Choosing the Perfect: Røde VXLR+ vs Røde VXLR - In-depth Comparison of Mini Jack to XLR Adapters

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Please note that Røde released a new version into the Røde VXLR lineup which now has a balanced output and you can see my full comparison of the three versions here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4DQi2l-acaDbbc

[@CaptSureshSharma]

Thank you. Will check shortly

[@CaptSureshSharma]

Excellent video. Thanks.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@CaptSureshSharma I appreciate that. 🌸

[@umbambang3948]

Thank you very much. This is the best expalanation i got from KZbin. Now i know the difference

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Thank you for this lovely comment. I appreciate it. Please note that Røde released a upgrade to the + which now has a balanced output and you can see my comparison of the three versions here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4DQi2l-acaDbbc

[@syncurmind]

I have been searching for this difference since quite long as I wanted to use my VMNTG with Zoom h6. Thank you so much for clear explanation

[@ChrisSpiegl]

You're welcome. It's great to hear that my videos are helpful.

[@alifsaufwan4245]

I came here for the same question. So, the best choice is to get the VXLR+ fro RodeVideomic NTG?

[@syncurmind]

@@alifsaufwan4245 I find that VMNTG can be connected with Zoom H6 using Rode VXLR the normal one. Since VMNTG has in built battery and doesn't need power from the recorder thus the normal rode VXLR works fine.

[@syncurmind]

But you can go with VXLR + if you have other devices like lav mic which needs phantom power to turn on. In that case turn of the phantom power and use VXLR+ to connect your VMNTG it will also work fine

[@kalamfelsameem]

Thank you very much for this very informative video

[@ChrisSpiegl]

You are very welcome 🌸

[@baldeagle242]

This is a great review and explanation of the full capabilities of both. Thank you for taking the time to make this video. I had no idea it was this involved when I purchased a dedicated recorder. I tried a 1/8" to 1/4" adapter into the Tascam 70-D with a Rode Video Micro and could not figure out why it would not produce sound. Now I know I need this adapter to convert to plug-in power. Thanks again!

[@ArthurKeleti]

Thanks for clearing all that out! I have just ordered both of them for my VideoMic Pro and SmartLav+ hoping to achieve what you demonstrated in the video. Your video confirms all that and that is a big relief. :) I am going to use the VXLR+ to hook up my smartlav+ with the Rodecaster Pro that provides 48V phantom power. Even though the Rodecaster Pro has a TSLR input for connecting smartphones it doesn't provide plugin power for the smartlav+ Cheers, great video!

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Thanks for the feedback, interesting that the input on the Rodecaster does not provide the plugin power on that port. I mean - not really needed for smartphones, but would have been helpful non the less. Good luck with the setup you are creating.

[@NTCCofColoradoSprings]

Thank you so, so, so much for this video. You saved me a ton of research and trial and error!

[@Alexisdc11]

I wish I came across your video before. I just bought the VXLR to connect my Lavalier go to my audio interface and it didn't work. Now I understand I have to buy the VXLR+. Thank you for your explanations! I wish Rode was more clear about how to use their products.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Sorry to hear that, it is definitely a bit confusing at times with these adapters. And to add to the confusion… now there actually is a third one I covered in an updated video. You can find the new comparison here: crsp.li/VxlrPro

[@Alexisdc11]

@@ChrisSpiegl Thank you! I'm going to watch it before I decide what to buy.

[@kudryaua]

Thanks for this video, I read 10 articles and did not find the answer how to connect Rode wireless go. Now everything is clear!

[@ChrisSpiegl]

That’s awesome that you found what you were looking for. Good luck with your setup and happy creating.

[@ciprianbuta]

i want to connect the Rode Wireless Go to Rodecaster Pro (on XLR), which one should i buy? VXLR or VXLR+ ?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@ciprianbuta you can go with the Røde VXLR - that’s good got this use-case.

[@emanuelolsson7831]

​@@ChrisSpiegl Do you know why Rode suggests that you use a VXLR+ for the Rode Wireless Go? It's in the faq: www.rode.com/microphones/wireless/wirelessgo

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@emanuelolsson7831 Looks to me like they don't want to advertise the cheapest option. But the Wireless Go does not need Plug In power because it has it's own battery and thus it works with the VXLR as well.

[@nickswebtsv]

Thanks so much for doing this - As, I couldn't quite work out which one was right!

[@ChrisSpiegl]

You’re welcome 😊

[@Paul_Greenwood]

Thanks for making this video, super helpful, my VXLR+ arrives next week

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Thank you for the feedback, I appreciate it 🌸.

[@PaulSyng]

Super helpful video. I'm trying to connect a Rode Videomic NTG and Rode Video Micro to a Rodecaster Pro

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Thank for stopping by. Please also note that there is a new version of this adapter with som additional safety for long distance cables: crsp.li/rodevxlrpro

[@hellounclesim]

Great video and great explanations! Thanks!

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Glad it was helpful!

[@NemanjaNedic]

This is an awesome video. Thank you for making the comparison so clear.

[@sorjames-itsachoice]

Epic 🙌🏾 i bought vxlr adapter for my wireless Go & lovier Go ....Will test Today on My mixer ( caster PRO ) with Shure sm7b mics

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Interesting setup for sure. Why do you want to combine the wireless go and the sm7b - I’m curious how you’re using these in combination?

