The podcasting community was captivated by the Rodecaster Pro when it debuted in late 2018. Now, after six years, Rode, known for its microphones, is expanding its accessible product line into the video production market.
The new Rodecaster Video faces tougher competition compared to the original Pro board. In the current era where video content is prioritized, numerous similar devices have been launched. Additionally, its price is steep, coming in at $1,119, almost double the Pro's initial $600.
Rode aims to appeal to the same beginner audience it attracted with the original Pro: those who want to enhance their video production skills without investing in a fully professional setup.
Unlike the Pro, which was exclusively designed for in-person audio podcasts, the Video model has a broader scope, catering to solo Twitch streamers as well as multi-person studio video productions. It’s also more compact, designed to be positioned in front of a computer instead of a large podcasting table.
This new model includes two Neutrik jacks with preamps for XLR microphones, along with four HDMI and two USB-C inputs, enabling users to seamlessly switch between video sources in real time. The audio processing features include EQ, a compressor, high-pass filter, de-esser, and noise gate.
It can automatically manage green and blue screens, switch audio between video sources, and stream to “all major platforms” via Wi-Fi or through Ethernet and USB connections. It also supports direct recording to an external hard drive.
“Our mission for decades has been to provide creators with professional but accessible audio equipment,” CEO Damien Wilson stated. “Innovative products like the Rodecaster Pro and Wireless GO have transformed how people create content across various platforms, bringing studio-quality audio within reach of today's creators. With the Rodecaster Video, we’re extending the same accessibility to video production.”
Preorders for the Rodecaster Video start today, with shipping beginning on October 10.