A few weeks ago we got to have a first look at the newest addition to the RØDE family: The RØDE VideoMic Pro+. It is a true shotgun microphone designed for use with camcorders, DSLR cameras and portable audio recorders as a source of primary and reference audio. While the VideoMic Pro+ has kept some of the previous features such as its top-notch Rycote Lyre suspension system, it also boasts a host of new features.
The folks over at RØDE spent countless hours researching and developing the foam technology for the new windscreen and gave it an optimized shape to help reduce wind distortion. This new design almost eliminates the need for an additional Wind Shield or DeadCat.
The VideoMic Pro+ is powered by the new Rechargeable LB-1 Battery that lasts up to 100 hours. The battery can be charged while remaining inside of the unit with the micro-USB port on the side, so there is no extra charger that you need to lug around in your bag. However, if you need to switch out batteries quickly the new built-in battery door makes replacing the battery easier than ever. You can also put in AA batteries if you happen to run out of juice.
The new microphone also caters to convenience with its Female locking 3.5mm port for cable to camera and its Automatic Plug-in-Power feature. The VideoMic Pro+ identifies Plug-in-Power (if the camera has plug-in-power) and will self-power on/off when the camera turns on/off. If the camera doesn’t have plug-in-power, the mic still has the option to power on and off manually.
One of the most distinct new aspects is the addition of Digital Buttons. The buttons allow multiple Digital Switching options that are sure to cut down post production and editing times.
Digital Switching includes:
- An added 150 High Pass Filter (HPF) to reduce low frequencies such as rumble from traffic or air conditioning.
- 3- Stage Gain Control, with-10dB, 0, +20dB functions that is designed to improve audio quality on DSLR or Mirrorless cameras
- A Safety track Channel with -10dB on the right channel of the track to save your recording if the left channel is distorted and help ensure the signal does not clip when unexpected spikes occur. The left channel on the track is what you set it at, while the right channel is -10dB of what you set the left channel to. For example, if you set the microphone to a dB of +20dB, the right channel of the track would be +10dB. The safety track feature is to help prevent accidentally distorting or clipping your tracks by offering a -10dB PAD on the right side of your audio setup.
- An added High Frequency Boost. The boost will enhance the higher frequencies so your audio will sound more natural.
To purchase the Rode VideoMic Pro+ click here.
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