Like many in the podcasting world, we fell in love with the Rodecaster Pro when it was released in late 2018. It took six years, but microphone manufacturer Rode has finally expanded its user-friendly product line into the video world.
The Rodecaster Video faces much stiffer competition than the original Pro board: Many companies are releasing similar devices in the post-pandemic, video-first era, and they also come with a steep price tag of $1,119, nearly double the Pro’s $600 MSRP.
Rode is looking to capture the same beginner category it captured with the first Pro: people who are interested in leveling up their video production but aren’t ready to commit to a full pro rig.
However, while the Pro is focused entirely on in-person audio podcasting, the Video is aimed at a broader audience, from solo Twitch streamers to multi-person in-studio video productions. The new model is more compact than the original, as it’s meant to be placed in front of your computer rather than in the middle of a podcast table.
Image credit: Rode
A pair of Neutrik jacks with preamps for XLR microphones are included, and combined with four HDMI and two USB-C inputs, users can switch between video sources in real time, while audio processing includes EQ as well as a compressor, high-pass filter, de-esser and noise gate.
It can automatically cue green and blue screens, switch audio between video sources, and stream to “all major platforms” over Wi-Fi or wired connections via Ethernet and USB. It can also record directly to a connected external hard drive.
“For decades, our mission has been to empower creators with professional yet affordable audio equipment,” CEO Damian Wilson said in the release. “Groundbreaking innovations like Rodecaster Pro and Wireless GO changed the approach to content creation across multiple categories, putting studio-grade audio solutions within reach of today’s creators. With Rodecaster Video, we’re doing the same with video production.”
The Rodecaster video is available to pre-order starting today, with shipping on October 10th.
