Here is a thought. Maybe the reason why the level indicators go dark after a few seconds is to reduce the potential for internal interference and thereby improve the sound quality. If this is the reason then such a feature may obviate your dislike for the action. I am an audiophile and on my Naim hi fi system all of the LED indicators are designed to go dark after 5 sec so as to avoid internal interference from the level indicators.
Great review Caleb, thanks for that! I don't think the mic issue is just the units you have - I have a couple of kits as well and love the tx and rx, but don't love the microphone. Switching them out for Countryman B6 solved that problem (though they're not exactly cheap).
I just purchased this kit with the same problem. It was within my 30 days to return it at an authorized dealer. Rode asked me to send everything back in to be tested. They did not fix my mic but replaced it. Here's the kicker they gave me a shitty replacement with a noticeable loss in build quality. Looks basically like their smart lav with a very thin cable. That was disappointing but this really bothered me. The sound quality is noticeably different in a bad way. Not a flatter smooth sound but now it's a thin and more harsh sound. They assured me it's the same capsule. Either way the rest of the mic is cheap but this does not sound the same at all. I'm calling them first thing Monday
Hi. Thanks for the video! :) I've had minor issues. But the cables are killing me. There's just something about them. I got the coiled one you mentioned. But what Sennheiser microphone is that? I would like to try it out but I have no idea what kit that is. I'll trade the info for a sub? ;)
How did you convert the Countryman B6 to fit the Rodelink transmitter? The Countryman B6 is hardwired with a TA5F connector and the Rodelink is 3.5mm jack.
Thanks for the great video. Just picked up my kit and can’t wait to get it hooked up. It’s going to make a huge difference not having to deal with a shogun mic or wired mic in the shop where I’m constantly on the move and changing angels. Great job again!!
➡️ *IMPORTANT* I have a phone with Rode right. They have confirmed that the model from 2016 was faulty. But they have fixed it pretty fast and right now in 2018 there should be no more problems. I have ordered right now. -> Thank you for this extensive review 👍
I bought a rodelink set also in 2019 and my set works perfectly... no issues with the cable or mic noises... probably got sorted by rode. thanx for a great informative video.
Great demo & review. I have a kit in my possession right now that I am going to do a review on. Plus the wireless news shooter kit too. First impression, love the build quality, look and feel. Ease of use, super. Great all around. Love your channel and great to see Curtis commenting here too. Both you guys have been a huge inspiration to my channel. Thank you!
I use 2 pair and didn't know the microphone noise issue. I test it and yes... I did it also with the edutige etm-008 the cable gives more noise. What I have in house is still the rode mic the best. The only solution for now is stay away with the head and cable so much as possible from the TX. Good that I find you, good explanation.
Thanks for showing the down sides as well. I don’t have those issues of signal disturb. I tried doing as you did. I noticed the mic is different so I might be using the latest model which is screened. So happy with this lav 😊
Thanks Caleb, I have to say I have just finished filming a long session only to find that Coil Cable Failed and I have a days filming with no Sound.. I would appreciate you pin this Post to warn others. Nothing is more frustrating that working you end off and having it fail through poor quality control. I love Rode but they need to step up to the plate and make a full recall and apology. I have to start all over.. Now many say, customer service is great and it is but my Filmaker is brand new, barely a month and I don't want a replacement right now, I want my days hard back. Thanks buddy, honest and clear as always.. Steve
I had the same mic issue. It actually happened on a few mic brands. Senheiser was fine. Rode sent me a replacement with no issues now. Different mic cable thickness. Probably shielding.
Just what I was looking for - a review demonstrating the cons (10:36) of the more expensive Rode Link wireless mic system. I didn't hear the hum issue in the corp interview (13:12) - I suspect if I were wearing headphones or listening to your sample audio with better than laptop speakers, I would probably hear it too. Totally surprised you had cable problems (14:09) with an relatively expensive kit like this. Doesn't say much for QC at Rode to let that go out. Others have mentioned that in the comments. Fortunately, I've not had cable issues with my Rode camera mounted shotgun. Thank you for your review. Subscribed! Cheers from Montréal.
I own 2 of these units and had the same issues with both mic cables. I gave Rode a call and they sent me all new mic and 1/8th cables at NO cost and NO hassle. All they asked for was a copy of the receipt of purchase. The new mic cables are designed better.
I have this unit, and have never had a problem with them at all. It may be a batch problem, or a very random thing. I absolutely love my unit, and at $300 cheaper than the Sennheiser unit, it was better economically than that one.
Great review mate! I have the same kit and experience the same issues when the mic cable gets too close to the TX. I use a canon 60D and I really appreciated your advice on setting the audio levels, however I still get noise even with the cameras internal audio is set to the lowest possible setting.
I bought one from Amazon and had the same noise issue you had and read on multiple forums that it's the cable that is defected so I returned it and bought from B&H and it works perfectly. Returning is a pain but may be the best solution. Try a different mic.
