RØDE claims most powerful wireless mic ever with new Wireless PRO

Fresh off the back of releasing the Wireless ME,  RØDE has now unleashed the most powerful compact wireless system ever with the Wireless PRO.

RØDE is happily making some big claims for the new Wireless PRO. In the opening paragraph of its press release alone it says it boasts "an unprecedented feature set not found in any microphone – let alone a compact wireless system," and refers to it as "the ultimate wireless microphone." It has to be said it looks good on paper too.

Here's the key features list:

• Compact dual-channel wireless microphone system
• RØDE’s state-of-the-art Series IV 2.4 GHz digital transmission with 128-bit encryption for crystal-clear, incredibly stable audio at up to 260m (850 ft) line of sight
• Universal compatibility with cameras, smartphones and computers
• 32-bit float on-board recording with 32GB internal memory for clip-free audio in any recording application
• Advanced timecode capability for quick-and-easy audio sync in post-production
• Intelligent GainAssist technology, flexible output gain control and safety channel for ensuring pristine audio when recording direct to camera
• Locking 3.5mm lavalier connectors for complete security
• Headphone output with on-board level control
• TRRS input for headset or other “narrator” microphone on receiver for recording up to three audio channels simultaneously
• Plug-in power detect for extended battery life
• Complete accessory kit, including smart charge case, two Lavalier II microphones, cables, MagClip GO magnetic mounting clip and accessory case
• Easy configuration on a computer or smartphone via RØDE Central
• Designed and made in RØDE’s precision facilities in Sydney, Australia

Wireless PRO features in detail

So, what do we have. The Wireless PRO features the same pocket-sized form factor as the rest of the company's compact wireless range, with a sleek new black-on-black aesthetic for extra discretion. It comes in a dual-channel set with two transmitters and a receiver and utilises the Series IV 2.4GHz digital transmission and proprietary near-zero latency codec with 128-bit encryption to deliver what is billed as crystal-clear, stable audio at distances up to 260m (850 ft) line of sight.

Integrated clips and broadcast-quality in-built omnidirectional microphones on the transmitters make set up easy, and it is universally compatible with cameras, smartphones and tablets, computers, and other audio devices via its analog 3.5mm TRS and digital USB-C outputs.

32-bit float on-board recording capabilities allow you to record directly to the transmitters with no chance of the audio clipping. This means you have a clean backup of your session – even in extremely dynamic scenarios – and eliminates the need to set gain levels prior to recording, making the creative workflow more streamlined than ever. 32GB of internal memory offers over 40 hours of on-board recording, with dedicated buttons on the transmitters making triggering recordings simple.

If you want to record audio directly into your camera, then you can take advantage of features such as RØDE’s innovative GainAssist technology – first introduced with the Wireless ME – which utilises intelligent algorithms to automatically control audio levels on the fly, ensuring the output is smooth and balanced and minimising the risk of clipping. It also features a flexible output control with a 30dB gain range available, allowing you to tailor the mic’s output to your camera, as well as pre-configured camera presets for quick-and-easy setup. For added peace of mind, the Wireless PRO also offers a safety channel feature, which outputs a second channel of audio 10dB lower than the primary channel in case the signal is too hot and clips the camera input.

It also the features an easy to use internal timecode generator that seamlessly synchronises audio with any camera. This can be easily set up on a computer or smartphone via the  RØDE Central companion app, with flexible configuration options to suit most recording setups. The companion app also gives you access to features such as merged and split recording modes, marker dropping, and customisable buttons

Both transmitters feature locking lavalier connectors for complete security when using an external lavalier or other microphone with a locking connector. Plug-in power detect on the receiver – which automatically powers the unit on and off in sync with a connected camera – extends battery life in the field. The 3.5mm output on the receiver also functions as a headphone output for audio monitoring (complete with flexible output level control) as well as an audio input for a headset or other TRRS “narrator” microphone, such as a lavalier.

As already mentioned in the key feature splits, there's a decent sized accessory kit for it too. Pricing starts at $399 for a two-person kit with lavaliers and availability should be end of the month.