The RØDE Wireless Pro review: A worthwhile investment?

RØDE Microphones has been making mics for the audio-for-video world for decades. However, today, it isn’t without its competition. Still, even with DJI, Hollyland and Shure producing high-quality video microphones, has RØDE stayed competitive in this saturated market? Up to this point, the key to its success has been its familiar design across its library and making its products user-friendly. Many consider RØDE to be a safe option for all video shooters. In this case, with the RØDE Wireless PRO, billed by RØDE as “the most powerful compact microphone system ever,” it intends to cater to the professional and content creator crowd. With “everything you could possibly want from a compact wireless microphone system,” did RØDE succeed in making the market’s best wireless recorder? That’s what we’re here to find out.

Highlight features

32-bit float onboard recording

A major highlight of the RØDE Wireless PRO is its 32-bit float onboard recording. Essentially, 32-bit float eliminates the risk of audio clipping and gives you extensive adjustment flexibility in post-production. The fact that the Wireless PRO offers 32-bit float recording alone gives it a significant advantage over many competitors. While 32-bit float on a wireless microphone system isn’t exclusive (the DJI Mic 2 mic system also offers it), it’s still a rare inclusion for wireless mics. However, the 32-bit float is only through internal recording via the transmitter, meaning you won’t get this bit depth when audio is recorded straight to a camera or mobile device. But this shouldn’t be an issue since the transmitters themselves have 32 GB of storage. To transfer your audio recordings out of the device, all you have to do is plug the case into your computer via the USB-C port on the back and drag them out. But if you want to make the most out of the RØDE Wireless PRO, we recommend getting the desktop or mobile app.

Timecode capability

With built-in timecode support, the RØDE Wireless PRO’s worth as a professional’s microphone increases. This functionality is a huge time saver in post-production. It makes syncing audio and video in post-production incredibly easy. The receiver wirelessly transmits the timecode to both transmitters and it’ll also output this to a camera using a 3.5 mm connection. In the app, there are a few different timecode output options, allowing you to control what comes out of the receiver. Beyond that, you can even use the receiver as a jam sync device — allowing users to connect the receiver to multiple cameras at the beginning of a shoot, supplying a timecode to them all. However, RØDE recommends re-jamming the timecode every four hours to minimize drift.

Intelligent GainAssist technology

Image courtesy: RØDE

Recording situations can change quite quickly if you’re not recording in a controlled environment or recording a moving subject, as is likely the case if you’re using a wireless setup. The Wireless PRO has a way to compensate for such changes with its Intelligent GainAssist technology. What this does is it automatically adjusts your gain to balance your audio levels. It isn’t new tech, as it was first introduced with the RØDE Wireless ME, but it’s an effective solution to maintaining your gain levels without having to manually adjust them. This can work well in many situations; however, sometimes you’ll need to set it manually. Always listen to what you’re capturing to make the best choice for your needs.

Internal storage

Every videographer needs sufficient storage for their video files. Likewise, they need extra storage for their audio as well. The Wireless PRO offers a lot of storage to work with. Each transmitter offers 32 GB of storage. This equals up to 40 hours of onboard recording. So, you shouldn’t have storage space issues when recording extensive sessions; you’ll have a sufficient amount of space.

Connection to RØDE Central app

One of the primary reasons for getting the Rode Central App is the ability to perform firmware updates. And updating the app is a straightforward, simple process. In the app, you can also customize settings, such as gain levels, high-pass filters and safety channels. But beyond that, you’ll want the app to manage storage and enable features, such as timecode, that aren’t able to be accessed from the device alone.

The most attractive feature of the app is the custom export options. When reviewing audio recordings, there are options to change the format, sample rate, bit depth and loudness. On top of that, you can rename your file, add markers and select how much of the recording to export.

What comes in the kit

Image courtesy: RØDE

Along with the Wireless PRO, you also get professional-grade lapel mics, windshields, clips and all necessary cables in the package. We appreciate all these inclusions as they make it even easier to capture high-quality audio right out of the box.