[@sorjames-itsachoice]

@@ChrisSpiegl standing and showing (exercise ) & using green screen ( im a personal trainer ) but still want Better sound with caster pro vs MacBook Pro -shure is great but im using rode lavier go with Wireless go setuo & rode vxlr adapter ( caster pro ) great 👍🏽

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@sorjames-itsachoice Sounds great. I understand that desire. My girlfriend uses the Røde Wireless Go (directly into a camera and then that via HDMI to a laptop for live streaming). But if you have the Rodecaster, the Røde VXLR will work great to connect the Wireless go with that.

[@RosemaryAbang]

Thanks !!! We needed this comparison!

[@ChrisSpiegl]

So glad it was helpful. Thanks for stopping buy ☺️.

[@moyie_]

Just stumbled across this video, because I was searching some information on the VXLR+. Got mine some time ago and now wanted to use it, but it has a huge amount of noise. Maybe got a broken one, it doesn't sound normal to me. But I really liked your video, this is very informative, also from the technical understanding of these two adapters!

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Thank you for your comment here, greatly appreciated. About your adapter: I would say it may be strange if you hear a lot of noise, that's not supposed to happen. The first thought that comes to mind for me would be to check if you had Phantom Power turned on and at 48V? Maybe that helps. But if you had that setting set… maybe you should get a replacement.

[@moyie_]

@@ChrisSpiegl Yeah, maybe I should get a replacement unit, because phantom power was turned on. Besides that, I'm also thinking about replacing my Tascam DR-40 with a Zoom H5, and there you have a 3,5mm line-in jack on the microphone capsule, if I remember right...

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@moyie_ Funny enough you don't even have to remember right you can check out my video to compare exactly that with the Zoom H5: kzbin.info/www/bejne/npC0mmWGjrSZjKc In the video I am comparing which is better, XLR port with VXLR+ or Mini-Jack Port on the Zoom h5! However, I would try to step up to the Zoom F6 if you can in any way afford it (maybe save a little longer). The 32bit Float WAV recording with Duo-A/D Converters and the extremely low noise floor is incredible and absolutely worth it's weight in gold.

[@moyie_]

@@ChrisSpiegl Thank's... ^^ haven't had the time this morning on checking out the other videos on your channel. Now I'm going to do that, thank you for the advice on the video and the F6, so I will inform myself on this one as well...

[@Coodae]

Yes... ***Ditto: "Thank you very much for this very informative video"

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for your comment here 🌸.

[@askroller]

Exactly what I'm searched for. Thanks for comparison and explanation

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Thank you for stopping but and leaving this comment. I appreciate that. 🌸

[@vess6934]

I JUST destroyed my lav mic - which is the reason I am now doing research after the fact... and running into your video. LOL

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Lol, what did you do?

[@vess6934]

@@ChrisSpiegl So I have (had) a Rode Lavalier Go (RIP) I've been using for a while with a Zoom H6 and a regular XLR adapter. I had turned phantom power on and it had been working fine no problem for a long while (weeks!). All of a sudden during one recording session I noticed that I had no audio after I downloaded the audio file. I checked the phantom power and it had been set to 48V! I knew right there something was off because I could swear I had set it to 12V (the lowest). Like you said it seems that some mics will work even at higher voltages but sooner or later they'll likely die. So now I've ordered a new lav and the VXLR+ adapter. lol

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@vess6934 Sorry to hear that you had this happen this way. Those kinds of experiences are sorrow teachers. Luckily it was not a more expensive mic/lav that broke though.

[@andreyknyazev5560]

thank you, you just saved me from buying a useless adapter) I wanted to buy a cheap analog of vxlr to connect rode videomicro to my audio interface

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Glad I could help. So I am guessing you chose the VXLR+ instead of the VXLR?

[@andreyknyazev5560]

@@ChrisSpiegl yes, I ordered VXLR+

[@TheBedroomRocker1]

Nice video! Very well put together

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Thank you very much! I would recommend checking out the follow up on the Røde VXLR Pro as well: crsp.li/VXLRPro

[@mow6744]

Best review. Very useful. Thank you 🙂

[@ChrisSpiegl]

My pleasure 😊

[@MyJeanf]

I was thinking about the difference so thank you .

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Make sure to also look for my follow up video about the new RODE VXLR Pro - linked in the description. 👍

[@louieponto]

Hi, Chris! What a helpful video! Thank you so much for doing this. I've read every single comment, but I still have one doubt: I could use the VXLR adapter to connect my Rode NTG to my Zoom H4n pro, right? But what if I use the VXLR+? Could I destroy my microphone by doing this?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Thank you, I appreciate that. I am going to assume that you are talking about the Røde VideoMic NTG? There you can use any of the three adapters. The more Plus and Pro simply add features which you may not need but can be helpful. Just don't use the VXLR and then turn on Phantom Power! That'd be bad. But you can use Phantom power on the other two (plus and pro) and if you do, it would trigger the auto power on of the Rode VideoMic NTG. Hope that makes it a bit more clear?

[@louieponto]

​@@ChrisSpiegl Hey, Chris! Thank you so much... and I'm sorry for my English. I'm from Brazil - and a new subscriber! Yes, I was talking about the Rode VideoMic NTG. I just bought the microphone and I was afraid of destroying it by using one of these adapters, but now I got it ♥ Unfortunately, I can't find the Rode adapters, so I think I may have to buy another one (I found one from Boya).

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@louieponto No worries, always trying to help here and welcome 🌸. With the Rode VideoMic NTG, luckily, you don't need the plug in power and thus pretty much any cheap XLR to TRS adapter will work. Good luck 👍.

