Rode Podmic USB Review / Test (vs. SM7b, NT-USB, Procaster, Q2u)
Vložit
- čas přidán 6. 07. 2024
- HQ Audio Of Review: podcastage.com/rev/podmicusb
DSP Processing Walkthrough: • Rode Podmic USB DSP Pr...
Rode Connect Walkthrough: • Virtual Rodecaster Pro...
Today I review a new XLR & USB Dynamic Mic from Rode, the PodMic USB. This mic has a controlled lowend, a mid forward sound, and a little bit of grain on the top end (mainly in XLR mode). This offers Digital Signal Processing that is stored on mic so you can use it on computers without Rode's software, and the pop filter works extremely well. It doesn't handle shocks too well, and the XLR port is inactive when you have the mic connected over USB.
Buy the Rode Podmic USB (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: geni.us/podmicusb
Sweetwater: sweetwater.sjv.io/podmicusb
B&H Photo: bhpho.to/474m971
Thomann: www.thomannmusic.com/rode_pod...
NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Computer Level: 51dB
Boosted in Post: +8dB
SPECS:
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Freq Response : 20Hz - 20kHz
Sensitivity: -57dB
Max SPL: 148dB
Bit Depth: 24-bit
Sample Rate: 48kHz
00:00 - Intro / Price / Disclaimer
00:27 - What’s in the Box
00:46 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:19 - Specifications
01:29 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
01:47 - Plosive Test
02:02 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
02:24 - Background Noise Test
02:41 - Untreated Room Test
03:04 - Shock Rejection Test
03:20 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
03:33 - Windscreen Tone Test
04:02 - USB vs. XLR Output Test
04:55 - DSP Processing ( • Rode Podmic USB DSP Pr... )
06:23 - Rode Connect Software ( • Virtual Rodecaster Pro... )
06:52 - Does the DSP Get Stored on Mic?
07:22 - Intro to Comparison
07:52 - Maono HD300t Comparison
08:16 - Samson Q2u Comparison
08:46 - Fifine K688 Comparison
09:15 - Audio Technica ATR2100x-usb Comparison
09:44 - Rode NT USB Mini Comparison
10:10 - Rode Podmic (XLR) Comparison
10:44 - Audio Technica AT2040 USB Comparison
11:16 - Rode NT USB+ Comparison
11:47 - Rode Procaster Comparison
12:13 - Shure MV7 Comparison
12:49 - Shure SM7b Comparison
13:15 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
13:46 - Music Test
15:09 - Pros & Cons
16:20 - Overall Thoughts
18:02- Recommendation
19:24 - Outro
#USB #Podcast #MicReview
Become a Patreon: / podcastage
Become a Member: / @podcastage
Check Out This Stuff TOO:
Website: www.podcastage.com
Giveaways: podcastage.com/giveaways
Discord: www.podcastage.com/discord
Merch: podcastage.com/store
Company Relationship Disclosure: podcastage.com/disclosure
Personal: www.bandrewscott.com
My CZcams Setup: podcastage.com/studio
My Favorite XLR Mics: podcastage.com/rev/favxlr
My Favorite USB Mics: podcastage.com/rev/favusb - Věda a technologie
The odds of me switching off the sm7b is 0% yet the the odds of me watching podcastage mic reviews is 100%. And this makes sense.
That means so much. Thank you Southern Law for the kind words. I'm glad you've found the mic that works well for you, and I hope it treats you well for decades to come.
Same
same exact situation. never switching off the sm7b, the goat. but like knowing about alternate options in case my goxlr mini dies
Yeah same here, I recently got an SM7b and there's no way I'd ever swap it for anything, it's such a good sounding and nice looking mic. Only thing I'd maybe consider is an RE20 but it's probably not worth it, maybe if I need another mic for something else who knows. But I'm always gonna watch Podcastage videos, it's also good for giving my friends a hand in purchasing equipment.
if you're looking for an RE20, you can not replace an RE20, but maybe consider taking off the wind foam of the SM7B and replacing it with your own thinner wind screen to reduce plosives. you'll capture more high end that way, but I find that the foam is the best for VO. for VO, the wind foam reduces plosives, and ensures the lows and mids are stable, but the highs are rolled off a little with it. But, for singing/vocal work, no wind foam may be better, because you get a lot more high end that still doesn't sound too sibilant
Simultaneous XLR and USB on the MV7 was the unexpected feature I never knew I wanted. Being able to have it connected to my personal computer but also hooked up to my work laptop has been wonderful. It just works, less cables to juggle
Yessir. It's those little quality of life features that takes a device from being great to being amazing.
This is exactly what I'm trying to achieve. So the Podmic USB doesn't automatically switch between USB and XLR? You need to unplug one for the other to work? Whereas on the MV7 it'll automatically switch between the USB and XLR?
I'm not even looking for a mic anymore, I just realized I've been watching podcastage for a little over 2 years now lmao, gotta love the consistency of this man
Wow! Thank you very much for watching That One Guy, it means a lot to me. Happy to know you enjoy the videos.
