RODE AI-Micro - Record 2 Lavaliers to your Phone, Mac, or PC

[@curtisjudd]

NOTE: You only need the RODE apps to configure the settings on the AI-Micro. Once you've done that, you can record to any app which records audio. On iOS, for example, you can record with the native camera app.

[@EvanFotis]

So, can it function as a mic/ headphone splitter with a device's normal phone calling app? I ask as many times in live Skype calls with guests, tv channels use a phone call as audio source instead of Skype connection and only use the video from the latter.

[@DarkPa1adin]

any sync issue if you record video on your iPhone with this mic setup?

[@curtisjudd]

@@DarkPa1adin Not that I've noticed, unless you use a digital wireless system with a lot of latency (not a noticeable latency with the RODE wireless systems).

[@JeremiahBostwick]

I was kinda waiting for a full blown review Mr. Judd, but do you have any quick thoughts on the Rode lavalier II? Worth getting over the lavalier go or smart lav+? Is there a better

[@MoatasemAhmad]

Thank you very much! Can I record using the native camera app on android as well?

[@JohnnyintheDark]

Curtis looking like straight from the set of Equilibrium. Cool.

[@mrheng562]

I was waiting for some gun slinging action. 😂😂😂

[@curtisjudd]

🕵🏻‍♂️

[@LifeDIY]

Curtis, I love your videos. You explain things so clearly.

[@curtisjudd]

I appreciate that! Thanks so much🙏

[@GaryStockton]

I picked up one of these and really like using it. The different cables make it much more versatile than it's lightning-only predecessor. I think it could be very useful for podcasters who don't want to attract a lot of big microphone attention during a two-person coffee-shop interview. I'll be keeping this in my sound bag with a few lavs just for that use case. Great review Curtis. A Happy New Year to you and family 🙂

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Gary, good to hear your experience. Happy New Year to you!

[@alaneddy4575]

Really like the lighting/backround on this vid, Curtis. Great colorisation. You suit this look.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Alan.

[@toddb7948]

I picked up the AI-Micro for my 2013 MacBook Pro which does not have a combo microphone/headphone jack. This has allowed me to use a standard 3.5mm microphone as an external mic. It’s much easier to pack this in my bag rather than needing an audio interface like a Zoom or Sound Device. Great little interface!!

[@curtisjudd]

Glad it is working well for you, Todd. Happy recording!

[@mozinoz_digital]

Impressive review and response to ALL comments! -awesome channel, Curtis!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@malonecustomdesigns]

Fantastic video as usual! I really like this! Would be great for quick and dirty voice-overs while editing. I think it could have many uses, including using with a CD/Cassette player to transfer to digital recording!

[@curtisjudd]

That's a clever idea. Thanks for sharing, Jay.

[@MichaelFrazer]

That Rode Lavalier 2 sounds awesome.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@TechLineHD]

Hey, Curtis! Merry Christmas! What a background and nice outfit! Looking good!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Linus and Merry Christmas to you!

[@SuziAndOzi]

Great video! I would like to know if possible to listen video through headphones out during the playback of recorded video. Because originally when mic connected to lightning, iphone does not let you listen, you have to disconnect mic from lightning port.

[@tonik1222]

I know it's a non-standard use-case, but my primary use for this device is the direct monitoring (I need to pass mic signal from my right deaf side to my left working ear). So I wonder if a device (smartphone) needs to be connected during the direct monitoring? I understand that the AI-Micro gets its power thru the usb bus, so perhaps that's why it might require a device, but if the power is the only requirement, would it work with a power bank connected to its usb?

[@curtisjudd]

Not sure - probably best to check with RODE support.

[@tonik1222]

@@curtisjudd I got a response from Rode - it require a device (not just power bank)

[@cayman2010]

If I have 4 people to interview (one being myself) and three others - what's the setup for that with the wireless me devices? Would love some help with this specifically.

[@rapkaltech4624]

Been waiting for this long here to be reviewed Thanks

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@fredoverflow]

Does it work with TS microphones? Not TRRS, not TRS, just TS.

[@curtisjudd]

Unfortunately, I don't have one on hand to test. RODE Support should be able to answer that.

[@davidanderson8381]

I'm thinking a great back-up system or second recorder when when the 2 person shoot goes to 3 or 4. Thanks for the video Curtis.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@kurokid2441]

I've got a confused problem with F6. And I couldn't find any answer in the F6 course. Here it is: I was working on the internal recording from a YAMAHA digital mixing console last week...after finished performance, I happened to find that the file in SD card had been split into 2 pieces at 1:32:11...And the two files can not be merged since there's a loss in the split point... I tried to check out the F6 course...but unfortunately I can't...Such wired situation...

[@curtisjudd]

They should be mergable and if here is a gap, I’d contact Zoom support to get that sorted. Best wishes!

