RØDE ships $499 RØDECaster Duo

The RØDECaster Duo is a compact version of RØDE’s well-regarded RØDECaster Pro II aimed at solo creators or podcasters.

As first announced at NAB,  RØDE has released the RØDECaster Duo, a compact version of the company’s well-regarded RØDECaster Pro II, the original of which helped pioneer the concept of an all-in-one audio production unit for podcasters and content creators when it was released in 2018. 

At NAB, RØDE didn’t have a release date or a price for the unit. Now we know both; it’s available worldwide as of now for $499 or equivalent, making it $200 less than the larger RØDECaster Pro II

So, to recap on what else we know. At its heart is the same high-performance quad-core audio engine as its bigger sibling, which means there are no compromises when it comes to audio quality or processing power. It features the same ultra-low-noise, high-gain Revolution Preamps, as well as the same studio-quality APHEX audio processing for capturing world-class audio. It is also simple to use, with the same 5.5-inch high-definition touchscreen and tactile rotary encoder for easy navigation and control, tailored presets, and innovative VoxLab processing editor for dialling in professional sound in seconds, even with no prior experience. 

RØDE says the new unit has been designed specifically for solo creators or two-person podcasts, and thus features a pair of high-quality Neutrik combo inputs for connecting microphones, instruments or line-level devices, with two headphone outputs for audio monitoring. It also features an in-built dual-channel wireless receiver for connecting two RØDE Series IV wireless transmitters, including the Wireless GO II and Wireless ME. For even more versatility, the RØDECaster Duo also features a 3.5mm TRRS input at the front of the unit for connecting a pair of headphones or a headset. These additional audio inputs can be assigned to any channel and have processing or effects applied, just like an XLR microphone or analog input.

Four physical faders and three virtual faders give users hands-on control of up to seven audio channels which is impressive given the compact form factor. Dual USB-C connections and advanced Bluetooth connectivity allows for easy integration of remote guests and other audio sources via a computer or smartphone. And the six programmable SMART pads can be used to trigger everything from sounds and music beds to voice effects, MIDI commands and automated mixer action for complete creative control.