While the desktop setup is still the crown jewel for a lot of content creators, being able to take a production mobile has become a lot more viable. Even just recording something in the wild is so much easier than it was 5 years ago, thanks in large part to products like the Rode Wireless Micro.
The Wireless Micro is as foolproof as a device can be. It comes in a compact carrying case that easily fits into a pocket and doubles as a charger. Anytime you want to record something using the Wireless Micro, you take out the receiver, plug it into your mobile device of choice, take a mic (or mics) out, and attach it to your shirt and go. There really isn’t much more to it, which is what makes the Rode Wireless Micro an easy recommendation and a very cool piece of tech.
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Rode Wireless Micro: An On-the-Go Mic Setup That Just Works
The Wireless Micro package also includes a pair of windscreens for the two mics in case you are in a windy environment, or just to ensure clean audio. However, I found in my testing that the levels on the mics were great right out of the box - the signal reaches further than you could ever possible need, and the audio quality is exceptional. Whether you want to record a quick Vlog or an interview, the ease of use on the Wireless Micro is so incredible it can’t be understated.
Take for example, the fact that each mic includes a clip for securing to a collar as well as a magnetic clip for attaching to any piece of clothing. It’s such a small feature, but one that speaks to the Wireless Micro’s utility in unique situations.
Rode Wireless Micro Includes:
- Charging/Storage Case (Powered via USB-C)
- Receiver (USB-C or Lightning versions available)
- 2 Wireless Mics with hinged and magnetic clips
- 2 Windscreens that secure around each mic
When you connect the receiver to your device (either through USB-C or lightning), you can control the levels through the Rode Central app. There is not a ton of customization, but you can boost the gain if you find the mics to be a little quiet or have a speaker that isn’t projecting as well as another. You can control each mic independently as well, or set the mics to record on their own separate tracks if you need to do some sound editing in post-production.
Range on the Wireless Micro is extremely impressive, still capturing audio at distances that you would never record video at, but the option is there. I found that the mics tackled almost any situation you can throw at it, keeping the audio clean and the mic secure regardless of the situation. This isn't a high-quality mic that would be ideal for a podcast, mind you, but you certainly could use it and many wouldn't notice a major difference.
There isn’t much more to the Rode Wireless Micro and that’s a good thing. Rode does offer a lot of other wireless microphone options that are small and portable, but they typically require at least a little setup before you can get going. With the Wireless Micro, all you need is a mobile device and the carrying case and you are good to go.
Needless to say, I have been very impressed by the Rode Wireless Micro. With how easy to use and portable everything is, you might think that the audio quality would be poor, but it’s excellent. The range is incredible, allowing for you to record content reasonably far from your phone. And even if you are the type of person that likes to fiddle with their levels, the Rode Central app allows for that. To me, this is the new gold standard for entry level portable microphones.
Rode Wireless Micro
- Brand
- Rode
- Type
- Wireless Microphone
- Pattern
- Omnidirectional
- Power
- Battery
- Battery
- Lithium-ion
- Connector
- Lighting, USB-C
The Wireless Micro by Rode is an ultra-compact wireless microphone system designed for creators who need high-quality audio and compact convenience. It includes two clip-on transmitters with built-in microphones, paired out of the box for immediate, hassle-free use. Intelligent GainAssist technology delivers balanced, clear audio in any environment. The included charging case offers up to 21 hours of battery life, making it ideal for on-the-go content creation. The wireless system also connects directly to smartphones via USB-C or Lightning connectors, eliminating cables.
The Wireless Micro can be easily attached to clothing for seamless audio capture, thanks to its lightweight design, integrated clips, and magnetic mounting system. Rode's acoustic chamber technology minimizes wind noise, plosives, and pops. The microphone is available in black or white for optimal blending on most outfits.
- Weight
- Ultra-lightweight
- Frequency Bandwidth
- 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Included Accessories
- Wireless Charging Case
- Signal to Noise Ratio
- 73 dB
- Analog Outputs
- N/A
- Compatible Devices
- Smartphones (Android, iOS)
- Outputs
- N/A
- Bit-depth
- 24-bit
- Range
- Over 100m (328ft)
- Sample rate
- 48kHz
The Rode Wireless Micro is available now for $149.99 as either a USB-C or Lightning model. It currently is only available in black, but a white model is on the way. The Best War Games was provided a USB-C unit for this review.