[@CaptSureshSharma]

Much needed video! Thanks

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Thank you 😍

[@ttUterusMaximus]

Thank you for explaining this!

[@ChrisSpiegl]

You’re very welcome. 😅🌸

[@EzzenzDK]

Great info, thanks for sharing

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Thank you, your feedback and comments are always appreciated 🌸.

[@alishankhans]

thank you soo much my problem solved

[@ChrisSpiegl]

I'm glad my video helped 🌸.

[@IndianKD]

Thank you! Very useful!

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Glad you enjoyed this video. I am about to create on about a new version of this adapter from Røde called the VXLR Pro. Gonna be published soon.

[@FlamecomMartian]

cheers man, this was super helpful for my future projects. I'm more involved with doing DOP stuff but it'd be good for me to get more audio knowledge. I shoot on the BMPCC4k which has a XLR input, so I'm experimenting with daisy chaining the audio recorder to the BMPCC4k so that both are recording the same audio. In the midst of doing a lotta research into this and this video answered a lot of the questions I had. Cheers mate! have a good one

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Thanks for your comment here. That's awesome that my video was helpful for you. Have fun with your setup and figuring everything out - always fun to chain things together to work properly.

[@FlamecomMartian]

Of course too I’m looking at those Sennheiser wireless XLR setups for the future with a Director/Audio friend of mine, so no need to daisy chain everything and have wires flying everywhere on our future projects

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@FlamecomMartian Sounds like a great setup.

[@chetschutt1227]

Using the Rodecaster Pro, can I use the VXLR+ and the Rode Wireless go with phantom power on and not damage the receivers. The reason I ask this question is I have 4 condenser studio mics that need phantom power. I may not always be running the system and I was hoping that the VXLR+ would allow me to leave phantom power always on so that a mistake is not made by forgetting to turn it off when the wireless go's were used. Great video, thanks for the research. Thanks for your reply.

[@danielkuzev4992]

Hey Chris! I can confirm that you can blow up the Rode Lav mic using the 48V without a transformer :D I wish I saw your video a day earlier. Cheers mate!

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Oh wow, I have read about this - that some mics can break when you put them on 48v Phantom Power - but it was mostly talked about in tales like "these old very fragile mics would break but with others you just have to be careful and you 'should not do it'". I'm sorry to hear your lav actually broke because of this. It's great to know more about this and not make the same mistake again.

[@danielkuzev4992]

@@ChrisSpiegl I know exactly what you mean. Well, now we have the forensics… the Rode Lav doesn’t survive it.

[@MikkoRantalainen]

It's worth knowing that the "plug-in power" is technically called bias voltage which should be close to 5 V. It's mostly used for electret microphones which are technically somewhere between dynamic and full condensator microphones. You will basically have a really low / poor mic signal if you actually have electret microphone but connect it to interface like a dynamic mic. For such cases you really want the "VXLR+" adapter which takes 48 V phantom power and includes a transformer to insert 5 V bias voltage to the the miniplug. There also exists a product called Røde VXLR Pro which is basically VXLR+ with balanced signal output. If you connect the adapter directly to your audio interface, the Pro version is not worth money. However, if you need to use long XLR cable between the adapter and the audio interface, then the Pro version might result in less noise. And basically you have to get Røde VXLR+ if you want low noise because other manufacturers don't seem to provide low-noise bias voltage adapters.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Great breakdown. Thanks for the insights.

[@TheVelvetvoicecoach]

Thank you very much for this Chris. It is amazing & it has clarified everything I need to know before purchasing. Have you any insights or comparisons between the Rode VXLR + & the Rode VXLR PRO. Thank you Chris.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Looks like you already found the other video. Glad you found this helpful 🌸. For anybody else looking, here is my followup video about the VXLR Pro: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4DQi2l-acaDbbc

[@manolorivasfoto]

Very Good Video

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Thank you very much ☺️.

Hello friend, ask. Do you think it works with a podtrak p4 and with lapel microphones (x2) PowerDeWise? I thank you in advance for your answer.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

For that use case you would have to get either the VXLR+ or the VXLR Pro. Both would work on the P4 when you activate phantom power on the channels. However, when you are already using a P4, I'd also go with XLR mics which I would prefer in terms of sound, handling, and more. But if you are looking for a solution that is super small… yes, this adapter will work for you. One more thing: since you'll be sending phantom power to the mics, the battery may not last as long as it would with let's say a Shure SM58 or Beta 58a. Since those do not need phantom power.

[@danielchernook8445]

Can you use the Rode Reporter with the rode wireless GO II+ ? (With an XLR adapter) Would be helpfull to stay wireless and have internal microphone recording.

[@WisLockman]

Would I use the same VXLR Connector for my Rode Wireless Go and Wireless GO II? I want to hook it up to my Zoom Podtrak P4 Mixer.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

For the Wireless Pro / Go / Go II you can use the Røde VXLR since the mics do not need plug-in power.

[@polisman7681]

Thanks for explanation. I also wonder if i can attach VXLR to my active loudspeaker and then using a mini jack to mini jack cable connect my phone to speaker.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

I would say that it could be possible. Especially since you are saying that the speakers are active ones. However, I do not have the tech to test this at this time. Generally, I’d you want to test this you can go for the VXLR since you will not be using the plug in power transformer. One more thing to note is that this adapter is a Mono adapter. So you’ll need a splitter cable anyways. And personally, If you’re already getting a splitter cable to 3.5mini jack. Why not go for one that has XLR on the other end?