Locking 3.5 mm connectors

The RØDE Wireless PRO comes with handy locking 3.5 mm connectors, which are designed to securely attach microphones and other audio equipment to the transmitter and receiver. These work great to prevent accidental disconnections during recording. This feature is particularly important if you’re shooting in the field where movement and environmental factors can easily jostle or disconnect standard connectors.

Ultimately, the locking mechanism provides peace of mind, especially in dynamic shooting environments like outdoor events, interviews or on-the-go vlogging. With these connectors, we were able to focus on capturing the shots we needed and didn’t have to worry about losing audio connection due to a loose cable. Also, the robustness of the locking 3.5 mm connectors adds to the overall durability and reliability of the RØDE Wireless PRO system.

Pro sound and design

Setting up the RØDE Wireless PRO is a straightforward process that can be completed in minutes. The units automatically pair with each other once turned on and the connection status is clearly indicated on the receiver. By using the two buttons on the receiver, you can set different gain modes depending on your setup.

Audio quality is where the RØDE Wireless PRO truly shines. The mic features a wide frequency response range (20 Hz to 20 kHz) and the audio experience is great. The two included Lavalier II mics are incredibly sleek, featuring a flat pickup end, locking 3.5 mm connectors and discreet magnetic clips. Also, the dual-channel capability of the Wireless PRO allows us to record from both transmitters simultaneously. If you only need one mic, you can use another track as a safety.

The ability to record directly into the device, output to an external device (like a camera or phone) for recording, or both at the same time is really nice. RØDE thoughtfully includes all the cables needed to achieve this, plus windscreens that can be used on the transmitter or the Lavalier II microphones. To really bring home the convenience of the RØDE Wireless PRO system, the clip on the receiver also works as a cold shoe mount.

Things to consider

This system is priced higher than most entry-level wireless microphone systems but this is because the Wireless PRO is different. We can genuinely say that the additional cost is justified by its superior audio quality, reliability and feature set. For professionals and serious content creators, it’s an investment that certainly brings value to many creative situations. The cost might be a consideration for those on a tighter budget but since it includes everything you’d need (lav mics, windshields, cables etc.) it’s still a great deal overall.

The receiver lacks a touchscreen, which can make navigating the menu options more cumbersome. But this is likely inspired by the fact that there aren’t many onboard menu options anyway, as RØDE decided to lean on the app to facilitate most customizations. This even includes the ability to delete recordings. Though not the biggest deal, this can be annoying for those who just want a device that doesn’t rely on any additional software. You don’t have to sign up for anything, though, which is nice; the app recognizes the plugged-in device and it’s ready to customize from there.

Lastly, the transmitters of the RØDE Wireless PRO are a little bulkier compared to similar products on the market. Clipping the transmitter onto a T-shirt or lapel just looks kind of awkward. RØDE’s addition of the included Lavalier II mics is a good compromise for this, though.

Limitations in a professional setting

While the RØDE Wireless PRO boasts many impressive features, there’s still one notable limitation: its reliance on the 2.4 GHz wireless band. Typically, this frequency band is crowded, as it’s often used by home Wi-Fi networks and other devices. This can lead to interference, especially in environments with a lot of wireless traffic. Additionally, devices operating on the 2.4 GHz band have distance restrictions. Also, to minimize the chance of interference, you need a clear line of sight between the microphone and the receiver.

While billed as a pro product, it’s a bit of a contradiction to call the Wireless PRO a Pro product while having it on the 2.4 wireless band. Ultimately, these limitations make the system less than ideal for certain professional scenarios where you might not have control over the environment or need to cover greater distances.

A worthwhile investment?

When it comes to its feature set, the RØDE Wireless PRO is a standout wireless microphone system. Its ease of use and advanced features make it an excellent product for capturing professional-level audio. With 32-bit float recording, intelligent GainAssist and built-in timecode support, the Wireless PRO positions itself a step above many of its competitors. However, its reliance on the 2.4 GHz band and its distance limitations unfortunately hurts its prospects as a professional microphone system. Professionals can’t depend on their microphones working on this band. However, with that said, it’s still an excellent microphone. So, if you want to make money using this product, you can, but know that it’s not always going to work for you.

