How To Connect the Rodecaster Pro to a Camera or ATEM (and why you SHOULDN’T do it)

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Tom! For those who really need to run audio directly to camera or ATEM Mini, using a device which converts from a balanced signal, which is what the RCP is using on its outputs, to unbalanced 3.5mm on most cameras is the most reliable way to send audio to a camera. That way you can run the balanced cables as long as you need and then convert and run a very short 3.5mm unbalanced cable from the converter to the camera. The ART Cleanbox Pro does the job nicely.

[@curtisjudd]

Oh, and also it takes care of the conversion between line on the RODECaster and microphone level on the camera.

[@portersblackboard]

@@curtisjudd What a surprise finding you here! I am looking to use the ART Cleanbox Pro for the high pitch tone and low volume in my ATEM mini. (no audio input on my camera ). I want to make sure that I am going to purchase the right device for my Focusrite 2. Is this the correct device? ART CLEANBOX Bi-Directional Level Matching Stereo Converter Box - XLR and RCA I/O Connectors MFR #CLEANBOXPRO

[@tombuck]

Thanks so much for this insight Curtis! You’re the best.

[@timwilkins3621]

Curtis, I appreciate you taking the time to share your knowledge with others. Thanks!

[@petecrouch8277]

Hi @curtisjudd I really like the sound of the art clean box, and think it is exactly what I need to go between my Rodecaster pro2 and my Atem mini extreme. Could you share the cable configuration, as it looks like the clean box will only accept phono inputs? Many thanks

[@UKRenna]

Hi Tom, great video. I fully agree. Let each device do exactly what it is designed to do. In this example I would let the Procaster 2 handle audio sources, the ATEM video switching and the camera video. Then let great software such as OBS handle streaming, recording or both. The audio issue you have highlighted is because the inputs and outputs are not balanced, apart from the master out on the Procaster 2. The reason the black cable sounds better is because it is shorter.

[@salussolutions4638]

Will Davinci software perform the function of receiving the sound and video inputs? Sorry if this is an obvious question, we’re very new to this.

[@multeemedia]

What I do in situations like this not just for The RCP II but other devices is use a ground loop isolator with a 3.5mm input and output on the headphone jack. It has a transformer it will not only reduce noise but also attenuate the signal. You could also use a direct box with passthrough on xlr, a bit overkill, or even use the radial brand of isolator which i use for connecting a laptop to a mixer. They also sell other types as well that I think would work well in this situation.

[@ShawnButts]

Ground loop isolator is pretty much a requirement when connecting equipment via analog audio. Having different power supplies has to be account for in the electrical paths. GL isolators is usually the easiest/cheapest solution. But, not always.

[@petertroxler5868]

To improve on this: use a stereo DI box (Behringer has one with 3,5 mm TRS input), run your signal through 2 balanced XLR cables and convert it back to unbalanced with a reamp (which quickly becomes an expensive solution). I have not found one with a stereo TRS output...

[@JrMcG]

Another +1 for a $10 ground loop isolator.

[@ac1320]

Unfortunately, GLI don't work with the RCP to camera setup. I've tried attenuators, GLI, both at same time, DI box, several power outlet setups. No luck.

[@AZisk]

Unfortunately just a passive DI box doesn’t work to remove the noise. You need an active converter to go from balanced to unbalanced. I use the ART Cleanbox to take care of this, which allows me to run any length balanced xlr cable to the box, then a short, unbalanced 3.5mm run through a passive isolator into the ATEM. Noise gone

[@ykhemani]

I hate dealing with with unbalanced audio. The nature of this space is noise -- it can be bad or worse, but it's never good. It's just a world fraught with tears. It would be amazing if the ATEM Mini and the Rodecaster Pro II got together and had a baby! While that may not happen, I would love to see Blackmagic add balanced audio inputs on the ATEM Mini line! I would also love to see RODE add more balanced outputs (mixes)! Thank you, Tom! Super grateful for what you do! Happy New Year!

[@tombuck]

Happy New Year to you too!

[@AZisk]

Yes, this is the root of the problem - Rode outputs balanced audio, but the ATEM doesn't have balanced audio inputs. I hope to see that change in the next version. Anyway, I solved this problem by using a separate little box that converts balanced to unbalanced, and now I have zero noise. I left a comment with a video link I made to describe the setup, but not sure if that will come through with youtube filters and all.

[@jessesng1970]

@@AZisk Send your audio via HDMI into one of the ATEM video channels to avoid the noise issues and then treat it as an audio-only channel. The only missing thing is the ability to control the audio delay, but you can set that on your Rodecaster Pro.