I bought two of these kits so that I can do two person dialog into a GH5 with the XLR kit. I have not yet experienced any issues with noise from poor shielding of the microphone cables (bought these in May 2018 so newer microphone cables?) but the coiled wire cable from the receiver unit to the camera is still crap. I replaced these with recoiling 3.5mm cables and have had no issues since with them. I think the audio quality is great from these units.
Was having tons if wh8te noise in my wireless setup and was gonna buy a new one but after learning you're supposed to turn the camera volume down and adjust the mic system helped alot
Great info Caleb. Have had a quiet popping sound on the right stereo side of my mic (can hear it in my last video, annoying.) Seems to be an issue when I run the mic cable through my shirt and put the TX on my belt....makes a little more sense after watching this. Tried to use a different rode lav I have and it sounded good but would run away with white noise when I wasn't talking. Think I will try and replace both the lav and the RX cable. Thanks man!
Hey Caleb, thanks for your detailed review! I‘m shooting with a Canon EOS 70D (really noisy pre-amp) + wired Rode smartLav and this might be a big improvement for my sound quality.
Great review. I have not come across those issues yet with my Rodelink kit. By the way, what label tape are you using? Is it gaf material? Does it leave sticky residue? Thanks.
Heard that they were replacing them due to the interference. I contacted Rode, explained the issue, and they sent me 3 replacements. They are a new design with a molded connector instead of the micon connector and extra strain relief on the capsule end. They needed the serial numbers from my kits.
I just received my unit, and was wondering why I don't have a microphone with micon connector. Good to know that I didn't receive a 'different' unit. Also, I didn't notice any noise/intereference issues with the new microphone.
Awesome, I've been noticing the noise issue with this unit too. Thought it was bad shielding on the Tx but will look at the mic and a possible replacement.
Hi, i just bought this system based on your review. i have small suggestion if you can do more outdoor reviews on videos and Audio issues i think it will be great and it will reach more audience.
Hi, loved the video. Just bought the RodeLink Filmmaker Kit - was wondering, you mentioned third party coiled cables, are they simply 3.5mm mini jack to 3.5mm mini jack?
Is the receiver's output able to send line level output? Regarding the faulty cables, contact Rode, as their customer service is really good. I bet they'd replace the cable without any questions asked.
Can you have the receiver linked up to multiple transmitters/subjects? I’m trying to figure out the best way to record 3-5 subjects in a group interview style setting. Also thought about just doing it straight from a Zoom H4N Pro or a stereo mic like the Sennheiser MKE-440
No you cannot.One transmitter works only with one receiver.However if you want to still have wireless connectivity, you can wire mic all your speaker and connect that to a mixer and wirelessly send the mix to your recorder but the disadvantage being that each of the tracks can only be live mixed and you cannot adjust levels individual ly later in post
Hey Caleb, you mention in this video about when to use a LAV system versus an overhead shotgun one. I can't seem to find that video anywhere and wondered if you got around to doing it? I'm trying to decide at the moment to either get this set up or go for an overhead shotgun one but not sure what's best!
Harry Knight Have also posted this above: perpetualjon Shotgun is great outdoors for isolating a speaker from background noise (point it up or down at them) and is less prone to being knocked or rubbed than a lapel mic. You can use one mic for multiple people (as long as you are able to pivot the shotgun around to point at whoever’s talking). You also don’t need to wire someone up when using a shotgun which makes it good for run and gun or vox pops. Lav mics are better indoors or when ambient noise isn’t too distracting. They’re pretty much foolproof once set up and you know every person wearing one will be recorded perfectly. Either works, just know their strengths and weaknesses.
I've been wanting to get this unit- thank you so much for the review! Sounds great straight into the GH4, but for Canon cameras, would you still recommend using a dedicated preamp like a JuicedLink?
Hi thanks for the video, you have taken much pain in providing the feedback of Rode. I have a question, for self voice recording indoors and outdoor, Rode Go is good, but if we are in a concert or outdoor shooting and want to record the voice of self as well as concert/ market/ outdoor then should we use Rode Go or Rode Filmmaker or Rode or Rode Pro Mic is better? Please help.
Why put transmitter at 0dB when Røde advices to boost clear recordingsignal with +20dB because most DSLR have shitty preamps? I don't get it. I would say maximum quality signal +20 dB and keep preamp hiss to a minumum. But maybe I miss something?
I have had the rode filmaker kit for over a year now it was great until the lav mic broke due wear and due to rigorous shooting, it has been used for atlest 4 times a week in a span of more than year, I have found out that buying a replacement lapel mic would cost a lot. I would want to know if there are any other cheaper alternative lav mics that would work properly with the rode transceiver and receiver? Until I get the money to buy another rode lav
is there a way to connect 2 transmitters/lav mics to ONE receiver? Is it just a matter of buying another unit? I want to record 2 people at once using ONE system. Thanks for the wonderful review Caleb!
