The Pro Sound Solution
Posted on Nov 14, 2024 by Pro Moviemaker
Rode’s Wireless Pro kit offers 32-bit float recording in a compact package
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Rode’s Wireless Go may have started a revolution as the most compact yet feature-rich wireless audio system, but the range has expanded into a truly professional set-up with the Wireless Pro. This latest iteration offers the ultimate in convenience for a worry-free soundtrack that ensures all audio is recorded, every time.
The dual-channel system comes with a pair of small transmitters to allow for two people to talk – such as in an interview situation – and the sound to be recorded onto the video file in the camera, phone or recorder via a small receiver unit.
To ensure nothing is ever missed, the mic units use the latest 32-bit float technology to record uncompressed sound to their 32GB internal memory. So, if there is ever an issue with the wireless signal dropping, the audio peaking or being too quiet for a conventional audio kit to handle, then the 32-bit recording will still be safely stored for use later in post.
Despite the added technology, the Rode Wireless Pro is still incredibly compact and light, which is why it’s been voted the winner of its category in the Pro Moviemaker Gear of the Year Awards.
The company’s state-of-the-art Series IV 2.4GHz digital transmission has almost no latency, featuring 128-bit encryption to deliver clear audio at up to 260m/850ft. The transmitters have integrated lapel clips and broadcast-quality, built-in omnidirectional mics. The kit also includes a pair of Rode’s Lavalier II microphones for broadcast-grade audio capture, along with magnetic clips that make it easy to mount transmitters onto the talent or the receiver onto a recorder.
It also features furry windshields for recording in windy conditions, plus all the necessary cables for connecting to cameras and phones inside a separate, handy case. Compatibility with phones and other devices via analogue 3.5mm TRS and digital USB-C outputs is available.
The receiver’s 3.5mm output works as a headphone jack, as well as an audio input for a headset or other TRRS narrator microphone, like a lavalier. Merged and split recording modes, marker dropping and customisable buttons are just a few other features that can also be easily configured – whether it’s on a computer or on the go using the Rode Central app.
On this powerful app, internal recordings can be accessed and settings changes made, including timecode sync, which makes it easy to perfectly align audio to video in post. The Pro’s internal timecode generator synchronises audio with any camera.
There is also a safety channel feature, which outputs a second audio channel 10dB lower than the primary, in case the signal is too loud. Rode’s innovative Gain Assist technology uses intelligent algorithms to control audio levels on the fly, ensuring output is balanced and the risk of clipping is minimised. It also features flexible output control with a huge 30dB gain range, allowing every mic to be tailored to each camera. Of course, 32-bit float technology means everything is always safely stored on the transmitter units, too.
To avoid running out of juice on long shoots, plug-in power detection automatically powers the unit on and off in sync with a connected camera. The smart charging case protects the receiver and transmitters, ensuring they’re always charged. USB-C connectivity also enables fast data transfers for quickly exporting recordings on location. It’s everything a professional needs to record incredible audio, every time.
This feature was first published in the November/December 2024 issue of Pro Moviemaker.
