Rode VideoMic Pro+ Review
Those who are willing to invest in the good on-camera microphone can invest in this unit. Rode VideoMic Pro+ includes each and everything which is required for starting it up, such as TRS cable of 3.5mm, LB-1 rechargeable battery, and micro USB cable. This review is all about the handy features of this Rode VideoMic.
Though it appears to be bigger for the shotgun microphone, it is known to be lighter in weight. The shock system of this model lends a helping hand in keeping it in place. In addition to this, it is also believed to be an excellent choice to control noises and vibrations. Hence, it plays an integral role in the prevention of unwanted sounds, while moving out.
The Rode VideoMic Pro+ is believed to be the improved and new version of Video Mic Pro. Though they share similar looks from the outside, it possesses much-needed upgrades such as automatic power switching. This model is believed to be the latest addition in the latest on-camera categories. This shotgun microphone is designed for DSLR cameras, camcorders, and portable audio recorders.
Features and designs
After a closer look into the system, it can be said that the VideoMic Pro+ is known to sit on the Signature Rycote Lyre Suspension system of Rode. Such soft plastic material functions as the shock mount for reducing all sorts of unwanted noise from different movements and bumps.
In the testing, the suspension system is known to be amazing, primarily during run and gun style shooting along with the handheld camera. Also, the windshield of this unit is re-designed along with the optimized and larger shape, which plays an integral role in making this unit less compact, as compared to the predecessors.
However, it functions properly as the on-camera mic. You are also going to find the least wind noise via the test, during the breezy conditions. In case the large windshield of this product is too loud, the dead cat accessory can be useful in stopping the strongest of the winds.
Recording modes and digital switching
The digital switching interface is recognized to be one of the leading changes in this unit. This model depends on the pair of buttons and hence you do not need to swipe the toggle from each setting to the other. Instead, the button aids in activating different recording modes, according to your requirements.
The two-stage high pass filter is considered to be the first mode which is essential in reducing the reduced frequency noise in the background in the recordings like the rumbling of the cars, sound of the AC unit, to name a few.
The three-stage gain control is the next mode which plays an integral role in increasing the audio signal for making up for quieter preamps which are built in the DSLR and mirrorless cameras. It is beneficial in reducing the noise as the gain settings are excessively high. It helps in keeping the down in-camera and hence you will listen to the cleaner audio. Besides this, you are going to find an extra high-frequency boost which will be useful in conferring the additional details in the recordings.
Dedicated Safety Channel
Advanced users are fond of the dedicated safety channel setting, primarily during the live coveting events where it is not possible to assume the loudness. This setting is effective in recording audio at the varied 2 gain levels across the right and left channels.
You need to keep in mind that it is done for assuring that in case a channel gets clipped owing to a rise in the volume, you will not run out of backup for recovering the audio. So, it contributes to being an amazing option for using the stereo audio channels of the camera from the mono microphone.
During. the Rode VideoMic Pro+ Review process, we have used this in various conditions and always got the best out of it.
Ready-made filter and equalization
As we dig more into the VideoMic Pro+, you will come across the ready-made two-stage low cut filter which aids in reducing lower frequencies like ruble from air conditioning or traffic. Apart from this, the high-frequency boost of this model is useful in enhancing the high frequencies, as per your needs. Hence, it is also essential in increasing clarity and details while recording.
Automatic or manual power on/off
Apart from the power button, the microphone of this model is inclusive of auto on/off feature which is effective in preventing the unnecessary use of the battery. After the connection to the compatible camera’s mic input, the product turns off and on automatically while responding to the absence or presence of the plug-in power. Hence, the mic is known to shut off automatically with detection in the power loss.
3-stage gain control
The 3-stage gain control of this model is useful in enabling the optimal recording level. Similar to the high-frequency boost and low roll-off, it is possible to switch the gain control digitally for convenience and precision.
On top of this, the +20 dB setting of the model is considered to be a great alternative for recording to the cameras, since it increases the signal without the need for extreme gain on the inferior preamp of the camera. If you think that the loud sound might distort the recording, you can consider switching to the -10dB option.
Informative LED indicators
Green, blue and red colors are the primary LED indicators that are necessary for determining the charging status, power source, and rest of the operating time. Apart from this, the extra LEDs are known to be allocated due to the indication of the high pass filter, safety channel, gain settings, and high-frequency boost. Consequently, an onboard light sensor assists in the adjustment of the LED brightness level, after a response to the ambient light.
Options for connectivity
It is possible to expand the compatibility of the device with the aid of the Rode accessories like VXLR, SC4. The VXLR adapter contributes to being an excellent solution as you try to record the VideoMic Pro+ to the mixer or camcorder, with XLR inputs. The SC4 happens to be a short cable that aids in connecting the VideoMic Pro+ to the tablet or smartphone directly.
I Hope, this Rode VideoMic Pro+ Review would help you to understand this Microphone and take a decision to have one on your list.
Please let us know your thoughts, below in the comment box.
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