[@hosseinnajafi5910]

thanks for wonderful tips ! i have bought a maya 22 audio interface and a rode wireless go and i wonder if i can use rode vxlr for my audio interface. i dont have access to vxlr+ right now.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

With the Rode Wireless Go you only need the Røde VXLR, no Plus or Pro required. Just don't send phantom power on that channel!

[@hosseinnajafi5910]

@@ChrisSpiegl Thanks for your quick reply that saved me a lot of time! Hope the best for you !

[@shikankhan3220]

thanks

[@BassamIsmailtv]

The simple reason for having or buying devices with xlr connections is to use it with the relative equipment which in this case are xlr microphones, all of these gadgets will compromise the sound quality not matching the audio sources from different inputs I also believe that this converter is overpriced you have to choose according to the situation either to use the 3.5mm connection or the xlr, for those who are aiming towards youtube videos maybe this will work but if you dream of reaching a professional level of broadcast this is not the things you should go for

[@ChrisSpiegl]

I would say it probably depends on your use case. If you just want to keep using something you already own, these adapters can be handy. But I agree in many ways. It often times is way better to simply purchase an XLR mic (and those have become relatively inexpensive as well).

[@CaptSureshSharma]

I have fried my Zoom H5 and it got crackling noise as I connected Azden Shotgun and switched on Phantom Power ... I had just bought all new but thanks to the dealer he replaced it without any questions.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Phew, got lucky there.

[@CaptSureshSharma]

@@ChrisSpiegl Sorry for typos ... I wanted to say - I fried my Zoom H5 😀

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@CaptSureshSharma How did that happen?

[@CaptSureshSharma]

@@ChrisSpiegl I had switched ON Phantom power and mic had battery... So probably that created clash. I am not really technical. But I learnt that all these mics are to be understood fully and where to plug in and what power

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@CaptSureshSharma oh wow - I would not have thought that this would have the potential to destroy the H5. The mic - yes, but the H5 I thought would have been fine. Anyways… yes, knowing which power to switch on or off is important! Even if phantom power may work for one mic, doesn’t mean one should use that. ☺️

[@videophotozama5666]

So, for connecting my Rodelink wireless microphone into a Zoom H5 for instance, which one of them would you recommend?

[@MoElf]

Hi I oreder vxlr to used it on rode videomic ntg with new recorder tascam dr 40x I hope work fine thx

[@ChrisSpiegl]

I think that sounds right. Great setup.

[@MoElf]

@@ChrisSpiegl thx

[@birajadas293]

Does it convert a stereo signal from 3.5 trs to Mono or sends stereo signal

[@encapsulatio]

Is the XLR on the VXLR+ supposed to have one of the 3 legs/pins slightly longer than the other two?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Yes, that's the mass/ground contact which is supposed to contact first and that's why Røde makes it longer in almost all their products.

[@kevinregan8034]

Hi Chris, great video! Just wondering which one works best with iRig Lav Mic to a Yamaha AG 06 mixer?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

That mic probably needs Plug in power which means you need one VXLR adapter that transforms that. That would be the VXLR Plus or Pro. The standard VXLR is not what you want. The Pro I would only recommend if you plan on using long distance XLR cables. So probably the plus is the best one: crsp.li/RodeVxlrPro

[@kevinregan8034]

@@ChrisSpiegl excellent thanks!

[@nopparutcharoenwattana395]

Thank you so much man this so helpful. I have one question if I use the Rode VideoNTG mic input to the zoom F6. So, I just need the VXLR, right? And just setup input mic not mic(ph) in zoom f6, right? Thank you

[@ChrisSpiegl]

That is correct. For the Zoom F6 + Røde VideoMic NTG combo you only need the Røde VXLR adapter. But make sure not to activate Phantom Power! Just like you wrote.

[@MatteoMaraffio]

Can you do a comparison with the new VXLR Pro?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

I just found out about that one yesterday as well and I am definitely thinking about it. But I have not found it to be available anywhere. I am in contact with Røde and maybe they can provide a review copy for me. We'll see - but it's for sure a great new addition as far as I am able to tell based on the specs.

[@MatteoMaraffio]

@@ChrisSpiegl Yeah, would really like to see how it compares to the VDXLR+

[@ChrisSpiegl]

​@@MatteoMaraffio I totally understand. My first impression is: if you use short cables you are most likely going to be find with the VXLR+ and the VXLR Pro is more for longer distances. Additionally, the VXLR Pro creates a balanced signal and thus has less risk of picking up any interferences. Now is it with the additional 15$ (25$ for the VXLR+ and 39 for the VXLR Pro)? As mentioned, probably most interesting for longer distances and very busy sets. But that's just my first impressions based on reading about it. 🙈 So we'll see.

