Gearank Recommendation
The Podcaster first appeared on our recommended list for USB Microphones from July 2016 until November 2017.
It had high enough ratings to go back on the list from April 2019 until June 2020.
Overview
The Rode Podcaster is a USB microphone tailored for broadcast sound quality and is aimed towards people who need a voice-centric microphone.
Unlike most USB Microphones which are variations of the large diaphragm condenser design, The Rode Podcaster is a Dynamic Microphone.
This makes it ideal for capturing only the speaker’s voice while keeping background pickup to a minimum.
Applications
The design is based on the more expensive Rode Broadcaster, and as the name implies, this version has been specifically designed by Rode for use in podcasting. It is also used for voiceover work.
Features
It comes with both a stand mount and USB cable. It has a headphone jack for zero latency monitoring with volume control.
It has both an internal shock mount and internal pop filter – you can use this right out of the box with no need for additional pop filters or shock mounts in most situations.
It’s important to note that this doesn’t come with a mic stand, just the stand mount for attaching it to a mic stand. Popular accessories include the Rode PSA1 Swivel Mount Boom Stand and the Rode PSM 1 Shockmount.
Compatibility
Mac OS X 10.10.5 or higher
Windows 7 or higher
iOS compatibility using the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit
Specifications
- Type: Dynamic
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 40 Hz to 14 kHz
- Sampling Rate: Up to 48 kHz
- Bit Depth: 18 bits
- Maximum SPL: 115 dB
- Power Requirements: 5V USB