Rode Wireless Go II Review for Vloggers

Rode Wireless Go II Review for Vlogging: The Ultimate Companion for Creators

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

  • Ultra-compact and lightweight design, ideal for on-the-go vlogging.
  • Dual channel recording for interviews and collaborations.
  • Exceptional wireless range of up to 200 meters.
  • On-board recording capability for backup in busy environments.
  • Simple plug-and-play compatibility with various devices.

Table of Contents

Discovering the Rode Wireless Go II

Upon unboxing the Rode Wireless Go II, the first thing that struck me was the ultra-compact design. Each transmitter and receiver weighs in at just under 32g. This is a delight for the on-the-go vlogger; I clipped the mic onto my shirt without any weight concerns. This convenience is particularly noteworthy for those of us knee-deep in run-and-gun scenarios.

Impressive Features

Let’s dive into some of its standout features that caught my eye during testing.

Dual Channel Recording

The capability to record two transmitters simultaneously is a game-changer when you’re looking to interview someone or do a collaborative vlog. I tested this feature during an outdoor discussion with a friend — both our voices were captured crisply and clearly. The Rode Wireless Go II isn’t just about capturing my solo musings; it facilitates dynamic conversations, making it perfect for couple vlogs or podcasts.

This little upgrade reflects a significant improvement compared to its predecessor, which only allowed one transmitter. If you’re planning to have another guest in your videos, this is a stellar feature. The dual-channel approach can capture interactions naturally without needing two separate recording setups.

Wireless Range

Next up, the wireless range is astonishing. Advertised at a whopping 200 meters in ideal conditions, I wanted to test its limits. I wandered off from my camera (set up at the edge of my backyard) to the farthest corner, around 170 meters away surrounded by trees — certainly not the most ideal conditions. Yet, I was impressed with the signal stability I maintained throughout. There was some latency when moving behind solid walls, but it informed me of the improved stability the Rode has over the original model.

On-Board Recording

Another feature that sold me is the on-board recording capability. Each transmitter can internally record audio in compressed MP3 or uncompressed 24-bit WAV format. Picture this: you’re in a busy location, and interference strikes at the worst moment. With the Rode Wireless Go II, I’m safeguarded against these unexpected interruptions. In my tests, I appreciated the peace of mind knowing that I’d have a backup of my audio, should anything go awry during transmission.

Ease of Use

To plug-and-play is a massive win for anyone who doesn’t want to overthink their setup — I’m talking about a seamless connection to cameras, smartphones, or tablets through 3.5mm or USB-C outputs. I personally tested connecting it to my smartphone using an app; the recording quality remained consistent and brilliant. The RØDE Central app further extends usability, allowing for firmware updates and configuration tweaks. It’s not overly complicated, which I love since simplicity often translates to reliability.

Audio Quality

Initially, I recorded a few segments using the built-in condenser mic, and honestly, it provided a delightful clarity that suited typical vlogging environments. Of course, purists and audio engineers might lean towards attaching a dedicated lavalier mic for those high-fidelity needs, and the flexibility to do so makes this system even more appealing. I used my higher-end lavalier mic alongside the Wireless Go II, and the noise floor was impressively quiet, bringing much more richness and depth to the audio. This is an essential feature for serious content creators who depend on quality audio, especially in complex audio scenarios.

What’s Missing?

But let’s be honest; no piece of gear is without its caveats. One limitation to note is that the Wireless Go II is not backward-compatible with the original Wireless Go. If you’re upgrading, prepare to buy into Rode’s ecosystem entirely. Another downside is the range’s caveat; while 200m sounds great, obstacles can diminish that distance. I noticed that once I moved too far behind walls, the connection faded quickly, though I still found the performance aesthetically superior to that of other competing models.

Improvements to Consider

Another feature that has improved significantly compared to the previous iteration is the redesigned windshields with a bayonet mount. Wind noise can be a criminal issue in outdoor settings. However, my outdoor tests with the new windshields showed remarkably less disturbance, even in blustery conditions.

Conclusion: Who Should Buy the Rode Wireless Go II?

Overall, the Rode Wireless Go II is an impressive leap forward for vlogging setups. Its compact size, wireless dual-channel recording, and exceptional audio clarity make it an outstanding choice for content creators who prioritize quality without taxing their workflow. If you’re a solo vlogger, a podcaster looking to interview guests or a collaborative creator, this mic system could be your next best investment.

However, if you’re just starting and need a more budget-friendly option or don’t require the dual-channel capabilities, you might want to consider other options before splurging. Also, keep in mind that pairing it with a dedicated lavalier mic is always advisable for those high-quality recordings, but the built-in mic does just fine for most vlogs.

For those looking to step their audio game up — Check the latest price here. It may just change how you engage with your audience, free from wires and bulky setups.

Lastly, don’t forget to check out Geeksper’s recommended gear for more insights into getting the best audio setup for your vlogging adventures!

FAQ

1. Is the Rode Wireless Go II worth the investment?
Yes, if you’re serious about improving your audio quality for vlogging, it is a great investment.

2. Can you use the Rode Wireless Go II with smartphones?
Absolutely, it has a simple plug-and-play setup that works seamlessly with smartphones.

3. What happens if I encounter interference while recording?
The on-board recording feature acts as a backup in case of interference issues.

4. Is the Rode Wireless Go II compatible with original Wireless Go?
No, it’s not backward-compatible; you will need to use the Rode Wireless Go II exclusively.

5. How is the audio quality compared to other brands?
The audio quality is excellent, especially when using a dedicated lavalier mic alongside the system.