[@CaptSureshSharma]

I would like to share with you details of my newly acquired set up: 1. Rode Go Wireless 2. Rode Go Lav (TRS) 3. Rode Go Lav Smart (TRRS) 4. Zoom H5 5. Azden Shotgun Mic I wish to use these on my Zoom H5. What all cables I need and where to plug-in on the Zoom 5. Line In? how to use this feature? How and which Rode Go VXLR I need to buy? I should buy all three?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Hello Capt Suresh Sharma, it's not easy to completely understand what you are trying to achieve. However, he is one setup configuration: 1) Rode Wireless go can be connected with the Røde VXLR adapter (no phantom power needed, so you also don't need the expensive transformers). This way you can connect that to one of the XLR ports on the H5. 2) I am assuming you want to use the Røde Lavalier Go (TRS) with the Wireless go so that's where that is plugged in? 3) The Rode SmartLav with the TRRS plug will need an adapter to be used in any of the things you mentioned (crsp.li/RodeTrrsToTrs). With said adapter you could plug this lavalier into the Zoom H5 at the top into the XY Capsule on the side. Then you need to turn on Plug-In Power on that port in the settings of the H5. 4) And lastly with the Azden Shotgun Mic, you'll need a XLR cable to connect to the H5. With with all that you have just one VXLR adapter (and it can be the cheapest one). You have the Rode Wireless Go with the Lavalier Go as a wireless set. The other SmartLav is connected to one of the H5 XLR Ports. And the Azden is on the other XLR ports. Hope that helps 🌸.

[@CaptSureshSharma]

@@ChrisSpiegl Thanks for the elaborate reply. I am out and will read in the evening and get back.

[@CaptSureshSharma]

@@ChrisSpiegl Yes ... thanks, its making me understand it ... thank you for sparing your valuable time. I want to exploit all ports. One more question: when we are using Rode Go Lav mic with VXLR Pro or + (Plus) and its hooked into XLR port og Zoom H5, then do we switch ON Phantom Power so the VXLR Adaptor will reduce the voltage? If we plug in Rode Go Lav with VXLR + or Pro, then we don't need to switch ON the Phantom Power? It will activate the Phantom Supply on it's own from Zoom H5?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@CaptSureshSharma happy to help. You’ll need to activate the Phantom Power yourself in the settings of the Zoom H5 - this is not done automatically.

[@CaptSureshSharma]

@@ChrisSpiegl Thank you for your time. 👍👍

[@corymacdougall3469]

Thank you so much. That was a great video. Can you please let me know, if I put in a stereo signal to the vxlr or vxlr+, does it remain as a stereo signal through the conversion from 3.5 mm to XLR. Thank you.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Hi 👋, you can totally put in a mono or stereo signal. However, the other side is always going to be a mono XLR signal. That’s just how XLR is setup.

[@corymacdougall3469]

Thank you! I didn't realize that!!

[@arhauz9719]

my experience...XLR + or Pro reduces volume power at least 50% :( do you have sample of recording and setting to the zoom unit?

[@howglucosemoves]

Great video! Just to confirm that I have full understanding: I am able to plug my rode videomic NTG to my zoom h5 using the regular VXLR adapter, AND I need to make sure I turn off the phantom power, correct?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Hey Thanh, that is correct. However, with the Zoom H5 you would not even need the VXLR since you can also plug in the VideoMic NTG into the mic port at the top of the XYZ capsule. I have a comparison available at: kzbin.info/www/bejne/npC0mmWGjrSZjKc Happy recording 🌸.

[@mjscpr]

Hey Chris, do you know how the VXLR+ / Pro / … compare to the Deity V-Link? I would like to connect a Zoom F6 with a Rode Wireless Pro II and a Rode NTG videomic. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I would then extend the cable with the Rode VC-1.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

There is one very important point: if you want to use the Røde VC-1 as an extension, it would not matter if you choose the VXLR Plus or Pro since the whole benefit of the VXLR Pro only comes into play when you use a XLR cable which can transport a balanced signal. The Deity V-Link also is supposed to be plugged into the Microphone and then an XLR cable should be used to transport the signal to the Zoom F6. The V-Link seems to be best compared to the VXLR+ which is that they both convert Phantom Power to Plug In power but they do not provide a balanced signal (I could not find any information about whether the V-Link does have the circuits to provide a balanced signal in my quick research). The VXLR Pro on the other hand does provide a balanced signal and that makes it less likely to pick up interferences. You can see a comparison between VXLR, VXLR+, and VXLR Pro in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4DQi2l-acaDbbc Last but not least: I have no practical experience with the V-Link but tried to give you some technical differences.

[@mjscpr]

@@ChrisSpiegl Thanks, super helpful! I will try it and report back.

[@marconero]

Great tutorial, thanks, I have a question, if I connect a levalier (from Rode Filmaker kit) though a Saramonic smart rig II connected to a Sony A6300, do I need to add phantom power and do I need the VXLR+ or in this case I can use the VXRL without phantom power ? (As I am powering the levalier by the saramonic) thank you, Marco

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Hey, I am assuming you are connecting the setup as follows: Lavalier into Røde Filmaker Kit Transmitter and the Røde Filmaker Kit Receiver is then connected to the Saramonic Smart Rig II which is then plugged into your camera A6300? In this case: I do not see why you would need the VXLR at all? Why not plug the Røde Filmaker Kit Receiver directly into your Sony A6300? They both should provide a mini Jack connection? The same thing is true if you just want to use the Lavalier directly connected to the Sony A6300. Just plug it into the Mini Jack Connection on the side of your camera? Am I missing something? If so, please let me know a few more details.

[@bksimon254]

Hi, how can I get a piece of vxlr connector while in Kenya?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Maybe contact the Røde support and ask if they have any retailers in the area? Or online stores which offer good shipping conditions?

[@JohnPonthecuff]

So I can use the vxlr+ for 48v and non 48v powered mics.?

