These cardioid microphones output to USB and process all of the analogue to digital conversion internally, bypassing the computer's on-board sound controller altogether. Designed for podcasting and voice recording.
The Podcaster is a dynamic, cardioid microphone that combines 'broadcast-quality audio with the simplicity of USB connectivity', providing direct connection to a computer without the need for an additional digital interface. Has an 18-bit resolution, 48kHz sampling A/D converter, whilst a headphone output on the microphone body provides 'zero-latency monitoring, so the user can hear exactly what is being recorded, free of delay or echo'.
Rode suggest that the Podcaster is suitable for 'podcasting, vodcasting, YouTube videos, voice recognition software, corporate videos and any production application that requires a simple yet professional voice over microphone' and that it is also a 'convenient demo microphone for musicians and songwriters that prefer the convenience of a USB microphone but don't want to compromise sound quality'. The microphone is powered from the USB bus and has a LED to indicate operation.
The 28mm dynamic capsule is aimed on-axis, mounted in an internal shock-mount. A 3.5mm stereo jack socket provides the headphone output, and is adjacent to a rotary headphone level control. An internal pop filter is designed to minimise plosive sounds that can overload the microphone capsule.
It is 'fully compatible with Windows Vista, Windows 7 and Mac OS X computers, as well as several Linux distributions' and may also be used as an iPad microphone for the Apple iPad (in conjunction with the iPad Camera Connection Kit and a powered USB hub) for to various iPad audio applications such as Garageband.
Maximum sound level: 115dB SPL, 1kHz, 1% THD, 1k ohms load. Sensitivity: -51dB, +/- 2 dB, 1kHz, re. 1V/Pascal (2.80mV @ 94 dB SPL). Response: 40Hz - 14kHz. Dimensions (HxWxD): 215 × 56 × 52mm. Weight: 610gm.
Included accessories: RM2 microphone ring stand mount. USB cable, 3 metres.
Optional accessories: PSM1 elastic shock mount, WS2 foam windshield.
PODMIC USB
Available in white or black finish PodMic USB is a dynamic, end-address microphone designed for podcasting, streaming, gaming, voice overs, and other speech applications for content creation. The microphone delivers a 'rich, full-bodied sound' and features both 3-pin XLR and USB-C outputs for connection to an audio interface, mixer, or directly to a computer for plug-and-play recording. The 24-bit, 48kHz digital USB output features a high-gain Revolution Preamp along with APHEX digital signal processing.
A zero-latency headphone output has an associated level control for adjustment. PodMic USB compatible with iOS and Android mobile devices. Minimum OS requirements: Windows 10, Mac OS 10.15.
Output impedance: 460ohm, 3-pin XLR. Frequency range: 20Hz to 20kHz. Sensitivity: -57dB re 1V/Pascal, 1.4mV at 94dB SPL, +/- 3dB at 1kHz. Dimensions (LxWxH): 123 x 109 x 110mm. Weight: 900g
Discontinued
Rode NT-USB USB side-address microphone has been designed to capture singing or spoken voice for applications such as podcasting. Compatible with Windows and Mac OS along with Apple iPad using Rode Rec app when using a compatible USB connection adaptor. A 16-bit resolution and 48kHz sample rate along with ‘zero-latency’ headphone monitoring via stereo 3.5mm jack socket allow for real-time monitoring. Rotary controllers on the side of the microphone can be used to adjust the monitoring level and mix between microphone input and computer audio.
The included Rode Tripod stand allows for desktop positioning, whilst the included Rode Pop Filter clips onto the base of the NT-USB microphone to minimise plosives such as “B”, “T”, and “P”. The microphone can also be mounted on a microphone stand using the 3/8-inch thread adaptor and ring mount.
Included accessories: 6m USB Cable, Zip case, Pop filter, Tripod stand, Ring mount.
Optional accessories: SMR shock mount, WS2 foam windshield.
