed ‘leverage’ pressure on the phone). 

RØDE Magnetic Mount: Verdict

Your iPhone (or smartphone) can do a great job of capturing excellent video and sound on its own, but by using the RØDE Magnetic Mount you can expand its capabilities by attaching third-party lights and mics to elevate your video production values to the next level. However, for the minimal price difference, I’d personally go for the RØDE Magnetic Phone Cage as it has many more cold shoe mounting points, plus threads to attach third-party cage handles for a more secure grip. 

Alternatives

Whether you make short content for TikTok or Instagram, longer video for YouTube or you stream on Twitch, once thing is certain: a good wireless microphone can revolutionise how you work, giving you the freedom to record quality audio the way you want to.

Even today, in-built microphones on phones and cameras just don’t cut it. And while there are wired microphones a plenty, wires are limiting, tying us to working with a subject at a given distance. RØDE’s pocket-sized compact wireless microphones are the ideal solution, fitting into the palm of your hand and easily attaching to clothes or recording gear while recording broadcast-quality audio. The only challenge is choosing the right one for you, and that’s where this article will help.

Why choose RØDE?

The great thing about RØDE is that you know you’re getting quality whichever microphone you go for. It’s the leading name in the wireless mic category, which is hardly surprising since it was the first to make an ultra compact wireless mic system with the Wireless GO in 2019 – a total game changer in audio for content creators. All RØDE microphones are manufactured in Australia to the highest standard, and all of its wireless mics feature state-of-the-art 2.4GHz digital transmission and unique proprietary near-zero latency codec with 128-bit encryption, meaning you get an incredibly stable wireless connection.

The mics are ultra compact but produce broadcast-quality audio. And they’re broadly compatible with iOS, Android, DSLRs and modern mirrorless cameras via a 3.3mm connector, so you can rest assured that they will fit into your setup.

How to choose the right RØDE microphone for you

RØDE has three core wireless microphones for different needs. First up is Wireless ME. This easy-to-use plug-and-play microphone has a single transmitter with a range of over 100m. GainAssist technology automatically controls audio levels for perfectly clear sound in any application, and dual mics on the receiver mean you can record from in front of and behind the camera. It’s the simplest solution for those who want minimal fuss.

For content creators who work out and about on location, Wireless  GO II is a dual transmitter wireless microphone system with a longer range of up to 200m. It allows on-board recording with over 40 hours of internal memory on each transmitter, ensuring that you have backup even if you go out of range. The Flexible gain control and safety channel allow you to get perfect levels even if your subject suddenly gets louder, and the Intuitive display and control interface allows for changing settings on the go.

Finally, at the top of the range, Wireless PRO is another dual transmitter wireless microphone system, this time with a range of up to 260m and an array of sophisticated features to ensure professional results and efficient workflows in all kinds of situations. The 32-bit float on-board recording allows clipped or quiet audio files to be recovered, while Timecode sync allows for quick-and-easy audio synchronisation in post-production.

Again, there’s GainAssist technology, flexible output gain controls and a safety channel, plus headphone monitoring. You also get an accessory kit, including a charging case and MagClip GO magnetic mounting clips for a complete professional setup. Plus, it comes with two professional-grade lavalier mics, offering incredible value.

Completing your setup for creative content on the go

On top of the mic systems, RØDE offers a range of accessories that can enhance your setup and ensure you’re ready to produce content in any situation. Interview GO is a handy mount compatible with RØDE’s entire wireless range that essentially turns them into compact handheld microphones for reporting to-camera or interviewing in the field. There’s also the dedicated broadcast-quality handheld wireless microphone Interview PRO, which is also compatible with all RØDE wireless mics.

If you make content with an iPhone, the Phone Cage Mag safe mount will be your favourite companion, both for your microphone and for any lighting too. RØDE even has your production needs covered with the RØDECaster Pro II and the compact RØDECaster Duo. These production studios boast ultra-low-noise, high-gain Revolution Preamps, high-quality Neutrik combo inputs, individually assignable channels with physical and virtual faders and a built-in wireless receiver allowing you to connect RØDE wireless mics without needing a separate receiver.

Creators might initially fret over which camera to use, but those with experience know that audio quality is just as important, and often the most challenging aspect. RØDE’s compact wireless mics are the perfect companion for ensuring excellent audio quality while providing the freedom to record anywhere you like.

