Gearank

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

Pros

Being a dynamic mic, many reviewers with lighter voices appreciate how well the Podcaster sounds at closer mic positions benefiting from the proximity effect though an additional pop filter may be required for more plosive sounding speakers. As a microphone tuned to enhance speaking voices for broadcast, a number of users selected it for how well it represents and enhances their speaking voice.

Cons

The weight and size of the unit is consistently noted by reviewers to be a problem with weaker boom arms and smaller shock mounts and recommend it best to check the dimensions first in case optional accessories will be required. Being a dynamic mic, it reacts to gain differently and may need some tweaking as noted by the variety of users saying they either have too little volume (which can be corrected by using a signal booster like the Cloudlifter CL-1) or that the mic picks up too much of the room. It was also noted to be relatively expensive.

Overall

If you need a mic specifically dedicated to making broadcast quality vocals, The Rode Podcaster is a great pick for those that need that extra "radio ready" sound.

The Rode Podcaster is not currently on our highest rated list - you can see that in our guide to The Best USB Microphones.

Polar Pattern

Frequency Response