RØDE MAKES ITS BIGGEST NEW PRODUCT ANNOUNCEMENT at NAB 2023

RØDE has today made its biggest product announcement ever at the NAB Show in Las Vegas, introducing seven new products and product updates, which will be launched over the coming weeks. This includes new firmware updates for the industry-leading Wireless GO II and RØDECaster Pro II, groundbreaking new products like the Streamer X, RØDECaster Duo and PodMic USB, and much-anticipated accessories.

RØDE will be showcasing these products alongside recent new releases, including the NT1 5th
Generation, Wireless ME and RØDE Capture, at the NAB Show from today, Sunday April 16, until tomorrow, Monday April 17 at the B&H Booth at NAB, Central Hall, #C8317.

WIRELESS GO™ II FIRMWARE UPDATE 

 A new firmware update is coming for the Wireless GO II, which will unlock even more features for what is already the most feature-packed compact wireless microphone system available. This includes the ability to save on-board recordings as WAV files for easy transfer to a computer on-the-go and start/stop on-board recordings using the transmitter and receiver power buttons – two highly requested features – as well as new camera models added to the camera preset feature, which was introduced in the most recent firmware update, and a number of system enhancements and workflow improvements. 

RØDECASTER PRO II™ WIRELESS MICROPHONE CONNECTIVITY

A new firmware update will also soon be released for the RØDECaster Pro II, which unlocks an incredible hidden feature: wireless microphone connectivity. Already the most powerful audio solution for content creators on the market, the RØDECaster Pro II features a flexible array of audio inputs, including combo jacks for connecting both microphones and instruments, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual-USB interfaces for connecting computers and mobile devices. With this new update, users will also be able to connect any RØDE Series IV wireless transmitter – including the Wireless GO II and Wireless ME – for recording pristine wireless audio directly to the RØDECaster Pro II. This incredible feature is a world-first and makes the RØDECaster Pro II even more versatile, with more inputs and outputs than any other device of its kind on the market, affirming its place as the ultimate audio production console for content creators. 

RØDE created the world’s first compact wireless microphone system with the original Wireless GO and revolutionised the category again with the Wireless GO II and, most recently, the Wireless ME. These latest updates see RØDE continue to innovate in the wireless category, expanding product capabilities and ensuring they offer maximum creative potential. 

STREAMER X 

The Streamer X is a revolutionary new product that combines a professional audio interface and video capture card in a compact, easy-to-use console. It features studio-grade audio inputs for XLR and line-level devices, headsets and RØDE wireless microphones, with an ultra-low-noise, high-gain Revolution Preamp™ and powerful APHEX audio processing delivering pristine sound quality. It also offers 4K30 / 2K60 streaming and up to 2K120 / 4K60 pass-through for incredible video quality in a wide variety of applications, from streaming and gaming, to podcasting and content creation, to business presentations. Two USB-C connections seamlessly accommodate dual PC setups, and four customisable SMART pads allow for on-the-fly triggering of sound or voice FX and other actions on a computer. It is also fully compatible with RØDE software solutions, including UNIFY, RØDE Central and RØDE Connect for expanded functionality and unmatched flexibility. The Streamer X represents a new way to livestream with incredible audio and video. Never before has broadcast-quality video and audio capture been possible using a single console. This is the ultimate all-in-one streaming solution.

RØDECASTER DUO

The RØDECaster Duo is a compact and incredibly powerful all-in-one audio production solution for podcasters, streamers, musicians and content creators​. It offers the same unmatched feature set and peerless versatility as the revolutionary RØDECaster Pro II – with the same high-power quad-core audio engine, Revolution Preamps™, APHEX® audio processing and endless customisability – now in an even more compact and portable form factor. 

RØDE created the all-in-one podcasting console category with the original RØDECaster Pro in 2018 and, since its release in 2022, the RØDECaster Pro II has been praised as the most powerful audio production console of its kind. The RØDECaster Duo will continue this legacy, delivering everything that users have come to love about its sibling in a more compact footprint – perfect for creators that require fewer audio inputs but don’t want to compromise on audio quality.

PODMIC USB

The PodMic USB is an ultra-versatile, broadcast-grade dynamic microphone for podcasting, streaming and content creation. It offers the same incredible sound quality and compact yet rugged form factor as the best-selling PodMic, with a powerful new feature up its sleeve: XLR and USB connectivity. 

