Rode Podcaster Dynamic USB Microphone

zZounds' Take on Rode Podcaster

With a classic design that instantly evokes the sturdy end-address dynamic mics that have long been indispensable in radio stations, the Rode Podcaster is a professional USB microphone designed for no-nonsense direct-to-computer recording. As the name implies, it's ideal for podcasters and home-studio voiceover talent who need a dependable desk mic that rejects off-axis background noise. A built-in headphone output on the microphone body provides zero-latency monitoring so you can hear what you're recording with no echo or delay -- and it's built like a tank (with a 10-year warranty that takes effect after registration on Rode's website). With the Rode Podcaster, the term "USB mic" no longer means "cheesy." This is one USB microphone that delivers great sound and serious build quality for your money.

Dynamic vs. Condenser

As any audio engineer will tell you, most microphones fall into two categories: condensers and dynamics. In general, dynamic mics are a must-have for live performance, while condensers are the go-to choice for pro recording studios. The vast majority of USB mics on the market are condensers, which may seem like a good choice for music or voice recording, but in the home environment, condensers' sensitivity makes them susceptible to background noise. Condenser mics are more delicate, touchy instruments, and the consumer-level USB condensers tend to suffer from an unnaturally "hyped" high-end response. The Rode Podcaster fills a void in the market by providing a robust, broadcast-quality USB dynamic mic with accurate vocal reproduction.

Fast, Simple Setup

Setting up the Rode Podcaster couldn't be easier: simply plug the included 10-foot USB cable into your computer's USB port. With a USB mic, there's no need for an audio interface, preamp, or external sound card of any kind. The microphone's LED will flash red, then solid green to indicate that it's being properly powered over USB -- clearly visible whenever you're in the speaking position. And there's no need to install a driver; simply open your computer's system preferences to select the mic for your audio input and adjust its sensitivity to your voice. Plug any 1/8" headphones into your Podcaster's built-in headphone jack to monitor your sound directly off the mic with zero latency. And you can use Podcaster's included stand mount to secure it on any standard threaded desk stand, or choose the optional Rode PSM1 shock mount and PSA1 boom arm to save space on your desk.

Features:

- Broadcast-quality dynamic USB microphone
- Cardioid pickup pattern rejects background noise
- Simple setup -- works with any Mac or PC
- Built-in headphone jack for zero-latency monitoring
- 10-foot USB cable and stand mount included
- Up to 48 kHz sampling rate
- 18-bit digital-to-analog converter

Manufacturer's Description for Rode Podcaster Dynamic USB Microphone

Seamless integration was the idea, and it was obtained by creating a studio dynamic microphone with unparalleled A/D converters, so that the microphone can be plugged into any computer with no in/out boxes, no expensive computer pre-amps, just a USB cable.

The Podcaster offers an end-address configuration, the clarity of RODE's tailored-for-voice frequency response, an 'ON' L.E.D, a direct headphone amp, and of course very low self noise.

The Podcaster opens up possibilities for anyone who records audio - from podcasters, journalists and students to business people adding audio files to websites and multimedia presentations. zZounds is an authorized dealer of RODE products.

Acoustic Principle: Dynamic (neodymium) 28 mm

Active Electronics: Analogue signal conditioning + A/D and USB interface

Pickup Pattern: Cardioid

Frequency Response: 40 Hz ~ 14 kHz

Sensitivity: -51 dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (2.8 mV @ 94dB SPL) +/- 3 dB

Maximum SPL: 115 dB

Signal/Noise: > 78 dB

Analogue Output: Headphone audio output for monitoring

Digital Output Interface: USB

Resolution: 18 bits

Audio Control: AC97

Power Requirements: Power supplied from USB port.

Weight: 610g (21.5 oz)

Packed Weight: 1025g (36 oz)

Dimensions:
Length: 215mm (8 in.)
Height: 56mm (2 in.)
Width: 52mm (2 in.)

Dimensions and Weight in Packaging

Base Item

Shipping Weight: 2 lbs

Shipping Dimensions: 12 x 6 x 3 in