Strengths:

  • 32-bit float recording internally
  • Timecodes
  • Routing modes

Weaknesses:

  • Operates on the 2.4 GHz band
  • RØDE Central App required for access to certain features
  • Price
  • Bulky transmitters

Tech specs

Wireless technologyDigital 2.4 GHz
Included transmitters2x bodypack with microphone
DiversityNon-diversity
RF channel scanningAuto-scan
Max operating range853′ / 260 m
Max transmitters per bandFour
Built-in recorderYes
Timecode supportYes
Mobile app compatibleYes: Android and iOS
App name: RØDE Central
Functionality: adjust settings, remote control, setup
OS compatibilityiPadOS 14 or later
Windows 10 or later
macOS 10.15 or later
Sample rate/resolution32-bit
Encryption128-bit
SNR72 dB
Receiver typeCamera-mount
Receiver mounting optionsBelt clip (with included hardware)
Receiver antennaOne internal
Receiver number of audio channelsTwo
Receiver audio I/O1x 1/8 inches / 3.5 mm TRRS female unbalanced mic output
Receiver frequency response20 Hz to 20 kHz
Receiver USB/Lightning connectivity1x USB-C female (audio, bus power, charging)
Receiver USB class-compliantYes
Receiver standalone audio interface capableYes
Receiver power requirementsBattery or bus power (USB)
Receiver battery type1x built-in rechargeable (included)
Receiver battery charging time2.5 hours
Receiver approx. battery life7 hours
Receiver DC input power5 VDC
Receiver display and indicators1x Graphic LCD (AF Level, Battery Status, Metering, RF Level, Transmitter Battery Status)
Receiver dimensions1.8 x 1.7 x 0.8 inches / 46.5 x 44 x 20 mm
Receiver weight1.3 oz / 36 g
Transmitter typeClip-on with microphone
Transmitter RF output powerNot specified by manufacturer
Transmitter audio I/O1x 1/8 inches / 3.5 mm TRS female unbalanced input (locking)
Transmitter padNo
Transmitter muttingOff/On switch
Transmitter auto-level controlYes
Transmitter recorder bit depths32-bit float
Transmitter signal processingNo
Transmitter sync methodProprietary
Transmitter antenna1x internal
Transmitter power requirementsBattery or bus power (USB)
Transmitter battery type 1x built-in rechargeable (included)
Transmitter battery charging time2.5 hours
Transmitter approx. battery life7 hours
Transmitter USB/Lighting I/O1x USB-C (bus power, charging)
Transmitter display and indicators1x LED (sync)
1x LED (battery status)
Transmitter dimensions1.8 x 1.7 x 0.8 inches / 46.5 x 44 x 20 mm
Transmitter weight1.2 oz / 35 g
Microphone typeBuilt-in (transmitter)
Microphone colorBlack
Microphone sound fieldMono
Microphone operating principlePressure operated
Microphone capsuleElectret condenser
Microphone polar patternOmnidirectional
Microphone equivalent noise level22 dB A-weighted
Microphone maximum SPL123.5 dB SPL
Second microphone typeLavalier
Second microphone colorBlack
Second microphone sound fieldMono
Second microphone capsuleElectret condenser
Second microphone diaphragm0.2 inches / 6 mm
Second microphone polar patternOmnidirectional
Second microphone frequency range20 Hz to 20 kHz
Second microphone SNR67 dB
Second microphone equivalent noise level27 dB A-weighted
Second microphone maximum SPL106 dB SPL RMS
Second microphone impedance2.2 ohms
Second microphone sensitivity-38 dB at 1 kHz
Second microphone dynamic range79 dB
Second microphone outputs1x 1/8 inches / 3.5 mm TRS male unbalanced (lockable)
Second microphone cable length3.8′ / 117 cm
Second microphone operating voltage1.8 to 5 V
Additional runtime with charging case14 hours
Charging case recharge time2.5 hours
Charging case battery chemistryLithium-ion
Charging case capacity4200 mAh
Charging case charging interfaceUSB-C
Charging case dimensions4 x 3.2 x 2.8 inches / 101 x 82 x 70 mm
Charging case weight6.2 oz / 177 g
Kyle Alsberry
Kyle Alsberry
Kyle Alsberry is a multimedia producer and audiovisual technician at California State University, Chico and is Videomaker's associate editor.

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