Thanks, Bandrew for everything you do! Your reviews and comparisons helped me decide on my beginner podcast gear. I still watch your videos because they're fun and VERY informative.
Thank you so much ER1FM, that means a lot. I'm honored that my videos were able to help you make the right decision. I hope you get years of fun recording out of the gear you picked up. Happy recording!
the box throw's final pose is what gets me !!! your content is amazing please Keep it up!!!
I never realized I do that, but I just want to see where the box goes. It's exciting for me. Haha.
We always appreciate all the work you do for us. PS looking good man!
Hi I just re-watched your 50th SM7B video and left it until now to comment, so very glad you changed things in your life to be here doing this. No reply wanted simply conveying my respect, admiration and again thanks. Have a good day :)
Thank you so much Kesamek. I really appreciate the kind words and the support. I hope you have a good day too. Thanks for watching.
This is by far, the best no-bs review I've seen on this mic! Thanks!
That really means a lot. Thanks so much for watching and for the kind words.
agreed!
What an amazing review! Wow.
Im about to buy the rode podmic USB today.
Do we need to connect XLR and USB-C both together ?
Or only connect USB-C directly to mac and we can get the full power gain through that ?
You only need to connect the USB port to your computer. As discussed in the cons, you cannot connect USB & XLR simultaneously on this thing.
Can the Q9U do that? It’s a great feature.
Currently have a Blue Yeti OG, can't decide between the Rode Podmic USB or the Sennheiser Profile. Looking for nice sounding mic and minimal fiddling about with software. What would you recommend ?
If you don't want to mess around with software that would be the sennheiser profile usb because it has no software. I think the podmec usb is a better sounding mic and the software processing is really helpful.
As always, the best comparison point for these mics is your channel. Thank you!
Thank you so much Lander, that really means a lot to me. Thanks for watching, commenting, and the kind words.
The best review format i have ever seen ❤. Love it. Thank you
Thank you for this review! very honest. I think the main selling point of this mic is that it has internal DSP, and how it saves the settings internally. And having a nice noise gate (that actually works) is for me a BIG plus if you're a podcaster.
Glad it was helpful! For a podcaster who just wants to set it and forget it that gate can be helpful for sure, and the internal DSP can be quite nice as well.
Thanks for the review Bandrew! I really appreciate how much time you put into the details of your reviews! Kudos!
I've had this mic for a couple weeks now and I really enjoy it! BTW, if you press the volume dial on the back, it mutes the mic! Have a great day!
thank you !
I don't think you could have done a better review! You covered literally everything someone would want to know or compare about this mic
I really like how the maono HD300t sounds. So clear.
Bandrew you have really lost some weight over the last year. Congrats buddy. Also, thanks for uploading your vids in 1440p, I can hear the difference in the mics more now.
The videos should be all the way up to 4k actually, and the files are burdensome to deal with, it's silly. Thank you very much though, I hope you have a great day.
These videos are so helpful! I ended up buying the black version of the Electro-Voice RE20 combo with the quite large sized Electro-Voice 309A shock mount. Pretty easy to put together and mine came with an extra set of 4 elastic bands incase one breaks. Your video helped me make that decision and i dont regret it one bit.
@@Lettucelol Agreed - once worked in a radio studio that switched from RE20s to SM7bs and I missed the RE20s almost immediately.
Jose - I'm honored that my videos helped you make an informed decision and that you have selected the mic that is best for your sound source, your application, and your preference. I hope it provides you years of fun with the recording.
Lettuce - If you prefer the sound of the RE20 to the SM7b, then yes it is the better mic. Glad you have honed in on the tone that you prefer so that you can feel more confident in the content you're making.
If you find the 309A to be unwieldy, the Heil PRSM fits the RE mics and is a bit more compact and easy to use, especially with a boom arm.
Wow! This is an intelligent review that respects the intelligence of an information hungry audience. Concise, thorough, and pleasant to watch. Thanks for the great work.
First time seeing any of your vids. Well done
Thanks for watching, and for the kind words. I really appreciate it. Hope you have a great day.
I really didn't tought I could have a lot of fun watching a mic review! I saw a lot of reviews of Rode Podmic, but your review is I really waiting for.
Great work!
That really means a lot Ricardo, thank you so much. I'm glad that the video was a lot of fun for you.
Great video .. always watch your microphone reviews. They are so in-depth and entertaining :) I have a question this time, am using AKG C214 in my acoustically treated booth and have purchased Rode NT USB+ which am using in non-treated surroundings with the help of Nvidia Broadcast. What would you suggest - Rode NT USB+ is fine or should I go ahead with Rode Podmic USB/Shure MV7 when I travel / surroundings are non-treated?
The NT-USB+ should be fine. The trick I've seen a lot of people pull off when they're traveling is to build a fort out of the couch cushions and bedding from the hotel so they have a makeshift sound booth. So if you have to do that, that can help resolve some of the issues.
