This compact Supercardioid on-camera shotgun microphone performs well for vlogging, interviewing, and voiceovers.
Building off its success, RODE has released the completely revised RODE VideoMicro II.
It has big shoes to fill.
Overall, the RODE VideoMicro II is a great choice for improving your audio quality with minimal effort.
The microphone also has a built-in shock mount that helps to reduce handling noise.
What’s Included
In its box, the VideoMicro II comes with the essentials to start recording.
The windshield is made with open-cell foam covered by synthetic fur.
The AI-Micro is a dual-channel interface with two auto-sensing inputs connecting most microphones with a 3.5mm output.
Unlike some competing on-camera microphones, the VideoMicro II doesn’t have a power button or physical controls.
The Micro II measures 80mm long and weighs just 39 grams.
For comparison, the VideoMic GO II is 120mm long and weighs over twice as much at 89 grams.
Personally, I’ve found the small size to be a big selling feature.
This means I’m unable to quickly capture high-quality audio in impromptu situations which I frequently regret.
For run-and-gun filmmakers, this is very important.
I can use a single mic for my on-camera and voice-over work effortlessly.
The cold shoe has a ring that secures the microphone in place when turned clockwise.
The VideoMic GO II was much easier in comparison.
While not immediately obvious, the mount’s ring has slots that are intended for cable management.
This microphone is best suited for vlogging, interviewing, and voiceovers.
The VideoMicro performs best when speaking from around six inches to six feet away from it.
Again, this does reduce the portability of the VideoMicro II.
The Best Mic for Portable Vlogging?
But the VideoMicro II has improved sound quality and identical performance to the more expensive VideoMic GO II.
In addition to its size advantage, users will appreciate the plug-and-play usage.
It’s an excellent choice for beginners and pros alike.