[@FlamecomMartian]

So am I right in saying that if I want to plug a lav mic to the bmpcc4k (its 3.5mm plug doesn't support lav mics), I should get the VXLR+? Also, I have the RODE Videomic Pro+, that one only needs the regular VXLR right? I wanna go from the 3.5mm to XLR cos I've heard that the XLR plug on the BMPCC4K has less noise

[@ChrisSpiegl]

You got that pretty much right. However… please also check the settings regarding Plug-In Power and Phantom Power on the BMPCC4K. The Lav might work on the 3.5mm jack if you can activate Plug-In Power (and if it actually is a Mic Input and not a Line Input, this may also be switchable in software). But if you want to use both mics with the XLR port, you are completely right. The Lav would need the VXLR+ and Phantom Power activated. The Rode VideoMic Pro+ does not need Phantom Power and can be used with the VXLR adapter (make sure to disable Phantom Power on that XLR port). Note: I think the Rode VideoMic Pro+ also has the "auto power on/off" which does not activate if not used with Plug-In Power - that means using the VXLR+ and activating Phantom Power would help in that regard. With the VXLR you have to manually power the mic on and off. Last but not least: please know that I do know the BMPCC4K, I have never used it and don't know what it is capable of. Also, I have no experience with the VideoMic Pro+ since I got the VideoMic NTG. Hope this helps you in creating your rig.

[@ComeId-hd3ey]

please help me verify this, can this VXLR+ be used with boya by m1 lav mic (has its own internal battery inside)?

[@davidobrien-monk9156]

The SmartLav+ has a TRRS plug and the VXLR+ has a TRS socket. Will you need an extra conversion adapter between the two?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

A Gaulle verified this for you and you are correct! The SmartLav+ is TRRS, the VXLR+ is TRS and an additional adapter is needed.

[@jukarnarius]

Thank you for great review. I have a stupid question. If I turn phantom power off, could I use this adapter for active mic or even line level signal? or it will damage the electric parts inside?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

I appreciate the comment. I would say that the adapter will just work like normal with a line signal.

[@jukarnarius]

@@ChrisSpiegl oh thank you for your answer.

[@kmont54]

Let's say I wanted to connect my rode wireless go to a mixer, in your opinion what would be better to use?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

The VXLR works great with the Rode Wireless Go.

[@simonnystad6334]

Can I use the Rode Filmmakers kit with the VXLR (not plus)? The use case will be to connect the receiver to a sound card with XLR inputs.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Hello Simon, I do not have a definitive answer for you since I have never used the Filmmakers Kit. However, as far as I understand it by looking at it online I would assume that the Filmmakers Kit does not need any Plug In Power since it has its own batteries. So it should work fine with the VXLR (not plus). I can't guarantee this though.

[@simonnystad6334]

@@ChrisSpiegl Yeah, looks like it should work. I’ll just have to try it! Thanks for the answer and informative video!

[@Claude_Hoffmann]

Would this work with my MicW i436 4 pin mini jack? Thanks!

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Not sure, the VXLR adapters are all made to work with 3 pin TRS cables and not necessarily TRRS (4 pin) ones. So if your mic works on a camera which usually expects a 3 pin, then the VXLR would work as well. But if it does not, you'd need a TRRS Female to TRS Male adapter cable like the Røde SC3: crsp.li/trrstotrs

[@Claude_Hoffmann]

@@ChrisSpiegl Thanks!

[@asestrand]

Hi, Chris! Very useful! Just now I have the same problem. New Røde Lavalier Go mic, new Røde VXLR+, Both go to my audio interface Audient iD14. The fantom power of the Audient is off. Shell I use it or I will brake the mic?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

When you have the Røde VXLR Plus or Pro then you can turn on the Phantom power and the VXLR Plus/Pro will convert it to Plug-In Power which you need to run the mic. So yes, turn on the Phantom Power.

[@asestrand]

@@ChrisSpiegl I wanna thank you very very much!

[@toydivision9979]

Really good video. Question: if my Sennheiser ME 4 Lav ordinarily needs 7,5v then what phantom power do I set the H5 XLRs to? 12v or 24v or 48v?

[@toydivision9979]

I forgot to add that I'm using the VXLR+ in this case. So to repeat, to what phantom power voltage should the Zoom H5 be set in order to best power the 7,5v Sennheiser ME 4 via the Rode VXLR+? Thanks.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Honestly, I would ask Røde Support that question. On my recorders that I currently have I only get the options to set 24v and 48v so my guess would be any of the above? Because the electronics of the VXLR+ should take care of the conversion. I probably would choose 24v because that is the most common voltage for Phantom Power. But to be sure, I'd ask Rode Support first.

[@wmfirdaus]

Is it possible to connect Rode Videomic to Behringer Xenyx 302? Or should I use vxlr adapter?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

I am assuming the Behringer Xenyx 302 does provide phantom power via XLR, then I would recommend you to use the Røde VXLR Pro or Plus. With that it should work.

[@RivuSouravBanerjeeVideoEditor]

So if i using a Rode video mic ntg , then the vlxr will do if i want to record it with a focusrite audio interface ? Pls suggest

[@ChrisSpiegl]

The Røde VideoMic NTG is a little bit of a special case since it uses Plug In Power to detect wether it should be on or not. In that case I would suggest going with the VXLR but also exchange the cable to be a TRS to TRS instead of the TRRS to TRRS which comes with the mic.

