Camera one. Camera two. Mics are on and ready to roll. These are the words that could be echoing in your mind as Rode’s latest piece of kit handles the job of a crew from one panel.
Whether you’re a budding pro-gamer or looking to stream, or maybe just someone with dreams of running your own TV network from your desk, the world of video editing and broadcasting has never been more accessible than it is today.
Between all the good microphones, microphone stands, headphones, and gear available, not to mention software, it doesn’t seem to need much to get stuck in. You just need an idea, some gear, some skill, and you are largely good to go.
You might not even need a crew to help you out, as would be the case back in the days of broadcast. In fact, some gear seems to highlight the state of solo streaming and camera switching better than others, depending on how much money you have available.
A few years ago, Australia’s microphone maker Rode started pushing into this area with the Rodecaster Pro, a production console for podcasters launched back in 2018 that later on expanded to video editing and streaming with its Streamer X range.
Now it’s building a slightly smaller variation on the theme with the Rodecaster Video S, a somewhat compact take on a video streaming solution able to switch between four video sources using HDMI, and even connecting webcams and other devices using a USB-C port, the port so many devices are using to date. It can even connect to iPhones as a camera using Rode’s Capture app, should you want to turn your phone into an extra camera.
The deck includes the sort of ports to let you plug in proper microphones or instruments, supporting XLR and 6.25mm jacks for recording, while wireless receivers are also included inside for connecting Rode’s assortment of wireless microphones, given it makes a few of those, as well.
Interestingly, Rode also includes a 2 inch touchscreen for controls, though there is an app to control the whole thing, complete with connections for WiFi, hard-wired ethernet, or just plugged into a computer over USB.
For folks streaming who want more control, this could be an ideal gadget, though it’s one you might want to save for. In Australia, the Rodecaster Video S looks set for release at around $840 in Australia, converted from its overseas price of $499 USD, with availability set for December.