To find out more, check out the Wireless Range page on the RØDE website HERE

The current generation of smartphones enables you to capture high-quality HD and 4K footage that meets the requirements of professional filmmakers. For example, all the supporting review videos that I shoot for Digital Camera World are filmed on an iPhone - see this reviews Performance section for my test of the RØDE Cage. 

However to take your video (and audio) production values to the next level you need help from accessories such as a shotgun mic to capture more directional sound and an LED to add fill-light to interviewees. These accessories can be a challenge to mount on a standard smartphone case so you need a grip or a cage with screw threads and cold shoe mounts. Check out our best iPhone camera grips to see a range of ways to turn your iPhone into a professional camera rig.

The RØDE Cage is designed to let you mount a range of accessories around your smartphone so that you can expand your shooting capabilities. RØDE produces a wide range of pro products such as the RØDE Wireless Pro, so I was very keen to get my hands on their version of a smartphone cage. It arrived just in time for my trip to Normandy, France to film the 80th Anniversary of D-Day and it proved very useful indeed…

RØDE Phone Cage: Specifications

RØDE Phone Cage: Design & Handling

The RØDE Cage is constructed from high-grade aluminum which makes it a rugged but lightweight unit (weighing in at 285 grams).  Around the edge of the cage are 5 cold shoe mounts, into which you can slot devices such as radio mic receivers or a shotgun mic. There are 14 standard 1/4 inch threads (so you can screw in a range of accessories such as an LED).  The cage has 17 ARRI 1/4 threads too. 

These threads offer support for accessories that are compatible with the ultra-stable ARRI locking-pin standard. Each thread has two (holes) on either side of it. When you attach a compatible accessory such as a handle it has two pins that slot into the two holes on either side of the thread to keep the handles stable (so that they don’t slip in the thread). There are also two 3/8 inch threads in case you need to attach the cage to an accessory such as a microphone pole or stand.

What makes the RØDE Phone Cage really stand out when compared to other cages and grips is the way that you mount your phone onto it. Many cages (such as the Neewer Cage for iPhone 15 Pro Max) are phone-specific. The phone slides into a cage which then grips it tightly. If you upgrade your phone then the cage will become redundant as it will no longer fit the new model. 

The RØDE Phone Cage has a circular magnetic mount that you screw into the center of the cage. Your MagSafe smartphone (or its MagSafe case) then magnetically attaches itself to the mount. You can then use the cage to maneuver your smartphone and all its attached accessories when filming, but if you need to take a call you can easily unclip the phone from the magnetic rig. This saves you the hassle (and embarrassment) of holding a bulky rig to your ear when someone rings you in the middle of a shoot!

RØDE Phone Cage: Performance

To test the RØDE Cage I took it to Normandy in France to document my brother’s trip there with a restored WW2 Willies Jeep. Unlike other cages that I’ve reviewed, such as the Neewer Cage, the RØDE Phone Cage doesn’t ship with handles. It’s designed to work with accessories that you already own. Fortunately, the two handles from my SmallRig All-In-One Kit for Smartphone slotted nicely into the RØDE’s 1/inch ARRI system threads. 

You can mount handles on the top and bottom or opposite sides of the rig to shoot vertically or horizontally. As an old-school videographer, I still can’t bring myself to shoot vertically so I went for a horizontal orientation.  You could grip the edge of the cage as there’s plenty of space between it and the iPhone that’s clamped to the magnetic mount at the center of the cage. 

However, the two handles provided a much more comfortable and secure grip on the rig, which I appreciated when filming from a moving jeep that wasn’t equipped with seat belts. Or a roof. The handles helped me perform smoother pans and tilts than I could with a handheld iPhone. I also used a 1/4-inch thread to mount a small Hobolite Iris LED (review coming soon) onto the top of the cage. This enabled me to summon a light source when shooting in dark interiors which helped my iPhone use a less noisy ISO setting. 

I popped a SmallRig shotgun mic onto a cold shoe mount on top of the rig and attached it via a cable to my magnetically mounted iPhone 15 Pro Max. The cage has four built-in cable management slots at each corner, so there’s no danger of dangling cables getting in the way. The gun mic was great for recording interviews on the fly. I was also easily able to unplug the gun mic’s cable and attach a plug-in Godox WEC receiver to my iPhone’s USB-C socket. This enabled me to clip the Godox transmitter onto my brother and wirelessly record him chatting to WW2 veterans from a distance. 