[@RivuSouravBanerjeeVideoEditor]

@@ChrisSpiegl ok, thats great .. hv got a lot of trs to trs cables recently with all the røde mics I purchased 😄, I was specially considering the option to use the vxlr as i said it has the least noise ratio and more affordable , Also the same way i can use it with my rode wireless go 2 .. right ?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@RivuSouravBanerjeeVideoEditor You are correct, the same way works with the Wireless Go 2 as well. Please try to keep your cables short though (as short as possible) or make test recordings to make sure there is no noise introduced through those. Other that you are good to go 👍.

[@RivuSouravBanerjeeVideoEditor]

@@ChrisSpiegl surely .. thanks

[@SebastianBernalFranco]

Hi Chris. its possible to damage the condenser microphones (lavalier) with a XLR adapter? I bought an adapter JOLGOO and it seems everything has gone wrong.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

If you provide phantom power to a lavalier which expects plug-in power… yes, it is possible to destroy the lavalier. That's why you want to use XLR adapters that do transform the voltage to be the propper plug-in power.

[@zobotrombie]

Hi. Is one of pins on the VXLR+ connector is supposed to be longer than the others?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Seems like it, at least mine has that too.

[@zobotrombie]

@@ChrisSpiegl thanks for replying! I just bought one and the sound when I use the videomicro into a mixer using this is unusable. Just a ridiculous amount of noise.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@zobotrombie Which mixer are you using and do you have Phantom Power activated?

[@zobotrombie]

@@ChrisSpiegl mackie profx6 v3 and I did turn on the phantom power.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@zobotrombie Interesting to hear your experience. Maybe the best path forward is to contact Røde support and ask them about it. I have not had the same experience as you can see in the above video. The VXLR+ does not produce "unusable" noise. It has a higher noise level than the VXLR (if used with the right mic that does not need Phantom or Plugin Power) but both are definitely usable. Hope you can get a hold of someone at Røde and by doing so find a solution. Good luck.

[@alipaulstagram]

I currently have the tascam DR-40 and a deity D3 shotgun mic (which takes a battery). I bought the VXLR+ thinking this would be the best solution but I get a lot of noise. Would the standard VXLR be the better option? Can I connect the mic via a TRS 3.5mm to 1/8 cable or does it need XLR? Thanks.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Hi Ali, the D3 needs plug in power to even activate itself since it has this strange "standy mode thing" going. So you'll definitely want to use the VXLR+ and activate phantom power on that XLR port that you have it plugged in. In case you already have the Phantom Power active… I don't really know what else might be going on there. I also don't own or have ever used the DR-40, so I also don't know if the level of noise you are experiencing is normal for that device. Anyways, please get back and share your findings if you have any 🌸.

[@alipaulstagram]

@@ChrisSpiegl Cheers Chris. Good to know I've got the correct adapters at least. I'll have a play around and see if I can make it work. The tascam dr-40 works great with my rode NT1a condenser so I assume the noise must be somewhere in the connectors.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@alipaulstagram great - that’s good that the device works. However, like I wrote above, the Deity D3 can be a bit strange with its standby.

[@fennesto]

VXLR + Rode Videomicpro+ is it ok? I never set to 48 power. Canon C100 user here.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

I have not used the VideoMic Pro+ myself and don't know about it's "smart standby" mode. But with the VideoMic NTG you could use the VXLR and be good since you can turn the mic on manually. However, I would almost recommend getting the "VXLR Plus" because that way you have the mic auto turn on and off with the camera (if you activate phantom power).

[@kahanakitty]

thank you so much for this video! i had a question about how to interface the RØDE Wireless Go receiver outputs into a standard PA system - we tried using a TRS-XLR adapter, but had to apply an inordinate amount of gain and practically max out the channel outputs to get anything reasonably audible. we didnʻt want to apply phantom power and blow out the receivers, so the director ended up getting a bunch of Shure wireless systems, which worked fine. now he has several RØDE Wireless Goʻs that are essentially useless. would the VXLR+ or the VXLR allow us to apply phantom power and get a workable signal coming into the board?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Hello, strange thing there. But first things first: there is absolutely no point in applying phantom power to an input which should connect to the Wireless Go since that does not need or use phantom power at all (it has it's own power). Now there is just one thing I would check next time: the Rode Wireless Go system can be set to a few gain levels internally. Maybe it was set to the lowest there? This setting can be changed on the receiver. If that does not help, I don't know what your system is doing then. I have no issues when recording the Rode Wireless Go either into a camera or into my Zoom F6 audio recorder, and I also have experience with using it with a Behringer Mixer unit and running it to speakers that way. All works fine.

[@xxx0783]

so i can use my rode wireless go with the vxlr and just turn off phantom power on the recorder? i saw a video where a guy had to buy the vxlr+ to make the rode wireless go work, is it possible that he was using the regular adapter with phantom power on and that made it not work?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

I'm not sure about any other videos, haven't seen those. But the Wireless Go does provide it's own power and does not need phantom or plugin power. So the VXLR should work fine.

[@xxx0783]

@@ChrisSpiegl thanks for the reply, this is the video im talking about kzbin.info/www/bejne/pV6ziqVqaa-SnK8

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@xxx0783 I will have to test this out because it is not what I usually use. But TBH, at this time I would assume he used some other XLR TRS adapter which may have been low quality? Maybe also providing Phantom power where it is not needed at all. But I'll take a note of this conversation and try to get back to you with a test result.