+jkpinpdx No it is sadly not possible. You will Need to purchase another unit. It is pretty easy to set up and Switch to different channels though! We used three unit at a time without any hustle.
Saramonic has that system for $399 great quality. m.ebay.com/itm/Saramonic-RX10-TX10x2-96-Channel-UHF-Wireless-Lavalier-Microphone-System-UWMIC10-/381547575162?_trkparms=aid%253D222007%2526algo%253DSIC.MBE%2526ao%253D1%2526asc%253D20150519202348%2526meid%253Ddd28abc05f17406a8b920ecbd3904ff9%2526pid%253D100408%2526rk%253D4%2526rkt%253D25%2526sd%253D381541944856&_trksid=p2056116.c100408.m2460
You could potentially record two people using only one system if your subjects are fairly close together. I use the Rodelink when filming weddings, for example, and I get clean audio from both the bride and groom. Of course, if your subjects are moving around, this won't work. But if you're doing an interview, you could make it work.
Hey Caleb, I just wondered if you had any knowledge in regards linking the roadlink to speakers. I have 4 x Bose S1 battery speakers and want to make these totally wireless. I am going from mixing desk/microphone to 4 speakers so would these work? I would probably use a transmitter on the mixer (mono) and then use a transmitter and receiver on 3 of the speakers and finish with just a receiver on speaker 4.
I think rode definitely cheaps out on the RF shielding, I have problems with the Rode Videomic and Videomic Pro getting interference connected to both the Canon SL1 and XC10.
+A. J. Kierstead I've always been wary of the thin cables from Rode, but this is the first time I've had issues personally. That said, I'll take this issue over issues with the TX/RX units!
Mate Kava You’d need two transmitters and two receivers if you want them both wireless plus a 4-channel recorder (with two inputs) or a 2-channel recorder (with one input) that you plug a left-right splitter into so that you can record one mic on the left channel and one on the right.
Lacoste Brown Facing towards or away from the receiver will make no difference to the range. Official range is 250ft / 70m but I’ve seen one go over 90m outdoors and still not cut out.
Caleb, I have 2 questions. First I run the same Sennhieser system you do. Would a coiled Cable coming from that to my camera work better then the straight one. Also, my receiver on this system has no 1/4 20 mount point for an adapter for the shoe. How do I go about adding one? to hook it to my camera's shoe? Thank You!
Love love love this review - I need to get a wireless system asap! and 2 of these would do the job perfectly! quick questions - Could I use a higher quality 3mm jack to male XLR connection to my Fostex FR-2 (separate preamps) to secure against extra noise, those type of connections are pretty universal right? also - just out of interest, would I be able to use another Lapel mic with this system, one with lets say a different polar pattern for multiple functionality? Rode would never want to admit that though ha. Thank you.
I don't know if anybody will/can reply to this, but I'm looking at this for a Canon 6D MkII four years after this was posted and hoping to use it for videos at my workplace. I'm not sure how this physically gets set up. Do you plug the microphone into the pack, and then one pack wirelessly transmits to the other pack, which mounts to the top of my camera, and then that plugs into the microphone-in part on my DSLR? There's no place where the audio is stored besides alongside the video just as if I had used a hotshoe mounted shotgun mic like the populare Rode model everyone has? Thanks!
Please help. I occasionally interview people at Starbucks shop. Its very noisy, I used By-M1 lav mic ($20 one), audio is unusable but I have no choice because I have no other place. Will RodeLink FM Kit block all those noise?
I have this kit and the problem with 'exterior' noise using the mike still exists. Can anyone recommend a decent lavalier mike that can be used with the kit?
great thanks, I just bought an open box for half the price... But I also have my finger on the trigger for a Sony UWP-D11... Whats your opinion as far as comparison of the 2. I will be messing about with Zoom H6 and in camera single system with the A6300 and Rode Videomic pro... I like the idea of a shotgun mic at the stage and 30m away on a telephoto lens for events, in addition to any other lavs. I have really been puzzled as to which is better the sony vs the rodelink...????????
He/she said that they bought open box. When you go to places such as B&H Photo, Sweetwater, Guitar Center, etc., open box means it was maybe used for a demonstration, opened and never used, etc.
Hi, Congrats! very nice video, I have a question for you , I Have a camcorder Pansonic HC-V770 do you think a can use rodelink wireless filmmaker for my VideoCamera? should i do some setup in videocamera? Thank You so much and keep going
so is the rodelink replacing you your sennheiser system? I guess I'm wondering which system you like working with better? also what version of sennheiser do you use (G2 or G3)?
perpetualjon Shotgun is great outdoors for isolating a speaker from background noise (point it up or down at them) and is less prone to being knocked or rubbed than a lapel mic. You can use one mic for multiple people (as long as you are able to pivot the shotgun around to point at whoever’s talking). You also don’t need to wire someone up when using a shotgun which makes it good for run and gun or vox pops. Lav mics are better indoors or when ambient noise isn’t too distracting. They’re pretty much foolproof once set up and you know every person wearing one will be recorded perfectly. Either works, just know their strengths and weaknesses.