[@AZisk]

@@jessesng1970 camera preamps are usually pretty bad so you won’t get best sound that way. also, if you plan on streaming there will be a delay in audio going via hdmi, so you’ll still need to do some kind of separate monitoring solution. but this may work for some

[@laceybarratt]

Hey Tom! I’ve connected my rodecaster pro 2 into my atem mini pro mic 1 input to capture all my audio from my rodecaster and snag it into my atem. I used the Y cable you suggested and then bought a grounding box thinggo (that’s probably not helpful- I’m no audio tech LOL) and the grounding box balanced the signal (as you probably know rode is balanced and atem is unbalanced.) The box fixed that squeal/interference and I now have delicious audio and synced directly from my rodecaster to my atem. In case you haven’t found a solution yet! ✨

[@sergiofernandezgiraldo]

@@laceybarratt do you have a link or brand name you could share for the grounding box thinggo!? 🤣

[@joeykahng6219]

Always another great and honest video. I think a vast majority of us, have felt the frustrations with Audio and Video, but you were spot on with keeping it separated. Clean Audio is always something difficult to manage, especially not taking into account electromagnet and RF interferences that we can not see, smell, or taste in the air, but how each device can produce it's own EM field, causing all sorts of interference. I deal with this stuff everyday for work; I think it's what has made me loose my hair over it for the past 20 years. LOL Best solution; like you said. "KEEP IT SEPARATED!" 🙂 Yeah it's more work in POST, but man ya get clean audio, clean video and will be happier with the results in the end.

[@tombuck]

Thanks Joey! I know there are a few other semi-complex workarounds, but I always think of the person who just plunked down the cash for a RCP and I always hate telling them they need to spend more money on something else/add something else to the chain to get things working. Plus the internal audio sounds so much better! You can definitely hear it become much thinner sounding when it's run through a camera or ATEM.

[@joeykahng6219]

@@tombuck Agreed. I wanted to find an easier way to connect my audio direct for my motovlog, but Im finding the best audio quality is the internal recording from the Transmitter. It's fun running trial and errors. lol

[@offroad_explorer]

Or buy a Sony FX3 and let the camera handle both.

[@tacticalg6686]

​@@tombuck thank you for all the content you make. I just found your channel and subscribed. Do you mind helping me with a question? I have 3 Lumix G85 and an Atem mini. Do you think I can record in BOTH devices at the same time? SD card in the camera and SSD card in the ATEM mini pro? Thanks!

[@GordonGidluck]

For long cable runs I run the balanced outputs of the Rodecaster Pro using a TRS to XLR cable. Then run mic cable as long as is required. Then at the camera I use a transformer solution (as recommended by Rane in their Rane Notes). The nice thing about this solution is that it is passive (ie. requires no active electronics). No power is required like you would need with the Cleanbox Pro.

[@GordonGidluck]

I am using the Rane Balance Buddy (which are out of production), but any high-quality nickel transformer is recommended. This is the same type used in the better quality Direct Boxes.

[@grooveecard]

Tom Buck takes a highly complex situation with a bazillion variables and makes it digestible to understand and navigate. As always, nice freakin' work, man.

[@dukeadams]

That 3.5 jack from the OG RCP is the thing I miss most in the II. Ran all of my audio from that to a Canon XA11 for any stream I was doing.

[@av_prod]

I have found the solution to get the RCP2 sound to my FX3 with perfect output FOR ONLY 40$ on B&H. I used Movo Photo MV-RC100 3.5mm TRS Line-to-Microphone Attenuation Cable for DSLR/Mirrorless Cameras (12") and the Rode extension cable RODE VC1 3.5mm TRS Microphone Extension Cable for Cameras (10') with a simple ¼ to ⅛ TRS adapter plugged into a headphone output of the RCP2. Sound is exactly the same without any added noise.

[@TershBlissett]

Thank you for this video…I’ve been dealing with this for years too. I even rewired my office’s high and low voltage wiring bc I was told it was my high voltage wires introducing the noise. In the end, I just changed my setup to get rid of the noise.

[@KevinPaulBell]

Another great video Tom. A helpful hint. When syncing separately recorded audio and video, ensure both the audio recorder (in this case Rodecaster Pro 2) and video recorder both have 24bit 48khz selected. Rodecaster Pro is 24x48 by default, but some video recording software and even older cameras may record 16 or 24 bit x 44.1khz audio which, in my experience will, over 5,10,15 minutes of recording, start to throw your audio and video out of synch.

[@kissu_io]

Damn clutch info, something that only you and Gerald Undone would notice! 🤩

[@Yellowjacket1977]

Good point.

[@steve122151]

I worked in broadcast TV for a number of years and we had a project where we had noise when we needed to feed audio from one set of gear to another much as you're getting from the Rodecaster pro 2 to the camera. The only way we found to eliminate it was to use 100% oxygen free copper cable. That worked really well, but those cables were horribly expensive!

[@williamhouston559]

I Oxygen free copper has nothing to do with it. It's the shielding that makes the difference.

[@AndrewBreault]

Glad to know I am not the only one experiencing this annoying issue. I honestly thought I was just not setting the inputs and outputs to the correct line level, or that I was having some kind of ground issue. Looks like you just saved me 2 years of troubleshooting. :D Thanks!!!

[@bleunoirmobile]

Suggestion: try using a XLR cable with the Røde VXLR Pro adapter. The adapter will convert the balanced signal from the XLR cable to the 3,5mm cable that your camera need. Of course, try to keep the 3,5mm (male x male) cable as short as possible. The balanced (XLR) cable « should » help (!) to prevent any kind of noise (electronic, static, EMI, etc) to mix with the analog (3,5mm) connexion. Btw, I just love your video thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. Love also your humorous language. 😂 I used to be a creative at Apple some time ago. It shows in your presentation. 😊

[@mrfeather2005]

Was literally searching for a y cable this week to use with the RodecasterPro. Its needed for a very specific case and its good to know I'll be able to pick one up and not have to return it right away.