I really like the large space that you get between the edge of the magnetically attached iPhone and the RØDE Phone Cage. With cages that grip tightly around your smartphone (such as the SmallRig Brandon Li), you can’t plug a wireless mic receiver into your iPhone.  The larger RØDE Phone Cage had no such problems with attaching accessories.

I’ve mentioned how handy the magnetic mount is if you need to quickly detach your phone. The magnet is very strong and no amount of shaking the rig will cause the phone to detach (as you’ll see in this review’s supporting video). However, if you push the phone forward this leverage action can cause the phone to detach from the magnetic mount and it did fall four times during the earlier part of my shoot.

Fortunately, the iPhone was wearing a MagSafe case so it didn’t suffer any damage. The falling episodes tended to occur when I unplugged the gun mic to plug in the Godox receiver (or vice versa) and this levering pressure was enough to detach the phone. However, once I learned about this levering hazard I was able to avoid future phone drops.

RØDE Phone Cage: Verdict

The RØDE Phone Cage enables you to attach a host of devices to your smartphone, including LEDS, mics, handles, and tripods. The attached handles enable you to perform pro camera moves with ease (and keep a safe grip on your valuable smartphone when shooting from moving vehicles).  The large space between your phone and the cage makes it easy to attach various cables and devices to your phone’s USB-C connector - though you need to be careful not to apply too much pressure to the phone or it might detach from the magnetic connector. If you own lots of accessories then the RØDE Phone Cage will fit nicely into your shooting ecosystem. However, if you don’t have a kit such as handles then consider the alternatives in this review.

Alternatives

The RODE Interview Pro is designed for those situations where you’re talking to people who aren’t wearing microphones, and where it’s not practical to fit them. For everything from vox pops on the street to ad hoc Q&A sessions at events, a handheld mic is often the best and simplest and quickest solution. Best of all, it makes you look like a proper broadcaster!

The characteristic mic-on-a-stick design is typical of broadcast/interview mics. It lets you quickly position the mic for whoever is speaking and swap speakers easily. What could be more intuitive than aiming a mic at whoever is speaking?

The Interview PRO uses a ‘broadcast grade’ omnidirectional condenser capsule so that it picks up sound from all around and it doesn’t matter if you haven’t got  the mic at exactly the right angle. Many of the best microphones use cardioid and directional pickup patterns, but if you accidentally go ‘off axis’ they sound levels will drop.

In fact, most of the best wireless mics are omnidirectional. This is because you can't always 'aim' your mic, but you can place it so that the sound you want is the most prominent.

A broadcast/interview mic like the Wireless PRO is specifically designed for all sorts of environments with people who may or may not be mic-trained. It has an internal shock mount to reduce handling noise and an internal pop filter to reduce ‘plosive’ sounds from speakers too close to the mic. There’s also foam wind shield for outdoor use which will help with plosives too.

What’s special about the Interview Pro is that it’s wireless. There are no cables to trip over or limit your working range. However, the only way to connect it to a camera or other recording device is via one of RODE’s series IV wireless receivers, as supplied with the Wireless ME, for example, or the Wireless PRO kits. 

This means it makes most sense to users who already have a RODE wireless setup – otherwise, that’s another investment you’ll need to make.

The Interview PRO does, however, offer up to 40 hours on-board recording with up to 25 hours use from its rechargeable battery, so it can be used as a standalone field recorder. If all you want is the audio for a podcast, for example, or a voiceover, it’s entirely self-contained. 

RODE Interview PRO: Specifications

RODE Interview Pro: Price and availability

At the time of writing in May 2024, the RODE Interview PRO is on pre-order, but with delivery also expected in May, it's probably available as you read this.

The Interview PRO will go on sale at a price of $249 / £249 (about AU$373). That sounds a lot compared to on-camera directional mics, but it's pretty fair value for a professional mic in this market. Just be aware that if you don't currently use compatible RODE wireless receivers, you face an additional expense or a severe curtailment of this mic's usefulness.

RODE Interview PRO: Build and handling

The Interview PRO is a delight to handle and use. It feels solid, but not particularly heavy, and it has a prominent Record button which glows red while you’re recording internally. There’s also a Mute button you can press to stop audio recording if you need to. Those are the only controls, so there’s nothing else to learn.

There is a somewhat odd-looking protruding connector on the base, which presumably connects with RODE’s RS-1 charging base, but you can also charge the Wireless PRO via its supplied USB cable, which is perhaps what most users would do.