Hi Caleb, i have a question: Can i use two receivers with just one transmitter? I make interviews with two cameras for different angles that's the reason
I have this digital noise issue as well.. Can't find a solution about that. Anyone knows anything? Mic got purchased for the company I work for and I can't change mics to check. Thank you!
Amazing video, thank you so much for shooting this. QUESTION: I'm intending to use my filmmaker kit with my iPhone 6S - do you guys have any experience with this when it comes to the preamp settings? I know I can try out different variations myself, but thought I could save some time if you guys have a great tip for me! :D Thx in advance guys. And again - awesome video! Fredrik
Hey, would this work with my Sony AX53? also we plan on using it for hockey (putting the mic on a player and strapping it to his gear). Would this work for what we need?
Hey Caleb, do you do any post editing on your audio or do you use the audio as it was recorded besides level adjustments? I use this setup and the audio sounds pretty good with no post edits but yours sound slightly better. I use mine for weddings and interviews and I haven't came across any interference at all, I recommend this to others also. Good Review!
+Giles Videography Thanks for the kind words Giles! I actually didn't do any post audio work on this video. Wanted people to hear the mic as naturally as possible. Honestly the big difference is probably acoustic treatment (video on that soon) I've done a lot of work to treat the space I shoot in and man did it pay off! Number 1 way to increase audio quality for sure.
Dude. I watch a lot of reviews. For lots of different devices. This was the best one for anything so far. Bravo.
Wow, thank you for the kind words ATM! I really appreciate it.
Here is a thought. Maybe the reason why the level indicators go dark after a few seconds is to reduce the potential for internal interference and thereby improve the sound quality. If this is the reason then such a feature may obviate your dislike for the action. I am an audiophile and on my Naim hi fi system all of the LED indicators are designed to go dark after 5 sec so as to avoid internal interference from the level indicators.
that's the best impression of a sennheiser with a weak signal ever, it actually gave me anxiety.
Great review Caleb, thanks for that! I don't think the mic issue is just the units you have - I have a couple of kits as well and love the tx and rx, but don't love the microphone. Switching them out for Countryman B6 solved that problem (though they're not exactly cheap).
+Curtis Judd Thanks Curtis. Glad I'm not the only one!
I just purchased this kit with the same problem. It was within my 30 days to return it at an authorized dealer. Rode asked me to send everything back in to be tested. They did not fix my mic but replaced it. Here's the kicker they gave me a shitty replacement with a noticeable loss in build quality. Looks basically like their smart lav with a very thin cable. That was disappointing but this really bothered me. The sound quality is noticeably different in a bad way. Not a flatter smooth sound but now it's a thin and more harsh sound. They assured me it's the same capsule. Either way the rest of the mic is cheap but this does not sound the same at all. I'm calling them first thing Monday
Hi. Thanks for the video! :) I've had minor issues. But the cables are killing me. There's just something about them. I got the coiled one you mentioned. But what Sennheiser microphone is that? I would like to try it out but I have no idea what kit that is. I'll trade the info for a sub? ;)
How did you convert the Countryman B6 to fit the Rodelink transmitter? The Countryman B6 is hardwired with a TA5F connector and the Rodelink is 3.5mm jack.
Not exactly cheap? $350 at B&H for a lav! Thanks for the comment but exact prices would be helpful.
Thanks for the great video. Just picked up my kit and can’t wait to get it hooked up. It’s going to make a huge difference not having to deal with a shogun mic or wired mic in the shop where I’m constantly on the move and changing angels. Great job again!!
➡️ *IMPORTANT* I have a phone with Rode right. They have confirmed that the model from 2016 was faulty. But they have fixed it pretty fast and right now in 2018 there should be no more problems. I have ordered right now. -> Thank you for this extensive review 👍
That's great info.. as i was almost turned off due to this issue, thanks
I bought a rodelink set also in 2019 and my set works perfectly... no issues with the cable or mic noises... probably got sorted by rode. thanx for a great informative video.
Great demo & review. I have a kit in my possession right now that I am going to do a review on. Plus the wireless news shooter kit too. First impression, love the build quality, look and feel. Ease of use, super. Great all around. Love your channel and great to see Curtis commenting here too. Both you guys have been a huge inspiration to my channel. Thank you!
I use 2 pair and didn't know the microphone noise issue. I test it and yes... I did it also with the edutige etm-008 the cable gives more noise. What I have in house is still the rode mic the best. The only solution for now is stay away with the head and cable so much as possible from the TX.
