Podcaster Instruction Manual www.rodemic.
Introduction Thank you for investing in the Podcaster, the world’s first broadcast sound quality USB microphone. Those of you who are first time customers, may be interested to know that we are one of the largest and most respected professional microphone companies in the world. Our studio microphones are the ‘tone’ behind some of the biggest hits of the last decade, and our award winning live performance microphones are on tour daily in 52 countries.
Specifications Acoustic Principle: Dynamic (neodymium) 28mm Active Electronics: Analogue signal conditioning + A/D and USB interface Directional Pattern: Cardioid Frequency Range: 40Hz ~ 14kHz (see graph) Sensitivity: -51dB re 1V/Pa @ 1kHz (2.8mV @ 94dB SPL) ±3dB @ 1kHz Maximum SPL: 115dB Signal/Noise: >78dB Analogue Output I/F: Headphone audio output for monitoring. Drives 150mW into 32 Ω. Output level adjustment.
Specifications Frequency Response Polar Response Features • High quality broadcast sound • Dynamic capsule (neodymium) 28mm • 18-bit Resolution, 8kHz to 48kHz sampling • Windows and Mac compatible • Tight cardioid pattern for superior off-axis sound rejection • Powered by USB bus • Includes microphone mount and 3m (40”) USB cable • 3.5mm stereo headphone jack output with volume control • Designed and manufactured in Australia • Full 10 year guarantee* *Online product registration required.
Mic Layout Integrated windshield Status LED Headphone Volume Control Headphone Output Locking collar USB Connection -5-
Installing the Podcaster The RØDE Podcaster is designed for native support in Windows XP, Vista and Mac OS X operating systems. Installing the Podcaster on Mac OS X • Plug one end of the USB cable into the microphone and the other end into your USB port on the Mac. The LED will flash red and then go green to indicate that everything is functioning correctly with USB power. The Mac will recognise the USB audio device and automatically install a universal driver.
Installing the Podcaster The following example is for setting up the Podcaster in Windows XP Service Pack 2. Other versions may vary slightly. Installing the Podcaster on Windows XP • Plug one end of the USB cable into the microphone and the other end into your PC. The LED should flash red and then go green to indicate that everything is functioning correctly with USB power. The PC will recognise the USB audio device and automatically install a universal driver.
Setting up the Podcaster Setting the sound level correctly The first step in setting up your recording environment is to get a good ‘Sound Level’ on your equipment. This is done to ensure that you do not exceed the level of sound that your equipment can handle before it distorts the signal and at the same time, ensuring that the sound is not too low and indistinguishable. By adjusting the recording volume slider you should be able to set a reasonable level very quickly.
Setting up the Podcaster Positioning your Podcaster You will find that where you position your Podcaster will alter the quality of the sound. Environment and background noise will vary every time a microphone is moved to a different location. The most successful method to optimise the sound you want is to try various positions and isolate the recording environment from external noise sources as much as possible.
Setting up the Podcaster Mounting the Podcaster The Podcaster comes with a stand mount that will allow you to connect it to a microphone stand or ‘Anglepoise® style’ arm such as the RØDE PSA-1. The mount comes with a 3/8” brass insert that can be removed. Once removed the internal thread of the mount is a 5/8” thread. This allows the mount to be used on either a US 5/8” stand or pole or a Euro 3/8” stand or pole.
Setting up the Podcaster Using the PSM-1 mount (optional) For additional vibration isolation, the Podcaster can be fitted to the optional PSM-1 ‘spider’ shock mount. The PSM-1 is a recommended and useful addition to any recording facility as it significantly reduces unwanted noise transmission to the microphone. • First screw the PSM-1 shock mount onto your mic stand, boom arm or ‘Anlgepoise® style’ arm. If you’re using a US 5/8” mic stand or boom, remove the 3/8” insert.
Warranty All microphones are warranted for one year from date of purchase. You can extend that to a full ten years if you register online at www.rodemic.com. The warranty covers parts and labour that may be required to repair the microphone during the warranty period. The warranty excludes defects caused by normal wear and tear, modification, shipping damage, or failure to use the microphone as per the instruction guide.
