Australian audio powerhouse Røde introduced five new products and two major software updates Monday — its “biggest product announcement ever,” it said — at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show in Las Vegas.
Two new products headlined — the Streamer X audio interface/video capture card and the compact RødeCaster Duo AV production tool. The new PodMic USB, important firmware updates to the Wireless Go II mic system and the RødeCaster Pro II production tool, and handy new accessories rounded out the mix.
Røde introduces RødeCaster Duo, Streamer X and more at NAB Show
Røde said the five new products and two firmware updates rolled out at NAB Show will launch during the coming weeks. A rundown of what to expect follows. Røde has not yet provided pricing information or specific release dates.
RødeCaster Duo
The RødeCaster Duo (pictured above) is a compact, portable all-in-one audio production tool for podcasting, streaming, music and other content creation. It offers the same features as the larger RødeCaster Pro II. That includes a quad-core audio engine, Revolution Preamps, APHEX audio processing and ample customizability.
“We created the all-in-one podcasting console category with the original RødeCaster Pro in 2018 and, since its release in 2022, the RødeCaster Pro II has been praised as the most powerful audio production console of its kind,” the company said.
“The RødeCaster Duo will continue this legacy, delivering everything that users have come to love about its sibling in a more compact footprint — perfect if you require fewer audio inputs but don’t want to compromise on audio quality,” it continued.
Streamer X
Photo: Røde
The Streamer X combines a professional audio interface and video capture card in a compact, simple console for an all-in-one streaming solution, the company said.
For high-quality sound, it packs studio-grade audio inputs for XLR, line-level devices and headsets with a low-noise, high-gain Revolution Preamp and APHEX audio processing.
Streamer X features compatibility with Røde Series IV wireless microphones, which is also coming to the RødeCaster Pro II in the next firmware update (see below).
On the video front for streaming and other applications, Streamer X offers 4K30/2K60 streaming and up to 2K120/4K60 pass-through.
Two USB-C connections accommodate dual PC setups, and four customizable Smart pads allow quick triggering of sound or voice effects and other actions. It’s compatible with Rode software, including Røde Central, Røde Connect and Unify.
PodMic USB
Photo: Røde
PodMic USB is dynamic microphone for podcasting, streaming and content creation. It offers the same sound quality and compact form factor as the best-selling PodMic, but with XLR and USB connectivity, a sleek new finish and a pop filter.
When using the analog XLR output, PodMic USB works just like the original PodMic.
When using the digital USB output, it offers a range of features that make it flexible, including a Revolution Preamp and high-quality analog-to-digital conversion. Advanced DSP lets you add APHEX voice processing to recordings. Compatibility with smartphones and tablets allows easy use on the go.
It also features a zero-latency headphone output and on-board volume control. And it’s compatible with the Røde software suite, including Røde Central, Røde Connect, Røde Capture and Unify.
Wireless Go II firmware update
A new firmware update will unlock new features in the compact Wireless GO II microphone system. You’ll be able to save on-board recordings as WAV files for easy transfer to a computer, and start/stop on-board recordings using the transmitter power button.
New camera models will appear in the recently added camera preset feature. Other changes include a number of system enhancements and workflow improvements.
RødeCaster Pro II wireless microphone connectivity update
A new firmware update for RødeCaster Pro II will unlock wireless microphone connectivity.
The new update lets users connect any Røde Series IV wireless transmitter — including the Wireless Go II and Wireless ME — for recording wireless audio directly to the RødeCaster Pro II.
“This incredible feature is a world-first and makes the RødeCaster Pro II even more versatile, with more inputs and outputs than any other device of its kind on the market, affirming its place as the ultimate audio production console for content creators,” the company said.
New accessories
RødeCaster Backpack
Photo: Røde
The new Backpack is for the RødeCaster series, including the RødeCaster Pro, RødeCaster Pro II and RødeCaster Duo. Featuring a soft, durable Alcantara handle, ballistic nylon straps and a water-resistant exterior, it’s rugged.
In addition to a RødeCaster model, it can carry microphones, studio arms and other accessories, as well as laptops up to 16 inches. Ergonomic adjustable shoulder straps and exterior pockets and compartments for more storage complete the package.
Wireless Go II Charging Case
This is a handy charging case for the Wireless Go II. It accommodates the transmitters and the receiver. It features an integrated battery for three full recharges allowing up to 30 hours of continuous use, the company said.