[@tombuck]

Hopefully it works for you!

[@LetsCelebrateTV]

From my experience, this problem is not just a problem between Atem and RCP. The real issue is that cameras and the ATEM are unbalanced signals with most mixers are balanced output. When you just do a cable conversion, but haven't resolved the balanced to unbalanced conversion. Without that conversion, you introduce noise. Something like the Art Cleanbox resolves this. You go out 1/4" to 1/4" into the the Cleanbox and then it has 3.5 out both balanced and unbalanced. Then all that is needed is make sure the Atem is set to line level and not mic level.

[@Ramesh_Muthusamy]

I have learnt so much. Disappointed that I can get great audio from rcp to cam. but I get it now. ty Tom

[@tombuck]

I really wish there was a simple/reliable way to do it well!

[@Shaneclarke11]

Tom! ive really loved all your videos ever since i wanted to create my podcast! youve really helped me buying certain equipment making my podcast great!! a year later and 10,000 downloads later. still going strong and loving it!! thank you. hopefully buzzsprout sent you that amazon card for me signing up with them!! happy new year!!

[@tombuck]

That's amazing! Congratulations on your podcast! Not that it's a competition, but I think 10K downloads puts you in the top 1 or 2% of all podcasts. Pretty cool!

[@kaislate]

I've seen comments here about ground loop isolators. This is definitely the way to go, however if starting programs on your computer cause noise this is almost entirely due to USB ground loops in which case you'll need a USB ground loop isolator. The different cables thing is interesting though. I bet if you you held the connectors next to each other you'd see that the plastic spacers in between the ring segments on the 3.5mm plug are slightly different widths on the the red vs the black cable. Unfortunately I have found that manufacturers don't really standardize this with regard to tolerances and some devices have tighter tolerance requirements for the TRS segments than others. The length issue is also definitely of concern as the longer the cable the more of an antenna it becomes. It would be interesting to see a phase difference test with the Rodecaster. Though narrowing down what is causing it would be a pain. Anything from lights, monitors, or even the device's own power cable can introduce this. Having said all of this... the cables seem to be around $10 cables. Order a Y cable from infinite cables or spec your own from performance audio and pick your cable, connectors, etc. Then, I would see if that helps. I'm not saying you need to go buy a $200 cable from audiosuperdupergalaxyprimequestcompany, but I've had great headache free $30 to $40 cables from Infinite cables, performance audio, and seismic audio.

[@LuisCardenasrompcbsa]

I tried using the Elgato splitter meant to record game chat by running it into the ATEM Mini. It introduced a ton of noise. My eventual solution was two usb mics, one into the ps5 and one into the Mac mini for my voice. I hooked up headphones to my monitors aux out, so I can hear in game audio while I still record audio from the HDMI feed. I used a cheap HDMI splitter out of the ps5, one cable goes straight into the monitor and the other goes into the ATEM.

[@tombuck]

This is a pretty sweet solution. It's so cool how many different ways there are to solve these problems.

[@cloudbase7799]

This is helpful, thank you! I plan to try recording audio and video separately and directly and editing/syncing in post OR connecting a Rodecaster Pro and ATEM Mini Pro by USB to a computer and recording on the computer. I was thinking of picking up a Radial Engineering Pro-Iso or J-Iso and some 1/4" TRS to XLR adapters or cables.

[@VedranDakic1]

@Tom Buck what works is - RCP L/R TRS/TRS cable to input of Radial J48 Stereo, and then XLRF L/R to 3.5 TRS works well. Very expensive setup, but it works. As many people already noticed - it's all about the fact that BMD decided to use unbalanced MIC inputs which makes them unusable in most situations (unless if you're using something like Wireless GO that's ment to do exactly that). So it's better to go through camera and merge video and audio via HDMI.

[@cwichura]

I suspect the core issue here is that the 3.5mm inputs on the camera and the ATEM are unbalanced inputs. That means they are more susceptible to RF and EMI. What's more, the monitor outs on the RCP are actually balanced outs (meaning they really want a TRS cable). While it is more expensive, the "correct" way to do this is use balanced cables out from the RCP (get short TRS to XLR adapter cables so you can then use however long XLRs you want -- avoids the issue you mention with reaching the camera if it's far away). Then use a transformer-based balanced to unbalanced converter box (Radial makes a few, for example) and then you will need your Y cable to go into the camera/ATEM. You want these closer to the camera as then you get the benefit of balanced transmission for the long distance part of the run. If the camera has XLR inputs (such as with an addon audio handle, or more professional cine cameras) then you are golden as that allows balanced all the way through. You just need the TRS to XLR adapter. Curtis Judd did a live show a couple months ago where he addressed this issue and demoed a couple of the Radial boxes and how they eliminated the noise. I don't recall the video title to go searching for, unfortunately.

[@PhotowalksTV]

I stumbled onto one of your videos the other night and loved it. How many KZbinrs use puns and put thought into their writing skills? Congrats.

[@tombuck]

Thank you! That's such a nice compliment to hear!

[@PabloMaldonadoAudiovisuales]

Thanks for this great video. I used a wireless mic (Synco) to send audio signal from a headphone output to the Atem M. E. I know it’s not the “correct” way to send audio but it was the only way to avoid that noise.