The USB socket is not immediately visible. You have to unscrew the lower part of the barrel and pull downwards to reveal it. This socket is only for charging and for transferring onboard recordings to the free RODE Central desktop app, where you can also check the mic’s settings and firmware version. 

You can’t use the Interview PRO as a USB mic, which seems a shame because it comes with an RM3 angled stand for mounting on a mini-tripod or arm (not supplied), which does make it feel like it could be a useful desktop mic.

The foam windshield is useful to have, though I found it a bit of a wrestling match to get it over the mic grille and once it’s on it’s a bit loose.

RODE Interview PRO: Performance

The omnidirectional pattern of the Interview Pro is designed specifically for its intended use, but it does pick up sound from all directions, so mic distance does become quite important, especially in a boomy or noisy environment. 

In principle, the 32-bit float on-board recording can handle a wide range of audio levels, but in practice, if you want to be heard clearly where there is background noise, it’s best to keep it 3-5 inches from the speaker’s mouth.

The sound is bright and clear, but does change a lot with mic distance – this is a point not always made with microphones. The audio quality of the capsule is important, but not as important as the user’s mic skills, placement, and distance.

You soon get a feel for the perfect distance with the Interview Pro, and the simple freedom and flexibility of a handheld mic is a joy compared to the faff, clips, and cabling of regular lavs or wireless mic transmitters.

RODE does say the Interview PRO’s internal shock mount cuts down on handling noise. So it may, but it’s still best not to slide your hand over the surface while filming, and to avoid any knocks or taps because you will hear them.

RODE quotes a maximum wireless range of 200mm, but that's with a direct line of sight. My experience with the RODE Wireless PRO suggests that once you're more than a few meters away from the receiver you'd better not turn your back as you talk in case you get drop-out. To be absolutely safe, you can hit the Record button on the mic for on-board recording too.

On paper, the 32-bit float recording sounds like a great idea. In practice, I think mic placement is the real key since that's what's going to control your audio/background noise ratio.

RODE Interview PRO: Verdict

I love the Interview PRO for its design, build quality, finish, and handling. I’ve also spent enough time with wireless mics, clip-on transmitters, and lavalier mics to appreciate the utterly intuitive simplicity of operation this kind of microphone provides. But while the omnidirectional pickup pattern is perfect – essential, even – for working quickly with your subjects in the field, it’s not ideal for voice isolation or that podcast 'radio' voice, and you need to get the mic distance right to keep voices louder than noisy backgrounds. But this is all part of the skill of interviewing, and not really a limitation of this mic. 

I do wish, though, that RODE had added an analog output, or digital output, for users who don’t want to buy into its wireless ecosystem. The Interview Pro is almost too good a mic to be painted into a corner like this. The alternative would be to get something like the RODE Reporter, but that’s an XLR mic, which brings its own connectivity requirements, and is not an easy option for mirrorless shooters.

The RODE Interview PRO is a handheld wireless microphone fully compatible with RODE’s existing series IV wireless products, such as the RODE Wireless Pro. It comes with a “professional grade” condenser capsule for broadcast-quality audio with “rich and detailed” voice reproduction.

Launched at NAB 2024, it’s a handheld mic designed not just for broadcast use but also podcasting and run and gun style presentations. It has an omnidirectional polar pattern to make it more forgiving in interviews or presentations where precise mic placement is more difficult.  

The capsule has an internal shock mounting to reduce any handling noise and an internal pop filter reduces plosives in speech. The new mic also comes with a wind shield for outdoor recording.

The Interview PRO uses RODE’s GainAssist technology to automatically adjust the mic level while transmitting to the receiver to minimise the risk of clipping, but the mic also features on-board 32-bit recording, with 32GB internal memory and more than 40 hours of potential recording time. Internal recording can be started and stopped with a dedicated button and guarantees users a ‘clean’ audio backup – it also lets the Interview Pro double as a field recorder.

With a maximum range of 200m (with line of sight), the Interview Pro could be the ideal addition to an existing wireless RODE setup for interviewers and podcasting on location. RODE already makes some of the best wireless microphones, and the Interview Pro is also compatible with RODE’s audio production devices, including the RØDECaster Pro II, RØDECaster Duo and Streamer X.