@@Podcastage Thanks for the quick reply and yes I do the same. Put up do chairs facing each other and cover that with a quilt. Similar to a mini tent :)
13:15 i think the rode your reviewing sounds very crisp, very nice mic. Very informative.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Dalton. I very much appreciate it.
Hi Bandrew. Your video is great. Do you think this is a good microphone for singing and recording singing voice? I am looking for the best one with USB and also with XLR for the future thinking of get a more complex gear. In case that you have pther recommendations please let me know. I will really appreciate your response.
I always love your reviews , however can you tell me if you can use the settings for the pod mic in xlr mode ,or isit just for usb mode
and thanks for all your reviews there Great
joe
If you had the NT USB already, would you buy this microphone?
I would not. I'd use the NT USB until it stopped working, then consider buying this. Unless I had serious issues with the NTUSB that this mic resolved.
Thanks. I am having issues with the original versions cable attached to the mic. It is so loose that it will randomly lose connection during live calls. Even when not touched. Looking at the xdm100 or the podcaster. what do you think of these two?
@@Podcastage
where did you get that windscreen? I do not see it on the rode site nor does it come with any rode podmic that I have seen online
is it worth upgrading from the blue yeti to the rode podmic usb or the shure mv7? help me decide because I have the blue yeti mic
Hi all
I’m new to microphones, and after some advice…… I’m after one for my lad for Christmas. He intends to use it with his pc for CZcams, and gaming.
With this pod mic usb - is an audio interface still required - or would it work well enough plugged directly into the pc?
Any other recommendations for an not overly expensive and great quality mix most appreciated. I’d prefer not to have to get an audio interface if possible.
Thanks ⭐️
Thanks for this. I have just ordered it as a first mic for Teams/Zoom calls and occasional podcast. Wanted a dynamic one with software but the cheaper ones come with no software. Not an audio expert and won't be editing audio so the simplicity of this and being able to save settings and have the processing (e.g. noise gate) done onboard the mic seems very helpful.
Good morning! Above all, excellent content. I need your help. I want to buy the Podmic Rode USB. My use will be to use USB for transmissions, but for singing I want to use it via XLR on the interface. As it is a dynamic microphone I thought about buying the Fethead. In your experience, would this work? Could it cause any damage to this microphone due to the fact that it is also USB, although it is used separately? Grateful
Great video! Was looking for an answer to a question I had regarding the DSP within Rode mics. You appeared to answer it at about the 7 minute mark, that once you configure the mic's DSP, will the sound retain DSP using it elsewhere. My curiosity is for using the Rode mic in WaveLink software rather than Unify. If I understand your results, I should theoretically be able to configure the Rode mic, then input it into WaveLink without the need to EQ, NoiseGate, etc.?
Hi, Thanks for the review. We're doing a remote podcast and sending mics to guests. I have a audio/video editor, so I would turn off all the DSP on the Podmic USB (his request). I'm using USB only. In this situation, would you recommend the Podmic USB or the NT USB Mini? Our remote guests have a range of (untreated) room conditions. And guest and host are not wearing headphones (for a cleaner look in the video). I guess the main advantage for us with the Podmic would be that it is less sensitive to room noise, background noise, and any noise from potential cross talk with the other person (though, as you demonstrated, doesn't reject sound particularly well compared to other dynamic mics). But the NT USB mini sounds a little warmer, is half the price, and is smaller and lighter weight for shipping. But we mostly want to optimize for sound quality. I now plan to put any mic on a boom arm, in the shot, to get it closer to the guest's face, rather than having it on a desktop stand just out of frame. Seems like brining the NT USB Mini closer allows one to turn down the gain significantly and pick up less room noise (but it still seems to pick up more room noise than the Podmic USB). For this remote podcast application, which of those 2 mics would you recommend? Also, for the Podmic, what's the best distance from the face? 3 inches seems uncomfortably close. I've been trying it at 9 inches at 50-60% gain. Thanks.
I’ve got the original PodMic. Now I want to upgrade! Thanks for the review. I send everyone here who asks me about mics.
Glad you have a mic that you're happy with and thank you for sending people here when looking for mics, I am absolutely honored.
I would love to see a comparison between this mic vs maono PD400X
I think I'll stick to my original Podmic. I got it about 2 years ago when I was looking for an XLR mic and came across your review of it. I think it sounds so much better than the "new & improved" version.
I'm really glad that video is able to show that you don't need to upgrade and that you can save your money. Happy recording.
What an amazing video!! Keep up the good work
Thank you so much for the kind words, that means a lot. Hope you have a great day.
What's the best investment: Rode XCM 50, Sennheiser Profile or this Rode Podmic USB? I want to record voice, narrate books, etc.
This Rode Podmic usb version or the earthworks icon Usb version?