[@ac1320]

I have tried all sorts of cables, adapters, boxes, isolators, attenuators & power outlet setups. Best result was a slightly less buzzing. Rode- balanced xlr out would be great!

[@tombuck]

Agreed 100%!

[@DannyLiveClipz]

After Months trying to fix this issue (the buzz/hum) I found a great Solution! Connect an AUX cable from your Rodecaster to the ATEM mini! Problem solved! No hum or buzz AT ALL!!

[@DannyLiveClipz]

Also you’ll be able to control sound with the Rodecaster 👍

[@benjhaisch]

Random but I love watching your room slowly get upgraded over the years to be more and more specifically branded to your stuff.

[@tombuck]

Haha thank Benj! It was fun to try a bit of a different angle here too.

[@OERVLivestreamKanal]

Hey guys! First of all, thanks Tom, Curtis, learning a lot about sound for our livestreams and we are getting better :) Just to add my experience. I never had a hum or buzz but instead some crackling random noise on the cable connection from the RCP II to the ATEM Mini Extreme ISO. No matter which cable I used and the cleanbox did not filter that out. After some more experimenting and cable trial/error (the one that Tom suggested is not available in Europe) I succeeded using two mono 1/4" to XLR male cables (9ft) from the monitor out and a 2x female XLR to 3.5mm into the ATEM and there is absolutely no noise anymore not matter how hard I crank up the gain and the ATEM headphone volume to check. I can provide the link to the cable if it is acceptable in the comments here.

[@tombuck]

Definitely feel free to share the link! That's for offering some additional insight and resources. 🙏

[@OERVLivestreamKanal]

Not sure why but my posts disappear..

[@sun-eye]

I had the same problem in my business and used a ground loop isolator. It removed the hum and noise. Try that and see if that works. I had to connect that to the overhead speaker system to my grocery store. It was producing an ugly hum noise with the background music. It worked like a charm.

[@AngeliqueStidhum]

Thank you! I’ve been buying cables over and over including those black group loop noise things and it’s so frustrating! Thank you!

[@DanRaines]

I had a similar issue with noise from my RODECaster to my camera, but I fixed the issue with one of these cables: JOLGOO 3.5 mm TRS to 1/4" TRS Stereo Interconnect Cable, 6.35mm 1/4" Male to 3.5mm 1/8" Male TRS Stereo Audio Cable, 10 Feet. I have the audio gain on my camera set to 1 and since replacing the cable I was using with the JOLGOO, I have not had any more issues with noise. I appreciate the video! Thank you.

[@BabestationShow]

Are you able to link me to these please

[@FitLabb]

This is something I’ve needed for some time and really appreciate you making this video. Incredibly helpful!

[@tombuck]

Glad it was helpful!

[@aaronpk]

I've had pretty good luck with the little $10 ground loop isolators. I needed one to connect my Zoom F6 recorder into my Lumix camera otherwise I get the buzzing like you demonstrated. The little isolator does the trick nicely though.

[@laceybarratt]

Yes! Came here to suggest the ground loop too! Only my comment I didn’t call it that- I called it a ground box thinggo 😅😂 Your comment was much more accurate and succinct haha

[@mindunion]

Fantastic video. I've experienced the noise problem sending audio to the ATEM. It has been driving me crazy. I've ordered the Y cable you mention. I hope it solves the problem. Again, thanks for providing so much terrific detail. This should help my podcasting significantly.

[@tombuck]

I really hope it helps! Be sure to is the "Line" input setting on the ATEM for audio, I should've mentioned that in the video. 👍

[@mindunion]

Thanks, I'm aware of the line in setting. It drove me crazy for a while too until I found the setting. Thanks for the follow-up. @@tombuck

[@TimmyGsStuffAndStuff]

Ground loop isolator, I use one to balance noise between my touchmix and atem and works like a charm.

[@NickNimmin]

I always love the colors in your videos, they look so great!

[@tombuck]

Thanks Nick! 🙌

[@tomholling996]

Great video! The workaround I found for syncing the audio was to connect the RCP2 to my Mac via usb. Then I connected my camera (LUMIX GH5) via HDMI to an elgato camlink 4K which I connect to the Mac and record both audio and visual in OBS. It’s a lot of connections and does require investing in the camlink but it’s the most reliable solution I’ve found and saves transferring data from SD card to mac

[@JPTrevinoOfficial]

Had the same issue when trying to connect my Rodecaster Pro (I) to my ATEM Mini or Sony ZV-1 & do Live Streaming. After finding out from Rode that the outputs the Rodecaster (I) has are balanced - I ended up with some adapters / cables from Amazon and got it to work with no issues. Dual 1/4” balanced (Y) to single XLR then XLR to 3.5mm. No interference, No noise… Hope this helps.

[@nikrica1]

Great video - very informative. I was wondering if you can just record the sound through a microphone and the rødecaster and then sync it in post?

[@Irshaad88]

Hey. Great video, thanks. I agree wholeheartedly with keeping things separated, but if you're in a fix, the best results I have had were in using a Rode wireless Go or Go2 receiver into the Atem and connecting the transmitter to the RCP's line outs, using the same kind of cable you used in your demonstration, or even out of one of the headphone jacks (though that's not what one should do). I've had no issues with interference. It's another item you may not want to purchase, but in case some of you already have it, Give it a Go ;-)

[@tombuck]

This is a really smart solution to the extension cable issue- I'll have to give it a try!

