RØDE unveils new audio add-ons at IBC

A number of new audio and recording accessories were unveiled by RØDE at the recent IBC show in Amsterdam.

Distributed in the UK by Source Distribution, the line-up includes microphones, a digital interface, two boom poles and a new wireless audio kit.

Two new models were added to the VideoMic range. The VideoMicro is a small (80mm long), lightweight on-camera microphone designed for use on compact cameras. A directional microphone, it reduces distracting peripheral sounds and focuses on the audio in front of the camera. 

Included with the VideoMicro is a camera shoe mount with Rycote Lyre shock mount. Featuring a suspension structure composed of a hard-wearing thermoplastic, the Lyre is designed to be more effective at minimising unwanted vibrations, handling and cable-borne noise than traditional elastic suspensions.     

The VideoMic Me is a directional microphone designed for Apple iPhone and iPad. Featuring a TRRS connector and adjustable mount it is compatible with a range of Apple devices. It features a headphone jack at the rear, to allow for monitoring and playback without removing the microphone

Both microphones include a furry windshield and feature bodies made from aluminum finished in a ceramic anti-glare black coating.

The firm also announced the i-XLR, a digital XLR interface for Apple iOS devices. Used to connect professional XLR microphones to an iPhone or iPad to record audio in the field, the i-XLR is aimed at allowing reporters, correspondents and audio professionals to capture professional interview dialogue to an Apple smartphone or tablet.

To accompany the i-XLR RØDE has previewed an updated version of its RØDE Rec app that supports remote record functionality for the new interface device, as well as a set of EQ presets for industry-standard interview microphones, that optimise the audio for consistency across recordings, as well as an optional ‘safety track’ that can be set at a lower level.

The RØDELink digital wireless system has been making waves since its release earlier this year. Currently available as the ‘Filmmaker Kit’, including a camera mounted receiver (RX-CAM), beltpack transmitter (TX-BELT) and broadcast-grade lavalier microphone, its 2.4GHz digital communication technology allows for robust, secure transmission of audio at ranges up to 100m.

RØDE also announced expansion of the RØDELink digital wireless range, with the launch of the Newsshooter Kit, which includes a camera-mounted transmitter and the new XLR transmitter (TX-XLR). 

It connects to handheld presentation microphones as well as shotgun microphones, with a 3.5mm input and headphone output. Providing one-touch sync with RØDELink receivers and supplying P48 phantom power, the unit can be powered by 2 x AA, a Sony MPF970 battery or continuously via Micro USB.

The firm plans to make each of the RØDELink devices available separately, so customers can mix and match to suit their needs.

And lastly it introduced two new professional carbon fibre boompoles, complementing the company’s popular range of aluminium poles.

The new RØDE Boompole Pro extends to a full 3m (10’) and collapses to 810mm (2’8”). Each of the five pole sections is comprised completely from carbon fibre making it lightweight but strong. The sections are easily extendable with one hand using a twist-lock mechanic.

Alongside this RØDE has also announced the Micro Boompole Pro, a very thin version of the full-size carbon fibre model, optimised for use with the new VideoMicro microphone. Using a unique modular design, the Micro Boompole Pro’s three sections combine to a maximum length of 2.2m (7’2”). Using an industry standard 3/8” thread, these sections can also be used to extend the Boompole Pro.

The VideoMicro, Boompole Pro and Micro Boompole Pro are shipping now, and the VideoMic Me, i-XLR and RØDELink Newsshooter Kit will be available in the last quarter of this year.