Fresh off the back of the release of the NT1 5th Generation – the world’s first studio condenser to offer both XLR and USB connectivity – this incredible feature has now been added to the PodMic. When using the analog XLR output, the PodMic USB is exactly the same as the original, albeit with a sleek new finish and studio-grade pop filter. When using the digital USB output, it offers a range of next-generation features that make it super flexible, including a Revolution Preamp and high-quality analog-to-digital conversion for pristine audio capture, advanced DSP for adding professional APHEX voice processing to any recording, and compatibility with smartphones and tablets for use on the go. It also features a zero-latency headphone output and on-board volume control and is compatible with the complete RØDE software suite, including RØDE Central, RØDE Connect, RØDE Capture and UNIFY, making it the most versatile microphone ever.

RØDECASTER BACKPACK

The Backpack is a custom-designed carry bag for the RØDECaster series, including the RØDECaster Pro, RØDECaster Pro II, and RØDECaster Duo. Made from high-quality materials, including a soft, durable Alcantara® handle, ballistic nylon straps and water-resistant exterior, it is rugged and hard-wearing. It can accommodate a RØDECaster Pro, Pro II or Duo, plus microphones, studio arms and other accessories, as well as laptops up to 16 inches. Ergonomic adjustable shoulder straps with back and chest support ensure absolute comfort, with exterior pockets and compartments providing additional storage.

WIRELESS GO II CHARGING CASE

The Charge Case is a handy charging case for the Wireless GO II. It accommodates both transmitters and the receiver and features an integrated battery that facilitates three full recharges for up to 30 hours of continuous use. With a rugged enclosure and zip system, it is also perfect for protecting the Wireless GO II when in transit or storage. 

My favorites in budget Bluetooth sound

I'm a proud member of the Bluetooth cyborg army. I'm the guy who always seems to be talking to himself in the car next to you at red lights, and I'm the dude at the gym working out to Spotify, podcasts, or Audible with a flashing thing in my ear. Since going wireless for almost all my audio needs, I've never looked back and have actually become a bit of a connoisseur, particularly when it comes to budget Bluetooth options...

Read the full story here... Source: CNET

World’s Fastest Wireless Radio Frequency Chip Boasts 10 Billion Bytes Per Second

Researchers from the Korean Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) have developed a new radio frequency chip capable of sending/receiving 10 gigabits per second.  That equates to a 4.7GB movie file that can be downloaded in 3.76 seconds.

Park Cheol Soon, the lead KAIST professor of the project, states the chip can be used in future smartphones and cameras, but can also replace cables and deliver cable/fiber optic speeds without the costly infrastructure.

The team claims the design of the chip and antenna has been made to be small (4mm tall and 6.6mm wide) for use in most mobile devices. The antenna itself is designed to transmit and receive data, rather than needed multiple antennae to perform the task, further reducing the size of the design.

For consumers, this means some really cool applications, imagine Google Fiber datatransmission speeds without all the laying of wires and infrastructure in homes, or transferring a full 64 GB SD card wirelessly in mere seconds.

[Source: TechnoBuffalo]

StreamPortô Universal: Transform your Sound System with Wireless in less than 60 Seconds

Bayan Audioís StreamPortô Universal is a wireless audio adapter which lets you stream impressive near-CD quality audio from media players (phones, tablets, notebooks) to existing audio/speaker systems without the need for cables - freeing up your favourite gadgets to stay by your side for browsing.    

 

Many audio systems need media players to be physically connected, making them awkward to use and forcing a choice between music and tweeting, or Spotify radio and games. By enhancing these sound systems with the StreamPortô Universal, your personal devices can finally stream audio whilst simultaneously being used to multi-task - without any need to compromise on quality or convenience.

The StreamPortô Universal enables you to stream music, podcasts and Internet radio from any Bluetooth A2DP-compatible device (including many Apple, Android & Windows players) to your existing sound system (including Hi-Fi, docks and soundbars). Such extensive compatibility eliminates the need for you to worry about expensive upgrades or maintaining a single-brand system in order to enjoy quality wireless audio.

Sony to stop making MiniDisc stereos in March

It's the end of an era -- Sony will stop making MiniDisc stereos next month, two years after it stopped selling its portable equivalents, the BBC reports.

MiniDisc stereos first went on sale back in 1992, so it marks an end to the 21-year-old format's life. Sony hoped MiniDisc would become the format of choice, seeing as it was a better quality equivalent to cassettes. But the rise of CDs put paid to that.

The MiniDisc stereo format struggled outside of Japan due to high prices, not to mention the fragility of the discs themselves. While Sony claimed recordings would stay intact for 30 years, a simple magnet placed nearby would wipe your whole Now 11 compilation.

The discs initially offered 74 minutes of audio, but this was increased to 80.

I have hazy memories of seeing some albums for sale on MiniDisc in HMV, but they never took off. I was strictly a CD man, myself.