The RØDE Interview Pro will be available from early May 2024 at a price of $249 (about £200 / AU$384)

RODE Phone Cage

RODE’s new Phone Cage can work directly with MagSafe iPhones or any MagSafe-compatible phone or case. The magnetic attachment makes attaching a phone quick and simple, and with 33 mounting threads and 5 cold shoe slots, there’s ample scope for adding lights, mics and other accessories. 

The Phone Cage can be used as a grip, but you can attach additional handles as required to the mounting points and you can also mount the cage on a tripod. It’s set up for both landscape and portrait orientations.

The RODE Phone Cage will be on sale from late April 2024 and will cost $120 (about £96 / AU$185)

RODE Magnetic Mount

The new RODE Magnetic Mount also uses the MagSafe magnetic attachment, but offers a very different approach to mounting accessories, including three removable magnetic arms. There’s a short and a long cold shoe arm and a long arm with a 1/4-inch tripod thread, which can also be used with a handle or a desktop arm.

Designed to be lightweight and compact, the RODE Magnetic Mount will be available from late April 2024 at a price of $90 (about £72 / AU$139).

The RØDE Wireless Pro follows on from the simpler 'grab and go' Wireless Me, adding in pro features like 32-bit float on-board recording, 32GB internal storage and a 10dB 'safety channel' as a backup in case of audio clipping.

It's the latest and best iteration of a series that started with the Wireless GO series in 2019, which has long been one of the best wireless microphones, even one of the best microphones all round.

RØDE makes a whole range of studio, podcasting, on-camera and wireless mics, and where on-camera microphones are useful when you need to capture directional audio from the camera position, a wirless mic will capture clear sound directly from your subject. Both transmitters can be clipped on to subjects and used directly via their built-in mics, or you can plug in lavalier mics for speech and interviews.

The Wireless Pro has analog 3.5mm TRS and digital USB-C outputs, and is designed to be "universally" compatible with cameras, smartphones, tablets, computers and any other audio devices.

The company says that its 32-bit float recording with its extended audio range means 'clip-free' audio, and has incorporated the GainAssist feature first seen on the Wireless Me, which uses intelligent algorithms for automatic on-the-fly gain control. With all this and its safety track feature too, Wireless Pro seems to cover every eventuality.

RØDE claims 'near zero' latency (delay) in its digital wireless system, and the Wirless Pro also has a timecode feature for easy audio sync during editing. Its Series IV 2.4 GHz digital transmission setup also boasts 128-bit encryption.

The Wireless Pro comes as a kit with two transmitters and a receiver, plus an accessory kit consisting of a smart charge case, two Lavalier II microphones, cables, MagClip GO magnetic mounting clip, and accessory case. Locking 3.5mm lav connectors should stop mics being accidentally pulled out, and there's a TRRS input on the receiver for headset monitoring or an additional 'narrator' mic.

The RØDE Wireless Pro will be available from late August 2023 at a cost of $399 / £399 / AU$699.

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RØDE has unveiled a new addition to their collection of wireless microphones, the Wireless ME. RØDE has been the leader in producing top-quality wireless microphones for over a decade, including the pioneering wireless wearable microphone system with the RØDELink series which introduced the innovative 2.4Ghz digital wireless technology. RØDE since has introduced dual-channel operation, on-board recording, extended range, and universal compatibility with cameras, smartphones, and computers, revolutionizing compact wireless audio once again.

The Wireless ME continues in this tradition, combining outstanding sound quality and pioneering features with unparalleled ease of use, making it the ultimate microphone for content creators on the go. To coincide with the release of the Wireless ME, RØDE has launched a free iOS video app called RØDE Capture. This is the first video app designed specifically for today's creators, providing the ideal platform for creating content on an iPhone and the perfect companion for the Wireless ME.

RØDE Wireless ME Features

The RØDE Wireless ME microphone system offers crystal-clear recording with over 100m range. The system features RØDE's state-of-the-art Series IV 2.4 GHz digital transmission that ensures flawless sound quality, even in challenging conditions. Intelligent GainAssist technology automatically controls audio levels, making it easy to use in any application.

The wireless microphone system comes with broadcast-grade microphones built into both the transmitter and receiver, allowing for versatile dual-channel recording. Additionally, the system can connect an additional transmitter, making it possible to capture three microphones simultaneously.