[@youarethealgorithm]

I use an Atem mini Xtreme at work and when I am connecting a Podcaster I always use an audio mixer in between. So from the Podcaster, quarter inch to quarter inch, into an audio mixer, mono xlr out to 3.5mm into the Atem. This has worked for me with no hum or mosquitos in the line. It is an added piece of equipment yes, but Ive always used an audio mixer. For me it was adding the Podcaster into the lineup for different clients. Hopefully this helps.

[@leonardboyer7601]

Thanks Tom for your help and prompt response. I really appreciate it. The Yolobox Ultra is going to be my next purchase. Its very good how both companies support and listen to their customers.

[@radiomayapur]

I only record the Rodecaster audio in the ATEM for one reason. I use a clapboard to start all the video recordings. That audio snap of the clapboard goes into the Rodecaster, then into the ATEM on the audio track for the master video with all the ATEM camera cuts. I am also recording the Rodecaster audio in Hindenburg DAW. When I edit the video, I cut the Rodecaster audio in the Hindenburg DAW right at the snap of the clapboard, and then in Filmora, I align the Rodecaster snap perfectly with the snap in the ATEM video recording on its audio track. I then unlink the ATEM audio track and delete it, leaving only the edited and vastly superior sound of the Rodecaster audio modified for great sound in Hindenburg. Providing a perfect sound and perfect mouth movement to the audio track.

[@Tyler-Fulton]

I had seen a few of Tom’s videos over the years and just recently rediscovered his channel and I’m in love!

[@tombuck]

Thanks Tyler! Glad you're back!

[@JamesDailyTV]

I have a similar setup, but I use a Rode 3.5mm cable and run it from the front headphone port of the Rodecaster to the Mic 1 input of the Atem. In ATEM settings, adjust the sound setting from Microphone to Line. No interference problems and it sounds great. Set the headphone level at about 1/2 and then adjust the gain on the ATEM to compensate. None of my cameras capture sound if I'm using my Rode. Everything compiles in the ATEM and gets output to a single channel via USB if I'm going to my laptop or HDD.

[@danielschaller-digitalcrealab]

Lot's of travelling recently so need to catch-up with your last videos but that one is super cool as always... I saw in the comments that some are suggesting to go from the RCP to a DI Box and then to the ATEM. I think I have a DI box somewhere, I might try just for fun... but RCP to DI Box then XLR to Jack cable to go to the ATEM or the camera... just much easier to think in post at the end...

[@tombuck]

I'd be interested to know the results! I don't think it's a solution that would work for me since I don't really want another thing on the desk.

[@JamieHarveyJr]

I run into the camera as a “backup” but mostly for VERY fast post-production audio syncing in my DAW. It’s my “digital clap, if you will.

[@davetinoco]

I did a live stream yesterday and I just plugged in each device into a USB port and used the ATEM as a webcam, and changed the audio settings to the Rode Caster

[@MarcusJohnHenryBrown]

I solved the interference problem with a Palmer PLI 04. You might want to have a look at it as an option.

[@tombuck]

Thanks for the recommendation!

[@tacticalg6686]

Mr Marcus , would you be so kind to explain how can I connect the PLI-04 between the Rodecaster and the atem mini? Thanks for your input.

[@Wisdom_Collective]

Well... you are the most knowledgeable and have excellent-quality videos. My head is spinning but I will get my first streaming setup put together eventually. Love the play on words in your videos🤣

[@tombuck]

Haha, thank you Dylan! I'm happy the videos are helpful- hope your head stops swimming soon!

[@SxC97]

I had the same issue with the extension cables. I found the best option is to use a super short 3.5mm cable into a 3.5mm -> usb adapter (I used an Audio Technica one on Amazon), then use a usb extension cable to get the signal where you want it. It's more expensive (the 3.5mm to usb adapter was like $25), but it got rid of the noise. I'm assuming this is because the adapter switches the signal to digital which makes it less likely for the signal to attenuate by the time it gets through the long usb extension cable.

[@williamhouston559]

I would think that it's not signal attenuation differencess but the fact that the USB signal and cable is less susceptible to RFI and EMI.

[@liothomasart]

Lewitt solve that problem, Lewitt Connect 6 is just amazing for streaming overall. Plus the size is amazing. Nothing to take away from the Rodecaster pro.

[@tombuck]

I just got the Connect 6 myself and am really excited to experiment with it. Seems pretty awesome!

[@Gearyco]

I have a Canon 6D running video straight into my Mac with an Elgato CamLink and then both a shotgun mic and Shure SM57 running audio into the Mac via the Rodecaster. Ecamm Live Pro takes the video from the computer and audio from the Rodecaster flawlessly with no feedback issues, no clipping issues, etc.

[@jessesng1970]

My Solution for the interference and noise that gets into the audio cables from the any audio interface into the ATEM Mini was to AVOID using the mic input on the ATEM totally and use one of the HDMI inputs to route audio instead. To do that, what you do is that you run the RCP II audio from the DAW through the HDMI output of your computer into the ATEM and use that channel as an audio-only channel. The sound is clean and free of interference when you do that. Make sure that you have a GPU that can send HDMI audio that works. Not all GPUs seem to be able to do it and some Dual Port to HDMI adapters might not work. With the RCP II, you can adjust the audio delay to match your video if you are running the audio. The ATEM allows you to switch on multiple HDMI sources for audio and mix them even when you can only select one video source. Things have been very clean ever since I did that.

