Røde have been teasing us with this one since January, but now it’s finally here. The Røde VideoMic Pro+. It offers some pretty significant upgrades over the original Røde VideoMic Pro, such as a Lithium Ion Battery with up to 100 hours operating time, automatically power on and off with your camera, locking connector cables, and USB power. The VideoMic Pro+ shares a lot in common with its predecessor, but really takes things to the next level. It features an improved microphone capsule for even better audio quality, high pass filter, high frequency boost, gain control, and clipping protection.
January’s announcement seems like such a long time ago, though, so here’s a look back on the original announcement. Scroll ahead to 21:13.
The VideoMic Pro+ is a new benchmark in on-camera microphones. Damian Wilson, Røde CEO
Key features of the new RØDE VideoMic Pro+ include…
Separate control for output levelsTwo stage high pass filter at 75 & 150HzHigh frequency shelfDetachable 3.5mm socket allows use with both cameras and TRRS phone socketsLocking 3.5mm connector to prevent cables from being accidentally pulled outImproved microfibre windshieldRedesigned power system & battery housingImproved battery life with 2xAA batteriesRØDE LB1 LiIon battery pack with in-mic chargingContinuous external power via USB socketAutomatic power system to turn it on or off with the camera (as well as manual on/off)
The two big things for me in this are the detachable audio cable, allowing you to easily plug it into other devices, and the LiIon battery. The new cable socket features screwlock connectors, to prevent cables from falling out. A socket also means you can swap out different cables use with TRRS devices, wireless transmitters, or XLR sockets.
The LiIon battery sits in the double AA battery slot and lasts for up to 100 hours. Yes, that’s right double AA battery slot, no more 9v square battery. That means if it dies, you can still use AA batteries as an emergency backup. And Røde have extended the life of the microphone while using AA batteries, too. The battery door is also built into the unit, which means it’s unlikely to pop off and get lost. The Røde VideoMic Pro+ features a built in micro USB socket which allows you to charge the Lithium Ion battery. And it also allows you to continuously power the microphone external. This is fantastic for me, as I often use large capacity USB power banks for my cameras when filming long sessions. Being able to power the microphone this way, too, is a huge bonus.
And the cherry on top, it turns on and off with your camera. This is a huge deal. No longer will you pull your microphone out of the bag to discover a dead battery. Nor will you forget to turn it on when you start recording. This is a common issue I see amongst many vloggers. Lots of beautifully shot footage, with no audio. The Røde VideoMic Pro was already a favourite of vloggers and other users of on-camera mics. This update just adds even greater appeal. I’ve been using a Rode VideoMicro for my vlogging needs thus far, mostly due to the whole “forgetting to turn it on and off” thing. With the VideoMicro, I don’t have to worry about that at all (no batteries). But I might finally have to invest in a powered microphone, and this looks to be the ideal solution. The Røde VideoMic Pro+ is available to pre-order now for $299 on B&H, or on RODE, and shipping begins in August.