Good that I find you, good explanation.
Thanks for showing the down sides as well. I don’t have those issues of signal disturb. I tried doing as you did. I noticed the mic is different so I might be using the latest model which is screened. So happy with this lav 😊
Thanks Caleb, I have to say I have just finished filming a long session only to find that Coil Cable Failed and I have a days filming with no Sound.. I would appreciate you pin this Post to warn others. Nothing is more frustrating that working you end off and having it fail through poor quality control. I love Rode but they need to step up to the plate and make a full recall and apology. I have to start all over.. Now many say, customer service is great and it is but my Filmaker is brand new, barely a month and I don't want a replacement right now, I want my days hard back. Thanks buddy, honest and clear as always.. Steve
Steve's Kitchen That’s a real bummer - and also a lesson to us all to monitor audio while recording.
Sorry to hear about that! Thank you for the warning however Steve.
I had the same mic issue. It actually happened on a few mic brands. Senheiser was fine. Rode sent me a replacement with no issues now. Different mic cable thickness. Probably shielding.
Great video! I bought 2 launch day filmmaker kits so far no issues with the cables or units. They work very well with the Sony XLR-K1M adapter.
got mine and they are amazing. I suggest anyone watching this video go out and get a pair.
Just what I was looking for - a review demonstrating the cons (10:36) of the more expensive Rode Link wireless mic system. I didn't hear the hum issue in the corp interview (13:12) - I suspect if I were wearing headphones or listening to your sample audio with better than laptop speakers, I would probably hear it too. Totally surprised you had cable problems (14:09) with an relatively expensive kit like this. Doesn't say much for QC at Rode to let that go out. Others have mentioned that in the comments. Fortunately, I've not had cable issues with my Rode camera mounted shotgun. Thank you for your review. Subscribed!
Cheers from Montréal.
I own 2 of these units and had the same issues with both mic cables. I gave Rode a call and they sent me all new mic and 1/8th cables at NO cost and NO hassle. All they asked for was a copy of the receipt of purchase. The new mic cables are designed better.
planning to buy rodelink this month, they chage there cable already? or still faulty and you need to send them back to give you a good one?
Great review Caleb, I would agree with Curtis Judd and switch out for the Countryman mics.
I have this unit, and have never had a problem with them at all. It may be a batch problem, or a very random thing. I absolutely love my unit, and at $300 cheaper than the Sennheiser unit, it was better economically than that one.
Great review mate! I have the same kit and experience the same issues when the mic cable gets too close to the TX. I use a canon 60D and I really appreciated your advice on setting the audio levels, however I still get noise even with the cameras internal audio is set to the lowest possible setting.
I'm using the Canon Eos60D, and you can manually set the preamp (or how is it called?). What is the best setting for this camera with this mic kit?
I bought one from Amazon and had the same noise issue you had and read on multiple forums that it's the cable that is defected so I returned it and bought from B&H and it works perfectly. Returning is a pain but may be the best solution. Try a different mic.
I bought two of these kits so that I can do two person dialog into a GH5 with the XLR kit. I have not yet experienced any issues with noise from poor shielding of the microphone cables (bought these in May 2018 so newer microphone cables?) but the coiled wire cable from the receiver unit to the camera is still crap. I replaced these with recoiling 3.5mm cables and have had no issues since with them. I think the audio quality is great from these units.
Hey trevor, what type of xlr kit did you run straight inro camera? Im filming 3 people and would like to do something similar. Thanks!
Was having tons if wh8te noise in my wireless setup and was gonna buy a new one but after learning you're supposed to turn the camera volume down and adjust the mic system helped alot
Great info Caleb. Have had a quiet popping sound on the right stereo side of my mic (can hear it in my last video, annoying.) Seems to be an issue when I run the mic cable through my shirt and put the TX on my belt....makes a little more sense after watching this. Tried to use a different rode lav I have and it sounded good but would run away with white noise when I wasn't talking. Think I will try and replace both the lav and the RX cable. Thanks man!
Hey Tyler! Yeah... Unfortunately the rode cables with this kit are subpar. At least on some units. Keep up the great work over on your channel!
***** Am sure you have this somewhere on your channel.....do you use a inexpensive lav that you recommend?
I haven't tried any at this point... I've been using my Sennheiser ME 2 but I have heard this budget mic seems to work: amzn.to/2dxCqrq
High quality gear!
I received my system today. I must say it sounds very gooood. No issues what so ever, cables are OK.
cable is still good now? no noise?
I'd like to know as well, are the new cables ok over time? It's been a few months.
Thanks
Man!! Most legitimate review for this product that I have seen keep it up!!!!!
Great review Caleb. Thanks a lot for all the details. I might get a set of these pretty soon.
I've got my rode link this week. no issues with microphone so far.
Terrific review of the Rodelink Filmmaker.
Thanks Ozier!
Nice job on this! Awesome to see others doing what they love.