[@JorgeLG]

About the noise… try changing the input on settings on the Atem mini from mic to line

[@DaeminSong]

Have you tried to connect RCP through xlr-k3m? I know you use FX3, so I guess something didn't work out.. but been alway curious. Great video Tom.

[@tortohare2803]

I was wondering that as well…

[@andyklesing3343]

Thank you so much Tom for that video. I bought the exact same red cable since I saw it in your setup like 1.5 years ago. Last year I had that question in one of your live streams that I have that noise interference when the Rodecaster Pro (V1) is connected to my Atem Mini Extreme ISO. Now thank you for the solution 🙂

[@leonardboyer7601]

Hi Tom, please consider making the one video that no one else has done, making a video with the Rhodecaster Pro 2 and the Yolo Box Ultra together. Also if you have a 4 person podcast set up, are headphones necessary for all people?

[@tombuck]

I definitely need to experiment with the YB + RCP2! And as for headphones, it's totally personal preference. I would recommend it if possible.

[@cameraramblings4107]

Hi, have you thought about trying a DI box between them? That might work to isolate and also help match gain levels. Something with a pad will help. Anyways just a thought.

[@jaipo]

I had the same issues but needed to connect because I was live streaming, a cheap ground loop isolater cured the problem

[@CoffeeTalkandTechJohnRyan]

I beleive you are going from the rcp2 balanced outputs to the atem's unbalanced inputs which are 2 different levels. Never have done this but I'm pretty sure you have to use some sort of converter. HAPPY HOLIDAYS to you and Heather.

[@tombuck]

Ahh yes, that makes sense! Honestly, it's such a headache I just prefer to avoid the whole thing. Happy New Year!!

[@Yourguitarworkshop]

Hey Tom, I wonder if you could use an RCA to HDMI or AV to HDMI converter and just use the audio part and route the audio from the Rodecaster to the atem mini. You would lose one HDMI port but you would be able to use the Rodecaster preamps and have the signal go through the Camera preamps or through the mic input of the ATEM mini.

[@2BeBluntPodcast]

I just wish my rodecaster 2 didn't have the latency issue. I've been dying to use mine, but none of the updates seem to help. Thank god for my RCP1

[@KevinFieldLive]

For RCP to Atem. The lead issue is the difference between balanced audio and line output. The output of the RCP from the monitor is line output, not balanced, just left and right. So in the Atem Mini software. Go to gear setting and change the mic input chanel you're using from mic to line, no more buzz. On analogue mixers you would have had a button on the chanel that changed it from mic to line input or vice versa. And it just wouldn't have worked because you were adjusting a pin setting on the mixer, digital kit you're adjusting what a chip does, hence you get sound with a hum or buzz. As for direct to camera, the Sony (and all DSLR) internal pre-amps are not designed for professional audio, even the $5k video camera's are rubbish for audio... In my shoots I only use them for reference and sync later. However, in this case you're right to set the camera level to around 1 and control the level via the RCP, although again we're dealing with unbalanced line out for monitoring. Ground Loop isolation lead might help. It's usually a noise around the 11khz. Unfortunately most DSLRs and Sony in this case have a 3.5 jack input that probably goes back to the days of the Walkman mini disc... It's not professional audio output or input. Hence why I usually record audio separately and sync in post. I think you struck lucky with the lead you chose, but I wouldn't advise it as a high quality route. Keep up the great work.

[@JDW_BehindTheWoodshed]

Hello Tom! I'm glad we are making connections... 😂 You saw what I did!! 😂 Great tutorial! I am building up to launch "Behind the Woodshed". I was attempting to determine the best way to manage audio and video. It looks like RCP2 for audio and the Sony ZVE-10 for video: post editing in FCP. I'll put live casts on hold for now... As for cable options, what about a custom cable? 2 - 1 for each 1/4 inch and soldered into 1 - 3.5mm TRS? I suspect a tad bulky, but it may solve the issue for length. Cheers! Dave

[@tombuck]

Haha, thank you sir! Sounds like a great plan for a solid setup with the RCP2 and ZV-E10. I'm sure someone with the right skillset could make a custom cable. That'd be amazing and I'd definitely buy one! 😁

[@ProfFrancesFrei]

I have tried so many variations of this and am so grateful you have simplified it all. I was never able to get past some cables working and others not. Do you offer remote advising for home studios?

[@tombuck]

Thanks Frances! My schedule doesn't let me book appointments anymore, but I'm always happy to try and help via email.

[@TwithGazz]

An ISO transformer on each channel send from any mixer is all you need. Any cables will work for you. I use Samson MLI1. Best thing is the ML1 has a multi input XLR so you can send jack to jack or jack to xlr or whatever configuration fits the output on your mixer. Then run the mono jacks to 3.5mm jack out the other side of the ML1's to the ATEM Mini. Trust me. I found this solution years ago when I'd had enough of the ground loop issue with the ATEM mini 3.5mm mic socket. I even had the issue using balanced digital mixer outputs. Not sure what Blackmagic was thinking when they designed the audio input on the mini? But it's not great.