IS there any app to modulate the Icon USB in real time like the Rode app for example? I'm asking this because I don't have an audio interface and I really love the design of the Icon but I would like to be able to modulate my voice with a virtual interface like the rode can.
which mic for audio book recording? I got a loud male voice but can go higher too :3
Hey! Thanks a lot for all your videos 🥰 I was looking for an XLR microphone but my USB Audio Interface has static pops when playing / stopping music (and it happens when recording with my cheap neewer microphone nw700. Have you ever encountered something like that? I have Bheringer UM2 interface and have no idea if it is at fault or if it is cause by something else. Doesn't happen with my monitor jack but it has external power supply - which apparently matters with audio / pc ?
Anyhow thanks a lot for your videos 🙂
I cannot think of any mechanical reason that would be an issue. I believe there was an issue like that with a version of MacBook Pro where they had to patch it (czcams.com/video/DDAeb_QyCgc/video.html), but other than that, I can't think of anything. Sorry I can't be of assistance in troubleshooting that problem, it's just something I have not encountered.
Massive thank you for your amazing reviews!
I’m currently on the hunt for a “broadcast style” dynamic USB/XLR combo microphone for streaming and I can’t decide between:
- Podmic USB (shame there’s no mute button)
- sE DCM6
- Samson Q9U
- AT2040USB
I am also considering the MV7, but it may be a bit overkill for my first microphone. Of the ones listed above, which would be the best for playing games/streaming?
At this point I don’t want to get an interface, however having a USB/XLR combo will allow flexibility in the future if I decide to do so.
The DCM6 isn't usb, so that's out. From the remaining you listed, I'd go PodMicUSB. I like the sound of it better than the Q9u and 2040usb.
Thinking of getting the xlr version for my ham radio.. Great review
Thank you for watching and for the kind words Team Fabulous. I hope you have a great day and have fun on the Ham Radio. I believe that HEIL makes some mics for ham radio as well in case you wanted to check some of them out as well.
@@Podcastage yes but HEIL are £££££££👍😂👍😂
What do you say, this or the shure mv7?
Hi! I really love your reviews of microphone and being so thorough with how they sound and audio tests. ❤
I'm looking to upgrade my very old Blue Snowball for streaming & voiceovers to a better and more reliable USB mic. Ive been looking at the Shure MV7, the Rode Podcaster/ Podmic/XDM 100, and the Audio Technica AT2040, and i was wondering maybe ive been looking wrong 😅 at first i was very sure of the MV7 but then i discovered Rode also make podcast mics (from your other videos), and now idk what to pick.... im female so i know my voice will sound different than all the videos showcasing sound done by male creators, but im also wondering if the rode software will really make a difference since i mostly use OBS studio and Adobe Suite for video work 🤔 im running a very old gaming laptop so the fans always revs up doing anything and i haveta use software to muffle it. im not knowledgeable in audio so your videos have been super helpful!
Thank you very much for the 6:52 part, this is a crucial part for me as a huge hater for any unnecessary software running in the background, many reviewer don't include this information and I have to dig around the internet for it.
Do you know if the MV7 stores the DSP too?
You're welcome. Glad I was able to provide information that you need. Thanks for sharing.
ATR2100x sounds amazing, is there stands and pop filters for it?
It comes with a desk top stand. Also the mic clip has 5/8" threading, so if you buy one of those standard desk top boom arms you would just need a 5/8" to 3/8" mic stand adapter. For pop filters there are plenty of options on amazon if you just search pop filter. Also ball windscreen should fit on the head of the 2100x because it's a standard size.
Just got this mic and trying to connect it to my iphone 15 via usb C and it doesnt seem to work :( is there any fix? any dongle adapter our interface that might help? or should I return it ? :(
I don't think the iPhone provides sufficient power to this thing, so if that's your use case, I'd return it.
That looks like a younger, gothic brother of the Podmic XLR
Surprised they have finally dealt with the plosives.
Yeah the windscreen is a great addition and helps mitigate the plosives and tames a bit of the top end.
Its the winding up before throwing the box for me. Wins every time.
I'm just trying to become a pitcher for the MLB.
congratz on the weight loss, bro. you look much better!!
Thanks, I appreciate that.
Just curious, how often do you repaint your door??
Oh yeah, about the mic, I thought it sounded pretty good. Rode mics in that price range tend to sound high frequency heavy to me. This one seems to have tamed that trend. Of the USB mics you compare against, I kinda like the flavor of the MV7. Cheers
I haven't repainted it yet. I am with ya on the preference towards the MV7 as far as the sound. Thanks for sharing Bill.
@@Podcastage "I haven't repainted it yet." Impressive.
I am currently on my old (non-+) Rode NT-USB and I consider switching to the Podmic USB simply for the sound and dynamic-ness of it.
Do you personally hear a difference that would warrant this decision?
Don't upgrade for the sake of upgrading. Use the NT-USB until it stops working, then I think this would be pretty good option. It's not the greatest sounding mic, but I think the functionality is fantastic and it is an inoffensive sound.