Sony tried to relaunch the format as Hi-MD in 2004, but a certain Apple MP3 player was already available by then. So suffice to say Sony's efforts were thoroughly torpedoed, due to the iPod's far greater storage and convenience.

Sony introduced portable MiniDisc players a year before their stereo counterparts, in 1991, but put the kibosh on them a couple of years ago. The portable version was far more popular, selling more than 22 million units in its life. For one thing, it didn't skip, unlike the Discman I had. That was a waste of time.

[Source: CENT]

Apogee Electronics introduces all new “ONE”, audio interface & microphone featuring iPad & Mac compatibility, upgraded sound quality and new Maestro control app for iOS

Anaheim, California, January 24, 2013 - Apogee Electronics is pleased to introduce the completely redesigned ONE, a 2 IN x 2 OUT USB audio interface and microphone. The all new ONE is the first studio quality audio interface and microphone that makes a direct digital connection to Apple’s iPad (iPhone, iPod touch) and Mac. ONE features Apogee’s Maestro control software, iOS device charging, optional battery power for portable recording with iPad and professional sound quality. ONE is the all-in-one solution that makes it easy for musicians, songwriters, recording engineers, film makers, audiophiles, and anyone else to enjoy professional sound quality on iPad and Mac.

ONE offers three input options; a built-in omni-directional condenser microphone, XLR input for dynamic, condenser or ribbon microphones, and 1/4” instrument input for electric guitars, keyboards or any instrument with an electric pick-up. An upgrade from the original design, ONE now has the ability to record two inputs simultaneously (instrument plus built-in microphone or external microphone). The updated AD/DA converters and mic preamps deliver best-in-class, studio quality sound and allow you to capture and playback your recordings with incredible clarity and detail.

ONE’s audiophile quality headphone amplifier/DAC is a favorite for enhanced music listening on Mac. Now ONE delivers the same hi-fi quality sound to iPod touch, iPhone and iPad users for listening to streaming radio and music libraries with incredible clarity and detail. ONE’s built-in condenser microphone is a unique feature allowing anyone to record with incredible results and without the need for an external microphone. This paired with the option of connecting to iPod touch, iPhone or iPad and battery power enables studio-quality recordings to be created in any location. “We have completely redesigned ONE, incorporating highly anticipated features; iPad compatibility, simultaneous recording of guitar and a microphone, enhanced sound quality, and a much desired metal chassis,” says Apogee CEO and Co-Founder Betty Bennett. “This is an innovative interface, ideal for the musician who wants an all-in-one solution they can count on for ease of use and professional studio quality results, no matter where they are. We’re excited to welcome this next generation of a classic Apogee product and we know our customers will love it.” Apple’s iPad has revolutionized music creation with an intuitive touch interface and a universe of powerful and very affordable music apps. As a studio quality microphone and audio interface, ONE delivers key features to this new paradigm. Apogee’s Maestro software for iOS lets you control ONE’s inputs, mic preamp, outputs and set up low latency monitoring. ONE’s DC power charges iPad while in use so recording is not interrupted. The option of battery power for ONE allows for truly portable professional recording. When used with iPad or an iOS device, ONE works with any Core Audio compliant app like GarageBand, Auria and MultiTrack. For recording on a Mac, ONE works with Logic, Pro Tools, GarageBand, Ableton Live and any Mac Core Audio compliant application.

Pandora Radio now fully live in Australia and New Zealand, complete with iOS and Android apps

Folks that call Australia and New Zealand home aren't exactly strangers to the internet-based radio goods Pandora has to offer -- however, these have been very limited to the public, with the tunes only being available on the desktop and on a trial basis. As of today, though, things are about to change for those living in Oz and Kiwiland, as Pandora announced via blog post that its new-era radio stations are now "fully live" in both countries, making this the first time the service has been available in its entirety outside of the US. Naturally, this means users in Australia and New Zealand can also start enjoying the Pandora Radio Android and iOS applications, both of which are up for download now from Google Play and the App Store, respectively.

[Source: Engadget]

Putting the cassette to bed: Sony to discontinue handheld tape recorders in 2013

The Walkman's retirement wasn't quite the death of the cassette tape, but the format's final days aren't far off: Sony's calling it quits on the tape recorder. Final shipments for the company's TCM-400, TCM-410 and TCM-450 cassette recorders are due early next year, marking the end of the product line. Despite the shunning of magnetic tape from Sony's portable line up, the company still has a slot in its heart for the old cassette, and will continue to sell boomboxes with CD / tape deck combos. Even so, rewindable media seems to be on its way out the door -- maybe its time to build a better mixtape.