Rode NT-USB+ is a side-address studio microphone that features a condenser capsule with 'tight' cardioid pickup pattern. Designed to be connected to a recording or casting device with USB connection, such as smartphone, tablet, or computer, the microphone also has internal digital signal processing. Downloading and installing the Rode Connect app allows access to the additional DSP features that include noise gate, compressions, high-pass filter set at 75Hz or 150Hz, and APHEX Aural Exciter/Big Bottom processing. A 3.5mm jack headphone output allows for direct monitoring and listening back to recordings. Two controls allow for adjustment of headphone output and monitor mix control.
The included desk stand and pop filter enable better microphone placement along with a reduction of noises such as plosives.
Compatible with MacOS 10.14, Windows 10, iOS 14, Android 11 or newer operating systems.
Polar pattern: Cardioid. Frequency range: 20Hz - 20kHz. Dynamic range: 97dB, at 10% THD. Input SPL: 118dB, at 10% THD, reference IEC 60268. Power requirements: 5V, 500mA. Bit depth: 24-bit. Sample rate: 48kHz. Dimensions (LxWxD): 184 x 62 x 50mm. Weight: 540g, without accessories; 730g, with all accessories.
Included accessories: Tripod stand, ring mount, pop filter, SC29 cable.
This microphone is designed with Rode's technology to incorporate the quality from their studio microphone range into an accessible and more affordable USB microphone option. The microphone is designed for use by gamers, podcasters, musicians, and content creators. Using the downloadable Rode Connect software the user is able to apply internal digital signal processing (DSP) including compression, noise gating, and APHEX Aural Exciter and Big Bottom processing. A 3.5mm jack headphone output with associated volume control allows for direct monitoring, whilst a 'zero-latency' switch eliminates echo when recording.
Up to four NT-USB Mini microphone can be connected to a single Mac or PC for interviewing and podcasting. When connected in this type of array, automatic mix-minus can be applied. The microphone can be positioned on the included detachable desktop stand, or swung through 360-degrees and attached to a downward facing boom arm.
Polar pattern: Cardioid. Frequency range: 20Hz - 20kHz. Input SPL: 121dB, at 1% THD, reference IEC 651. Bit depth: 24-bit. Sample rate: 48kHz. Dimensions (LxWxD): 141.9 x 54.5 x 89.3mm. Weight: 585g.
Included accessories: SC20 cable, thread mount adapter.
Optional accessories: Colors identification tags, Rode PSA1+, Rode PSA1, SC17, SC18, DS1 microphone stand.
ACCESSORIES
DS2 Desktop Arm
DS2 is a compact desktop studio arm designed to best position a microphone, camera, smartphone, or light on the desktop. A heavy base stand prevents movement with microphones up to 950g in weight, whilst two pivot points allow the repositioning of equipment. Integrated cable guide slots enable the user to make cabling tidy.
Dimensions (HxWxL): 190 x 120 x 170mm, folded; 380 x 120 x 170mm, extended. Weight: 1.471kg
PSA1 Studio Arm
Designed for radio, broadcast, studio or home use, PSA1 boom arm allows 'easy and precise placement' of a microphone. The boom arm is capable of supporting from 700g to 1.1kg and features a parallelogram design that keeps the microphone direction constant as the height is adjusted. Internal springs allow for quiet operation. Threaded desk insert and desk mount clamp included.
Horizontal reach: 820mm. Vertical reach: 840mm. Weight: 1.74kg
PSA1+ Studio Arm
Available in black or white finish, Rode PSA1+ is a studio boom arm for podcasters, streamers and broadcasters. A parallelogram spring design ensures smooth movement and precise microphone placement in any position. Fully damped internal springs and a neoprene arm cover eliminate mechanical noise. Integrated cable management for USB and XLR cable ensures a tidy setup. The boom arm allows 360-degree rotation and is compatible with microphones weighting between 94g and 1.2kg.
Horizontal reach: 940mm. Vertical reach: 860mm. Weight: 1.52kg