The RØDE Wireless ME aims to be incredibly versatile, connecting seamlessly to cameras, smartphones, tablets (iOS and Android), and computers (Mac and Windows), with all necessary cables included. Control over settings is made easy through RØDE Central, and it is also compatible with RØDE Connect, RØDE Reporter, and the new RØDE Capture app.

This microphone system is designed and made in RØDE's precision facilities in Sydney, Australia, ensuring exceptional quality and attention to detail.

Rode Capture App

RØDE is also today launching RØDE Capture, a free iOS video app designed for content creators. The app offers direct control of compatible RØDE products, including the Wireless ME, Wireless GO II, and VideoMic GO II.

Users can turn features on and off, activate digital signal processing, adjust audio levels, and configure settings for the microphone. RØDE Capture also offers control over aspect ratio, video resolution, frame rate, and zoom. Additionally, Dual Cam modes allow for recording with the front and selfie cameras simultaneously, integrating seamlessly with the Wireless ME’s in-built transmitter and receiver microphones.

The VideoMicro II is the smallest on-camera shotgun mic in the RODE line-up and its price, size and simplicity make ideal for video and vlogging beginners, as well as videographers who need a small, compact mic to keep in the kitbag in case it’s needed.

The shotgun design means it has a highly direction, focused pickup pattern designed to capture sound from a subject directly in front of the camera and suppress sound from the sides or behind the mic. It’s a popular design for on-camera use, though it can also be used off camera.

It's worth considering as one of the best microphones to get if you're just starting out, and it would make a good companion to the best vlogging cameras, though you might also want to look a the best wireless microphones for longer-distance filming, and if you're already looking at the best 4K cameras for video and filmmaking, you might want to look at the RODE VideoMic GO II instead, which is a bit more versatile.

Specifications

Weight: 24g, 29g with isolation mount
Dimensions: 80 x 22mm
Acoustic Principle: Pressure Gradient. Electret Condenser
Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
Frequency Response: 20Hz — 20kHz
Output Impedance: ~2.6kΩ
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 79 dB
Dynamic Range: 95 dB
Sensitivity: -30dBV (31.62 mV @ 94 dB SPL) ± 1 dB @ 1kHz
Max SPL: 110 dB SPL
Output Connection: 3.5mm TRS

Key features

RODE says its new mic offers “Professional quality” despite its small size and low weight. It uses RODE’s annular line tube tech to provide a highly directional supercardioid polar pattern.

You don’t need a battery, and the mic comes with a new ‘Helix’ isolation mount to suppress any vibration from the camera. RODE’s new mount has been developed especially for this mic’s small size and low weight.

There is actually quite a lot in the box. As well as the mic and its isolation mount, you get a regular foam windshield and a furry windshield too for when wind noise is worse. There are also two patch (connection) cables, one of which is a TRS-TRS type for regular camera connections, and a TRS-TRRS cable for smartphones – iPhone users will need to get a Lightning-TRRS adaptor.

It cannot work as a USB mic like its bigger brother, the VideoMic Go II, however, and it does not have that mic’s audio monitoring socket – though more advanced vlogging cameras will have these anyway.

Handling and performance

The VideoMicro II could hardly be simpler to use. The Helix mount has a generic cold shoe foot (no electrical connections) that slides straight into your camera’s accessory shoe, and then all you need to do is connect the cable from the mic to the camera. It will automatically override the camera’s in-built mic.

RODE says the VideoMicro II has ‘all-metal’ construction, which is a bit of a stretch given that it’s only the mic itself which is metal – the suspension mount and mounting foot are plastic, though they do the job perfectly well.

The audio quality is a clear step up from a camera’s in-built mic. We tested the VideoMicro II on a Panasonic Lumix G9, and where the in-built mic lost volume very quickly as we moved away from the camera, the VideoMic II was still capturing speech quite clearly even from a distance of 4m.

Shotgun mics do have limitations. The further away you get, the fainter the sound – that’s when you need to switch to a lavalier (lapel) mic or a wireless mic.

And while the VideoMicro II does have a much more focused directional pickup pattern than the inbuilt mic on a camera or smartphone, it’s not immune to sounds from other directions. We had to abort our first test when dogs in a neighboring garden (behind the camera) started barking.

Verdict

The RODE VideoMicro II is affordable, light and super-simple to use – and it comes with all the accessories you’re likely to need. It’s a nice surprise to get both a foam and a furry windshield and two patch cables not one.

Its performance is really good. The improvement in quality over an in-built mic is obvious straight away, and it has more range for capturing audio from subjects further from the camera and with reduced ambient noise from other directions.