Hey Caleb, thanks for your detailed review! I‘m shooting with a Canon EOS 70D (really noisy pre-amp) + wired Rode smartLav and this might be a big improvement for my sound quality.
Great review. I have not come across those issues yet with my Rodelink kit. By the way, what label tape are you using? Is it gaf material? Does it leave sticky residue? Thanks.
Rode is replacing the mics with a newer version. They seem to be better shielded.
That is great news! Do you have a source or link for more info?
Heard that they were replacing them due to the interference. I contacted Rode, explained the issue, and they sent me 3 replacements. They are a new design with a molded connector instead of the micon connector and extra strain relief on the capsule end. They needed the serial numbers from my kits.
I just received my unit, and was wondering why I don't have a microphone with micon connector. Good to know that I didn't receive a 'different' unit. Also, I didn't notice any noise/intereference issues with the new microphone.
Awesome, I've been noticing the noise issue with this unit too. Thought it was bad shielding on the Tx but will look at the mic and a possible replacement.
Hi, i just bought this system based on your review.
i have small suggestion if you can do more outdoor reviews on videos and Audio issues i think it will be great and it will reach more audience.
I had those exact problems with the cables. It completely destroyed a really important interview I was doing.
I have this kit but I get dreadful interference when I attach it to my Sony AX100?
I also got a little dead cat, an extra cold shoe mount and a pouch in the kit that I bought.
Hi, loved the video. Just bought the RodeLink Filmmaker Kit - was wondering, you mentioned third party coiled cables, are they simply 3.5mm mini jack to 3.5mm mini jack?
Great review. Could you provide the Amazon links for that replacement cable and microphone that you recommend?
Thanks for sharing! Question? Is there an adapter available to be able to use a lapel mic with TA4 to mini plug?
I use this outfit with my new Sony AX-FDR100 but I get terrible interference, which I never got with other cameras?
Can you transmit multiple microphones to the 1 included receiver?
Great video! Taking into consideration the noise problem when the wire gets to close to itself. What other microphones would you recommend?
I just bought one of these. I think you should have gotten a dead kitten with it as well. Thanks for this review.
Is the receiver's output able to send line level output?
Regarding the faulty cables, contact Rode, as their customer service is really good. I bet they'd replace the cable without any questions asked.
Dave Patterson nice review
Great review ,thanks for pointing out the problems...
is this something you could connect an iphone to (through the adapter obviously)... but is that something you'd recommend?
Got to say I adore my outfit and have had no problems at all with the cables as supplied.
I would certainly send everything back to Rode if I had :-)
Can you have the receiver linked up to multiple transmitters/subjects? I’m trying to figure out the best way to record 3-5 subjects in a group interview style setting. Also thought about just doing it straight from a Zoom H4N Pro or a stereo mic like the Sennheiser MKE-440
No you cannot.One transmitter works only with one receiver.However if you want to still have wireless connectivity, you can wire mic all your speaker and connect that to a mixer and wirelessly send the mix to your recorder but the disadvantage being that each of the tracks can only be live mixed and you cannot adjust levels individual ly later in post
Caleb...now in 2018, has RODE addressed the mic issue and the coil cord issue? Let me/us know! thank you!
I believe they are newer microphone cables in 2018. I cannot replicate the noise due to cables that Caleb did in his video. I bought mine in May 2018.
ew100 g2 is a great wireless kit!!! I have the same kit!!
Are you aware that the plug on the mic cable can be screwed off?
So maybe it's not screwed in properly, so that could cause some of the noise issues?
Hey Caleb, you mention in this video about when to use a LAV system versus an overhead shotgun one. I can't seem to find that video anywhere and wondered if you got around to doing it? I'm trying to decide at the moment to either get this set up or go for an overhead shotgun one but not sure what's best!
Harry Knight Have also posted this above: perpetualjon Shotgun is great outdoors for isolating a speaker from background noise (point it up or down at them) and is less prone to being knocked or rubbed than a lapel mic. You can use one mic for multiple people (as long as you are able to pivot the shotgun around to point at whoever’s talking). You also don’t need to wire someone up when using a shotgun which makes it good for run and gun or vox pops. Lav mics are better indoors or when ambient noise isn’t too distracting. They’re pretty much foolproof once set up and you know every person wearing one will be recorded perfectly. Either works, just know their strengths and weaknesses.
07:48 perfect sound! I was looking around for my own wireless system ;-)
I've been wanting to get this unit- thank you so much for the review! Sounds great straight into the GH4, but for Canon cameras, would you still recommend using a dedicated preamp like a JuicedLink?
Hi thanks for the video, you have taken much pain in providing the feedback of Rode. I have a question, for self voice recording indoors and outdoor, Rode Go is good, but if we are in a concert or outdoor shooting and want to record the voice of self as well as concert/ market/ outdoor then should we use Rode Go or Rode Filmmaker or Rode or Rode Pro Mic is better? Please help.
thank you for you honesty. I've subscribed to your channel
Who holds the microphone to the transmitter? You have a signal feedback!
