RØDE’s new Streamer X looks to change the game for streaming

RØDE has released what it says is the world’s first integrated audio interface, video capture card and control surface — and has bundled all that together for a mere $399.

Taking a leaf out of fellow Antipodeans Blackmagic Design, RØDE has released another new product that combines a serious amount of functionality and brought it to the market at a price point that would once have seemed ludicrous.

The $399 Streamer X combines a professional audio interface, video capture card and control surface into a compact, easy-to-use-console, resulting in what the company can fairly confidently claim to be an all-in-one streaming solution.

RØDE hasn’t done hardware and video before, so what do you get? Video-wise the Streamer X features a HDMI input for connecting a camera, gaming PC or console, or any other HDMI video source and supports up to 4K30 streaming. It also offers HDMI passthrough up to 4K60 for high-resolution real-time monitoring with zero latency. Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support ensures smooth gaming for Twitch etc without lag or screen tearing, and two USB-C connections allow for easy integration with dual PC setups. The Streamer X is plug-and-play compatible with Mac and Windows computers and works seamlessly with all streaming software and platforms, RØDE saying that no setup or additional software required.

On the audio side it features a studio-grade Neutrik combo jack for connecting XLR microphones or instruments, with an ultra-low-noise, high-gain Revolution Preamp ensuring pristine audio quality. Headsets like the RØDE NTH-100M can be connected via the 3.5mm TRRS input ­– ideal for everything from gaming to video calls – and headphones can be connected via the 1/4-inch output. All connections are located on the rear of the console, ensuring users can keep their setup tidy. 

The Streamer X also features an integrated wireless receiver for connecting RØDE Series IV wireless microphones, including the Wireless GO II and Wireless ME. Internal DSP allows users to easily add studio-grade APHEX processing to their mic, including a compressor, noise gate, high-pass filter and the nigh-on legendary Aural Exciter and Big Bottom effects. On the front of the console are hands-on controls for microphone gain, input selection and headphone level, as well as mute buttons for the audio and video feeds.

The control surface is killer too. As well as the hands-on audio and video controls, it features four SMART pads. First introduced on the RØDECaster Pro II, these can be usefully customised to perform a variety of functions, including triggering audio – from sound effects and to music beds – or voice effects like echo, reverb, pitch shifting, robot, and other special FX. 

They can also be configured to send MIDI commands to a computer for triggering keyboard shortcuts and other actions with the press of a button, useful for everything from changing slides in a presentation to switching scenes in streaming software. Two bank switching buttons offer access to up to 16 banks of pads for a total of 64 unique actions, giving users unmatched control and creative flexibility at their fingertips. 

As you would expect the Streamer X is also fully compatible with RØDE’s suite of desktop apps and software and nestles nicely into the whole ecosystem.

“The Streamer X is incredibly exciting for a few reasons,” says RØDE CEO Damien Wilson. “As RØDE’s first hardware product with video functionality, it represents a huge milestone for the company and a signpost for big things ahead. It also represents a significant paradigm shift in streaming technology. Just like the RØDECaster Pro, which made podcasting super simple by combining what otherwise required thousands of dollars in equipment to achieve, the Streamer X will make streaming more accessible than it has ever been.”