The Must Have Microphone for Content Creators

 

RODE WIRELESS ME

 
 

Pros

  • Gain Assist ensure’s audio doesn’t clip

  • Includes all cables required for all devices

  • plug-and-play

  • Cheaper than previous Wireless GO II

 

Cons

  • No LED info screen on reciever

  • No manual included

  • No onboard recording

 

Specs

  • 100m range with 2.4Ghz wireless

  • Dual channel recording for both reciever and transmitter

  • Able to connect an extra transmitter

  • MSRP: $150USD


I was given early access to Rode's brand new Wireless Go Me, which is the budget friendly option to the Wireless GO II a piece of equipment I have been using in all of my TikToks for the last 6 months. I've loved the Rode Wireless GO II, but some of the new features on the Wireless Go ME are too good to pass up, especially for TikTokers, TikTok vloggers, and people who are new to audio.

Disclaimer: Rode provided me with the Wireless ME for review, but they will not pre-approve or see this article before the post date.

 

The Wireless ME

Rode's new wireless microphone, the Wireless ME, is tailored to cater to the needs of content creators who are looking for a more cost-effective option compared to their previous model, the Wireless GO II. Despite a few omissions, the Wireless ME boasts a range of new features. However, it is important to note that the Wireless ME comes with only one transmitter instead of the previous two that were included in the Wireless GO II. Nevertheless, Rode has made up for this by including a second microphone on the receiver.

New Features

The “ME Mic”
The main new feature of the Wireless ME is the addition of a receiver microphone, also known as the "ME Mic," which provides an onboard audio solution for the camera capturing the footage. While its use cases may be limited, content creators producing interview or vlog content can benefit the most from the ME Mic. By using the transmitter microphone on another person, they can capture high-quality audio for themselves using the ME Mic.

Gain Assist
Rode has implemented its new gain assist technology into these microphones, which offers two distinct options - "Auto" and "Dynamic." However, it's worth noting that the difference between these options is currently unclear. At the time of writing, there is no manual available for these microphones, and the Rode Capture app does not provide any information on these settings. This lack of information may leave potential buyers feeling unsure about which option to choose. Despite this ambiguity, Rode's new gain assist technology is an exciting development in the world of microphones. The feature is designed to make it easier for users to achieve optimal levels without the need for extensive tweaking. It's worth keeping an eye out for further updates from Rode regarding the "Auto" and "Dynamic" options.

Note: After reaching out to Rode I was informed that “auto” gain assist will give you a smoother more consistant sound, where as “dynamic” will balance the audio while maintaining the dynamics for a more natual sound, which will work better in a controlled recording environment

Rode Capture App
Accompanying the ME mic is the new iOS app, "Rode Capture App." The application has been developed to fully leverage the features of the Wireless ME mic. It enables the user to regulate various microphone settings, such as gain assist, manual gain, activation of the ME mic, and recording tracks split or merge. Moreover, the app provides the option to record footage from both the front and back camera of an iPhone, either separately or in combination, similar to the TikTok duet format or split-screen multiplayer game.


The mics are also fully compatible with the following apps; RØDE Central; compatible with RØDE Connect, RØDE Reporter.

 
 

Whats in the Box?

 
 

Unlike the previous generation Wireless Go II the Wireless ME includes all required cables for all devices which is a nice touch by rode. The full box contents is;

- 1 x Receiver, 1 x Transmitter
- 1 x USB-C to Lightning cable (SC21)
- 1 x USB-C to USB-C cable (SC22)
- 1 x 3.5mm TRS to TRS cable (SC2)
- 1 x 3.5mm TRS to TRRS cable (SC7)
- 2 x Furry Windshields
- 1 x Carry Pouch

Although all the necessary cables are included, Rode has not provided a paper manual that covers the features of the Wireless ME, setup instructions, or options that can be adjusted using the app.

What I Miss

If I had to choose one thing that I miss in the Wireless ME, which was present in the Wireless Go II, it would be the onboard LED screen. In the previous generation, the receiver featured a small LED screen that displayed critical information such as levels, gain settings, connected transmitters, and battery levels for both the receiver and the transmitters. Additionally, the LED screen showed connection strength, which was a helpful feature.

The only other major feature that is missing from the Wireless ME, which was available in the Wireless GO II, is the onboard recording capability. However, as a content creator, I have never actually used this feature personally. Therefore, I welcome the reduction in price resulting from the omission of this feature.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Wireless ME is a valuable addition to Rode's wireless microphone lineup. It caters to content creators by providing a cost-effective solution without compromising on usefulness and usability. If you're a TikTok creator, vlogger, or interviewer, this microphone is an excellent addition to your audio arsenal without breaking the bank. However, if you're a more professional videographer, the Wireless GO II may be a better fit for your needs. Nonetheless, those with professional experience in audio equipment would know precisely what they are looking for. Overall, the Wireless ME is a great choice for those looking for a quality wireless microphone at an affordable price.

My Recommendation?

If you are an up and coming content creator looking for a wireless microphone that offers many of the benefits of the Wireless Go II but without the high price tag, the Rode Wireless ME may be a great option for you. Whether you are creating content for TikTok, YouTube, or any other platform, the Wireless ME can provide you with a professional audio experience with little to no audio knowledge.