[@PeteBreen]

Great video Tom! I have both (RC Pro & ATEM) and haven't ever tried this due to all the potential pitfalls you cover. Love the Rode 'cans' BTW - still loving mine after all this time.

[@tombuck]

They’re the best headphones! I can’t even tell you how many hours I’ve used them for at this point 👍

[@photosbymd]

Great Review and Education. I have had this very same issue many times and I really find your answers to be much the same as my own! Excellent Video! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Keep up the good work!

[@tombuck]

Thanks so much! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too!

[@gerardobernesdominguez]

I learn a LOT with every video, i want to purchase a one to one class!

[@HomesickMac]

Great comparizons and walkthroughs Tom! I've used the Atem Mini Pro to record directly to an SSD and I really needed to tinker hard with the input levels. The ground rool of obtaining the highest input gain possible without peaking into reds has such small margins on the AtemMP that it's very difficult. Then the audio chain continues with the channel volume, and then the master output gain. I did manage OK but the RodeCaster Pro II (the one I''ve got) is so much easier to work with, as well as that they obviously worked hard on those preamps. I also own an Arturia Studio Fuse interface and that's a pro device, the difference is in the ”air” moved, and at the same time I'd used Arturia with large membrane condenser mics in a treated room so it's not really the same thing. RCP II is an amazing device and besides for livestreaming I also record internally a lot. Now, those cables… oh man, extensions are usually lower quality than the dedicated cables like the one you've found. Works great on its own but is short. My solution would be to buy Mogami or other cables and solder everything one needs. Buying individual components and then assembling the cables needed is the way to go.

[@Yellowjacket1977]

Good advice, thanks!

[@adam.foster]

Great video Tom! You explained it well. I’d love to hear your thoughts on how to achieve autotune with the Rodecaster Pro 2

[@tombuck]

That’s something a bit outside of my knowledge but it sounds like a really fun/interesting idea…

[@onocoffee]

I'm wondering if a higher grade cable would give better results. Perhaps you might contact Trew Audio, Location Sound or even Sound Speeds about a higher grade cable to use instead of the extension cable - it could even be a custom twin 1/4" to mini stereo.

[@tombuck]

I have Allen's XLR cable and it's incredible! Honestly, I hate running the RCP into anything, so this was mainly to try and answer the question for those asking since a lot of people DO like to do it, so my goal was to try and find a simple semi-universal solution that would hopefully be pretty accessible.

[@coraleestedile5061]

Hey Tom I’ve done the same thing but to get the distance I’ve used the rode wireless go to link the 3.5 to the camera

[@tombuck]

That's definitely a great idea!

[@orvet]

Fun and informative video, thanks Tom. I love keeping things separate. Best tool for the job etc. Admittedly, I’ve also “hidden” behind that approach when combining things have seemed to daunting. Over time, however, I’ve learned to embrace my separateness 😊 Does that keep me from doing the opposite? No no, it’s still fun to try.

[@TomRayo]

Rodecaster has a line output, Atem has a mic input. The line signal causes interference. Set Atem or camera to line input.

[@cameronfous]

Im connecting the 3.5mm to 6.5mm L/R from my Sony FX3 to the rodcaster II... Doesnt work its not picking up the audio on the camera. I have two rode casters and two fx3's ... Didnt work on either. Using a Ugreen cable

[@MarineX]

One of my favorite parts of my MixPre 3-II. Easily sending the signal to my camera. But I prefer internal recording.

[@tombuck]

The MixPre is such an awesome thing. I'm not surprised it makes this process simple.

[@joseannrobles367]

Really interesting video on different ways to record video and audio on the computer. You mentioned it would be ok if the rodecaster has a 3.5mm input which the duo now has. Have you made a new video trying this same thing but with the Rodecaster Duo?

[@jgsrecycling3658]

Hey Tom… love the vid and education. Keep them coming.

[@seanpaulross3963]

The cable you linked to is sold at 3:20 is sold out, and you posted this video 5 days ago! You must have made them get popular! Any other suggestions? It’s frustrating this $700 machine is reliant on a such an easy to get wrong patch as this cable to work with the ATEM, blackmagic didn’t do us any favors there.

[@sun-eye]

Well, I knew that was going to run out, too. I had the same problem in my business and used a ground loop isolator. It removed the hum/noise/interference noise. Try that and see if that works. I had to connect that to the overhead speaker system to my grocery store. It was producing an ugly hum noise with the background music. It worked like a charm.

[@jaipo]

Have you tried using a ground loop isolator on the 3.5mm jack cable , I use it on all my connections and it makes a massive difference - around #10 from amazon

[@johnhurlbut]

Tom, thanks for the video, gave me some stuff to think about. I'm starting a podcast that's also live streamed. Right now I have the setup you don't recommend. So I have the RCPII, the ATEM Mini Extreme ISO. I'm running 3 cameras into the ATEM - Sony A7iv, Sony A6400 and GoPro Hero 10 Black. I have the RCPII connected to the ATEM by 3.5mm to 1/4" split into the Monitor Outputs on the RCPII. I'm running 3 Sure SM7B mics Via XLR into the RCPII. The ATEM is connected via USB-C to my MacStudio and I use EVMUX to do the live streams. I like having everything running into the ATEM simply because it creates the Davinci Resolve project and I have all the audio and video in that one project. If I split out the Audio and Video, so I would remove the 3.5mm to 1/4" split to break the connection from the ATEM to the RCPII, then the Davinci Resolve Project would be audio-less and I'd just have to import the Audio file from the RCPII to sync it? I would also then connect the RCPII to USB on my Mac Studio so that EVMUX would see the RCPII as the Audio Source and the ATEM as the Video Source? Here's a link to one of my episodes if you want to see/hear how it sounds? kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnjLfomioN2Ja9k

[@ErikOstapenkoGamer]

@Chris Davis wow great ! I’m using Yolobox pro and Sony zve10 and Sony 6400 for vlogging and sport streaming . Using rode wireless go II . Thinking about to purchase the Sure SM7B and Rodecaster pro 2 for better audio quality. What about noise like Tom that’s told?