Why put transmitter at 0dB when Røde advices to boost clear recordingsignal with +20dB because most DSLR have shitty preamps? I don't get it. I would say maximum quality signal +20 dB and keep preamp hiss to a minumum. But maybe I miss something?
Great explanation and video. Thanks
I have had the rode filmaker kit for over a year now it was great until the lav mic broke due wear and due to rigorous shooting, it has been used for atlest 4 times a week in a span of more than year, I have found out that buying a replacement lapel mic would cost a lot. I would want to know if there are any other cheaper alternative lav mics that would work properly with the rode transceiver and receiver? Until I get the money to buy another rode lav
is there a way to connect 2 transmitters/lav mics to ONE receiver?
Is it just a matter of buying another unit? I want to record 2 people at once using ONE system. Thanks for the wonderful review Caleb!
+jkpinpdx No it is sadly not possible. You will Need to purchase another unit. It is pretty easy to set up and Switch to different channels though! We used three unit at a time without any hustle.
Saramonic has that system for $399 great quality. m.ebay.com/itm/Saramonic-RX10-TX10x2-96-Channel-UHF-Wireless-Lavalier-Microphone-System-UWMIC10-/381547575162?_trkparms=aid%253D222007%2526algo%253DSIC.MBE%2526ao%253D1%2526asc%253D20150519202348%2526meid%253Ddd28abc05f17406a8b920ecbd3904ff9%2526pid%253D100408%2526rk%253D4%2526rkt%253D25%2526sd%253D381541944856&_trksid=p2056116.c100408.m2460
You could potentially record two people using only one system if your subjects are fairly close together. I use the Rodelink when filming weddings, for example, and I get clean audio from both the bride and groom. Of course, if your subjects are moving around, this won't work. But if you're doing an interview, you could make it work.
Excellent revue , as always . Thank you
Hey Caleb, I just wondered if you had any knowledge in regards linking the roadlink to speakers. I have 4 x Bose S1 battery speakers and want to make these totally wireless. I am going from mixing desk/microphone to 4 speakers so would these work? I would probably use a transmitter on the mixer (mono) and then use a transmitter and receiver on 3 of the speakers and finish with just a receiver on speaker 4.
Please help! If the levels don't stay on the screen all the time, does it stop recording during that period? utill I wake it up again? Thanks!!
I think rode definitely cheaps out on the RF shielding, I have problems with the Rode Videomic and Videomic Pro getting interference connected to both the Canon SL1 and XC10.
+A. J. Kierstead I've always been wary of the thin cables from Rode, but this is the first time I've had issues personally. That said, I'll take this issue over issues with the TX/RX units!
Thanks a lot, was a really clear and nice review! Thumbs up!
do you use the microphone included with the Rode RODELink Filmmaker kit?
Great overview! Very informative.
is this for filmmakers or Vlogers? I need at least four microphones to shoot a proper scene.
What is the maximum link that the receiver can take at the time? Am I able to connect 2 or 3 transmitters for the same receiver at the same time?
Could a Rode Video Mic Pro + be used with this system effectively?
Really clear and impartial review, cheers.
Is the locking jack important?
hey, i have a question about this kit. is it possible to use 2 microphone for 2 person? how can i do it?
i'm a travel show producer.
Mate Kava You’d need two transmitters and two receivers if you want them both wireless plus a 4-channel recorder (with two inputs) or a 2-channel recorder (with one input) that you plug a left-right splitter into so that you can record one mic on the left channel and one on the right.
Lacoste Brown Facing towards or away from the receiver will make no difference to the range. Official range is 250ft / 70m but I’ve seen one go over 90m outdoors and still not cut out.
what type of lavalier Mic, you are using here. because I found rode unit like this but mic not included. I have to find some mics.
Caleb, I have 2 questions. First I run the same Sennhieser system you do. Would a coiled Cable coming from that to my camera work better then the straight one. Also, my receiver on this system has no 1/4 20 mount point for an adapter for the shoe. How do I go about adding one? to hook it to my camera's shoe? Thank You!
Love love love this review - I need to get a wireless system asap! and 2 of these would do the job perfectly! quick questions - Could I use a higher quality 3mm jack to male XLR connection to my Fostex FR-2 (separate preamps) to secure against extra noise, those type of connections are pretty universal right? also - just out of interest, would I be able to use another Lapel mic with this system, one with lets say a different polar pattern for multiple functionality? Rode would never want to admit that though ha. Thank you.
I just got to the part of you talking about switching out the mics, SOLD!
Nicely done! Keep up the good work!
For use with a Canon DSLR, would this be better than going for a Zoom H6?