Read more:

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The RØDE VideoMicro II is a simple, super-compact on-camera microphone for vloggers and filmmakers with a shotgun design that offers a highly directional ‘super cardioid’ polar pattern that captures sound from where it’s pointing, not from all around.

It has a 3.5mm TRS output jack so it plugs straight into a camera’s microphone socket, and does not require batteries. There are no controls, so the VideoMicro II should be ultra-simple to use even for novices. Its size and simplicity should make it ideal for the best vlogging cameras and it could prove one of the best microphones for video.

It’s a successor to the original RØDE VideoMicro, which RØDE says is the world’s best-selling on-camera mic. The new VideoMicro II has a completely redesigned annular line tube body for “unmatched transparency and natural, full-bodied sound”. RØDE has also overhauled the circuitry to produce better sensitivity and lower noise.

It’s a smaller sibling of the RØDE VideoMic Go II, one of the best microphones for on-camera use, though the VideoMicro II is a simpler alternative without USB connectivity or headphone monitoring.

This helps it achieve its ultra-low weight of just 39g, which includes its new ‘Helix’ isolation mount – this is the flexible bracket that stops vibration from the camera reaching the mic. The mount has integral cable management slots and a standard cold shoe mounting ‘foot’, plus a 3/8-inch thread for mounting on stands or arms.

Both foam and furry windshields are included, as are a pair of ‘patch cables’, one for TRS to TRRS (smartphone and tablet) connection and one TRS to TRS cable for camera connection.

The RØDE VideoMicro II is made in RØDE’s own factory in Sydney, Australia, and will sell for $79/AU$125 (about £66).

• Get the RØDE VideoMicro II at Amazon US 
• Get the RØDE VideoMicro II at Amazon UK
• Get the RØDE VideoMicro II at DigiDirect (AU)

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Whether you're already using your camera for filmmaking, or you're looking to pick up one of the best cameras for vlogging, if you want to get professional results then you'll need a dedicated microphone. So we were very pleased to get hands-on with two of Røde's newest products in The Photography Show: Burst Mode studio.

The Røde Wireless Go is already a known quantity to us, as we awarded it the full five stars in our review and rank it highly in our list of best microphones for vlogging and filmmaking. 

There are two main components to the Wireless Go: the transmitter and receiver. The transmitter, which measures just 44 x 45.3 x 18.5mm and weighs 31g, has a built-in omnidirectional mic and clip that enables it to attach to your clothes. Alternatively, it can be clipped to a back pocket or a belt and then used with a cavalier microphone connected via its 3.5mm TRS input.

The receiver, at 44 x 46.4 x 18.5mm and 31g, looks very similar to the transmitter, but its clip slots into a camera hotshoe (or coldshoe) and connects via the supplied 3.5mm TRS cable. Alternatively, it can connect via an adapter to an audio recorder, GoPro, iPhone or Osmo Pocket – and its three-stage output pad (-0dB, -6dB and -12dB) enables the signal to be tailored to suit the camera or recorder.

Both units have a built-in rechargeable Li-po battery (USB-C cables are supplied for charging), and you can expect to get up to about seven hours of use from a single charge. If you need more juice, you can use an external power bank. 

The Røde VideoMic NTG is the company's latest audio product. A broadcast-grade shotgun microphone designed for on-camera use, it's set to serve as a halfway house between two existing product lines: the NTG series of pro shotgun mics, and the VideoMic line of smaller vlogging-friendly microphones.

The VideoMic NTG boasts the same acoustic design as the NTG5 broadcast mic, promising unmatched transparency and natural uncolored sound, with flat frequency response, highly directional supercardioid polar pattern and low self-noise. In short, it aims to deliver a compact on-camera mic with performance on par with pro-level products.

It also features digital switching to provide access to a high-pass filter, -20dB pad, high frequency boost, and safety channel, with infinitely variable gain control to fine-tune the output as you need. Better still, the 3.5mm output automatically detects whether you're connecting to a camera or mobile, removing the need to faff with adapter cables. 

For ultimate versatility, the VideoMic NTG also functions as a USB microphone for use with desktops and tablets. In USB mode the 3.5mm jack works as a headphone output to monitor audio levels. And the mic also features a new a dB peak warning light to indicate when audio levels are clipping.

For more information, visit the official Røde website. 