Question that doesn’t have to do with this video lol I been using my shure sm7b with a cloudlifter to record in my somewhat treated environment. In your opinion would you keep doing so with the sm7b or sell it for something else around that price
I'm answering your question with a few questions. Are you currently unhappy with the sound that you're getting out of the setup you have? Do you think it has too much room tone in the recording? Have you tried to adjust mic placement to improve on this? Have you considered getting a little bit of treatment for your room because that is going to make the biggest difference for the recording. No matter what mic you have it's going to pick up some of the room tone. I have a video comparing 14 broadcast dynamics and ranked them on my website in terms of background noise rejection: podcastage.com/rev/broadcastdynamic
Just don't expect a switch in mic to lead to the biggest change in room tone and reverb because every mic is still going to pick that up.
I use my regular podmic with a cloud lifter and another 45db and its perfect, i really though to buy if for future upgrade to the roadcaster pro 2 now im not really sure how it will be and thinking about the mv7 maybe.
If you say your current podmic + cloudlifter is perfect, why would you be upgrading to the MV7? Is it for the sake of upgrading or are you trying to solve some issues you have with the current setup?
@@Podcastage I need more mics for my podcasts (so far I'm using the DJI mics with basic sure lav and it's giving me a headache )
and I need a solution till i could upgrade to better mixer with 4 xlr input
originally i thought the podmic usb would be a good solution but now after what i heard and your review ,
i really think that i should settele for mv7 instead
Congratulation for the camera upgrade. always was waiting when he gona upgrade it.
I didn't upgrade my camera. I've been using the same Canon 90d's for 2 or 3 years at this point. I simple switched from 1080 to 4k. I hate it, but the 3 people who have noticed (yourself included) seem to appreciate it...or at least notice it. Haha. Thanks for the comment and for noticing.
@@Podcastage lol. The video quality improved significantly. It is very noticeable. Also it seems like you have better lighting and color changed too.
Thanks for the review😁✅
You're very welcome. Thank you very much for watching and commenting.
Can you have both the XLR and the USB plugged in? Or do you have to unplug the XLR cable if you want to use it as a USB mic into computer?
yeah you can
I was wondering if Rode'd managed to somehow get the USB to sound close to the XLR output, but nope not even. It's well usable in a pinch though, and unless it were pointed out I doubt I'd care enough to notice the differences in sound quality. Thanks as always for a thorough review!
Yeah not close to the XLR, but I actually preferred the USB output. I think it sounds fuller which the mic needs, and the harshness is taken off a bit. It does lead to it sounding more mid focussed but I prefer that over the sizzle we get over the XLR. Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts Lyander, I appreya.
@@Podcastage I may need to get my ears checked cuz I actually don't hear much sizzle on the XLR, it's more clarity and depth. Then again I'm reacclimating to some IEMs I only got back after sending them off back in Feb so may need a touchstone again haha. Thank you too for all the passion and work you put into these!
What mic do you prefer?
Hi! New subscriber and this is already one of my favourite review channels, if not my #1. I've been binge watching! I'm going to start an English as a second language CZcams channel in 2024 from my home office and I currently have wireless GO II, 2nd gen focusrite, and macbook pro. I want to make sure I have killer audio because teaching of course involves a lot of voiceover. I'm thinking about the following: 1.) Upgrade wireless GO ii to the Rode wireless Pro (i can still get full refund on unopened wireless ii) and/or 2.) Se Dynacaster or rode PodMic USB (loved your reviews of both). Can you offer any guidance?
If you’re looking for studio quality voice over the answer would be the Dynacaster or PodMic USB. I’m not familiar with the Wireless Go II or the Wireless Pro because I have not used them yet, but lav mics (and I would classify those inbuilt mics as lav mics) have a very distinct sound which isn’t necessarily the best for studio voice over work. If you’re out and about recording video and you do not want a mic to be as visible, then those wireless mics may be the correct choice, but if you’re sitting at a desk with reflective surfaces, an omnidirectional mic is less than ideal because it will pick up all the reflections. When it comes to picking between the Dynacaster and PodMic USB that comes down to what setup you want XLR or USB and which one you like the sound of.
Looking for some help equalizing this mic if anyone has some pointers
An it’s my first mic and I don’t have any XLR equipment at all I’ll save a LOT of money going with a USB mic, and that’s the reason for my choice. Thanks for a great review!
Glad the mic is solving a problem for you. Hope it works well and give you years of great use. Thanks for watching.
hey does the Dsp software only work with this usb mic or can you do it with the NT1USB+
You only have on/off options for the DSP, you do not have the granular control you have with this one.
Sounds pretty good! Definitely sounds better to me on the USB. Hard to identify what the difference is, maybe a bit warmer? But it's there.
It does mean the "bonus" of being xlr AND USB is somewhat negated, as the "upgrade" from USB to XLR does come with a change in tone.
Yeah. The same issue occurred on the MV7 where the XLR and USB sounded different and the USB sounded better there too. Very weird. Maybe it has to do with the signal being split or something? I'm not sure.
They may be doing some on-board DSP to improve the sound of the capsule. That would explain it.
I don’t have great “ears” but to me the XLR sounded slightly “better” but maybe just different. Both sounded good.