[@shawnr26]

Try using a hum eliminator. Even the one from Pyle works pretty well. I use it to get rid of interference coming from my Intel NUC into an audio interface then to the PA. Without the hum eliminator, I was getting the high pitched whine, which drove me and people nearby nuts. Once I added the hum eliminator, the noise was gone!

[@wishtribe]

If you go into the ATEM setup on your computer and change the input from mic to line, most Y cables will work fine.

[@RE-vc1hm]

You're phenomenal!! Thank you for this. Many headaches avoided... MANY

[@JorgeLG]

Hello Tom, I got for the first time the RodeCaster Pro… it was second hand but great condition and half price… I was thinking about how amazing it will be if we could use one pad to play a play list of music and I was hoping if you could tell them about it since you have direct contact with Rode. Thanks for everything you do.

[@tombuck]

I can definitely share my input, but it's also a good idea for you and any other customers to send requests to them too (either directly or via social media). They really do listen!

[@PiperBlush]

instead of changing cable did you set your audio pref to LINE ?

[@tombuck]

I should've mentioned it in the video, but yes 👍

[@richardsalsomano]

Good informative video. Have you tried switching the ATEM's audio input from mic in to line in?

[@puertoricoapie]

Hi Tom, I just found you in the KZbin Universe, thanks to your videos I just bought the Rode Caster Pro 2, and I wanted to know if it's normal for it to make an internal noise when you turn it on? thanks again 🙏

[@tombuck]

Hi! The RCP2 has a haptic engine inside (so if you want you can have it vibrate a little bit when you press a setting on the screen), and this makes a little "buzz" type sound when you first turn it on. If that's what you're hearing, it's totally normal and just means everything is working as it should 👍

[@puertoricoapie]

@@tombuck Thanks 🙏

[@FharishAhmedPortfolio]

You should make an episode on how to make our own cables. Soldering and everything, plus, then you could actually choose the actual cable you want.

[@tombuck]

I would definitely need to learn that first! I've done a bit of soldering on cables and it's pretty simple, but I've never made anything from scratch. I do have an audio cable that was hand made by Allen from @soundspeeds and it's amazing. Super clean and never gets any interference no matter what!

[@FharishAhmedPortfolio]

@@tombuck Sorry for the delayed reply, not exactly in the best of health right now. Either way, no, you should, I understand my OCD will eventually get the better of me, but, at least you could point me in the right direction. I am not that Savvy with electronics, but, I trust you. I think a whole new generation of KZbinrs/Content Creators, with literally no money, would love to learn it as well. Especially since, you know, different manufacturers make things differently. Anyways, again, sorry for the delayed response. Have an awesome New Year!

[@VictorVedmich]

Maybe you can share your settings on rodecaster 2 for your Sennheiser MKH 50? I think that can be a good idea for another video - how to configure your rodecaster for boom mic.

[@tombuck]

Great idea! my processing is really basic when using the MKH50 with the RCP2. I usually just stick with the basic condenser setting and that's about it 👍

[@MrCameraJunkie]

I bought that same VESA arm but I couldn't fit it with my current setup. My laptop stand, like you said is my active solution. maybe I should rethink my setup? 🧐🙃

[@tombuck]

If anything, I wish the arm were a bit longer. But I think your setup has a lot more gear in a much more compact space than mine. Maybe there's a way to mount an arm to a wall?

[@logicsstr8887]

i would love to see you do a review with the rodecaster pro 2 and yolobox

[@tombuck]

I've had good luck overall with the RCP2 on the YoloBox Pro 👍

[@markexploringnewstuff]

Consistently super information and production quality.

[@bobcat6653]

The 3.5mm plug and jack combination is not great for low noise at very low levels and should be avoided. For cables I stick with the brand name called Hosa, they are inexpensive and pretty good quality, by far not the best but I have no complaints.

[@willcarter7079]

Sounds like what you are experiencing is a grounding issue. Since the roadcaster is the Central point in all of your testing It is possible that the roadcaster has a grounding issue. I personally have never used a road caster but I've used other sound equipment that was powered without ground. Oftentimes sound equipment that use barrel plugs will also have a grounding pin on the back of the chassis. Try running a wire into the ground pin on your electrical outlet. Or It's also possible that the ground itself is the thing causing the problem. There are ground lifting plugs that you can buy inexpensively. Or you can take a pair of pliers and peel the ground pin off of your IEC cable.

[@Fortytwoflat]

I have an fx6 so it makes this whole thing even more complicated. I have the rode caster pro 2 and the iso stem sdi. And there just not a lot of hood options