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Microphone specialist Røde has introduced a new tabletop mic that is designed to appeal to videographers and vloggers. The Rode NT-USB Mini is designed to be simple to use, plugging directly into the USB socket of your laptop or tablet – and comes at a price that is much more affordable than its professional studio design suggests.

The key features of the miniature version of Rode's existing NT-USB microphone are

• High-quality electret condenser capsule – which claims to deliver warmth and presence for a clear, professional sound.

• Directional cardioid pickup pattern – optimized to reduce room sound and other extraneous noise, focusing on the subject in front of it.

• In-built pop filter for reducing plosives.

• Detachable magnetic desk stand – sturdy base mitigates knocks and bumps, easy to remove. 

• A tripod mount is provided for use on a stand or tabletop tripod. 

• Integrated 360-degree swing mount for quick and easy positioning.

• Studio-grade headphone amplifier with precision level control

• Built-in 3.5mm headphone socket for monitoring the sound

• Switchable zero-latency monitoring for eliminating distracting echo.

Weighing 585g, the Rode NT-USB Mini mic is made from aluminum and measures 141.9 x 54.5 x 89.3mm. It is supplied with a USB-A to USB-C cable. 

The Rode NT-USB Mini mic will cost £99 and is due to go on sale later this month.

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Like the popular RØDE Wireless GO, the RØDELink Filmmaker Kit is an audio transmission system that enables you to record high-quality audio wirelessly to your camera or other recording device. The Kit has three main components: the receiver, which connects to your camera via a supplied cable; the transmitter, which can be clipped onto a belt or slipped in a pocket; and the broadcast-quality lavalier microphone. 

Unlike the Wireless GO, the transmitter in the Filmmaker Kit doesn’t have a built-in mic, so you have to connect one for it to work (and you don't have to use the supplied microphone, if you need a different type of mic).

The Filmmaker Kit can operate across eight channels, each with 1,000 transmission frequencies, which means that two kits can use the same channel without interfering with each other. If you need to set up or change the channel, it’s just a case of sliding the receiver open and pressing the small red button to make the channel number flash on the display screen. 

ou can then press the channel (CH) button on the exterior to toggle through the channels. When you have the one you want, slide open the receiver and press its red button, and the two units will pair almost instantly. 

RØDE employs Series II 2.4GHz digital transmission with 128-bit encryption, which can be used anywhere in the world without a license. Also, the Filmmaker Kit continually monitors the signal, changing between frequencies to maintain the best connection. It works across up to 100 metres, around 30 metres further than the Wireless GO. 

Three gain settings on the transmitter let you select the right level by keeping an eye on the audio signal indicator on the receiver. There are also three gain settings on the receiver that enable you to turn down the camera’s pre-amp (where possible) for reduced noise.

Pressing the power button on the transmitter for half a second, or the mute button on the receiver, mutes the mic.  The 3.5mm mic port has a thread so you can lock the mic connection in place to prevent accidental removal.

While the Filmmaker Kit is much bigger than the Wireless GO, it has the advantage of greater range and using AA batteries or USB-power. We tested it with a variety of cameras and the audio quality is excellent. The only disappointment is that it’s not possible to use more than one transmitter with one receiver.

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Røde has introduced what it claims is the world's smallest and lightest wireless microphone system. The Røde Wireless GO comprises of two miniature units - a receiver which  fits onto the hotshoe of your camera, and a transmitter that has a built-in lavalier-type microphone. 

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Both units have built-in clips that can be used to attach to clothing or to a gadget bag – and it is this clip that slides into the hotshoe or accessory shoe of your camera or rig. 

The receiver and transmitter weigh just 31g a piece, and measure around 44 x 46 x 18.5mm each. Both have their own inbuilt lithium polymer rechargeable batteries that promise an operating time of up to seven hours.

Both also feature a 3.5mm jack socket, to connect the receiver to the audio input of your camera, and for adding an external tie-clip or lavalier mic to the transmitter.

The units operate in license-free 2.4GHz radio range for easy of operation, and promise a usable operating distance of up to 70m apart. They come pre-paired - but it is possible to switch channels for manual pairing. There are three different gain settings to allow you to boost or reduce the volume of the audio input.

The kit will be supplied with the transmitter, receiver, two stick-on fur windshields, a pouch, and cables. 

The Røde Wireless GO kit is set to cost £179 / $199 when it goes on sale from April 18.

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