XLR sounded hotter then the usb, i wouldnt really say one sounded better then the other, old mates voice is a bit shrill so probably sounds better on the usb compared to the xlr
Discovered this mic when used as a comparison on the AT2040USB video, where this sounds noticeably better. I think this is going to be my pick for a new mic largely due to how much it muffles the keyboard, better than any other mic / keyboard test I have heard. This ticks so many boxes for me. USB plug-and-play, keyboard muffling, not made in china, and it sounds wonderful. No LED lights that inherently come with a mute button is a actually small bonus. Keeping processing settings on-board, while nice, can also a con as well, because that means you need to re-connect to a windows PC to reset to factory.
Glad the videos have helped you hone in on a mic that fits your needs. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts on the mics.
Did you end up buying it?
@@m3bzi I did. I'm pretty happy with it, the sound quality is great. The only minor downside is it's rather quiet by default so it needs boosted a bit in the software.
@@Nick-ob1ir Does the mute button work without running the software? That's the only thing holding me back from buying this
@@Davidian_ There is no built-in mute button at all, if you need one this isn't the model to get
If I use Podmic usb to record the music sound from the speaker, do you think it is suitable, or do you have other recommendations
If you mean record a guitar cabinet, then I included a sample of that and it should give you a general understanding of how that would work and if it would fit your use case. If you mean capturing an accurate representation of the sound from a stereo system to listen to later, then no I don't think it would be good for that. I hope I understood your question and helped.
SM7B is still the king of it's category but this Rode Mic is a very good option for USB connection. Thanks for the review.
There are many great mics, RE20, Blue Sona, Earthworks Ethos, Lauten LS 208, so you have a lot to choose from, even AT BP40 is great, Telefunken M82
Tav - I still love the SM7b as well. Out of all the mics in the comparison (apart for the U87), it's probably still my favorite there. But that's my personal preference.
Luk7n - yes, there are plenty of other really great microphones available around the same price point that offer a different sound and a hotter signal. Thanks for sharing.
I think the software adjustments available are amazing. I also think "Depth, Sparkle, and Punch" sounds like a law firm for Munchkins, but maybe that's just me.
I agree, the granularity you have on the DSP is great and very useful. I agree! I was thinking Depth, Sparkle, and Punch sounded like some kind of cartoon characters. Like My Little Pony or something. Or It could be just like a typical young kid cartoon like Doug, but the character nicknamed Sparkle would be a really depressed goth kid who wears all black.
I've been wanting a Podmic XLR, it's actually my dream mic, (Yeah, I know, Podmic, isn't that special) unfortunately I live in a third world country where 100bucks is 5,000.
PS, will you be doing a Q&A anytime soon?
I hope that one day you can get the mic of your dreams. I don't really do Q&A's or live streamers or anything. On my podcast I do answer questions though. www.bandrewsays.com and there's the Ask Bandrew segment which has instructions on questions.
I come for the microphones, and stay for the woah woah boop.
I'll keep booping as long as you keep watching.
at 6:35 I have the issue with my NT USB mini, that exact same image, the mic is on the app but cannot use it, like it's not reconise anymore by the app. I've tried multiples USB ports, cables and nothing to do with it, still don't reconise my mic. Anyone have any ideas why? Thank you.
Depth, Sparkle and Punch are my favorite quarks
I don't get the reference. Is this a science joke?
Another amazing video
You are too kind. Thank you very much Tanish!
does it have a limiter similar to what the MV7 has? Is it any better? Thanks
As far as I remember, and browsing through the video, I do not believe this has a limiter.
dear . can u make comparison to apolo twin , RME UCX ii , Apogee Symphony and rodcastpro plz ?
I don't currently have a plan to review the RME UCX II or Apogee Symphony, but perhaps I will in the future.
Here are the review I have already made that you requested (at least as close as I can get):
Rodecaster Pro: czcams.com/video/dxqNq3xifyQ/video.html
Rodecaster Pro II: czcams.com/video/E5GSmNcibdw/video.html
Apollo Twin X: czcams.com/video/vszllSJwQEU/video.html
What I don't get: if they won't let us use both XLR and USB out at the same time, why didn't they just use the same XLR/USB combi-connector as on the Rode NT1?
I'm not sure. Maybe there's a firmware update that will fix the dual output?
Hello. Thanks for the review. Can you tell me if the microphone can simultaneously output sound via USB and XLR ?
Addressed here: czcams.com/video/NAmwQl4f8YY/video.htmlsi=HDRG0gPrLPyOKXlE&t=951
It's surprising that it sounds much better than the standard XLR version even when both are just running XLR. I'm guessing the difference is in the internal preamp.
Hey! What will happen if you push the volume rocker? :))
Your zero latency monitoring turns off. This is apparent the first time you plug it in because the zero latency monitoring is off, so you have to press this to initially activate it. However, the signal is still sent through the USB port to your comptuter/device and is captured there.
I am looking for buying a « swiss army » microphone around 250$ to record music (guitar, bass, drums and sing). I like the Beyerdynamic M 90 pro X, the SE Dynacaster, the Sennheiser MK4.
