RØDE launches two new VideoMics
posted Friday, January 20, 2012 at 4:33 PM EST
Australian microphone manufacturer RØDE has launched two new microphones that aim to improve on-camera audio recording. The RØDE VideoMic HD and Stereo VideoMic Pro are compatible with DSLRs, system cameras and camcorders featuring a 3.5mm microphone input.
The Stereo VideoMic Pro combines features from two earlier models, the VideoMic Pro and Stereo VideoMic. Based around two 1/2-inch cardoid condenser capsules, the Stereo VideoMic Pro has an integrated shock-mounting system, an optional 75Hz high pass filter to reduce low-frequency background noise, and a -10dB / +20dB pad/boost function.
Perhaps even more interesting is the VideoMic HD, however. As well as passing monaural audio through to the attached camera or camcorder, it can also record digial audio as a function of the microphone itself. No information is currently available on recording formats, but the VideoMic HD includes a built-in MicroSD card slot for removable storage, as well as a MicroUSB port catering both to data transfer, and potentially, firmware updates. There's also an integrated headphone jack allowing live monitoring of captured audio, as well as a levels display on a small, built-in high-contrast LCD panel. You can set a -10dB / +20dB level control, and there's a three-level (0 / 75 / 150Hz) high pass filter.
The VideoMic HD is based on the same capsule and much of the same electronics as the RØDE NTG3 shotgun mic, and although it's only monaural as noted, it can record in a couple of different ways. The mono audio can be recorded to both channels of a stereo track, or in a safety recording mode that captures regular audio on one channel, and -10dB audio on the other channel, potentially saving your bacon if levels are higher than expected and start to clip.
It's also possible to record dual mono, and then output a balanced signal via a 3.5mm to XLR adapter. Additionally, a 3.5mm monaural line in port allows the VideoMic HD to be connected to an external lav mic or headset, in which case audio from the VideoMic itself is captured on one channel, and audio from the external mic on the other channel.
Like the other VideoMic products, the VideoMic HD includes a shock-mounted design. It has a die-cast aluminum body, and a quick-release hot shoe mount.
Pricing and availability information hadn't been provided at press time.