The Rodecaster Pro is Rode’s all-in-one solution entirely dedicated to podcasts. This aptly-named Production Studio can simultaneously record up to four microphone signals while storing the sound files either on an SD card or directly on a computer. The Rodecaster features format-specific functions such as an extra channel designed for mobile phones (which can be used to both manage calls and play back music), eight pads which can trigger sound effects and samples, and four headphone outputs whose volume can be individually adjusted. So, just plug in your mic and you’re ready to go.
Under its bonnet, the Rodecaster Pro is equipped with four high-quality microphone preamps, as you would expect from Rode. Each channel individually supplies phantom power and is equipped with a number of useful processing options. These include a compressor, a de-esser, a noise gate, and a ducking function, all of which ensure that the input signal remains under control in every situation. Moreover, the integrated APHEX effects provide that unmistakeable radio sound. The Rodecaster can be connected to a mobile phone, thus allowing telephone interviews to be conducted. The latter can be connected using a TRRS cable or via Bluetooth, another useful feature. Both of these inputs can be controlled by separate faders on the Rodecaster’s control interface.
The target group at which the Rodecaster is aimed is clear: This complete solution is perfectly tailored to podcasters. The Rodecaster is a real bargain, especially if you need to record more than one person at a time. What is more, the on-board mix minus, ducking, and auto monitor mute features are generally found only on much more expensive professional radio consoles. The Rodecaster is thus well suited to the production of radio reports and interviews. The eight sound pads, which can trigger pre-assigned jingles and sound bites, neatly round off the package. The Rodecaster is operated via a modern high-resolution touch display, making its workflow very intuitive.
Founded in Sydney, Australia in 1990, Rode is a specialist in high-quality studio microphones. With its very first in-house, completely Australian-built model, the NT2 large-diaphragm microphone, the company created a classic which is still produced in its current and enhanced version, the NT2-A. An extensive range of studio and live microphones has also been added, regularly updated, and expanded over the years. These new additions include a variety of professional microphones which are designed for video and mobile applications and can be connected directly to SLR cameras or smartphones.
The Rodecaster packs a punch: Four channels with high-quality preamps and comprehensive sound-processing options, four headphone outputs, recording and interfacing functions, a sample player, a telephone switching function and, last but not least, ducking, mix minus, and other specific broadcasting tools – all are included in this compact and robust unit. If you want to interview and record four people at the same time, a more cost-effective solution seems hard to imagine. The Rodecaster delivers the high standard of manufacturing quality with which Rode has long been synonymous, and it will also eliminate hours of editing and post-production processing thanks to the wealth of dedicated tools available straight out of the box. And the Rodecaster’s ease of use and intuitive operation mean that even beginners can quickly get the hang of it, which makes it a true pioneer in its field.