[@xxx0783]

@@ChrisSpiegl i bought the Zoom H6 and VXLR and it works perfectly, with the phantom power off, thank you for your video, helped me a lot

[@MoElf]

Hi again I am not happy at all I get today tascam dr 40x Not good at all but the realy problem is when i put videomic ntg with vxlr not work until on phantom power ! Is it that normal ?

[@ChrisSpiegl]

You should not turn on Phantom Power in this setup because it is way too much voltage for the VideoMic NTG! You have to turn on the VideoMic NTG manually with the power-on button on the mic body.

[@MoElf]

@@ChrisSpiegl thank you for replay Its work but some times stop I dont know if the recorder not good I think zoom h5 good than dr40x Anyway thank you for your time

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@MoElf I have no experience with the recorder you are using. The H5 works like a champ it's a good recorder and I would recommend that one - but there are better ones if you got more money ofcourse. Generally though, the H5 is enough to start!

[@MoElf]

@@ChrisSpiegl hi Do you know any recorder with 2 input mic 3.5 jack( not xlr with adepter ) thank you

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@MoElf no, at the moment I don’t. But what you could do instead is connect two mics to a camera with a left/right splitter cable: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aKvClqVmjdageLc Maybe that’s an idea? Even cheaper, and it can be done with a phone too (with the right adapters). 😍

[@bobmusikk]

PLease, my English is not good enough to understand everything :) I have a Rode Videomic NTG which one I would need to connected it to an audio interface? thanks

[@ChrisSpiegl]

If the cables are short, you would be fine using the cheap VXLR adapter. However, then you have to manually turn on the microphone!

[@bobmusikk]

@@ChrisSpiegl I finally bought the Pro model yesterday, works perfect, thanks

[@stefanovic8512]

Hi Chris, thanks a lot for this video. I did not know about the difference between the two adapters, so it is very helpful. I have a question. I purchased a VXLR and connected it to my Rodecaster Pro mixer. The adapter itself is VERY noisy, even with no mic connected. This is way too much to be useful. Could the VXLR be broken? I would like to connect a lavelier mic to my mixer and just saw it is a condensor mic. I think I need a VXLR+ then, right? But I am a bit worried that this adapter will generate even more noise. Any clues? Thanks a lot!!

[@ChrisSpiegl]

I do not have the Rodecaster Pro on hands to test this out however a few considerations: 1) if the mic needs plug in power (most lavalier microphones do) then yes, you will need the VXLR+ and give the port Phantom Power. But as mentioned in the video, you should not give Phantom Power to the VXLR adapter (non Plus) because that may break your lavalier since it is not made to handle that much voltage! 2) if (1) is correct… then the problem may be solved by using the VXLR+ because I am assuming that the noise comes form the fact that you are trying to pull up the channel a lot because the lavalier is not giving you a signal (which is most likely due to the fact that it is not receiving any power at all). Or it is not plugged in and then adapter makes the noise because it is less clean when just plugged in. 3) with the second part of (2): Is the mic plugged in when it produces the noise or is just the adapter plugged in? If you just plug in the adapter without the lavalier, maybe mute the channel because the "open TRS port" may be the problem. On this note: it's always a good idea to mute all channels that are not currently in use. These are my thoughts right now with the information given. I hope you can find the right solution and if not, please let me know more details. Cheers and have a great day 🌸.

[@stefanovic8512]

@@ChrisSpiegl Thanks a lot for your prompt reply and great help. Really appreciated!! 1) Fortunately, I did not put on the phantom power. 2) I read that my lavelier is a condensor mic, so I asume it requires some power. This mic had no signal at all, which is quite logic as I know now. The adapter itself produces a lot of noise, also if no mic is connected. I also connected a Shure SM58 mic (dynamic) with a homemade XLR to 3.5mm jack cable to the VXLR adapter to test it. The sound was ok, but still the noise remained. I quess this means that my VXLR is noisy? 3) I muted all other channels. The amount of noise remains the same, no matter if I connect a lavelier mic, a SM58 dynamic mic or no mic at all (just the VXLR adapter). I also tried some of the other mic channels, with the same result :(

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@stefanovic8512 That does make it appear as so the adapter is producing unusually high noise. Maybe you can send it back and get the VXLR+ to use with your lav.

[@stefanovic8512]

@@ChrisSpiegl Yes, I think you are right. Will send it back. Many thanks four your help!

[@ChrisSpiegl]

@@stefanovic8512 you’re welcome. Good luck.

[@gloryetim9148]

How can I get this in Nigeria

[@ChrisSpiegl]

No idea, sorry.

[@johnlentokone7318]

I ordered two 3.5mm to XLR adapters from China. Looks very similar to VXLR but connects balanced XLR directly to balanced 3.5mm stereo plug. Pin 1 (ground) connects to the sleeve, pin 2 (positive polarity aka hot) to the tip and pin 3 (negative polarity aka cold) to the ring. In your picture VXLR short circuits the tip and the ring so adapter should not work with a 3.5mm mono plug. The Chinese adapter works with a mono plug because monolog connects the negative polarity aka cold to the sleeve aka ground. I have an old computer mono desktop mic which will use a stereo plug by connecting the tip and the ring together. With Chinese adapter this will short circuit the hot and the cold pin and nothing is heard. With VXLR this should work. I ordered 3.5mm to XLR adapters which include 25 cm cable. These are connected as my other adapters except the hot is connected to the ring and the cold to the tip reversing the polarity.

[@ChrisSpiegl]

Lot's of testing as I can see. I hope you find the adapter that works for you.