[Source: Engadget]

Skullcandy launches $130 PLYR2 headset for wire-hating gamers

Skullcandy is making sure gamers have yet another item to put on the holiday wishlist with the official debut of the PLYR2, which is not only the company's latest gaming headset but also its first effort at a wireless model. It boasts 2.4GHz wireless audio, Skullcandy's "Supreme Sound" technology, a GMX stereo transmitter for balancing game and voice audio, three different EQ sound modes and an adjustable boom mic that can be flipped up to mute. The PLYR2 is available in black, white and teal for $129.99 and follows the earlier release of a budget-friendly $79.99 SLYR wired headset, while a fancier Dolby Surround Sound-equipped PLYR1 is set to debut in early 2013. Now you can shout expletives in style as you get pwned in Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 -- just what you needed, right?

[Source: Engadget]

THE HOUSE OF MARLEY GET UP STAND UP™ HOME AUDIO SYSTEM NOW AVAILABLE IN THE UK

The House of Marley, a collection of premium quality, earth-friendly personal audio and lifestyle products, today announced the availability of the Get Up Stand Up™ home audio system. The MARLEY Freedom Collection Get Up Stand Up is available for purchase at HMV and other selected retailers for a RRP of £299.99.

 The MARLEY Get Up Stand Up is uniquely crafted from one piece of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified bent birch wood and finished in a rich walnut colour. Its distinctive design makes this home audio system, and the music it delivers, the focal point of any room. The Get Up Stand Up continues with the sustainable initiatives of The House of Marley by using recycled plastic components and earth-friendly packaging. 

“We thought back to how people used to admire the large floor speakers back in the 1970s and 80s and how those speakers were design elements in the home. Our Get Up Stand Up system delivers exceptional audio quality in a strikingly beautiful design, while staying true to our values and commitment to the planet,” said Rohan Marley, on behalf of The House of Marley.

Equipped with an iPod/iPhone/iPad docking and charging station, the Get Up Stand Up also has two aux-in ports to connect hundreds of devices (3.5mm cable included).  Features include: high output 11.4cm woofers, 2.5cm tweeters, a powerful amplifier, an IR remote so the user can control their music from around the room, and a universal 100/240VAC power adaptor.

The House of Marley audio products, including home audio systems, are created with the MARLEY “Signature Sound,” incorporating more than 30 years of audio expertise into the design of the acoustics of their audio products. It is the goal of The House of Marley to produce audio products with smooth, powerful bass, mids with stunning presence, and an energised high-end that brings songs to life. Each product undergoes custom tuning to deliver the most realistic and powerful performances possible.

View their website

Bowers & Wilkins intros classy A7 and A5 AirPlay speakers, leaves out the 30-pin dock

When it comes to Apple-focused audio wares, Bowers & Wilkins makes some of the of the ritiziest options available. Expanding on its its existing speaker range, the company has introduced a duo of new AirPlay speakers dubbed as the A5 ($500) and A7 ($800). Both HiFi boxes are nearly identical from the outside (aside from the size difference), and feature the same black and silver aesthetic as the MM-1 media speakers. The A7 nets you a duo of 25-watt 1-inch Nautilus "tube-loaded" tweeters" (just like the MM-1s), two 25-watt 3-inch drivers for the mid-range and a 50-watt 6-inch woofer, while the A5 shrinks things by forgoing a woofer and using a smaller speaker array of two 20-watt tweeters and two 20-watt mid-range drivers. The speakers on both units are independently driven, and both systems feature an "audiophile-grade" DAC that'll upscale music streams to a maximum 24-bit / 96kHz sample rate. As you'd expect, the units feature WiFi and Ethernet connectivity and 3.5mm inputs for hooking in sans wireless, but it's worth noting these audio boxes lack 30-pin docks -- at least you still get a remote. Check out the video after the break for a detailed look at both, and the source link below for all the juicy details.

[Source: Engadget]

LG's first VoLTE Bluetooth headset revealed: Tone + packs 'high-quality' audio codec

LG isn't short of a few Voice over LTE handsets, but this neck-hugging Bluetooth handset promises to offer similarly crisp voice calls, if the feature's available, without the need to fumble around in your pockets . The Tone + headset totes a pair of in-ear buds, is available in both white and black and will even vibrate in Battle Royale terror style when you receive a call. LG has built in a "professional grade audio codec", the aptX, to improve audio performance alongside that VoLTE compatibility. The headphones can event pair to two devices (even two smartphones) and read out your received SMS messages. You can expect the micro-USB rechargeable Tone+ to last around 15 hours of talk-time, or 500 hours on standby. Pricing is yet to be confirmed, but LG promise to launch the device in the US, Korea and China by the end of the month.

[Source: Engadget]