Any advices ?
I do not record bass or drums so I cannot speak to a microphone that does a good job on those.
For singing and guitar, if you like the M90 Pro X, Dynacaster, and MK4, then it sounds like you've found a set that you already want to select from. You would need to determine which one you like the sound of the best.
A few other options to consider would be the Rode NT1, the Neat King Bee, the LCT440, Lauten LA220, sE 2200. And probably a bunch more that I'm just forgetting. There are a lot of great option to select from. You're just going to have to determine what sound you prefer.
@@Podcastage thank you for your answer.
Say you're in the market between Shure MV7 and the PodMic USB both at the same price (europe) - I'm leaning MV7 what do you think?
Sound wise, I prefer the MV7. I just think it's a more enjoyable sound profile.
Feature wise, I prefer the PodMic USB. Better shock rejection, better pop protection, I think the more granular DSP, and the recording software. I don't like the sound as much, but it's decent once you put on the processing, and I found it inoffensive and I didn't really have to think about it.
So it depends on how you're going to be using it and what aspects are the most important to you.
You might also consider the sE NEOM USB. I think it is one of the better sounding mics, especially considering you can find them street price at $150 USD these days.
@@billlord4203 Thank you for mentioning this. I bought this and completely forgot about it. It's somewhere around here. I need to add that to the stack.
@@billlord4203 Thanks for the suggestion I didn't know this mic will check it out!
@@Podcastage Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my question thoughtfully, I really appreciate it! I personally also prefer the MV7 sound profile over the Rode. I’ll have to take a look at the Rode software to see if it’s really does push it over the Shure
Without the box throw, @Podcastage videos just wouldn't be the same!
Box throws forever.
Hi. What's the main camera that you using?
Canon 90d with whatever that Sigma CZcamsr lens is.
Sounds like XLR output is a bit more "sizzley" at the top end. That may induce some fatigue over time for some.
Yeah. Over XLR I heard that extra harshness and sizzle.
I agree, I actually liked to XLR sound better because of this.
I prefer the sound with xlr... less low medium, a little air, less nasal, but indeed not very beautiful at the top. In USB, this top seems to have disappeared.
Just bought it. As it’s more solid as the MV7 to send over to podcast clients
Absolutely the build quality of this feels much better than the MV7. It's also not as resonate as the MV7 is. The included windscreen with this is also an improvement over the stock MV7 windscreen. So in that regard, I think it probably would be a good option for the use case you describe. Thanks for sharing how you use it because this is great stuff. Thanks Wim!
@@PodcastageThank you for review(s) Earthling! In addition to more solid, it also has fool-proof non-touchscreen non- multilayer control for headphone volume.
Unrelated to the testing, but you mentioned it so, I recently learned that the burger king foot lettuce location was the location I grew up going to. It was tragic.
OH NO! I hope you didn't get foot lettuce.
@@Podcastage me too. I haven't been to a Burger King in years, and now I think there's a reason for it. More to the point of the video, I think you nailed the recommendation section. I think it isn't the best in any one category (really I think it really just succeeds as a podcast-esque mic) but when you put the XLR and USB and on-board processing, and the software add-ons Rode offers it becomes a good option if you plan to take advantage of all of those features. I ended up getting it and I'm pleased with it, but I wouldn't have gone with it if I wasn't already using other Rode stuff.
Thanks for the great review! I still personally prefer the NT USB+ even though it doesn’t have the XLR option. It’s sad that RODE only gives advanced DSP processing for the new Podmic and the NT-1. Hopefully they’ll change that soon.
Lucas - Thanks for sharing. I agree if I was basing the purchase based solely on the sound, then I'd go NT-USB Mini or USB+. The advanced DSP is pretty cool though. It would be cool to see that change in the future on those other USB mics where we get advanced access though.
Albeit being gaming-branded, Rode has both the XCM-50 and the XCM-100 providing the DSP processing on those USB microphones as well.
It's an odd one this mic, I expected a better conclusion. I recall other reviewers liking it more than you did. That might partly be that they have different pitch voices.
The lack of dual output seems an odd omission, I can't think of another dual device that doesn't do it. Even mics far cheaper than the rode. Q2u, fifine, maono, etc. Though it might have been less useful here as the raw outputs differ so much anyway.
The pick up of boom and handling noise is a weak spot, especially for a premium brand and price. Even to my ears it rings with that vibration quite a lot as well. The K688 was a bit worse for that but also costs 40% of the price. I don't recall others mentioning this on the podmic, but it's very clear in the recording. Odd as its not a subjective aspect, like the sound profile. If makes me wonder if build quality varies, even at this price point. (Or some reviewers dodge the problems).
Your review as usual is excellent fuel for the microphone brained.
Thanks so much for the comment Kevin. Yeah I'm not sure why it functions that way. I was thinking maybe it has to do with the DSP processing, but the MV7 also has DSP and can output simultaneously to both outputs.
