Rode

Specialist companies are always welcome in my book. They are more focused on their products and usually have more pride in workmanship than massive corporations. But do these dreamers stand the test of the hardships being a little guy amongst all the big guys?

Enter Rode.

Rode is an Australian company that specializes in microphone and mic accessories. Their initial arrival showed skepticism as is the case with most newcomers, but they stood the test, and are now considered to stand with the best of them. Let’s see if they pass the scrutiny of Sonic Brilliance studios.

One of my first field mics I chose to purchase was the Rode NT4. (We’ll have a review of it soon). Upon purchasing it, I soon realized that the cable clip didn’t click into place properly. I didn’t make a fuss of that, being ambitious to make new recordings.

After a few months of heavy use the left channel was not recording. I checked the recording unit, and the recorder seemed to be fine with other mics. I was left with the unfortunate fact that something was wrong with the mic or at best the mic cable.

I returned it to the dealer indicating the problem on the left channel for their technicians to check. I received a call a day or two later telling me their was nothing wrong with it. I asked if they also checked the cable. They did. I found this to be quite annoying actually, and told them I’ll be there to test it with them. Arriving there ready to draw blood, I was actually met with a pleasant approach and willingness to see what was happening. To my surprise the mic seemed to be working… Not ready to give up, I maneuvered the mic around and a bit of effort replicated the problem. One of the reps now seeing this, jiggled the cable, and there you go. Problem found.

The cable was sent to their in house repair department while I waited. 15 minutes later, all fixed up, including the initial problem with the clip.
While I was there I decided to also show them that my Rode Dead Kitten windshield elastic had broken. I asked if there was any sort of warranty on it. (This area might be unclear since it may be considered ordinary wear and tear). However, the rep told me this happens all the time with windshields and proposed a solution. He carefully and skillfully removed the threading to reveal the elastic band, and suggested I get an elastic that’s used in boxer shorts and replace it. This gives one the option to tighten it as much as needed, as well as being able to replace it whenever it loses elasticity.
I went to one of those stores that sell everything for under a buck and found a 5 pack of boxer elastics for 50 cents.
I fed it through the lining tightened it as much as I needed, tied a sturdy knot. Problem solved, and knowledge gained. All in all, I was back in action with the mic, cable and windshield.

Sometimes companies might have great products, but their reputation also rests on the shoulders of the agents they choose to represent them. Rode has taken the time to choose a competent Rep.

The only nitpick I have, is the high cost of some mic accessories. Admittedly these are still cheaper than other companies, so I won’t hold this against them, but it seems an abnormally high price tag for plastic pistol mounts and fake fur windshields. It seems there is a ripe market for some Chinese company to come along and create them, and I’m surprised it hasn’t happened yet. But getting back to the point.

In Summary.

Rode is the company that allow you to go pro without breaking the bank. At their a price point, they seem to have a fierce pride about there products. Where most companies welcome you to their “quality” products in the manual, Rodes 10 year guaruntee does all the saying. Their fine service, great products, exceptional pricing and 10 year guarantee to top that make Rode a company to serve as an example to other companies. Even their website is a pleasure.

Buy Rode products with confidence.

Sonic Brilliance Rating: * * * * *