I don't know if anybody will/can reply to this, but I'm looking at this for a Canon 6D MkII four years after this was posted and hoping to use it for videos at my workplace.
I'm not sure how this physically gets set up. Do you plug the microphone into the pack, and then one pack wirelessly transmits to the other pack, which mounts to the top of my camera, and then that plugs into the microphone-in part on my DSLR? There's no place where the audio is stored besides alongside the video just as if I had used a hotshoe mounted shotgun mic like the populare Rode model everyone has?
Thanks!
Please help. I occasionally interview people at Starbucks shop. Its very noisy, I used By-M1 lav mic ($20 one), audio is unusable but I have no choice because I have no other place. Will RodeLink FM Kit block all those noise?
I have this kit and the problem with 'exterior' noise using the mike still exists. Can anyone recommend a decent lavalier mike that can be used with the kit?
great thanks, I just bought an open box for half the price... But I also have my finger on the trigger for a Sony UWP-D11...
Whats your opinion as far as comparison of the 2.
I will be messing about with Zoom H6 and in camera single system with the A6300 and Rode Videomic pro...
I like the idea of a shotgun mic at the stage and 30m away on a telephoto lens for events, in addition to any other lavs.
I have really been puzzled as to which is better the sony vs the rodelink...????????
Where did you find half price?
And Sony is usually top quality - from the Pro division.
He/she said that they bought open box. When you go to places such as B&H Photo, Sweetwater, Guitar Center, etc., open box means it was maybe used for a demonstration, opened and never used, etc.
Hi, Congrats! very nice video, I have a question for you , I Have a camcorder Pansonic HC-V770 do you think a can use rodelink wireless filmmaker for my VideoCamera? should i do some setup in videocamera? Thank You so much and keep going
Gerardo Zuccalà puoi usarlo benissimo come qualsiasi microfono attaccandolo alla presa jack.
Thank you Tuco very kind...
Ciao Tuco Grazie mille per la risposta allora lo prendo ....
👍
so is the rodelink replacing you your sennheiser system? I guess I'm wondering which system you like working with better? also what version of sennheiser do you use (G2 or G3)?
Fantastic video! BTW, I would really like to hear your thoughts for when to use a lav vs. a shotgun.
perpetualjon Shotgun is great outdoors for isolating a speaker from background noise (point it up or down at them) and is less prone to being knocked or rubbed than a lapel mic. You can use one mic for multiple people (as long as you are able to pivot the shotgun around to point at whoever’s talking). You also don’t need to wire someone up when using a shotgun which makes it good for run and gun or vox pops. Lav mics are better indoors or when ambient noise isn’t too distracting. They’re pretty much foolproof once set up and you know every person wearing one will be recorded perfectly. Either works, just know their strengths and weaknesses.
Hi Caleb, i have a question:
Can i use two receivers with just one transmitter? I make interviews with two cameras for different angles that's the reason
just got these after using the senn g3 with a zoom h4n for years. I like these but im getting different levels from the 2 audio tracks for some reason
what about using the rode in areas where there is strong wifi? it seems like that would cause interference.
I found this super helpful thanks for going this
I have this digital noise issue as well.. Can't find a solution about that. Anyone knows anything? Mic got purchased for the company I work for and I can't change mics to check. Thank you!
I had the same problem on my coil. Mic has minimal sound interference.
Amazing video, thank you so much for shooting this.
QUESTION:
I'm intending to use my filmmaker kit with my iPhone 6S - do you guys have any experience with this when it comes to the preamp settings? I know I can try out different variations myself, but thought I could save some time if you guys have a great tip for me! :D
Thx in advance guys.
And again - awesome video!
Fredrik
Hey, would this work with my Sony AX53? also we plan on using it for hockey (putting the mic on a player and strapping it to his gear). Would this work for what we need?
how I can use this system for 4 people? or its max 2 people per one camera?
Will the sound be just as great if I use this kit with an iPhone 6S Plus (and a Saramonic SR-AX100 microphone adapter)? Or do I need an extern preamp?
You shouldn't need a preamp. The unit has a 0db, +10db and +20db setting. Those ought to get you the signal level you need.
can you link like 4 mics to the transmitter?
YoungBlaze No. You’d need four TX and four RX plus a recorder or mixer with four inputs such as the Zoom H6.
Cool review. Thanks.
Hey Caleb, do you do any post editing on your audio or do you use the audio as it was recorded besides level adjustments? I use this setup and the audio sounds pretty good with no post edits but yours sound slightly better. I use mine for weddings and interviews and I haven't came across any interference at all, I recommend this to others also. Good Review!
+Giles Videography Thanks for the kind words Giles! I actually didn't do any post audio work on this video. Wanted people to hear the mic as naturally as possible. Honestly the big difference is probably acoustic treatment (video on that soon) I've done a lot of work to treat the space I shoot in and man did it pay off! Number 1 way to increase audio quality for sure.