The shock rejection on this was pretty bad, but I found mics like the K688 and even the MV7 to be even worse. But when there are handheld dynamics that do better at shock rejection than these things, I'm left wondering why. If other reviewers didn't cover it, it's possible that they just didn't test for it or encounter it because they are more careful while testing. It's very easy for any of us to miss a quirk with a product. It's why I stick to my testing regiment so I know that if there's an issue in any of those areas, it should be caught while I'm testing and it will be in the video.
But I know there is stuff that I have missed in reviews which I am always embarrassed about.
please do a video on the warm audio WA 8000 thanks!
I don't currently have that mic, and don't have any plans to buy it. But maybe some time down the road. Thank you very much for the recommendation.
@@Podcastage looking to upgrade my TLM 103. Been debating over the Warm Audio or the Telefunken TF51. Any advice & mic suggestions under £2000, tube or not?
For some reason i find it sounding a bit muddier than my xlr podmic+fethead running in behringer umc204hd
They do sound different, that is absolutely true. Thanks for sharing your opinion and thoughts on this.
Hello! Thank you for the amount of work and consistency you put into this channel. Would it be possible to make a review on the sE electronics X1S? It's a really great "beginner" priced offering from sE and I think it's criminally underrated and deserves a full review and comparison
I don't currently have the X1s so it's not on the schedule as of yet. Perhaps in a little bit I'll pick one up to review. Thanks for the suggestion.
Thank you so much for your reply! I hope it's gonna be a fun project, so much gear already reviewed, don't forget to take it easy sometimes so you won't burn out.
The audio wheel at the bottom of the mic, when pushed it will mute the mic.
Don't scare me like that, you said that with conviction and you made me think I made a big mistake in the video. Pressing that only mutes the zero latency monitoring in your headphones. It has no impact on the signal being passed through the USB port to your device.
The mic mute button only works when using the rode software. If you're not using the software, it'll mute the headphone monitor. Kinda feels a dumb design decision from rode when you can just turn the dial to mute the headphone, while pressing it mutes the mic regardless if you're using the software or not.
Do you recommend this or the sure mv7 ?
Which one do YOU like the sound of more?
🎧 I listened this video with *Beyer dynamics 770* headphones. Then I compared it with the *Shure sm7b* reference sound. Then I compared it to some of the latest microphone reviews. My conclusion is that the sound quality of this Rode did not impress. It is also too sensitive to shocks to the rack and body. Imho.
Thank you very much for sharing your analysis of the mic, it's very much appreciated.
I have 3 mic recommendations for you to cover
1: NZXT Capsule Mini
2: HyperX Procast
3: BEACN mic
Thanks for the recommendations. I know the BEACN isn't compatible on Mac so that's out of the question for me. The HyperX precast seems expensive for a HyperX mic, but could be interesting. The Capsule Mini is another USB mic and I have a stack of like 6 more to go before I order any more USB mics. Thanks again for the suggestions.
How does this fare with the AT2040?
I did not include a comparison to the AT2040XLR, but I included the comparison to the AT2040USB. I have time stamps in the description and on the timeline to make it easy to find exactly what you're looking for (czcams.com/video/NAmwQl4f8YY/video.html)
I prefer the podmec to the AT2040USB. The upper mic/presence boost on the 2040 is just not my cup of tea. But you have to decide which one you prefer the sound of.
RODE NT USB throws pretty awesome sound quality... only issue is being a condensor mic.
That's not inherently a bad thing. They are pretty darn good mics.
@@Podcastage i used to have one but background sound capture was not good for video recording. Got Procaster but still think the NT USB had much mode deeper sound. Really wish they made a dynamic mic version of that NT USB
I didn't know that the MV1 had a built in DSP that would save the settings to the microphone. I only knew BEACN had one. For the most basic DSP controls I would expect a Compressor, Expander, and Noise Gate. I know BEACN has it, but would love to see a DSP comparison between those microphones that have a "built-in" DSP vs software on the computer. Are they better, same, or worse.
For new creators I'm always looking at making entry more convenient and allow their dollars to last longer. Maybe the new FIFINE AmpliGame SC3 Gaming Mixer with an XLR microphone is actually the new meta.
If you mean MV7, then yes. I'll double check that it stores the settings sometime but I'm 90% certain I've heard people mentioning this to me. I do not have the Beacn mic and it doesn't have Mac software last I checked so I can't test it even if I wanted to.
I have no idea how that mixer performs so I can't comment on it either.
It has that feature but no noise gate, sadly.
I am so incredibly confused. I'm trying to find a good solid USB-C microphone for live streaming and audio recording and there are so many options, some people say they're great some people say they're a bit meh, and I don't know about any of this stuff myself and I don't want to waste my money...
There are plenty of decent options. The podmec is pretty decent, the Shure mv7 is pretty good too. They're not the greatest mics ever, but for simplicity sake and functionality they both offer some good value.
@@Podcastage thanks man :) i think im just getting too hung up on every detail and forget that i'm buying my first microphone for beginner use cases 😄 thanks for the videos man ur super smart and funny