Rode VideoMic Me: A Compact and High-Quality Microphone for Smartphones

Introduction:

If you are looking for a way to improve the audio quality of your smartphone videos, you might want to consider the Rode VideoMic Me. This is a compact and directional microphone that plugs directly into the 3.5mm headphone input of your mobile device, and gives you incredible sound when shooting video. In this article, we will review the features, benefits, and drawbacks of the Rode VideoMic Me, and help you decide if it is the right microphone for you.

 

Features of the Rode VideoMic Me

The Rode VideoMic Me is designed to be easy to use and compatible with most smartphones. It has the following features:

A cardioid polar pattern that reduces surrounding noises and focuses on what you are filming, ensuring your videos sound clear and intelligible.

A 3.5mm headphone output that allows you to monitor and playback the audio, as well as connect headphones or speakers.

A clip that secures the microphone to your device and prevents unwanted vibrations and movements.

A furry windshield that reduces wind noise and plosives when filming outdoors or in adverse weather conditions.

A flexible mounting bracket that lets you adjust the position and angle of the microphone to suit your needs.

The Rode VideoMic Me works seamlessly with the Rode Reporter App, which allows you to record, edit, and share your audio files. It also works with other recording apps, such as Camera, Voice Recorder, and GarageBand.

Benefits of the Rode VideoMic Me:

The Rode VideoMic Me offers several benefits for smartphone users who want to capture high-quality audio for their videos. Some of the benefits are:

It is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and store.

It is plug-and-play, meaning you do not need any batteries, cables, or adapters to use it.

It is affordable, costing around $40 USD12, which is much cheaper than some other external microphones for smartphones.

It is versatile, allowing you to record different types of videos, such as interviews, vlogs, podcasts, music, and more.

It is durable, made of metal and rubber, and comes with a 12-month warranty from Rode.

Drawbacks of the Rode VideoMic Me:

The Rode VideoMic Me is not without its drawbacks, however. Some of the drawbacks are:

It is not compatible with some smartphones that do not have a 3.5mm headphone input, such as the iPhone 7 and newer models. For these devices, you will need to use an adapter, such as the Apple Lightning to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter1, which adds extra cost and bulk.

It is not very adjustable, meaning you cannot change the gain, frequency response, or directionality of the microphone. You will have to rely on the settings of your device and app to control these aspects.

It is not very discreet, meaning it will be visible and noticeable in your videos. This might not be a problem for some users, but others might prefer a more hidden or inconspicuous microphone.

Conclusion

The Rode VideoMic Me is a compact and high-quality microphone for smartphones that can improve the audio quality of your videos. It has several features, benefits, and drawbacks that you should consider before buying it. If you are looking for a simple, affordable, and easy-to-use microphone for your smartphone, the Rode VideoMic Me might be a good option for you. However, if you are looking for a more advanced, adjustable, and discreet microphone for your smartphone, you might want to look for other alternatives.

Learn more:

1. amazon.com

2. rode.com