Rode has made the announcement A new division devoted to audio equipmentDesigned to meet the streaming and gaming community’s needs. The Australian audio company has named this new sub-brand “Rode X,” and the lineup will launch with three products: two new microphones and a virtual mixing solution called Unify designed for streaming and gaming.
The UnifySoftware allows users to mix and route up to four USB microphones as well as up to six virtual audio sources through one interface. This includes chat, music and game. You can use the software to remove background noise or improve audio quality with noise gates and compressors.
Unify is available for free when you purchase a RodeX microphone, but not with Rode products. Available for purchaseA subscription can be purchased monthly for AU$ 7.99 / about $5 or annually for AU$ 69.99 / about $45. All subscriptions are charged in Australian dollars. However, they may not be available in all countries.
The XDM-100This dynamic cardioid microphone has USB-C connectivity. It features a pop filter and shock mount as well as a three-meter extension cable for your headphones. It also features a level control and a mutes button. Removing the pop filter reveals a red and black color scheme that will look familiar to those who endured the “edgy” phase of gaming hardware in the early 2010s. You can purchase the XDM-100 now for $249. To complete the setup, you will need a boom arm (or stand) which can be purchased separately.
You can find a cheaper alternative if you are looking for something more affordable. Rode X XCM-50The compact USB-C condenser microphone costs $149 It features a more boxy design, a shock mount and an internal pop shield. There is also a level control and mute buttons. The box will include a desktop tripod.
Both microphones can be used with a frequency response between 20Hz and 20kHz. They also require minimum macOS 10.12 or Windows 10 operating system requirements to function.