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If you’re on the hunt for an affordable but high-quality podcast mic, chances are you’ve stumbled across the Rode PodMic. The Rode PodMic is a dynamic broadcast mic that’s designed to meet the requirements of podcasters, streamers and gamers. That’s a pretty big brief to meet. So, does it deserve all the hype? In this Røde PodMic review, we’ll delve into the details, looking at its key features and how best to use it for the highest-quality recording possible.
TL;DR
- The Rode PodMic is an affordable mic that is designed for podcasters, gamers and streamers.
- It’s a dynamic mic with a cardioid polar pattern meaning it’s optimized for recording voice and speech.
- Some of its best features include the in-built pop-filter and shock mount that help to optimize the quality of your audio recording.
- Since it’s an XLR only mic, beware that you’ll need to invest in an audio interface if you don’t have one already.
What is the Rode PodMic?
Pricing
The Rode PodMic is super affordable at only $99. This makes it a super budget-friendly podcasting mic.
Polar Pattern
The Rode PodMic has a cardioid (unidirectional) polar pattern, hence it’s ideally set up for recording speech.
Frequency Response
20Hz to 20kHz.
Connectivity Outputs
The PodMic is only compatible with XLR connectors. This means that in order to use this mic as part of your setup, you’ll need to connect it to an audio interface. If you don’t already have an audio interface, this represents an added cost.
Design and Build
The Rode PodMic is a compact and stylish mic with an black metal finish, which not only looks good but means that the mic is robust and durable.
Key Features of the Rode PodMic
Internal Pop Filter
The internal pop filter is built-in to automatically minimize any plosives that might negatively impact your recording.
Internal Shockmount
The internal shockmount is there to seamlessly protect your audio from any bumps or vibrations.
Integrated Swing Mount
The integrated swing mount means that you can position your PodMic exactly as you want it.
Cardioid Polar Pattern Reduces Background Noise
The PodMic’s Cardioid or Unidirectional polar pattern means that it is fully optimized for capturing your voice and reducing background noise.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Rode PodMic
Advantages of the Rode PodMic
Affordable
One of the biggest advantages of the Rode PodMic is its affordable pricetag. At only $99, it’s a steal. Although since there’s no mic-stand included and it's an XLR mic, you may find yourself with other additional costs you didn’t anticipate.
High quality sound
The Rode PodMic offers you exquisite sound quality for the price point. The internal pop-filter, shockmount and cardioid polar pattern mean that you’re as best protected as possible from anything that might impact your recording.
Made for Podcasters
The Rode PodMic is made specifically for podcasters, gamers and streamers, which means it's finely-tuned for recording HD voice and speech.
Disadvantages of the Rode PodMic
XLR only
Though it’s an affordable mic, the Rode PodMic is slightly let down by the fact that it doesn’t have a USB connection option. This would make it far more versatile and adaptable to different setups. Plus, the fact that it’s an XLR microphone means that even though you save on the mic itself, you’ll have to shell out to incorporate it into your setup if you don’t already have an audio interface, for example.
Low output
The Rode PodMic is fairly notorious for having a low output, which means you need to boost the output with more gain than you might think.
How to use the Rode PodMic for the best recording quality
Your mic is only as good as your mic etiquette and recording environment. Here are a few tips on how to get the best quality out of your mic.
Mic positioning
Make sure that you position yourself correctly relative to your mic. You don’t want to be too close or too far. Generally, it’s advisable to sit 1 to 3 inches from the mic.
Recording environment
If possible, you want to record in a protected environment that doesn’t have any background noise. Of course, this isn’t always possible, but you can try to minimize external factors as far as possible by sitting down to record in a quiet environment.
Read more: All You Need to Know About Building a Podcast Studio at Home
What is the Rode PodMic best for?
As it says on the box, the Rode PodMic is designed and optimized for broadcasting and voice recording.
Is the Rode PodMic good for podcasting?
The Rode PodMic is perfect for podcasting. It’s the ideal entry-level mic that won’t break the bank. Obviously, there are some other mics that sit at a higher price point that are likely to deliver a better experience, but that doesn’t mean the PodMic is not a good option. Since it’s designed for voice and podcasting, it’s definitely a strong contender for any type of podcasting setup.
Can you use the Rode PodMic for streaming?
Absolutely. In fact, the Rode PodMic’s target audience is gamers, streamers, and podcasters. One thing to bear in mind, though, is that the Rode PodMic is an XLR mic, which means you need an audio interface to work with it. If you’re looking for a USB ‘plug and play’ type mic, then this might not be the best option.
Rode PodMic Alternatives
Looking at Rode PodMic alternatives is the best way to see how it compares to other mics on the market:
Rode PodMic vs Blue Yeti
The Blue Yeti and Rode PodMic are very similar in many ways. Both are mics that focus on delivering high-quality recordings of speech and voice without breaking the bank.
The Blue Yeti comes with a desk stand, which is useful compared to the Rode PodMic which requires you to buy a stand or boom arm to support it.
For podcasters, but streamers in particular, the fact that the Blue Yeti is a USB mic will be a big appeal - especially if you’re working on a strict budget. In addition, the fact that you can choose between four different polar patterns means that the Blue Yeti is a lot more versatile than the Rode PodMic.
Rode PodMic vs SM7B
The Rode PodMic and SM7B sit at different ends of the spectrum. When compared to the SM7B, it becomes obvious that the Rode PodMic is pitched at beginners and amateur podcasters who are on a budget. Whereas the SM7B caters to industry professionals who are looking for the best-of-the best. This difference is obvious in their respective prices: whilst the Rode PodMic is $99, the Shure SM7B is $399.
Is the Rode PodMic worth it?
At just $99, the Rode PodMic is definitely more than worth it. If you’ve got a bigger budget, you may want to consider looking at other options, but for an affordable podcasting mic that will deliver high-quality for the price, the Rode PodMic is definitely a good choice.
FAQs on the Rode PodMic
How heavy is the Rode PodMic?
The Rode PodMic weighs 2 pounds.
Does the Rode PodMic need phantom power?
No, since the RodePodMic is a dynamic mic it doesn’t need phantom power to operate.
How much gain does Rode PodMic need?
The Rode PodMic needs quite a bit of gain. According to this podcasting thread on Reddit, they’ll need about 15 - 20 db more than what you might need for standard condenser mics.
How do you make Rode PodMic louder?
First of all, make sure that your position relative to the mic is correct. If you’re too far away, it may not pick up your voice correctly. If you’re still having trouble, try adjusting the gain.
Is Rode PodMic a USB?
No, the Rode PodMic is an XLR mic.
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