Rode Podcaster MK2 Dynamic USB Microphone

The RØDE Podcaster MK2 is a unique and established USB microphone designed specifically for vocal applications like podcasting, voice-over work, streaming, and gaming.

What sets it apart from many other USB mics is that it’s a dynamic microphone rather than a condenser, aiming to provide a broadcast-quality sound akin to legendary radio microphones but with the simplicity of USB connectivity.

Key Features and Specifications:

• Microphone Type: Dynamic (moving coil). This is a crucial distinction. Dynamic microphones are generally less sensitive than condensers and excel at rejecting ambient noise, making them ideal for untreated rooms or environments with background noise (like a home office or living room). They are also very robust.
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid. This pattern picks up sound primarily from the front of the microphone, reducing unwanted sounds from the sides and rear. This helps focus on the speaker’s voice and minimizes room tone.
• Capsule: Features a 28mm neodymium dynamic capsule. This large capsule contributes to its broadcast-quality sound, aiming for a full and rich vocal tone.
• Connectivity: USB Type-B. This is the primary connectivity. The microphone connects directly to your computer (Mac or Windows) via a USB cable, acting as its own audio interface. This eliminates the need for an external audio interface, preamps, or mixers.
• Digital Audio Conversion: It boasts an audiophile-quality 18-bit resolution with 8 kHz to 48 kHz sampling rates. This means it can capture high-quality digital audio directly. While 18-bit is slightly less common than 16-bit or 24-bit, it still provides ample dynamic range for vocal recording.
• On-Board Headphone Output: A key feature is the 3.5mm stereo headphone output with a volume control dial on the microphone body. This allows for zero-latency monitoring, meaning you can hear your voice and computer audio without any delay, which is essential for accurate recording and tracking.
• Internal Pop Filter: The Podcaster MKII includes an integrated internal pop filter. This helps to minimize plosive sounds (“p” and “b” pops) that can occur when speaking directly into the microphone, leading to cleaner vocal recordings without needing an external pop shield.
• Internal Capsule Shock Mounting: The dynamic capsule is internally shock-mounted. This helps to reduce handling noise and vibrations transmitted through the microphone stand, contributing to cleaner audio.
• Bus Powered: The Podcaster MK2 microphone is powered directly by the USB connection from your computer, so no external power adapter is needed. It also has a status LED to indicate operation.
• Frequency Response: 40 Hz – 14 kHz. This frequency range is tailored for speech and vocals, focusing on the frequencies most relevant for clear and present voice reproduction.
• Maximum SPL: 115 dB SPL. While lower than some condenser mics, this is a very high SPL for a dynamic microphone, meaning Podcaster MK2 can handle loud vocalists or speakers without distortion.
• Build Quality: RØDE is known for its robust build quality, and the Podcaster MKII is no exception. It features a heavy, all-metal chassis that is durable and built to last.
• Included Accessories: Typically comes with an RM2 microphone ring mount and a 3-meter USB cable. Optional accessories like the PSM1 shock mount and PSA1 boom arm are highly recommended for optimal performance and setup.

Performance &  Output Quality:

• Broadcast-Quality Sound: The Podcaster MKII aims for a “radio voice” sound – clear, present, and with a nice low-mid warmth. Its dynamic nature helps in taming room acoustics, which is great for untreated home studios.
• Excellent for Speech: It’s specifically designed and voiced for the human voice, making it an excellent choice for podcasts, voice-overs, and streaming. It handles plosives well due to the internal pop filter.
• Room Noise Rejection: As a dynamic mic with a cardioid pattern, it’s very effective at rejecting off-axis sounds, helping to isolate the speaker’s voice from background noise like computer fans, keyboard clicks, or general room ambiance.
• Direct Monitoring: The zero-latency headphone output is a significant advantage, allowing you to hear yourself and your playback directly from the microphone without any distracting delay.
• Simplicity: The plug-and-play USB connection makes it incredibly easy to set up and start recording without needing an audio interface or complex drivers.

Users:

• Podcasters: Especially those working from home or in less-than-perfect acoustic environments.
• Streamers and YouTubers: Who prioritize clear, consistent vocal audio directly to their computer.
• Voice-Over Artists: Needing a straightforward, reliable mic for recording speech.
• Beginners to Intermediate Users: Who want professional-sounding results without delving into complex audio interfaces and XLR setups.