[@Ozpeter]

I played the section about stereo mics twice and indeed, you were careful to say that only self-powered stereo mics can be connected into channel 1 - stereo mics requiring plug-in power are not supported, for reasons I can't understand. (Almost) every audio recorder ever made supports such mics, but not this. Consequently, those hoping that binaural mics needing plug-in power could be connected directly were disappointed. You have to use a splitter lead to connect to channels 1 and 2 as if connecting two seperata mono mics, which is a clumsy arrangement even though it does work. It's also worth mentioning that this device works with the DJI Action 2 as a two channel audio interface (connected to its USB-C socket).

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for sharing your experience with this.

[@alaneddy4575]

Happy New Year Curtis!

[@curtisjudd]

Happy new year to you, Alan! 🎉

[@roderickdeleeuw2101]

Maybe a weird question: is there a reason to use this over a 3.5 mm splitter when only recording 1 person? I understand this is a DAC and allows for processing. But it’s also about 70 USD more expensive.

[@brockmannolaf7182]

Perfect test! Thanks Curtis, you are great!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for watching!

[@poiisondn]

Hi Curtis, I'm looking for a microphone or a set of microphones for a 2 person interview in a restaurant setting where the restaurant is open to all customers. What's the best way to capture audio? We tried using 2 lavalier mics (Rode Wireless Go II without the lavalier plug-in; the Rode Wireless Go II were clipped onto shirts) plugged into a camera but we're not sure if there's any other better method. We considered using a shotgun mic but steered away from it given we would need a person just to boom pole the shotgun mic. We've also considered small diaphragm mics but they might actually turn out worse than the Rode Wireless Go II. Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

Can the microphones be visible? (e.g., are you filming a narrative film?)

[@poiisondn]

@@curtisjudd The microphones can be visible. That's totally fine. We just want some cleaner audio and want the some decent available options.

[@curtisjudd]

@@poiisondn A dynamic microphone for each of the participants would be the best way to isolate their sound from the rest of the restaurant. On the less expensive end of the spectrum, something like a Shure SM58 or on the higher end, Electrovoice RE20. But you'll need a recorder or preamp which can supply plenty of clean gain for those to work well.

[@gaelluiz01]

And if I connect a low-impedance microphone that is not a lapel? Will it work?

[@curtisjudd]

As long as the mic supplies its own power, most will work.

[@siliaphotography5663]

Can you please mention which headphones you use with the ai micro?

[@curtisjudd]

Sony MDR7506

[@shaunmiddleto66]

Hi Curtis is it possible to use two rode wireless go 2 so 4 mics all together on a live stream yard ? So 4 people with 4 separate mics talking at once ?? I’m sure it’s possible but not certain before I order another 2 wireless go 2 ? I just need the yes or no hopefully it does 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, in theory. In practice, 4 channels can start to experience drop-outs if there's lots of other WiFi or other 2.4GHz traffic where you're recording/streaming.

[@ScottJWaldron]

Neat little device! Great video as always. :)

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@derickalbert]

Can it take stereo audio from a mixer?

[@curtisjudd]

Not without adapting the sound levels down to mic level. This is not really the right tool for that job.

[@LifeofGodChurch]

@curtis Judd. Thank you for this review. Is this device really helpful for those that already use the GO II?

[@curtisjudd]

I suppose if you want to bring the GO II into your computer, or especially if you want to use 2 GO II kits and bring 4 channels of audio into your computer it could be useful.

[@cward2986]

Can I use this device, together with Rode Connect/Central to DSP my Rode NTH-100M headset for Zoom meetings while traveling?

[@curtisjudd]

I don’t know. Great question for RODE support.

[@shaunmiddleto66]

Hi Curtis I bought another set of Rode wireless go 2 and obviously ordered the Rode Ai micro,but with everything I have bought including the TRS TO TRRS for some reason I can’t get all 4 mics working together on my iPhone 13 pro max ?? Have I got to do something first ? I’ve updated all the apps done everything what is required,but the Ai micro only picks up one set of wireless go 2 mics when everything is connected ?? Any help much appreciated? Could it be a setting or anything like that I’ve tried most things I’m just hoping it’s something silly and I can get them all working ​kind regards Shaun

[@curtisjudd]

I only have one here so I don't have a way to test using two. Probably best to contact RODE support. Best wishes!

[@djsynced7625]

Great video! I had one question: - Can we screen record and record external audio to an iPhone using the RODE AI Micro USB?

[@curtisjudd]

Haven’t tried that, but should work.

[@pauldixon2637]

Does anyone use this with a second dongle to split the lightning output from a phone into two lightning females so that the phone can be charged/powered whilst using the two microphone and headphone sockets on the A1-Micro?

[@curtisjudd]

I haven’t, no.

[@AG-mo9zs]

can you connect it to a zoom h1n digital recorder?

[@curtisjudd]

No, unfortunately not.

[@AG-mo9zs]

@@curtisjudd Thank you for your answer. Any other solution that you know of maybe to connect 2 mics to the zoom recorder?

[@curtisjudd]

@@AG-mo9zs Unfortunately, no, that isn't a type of thing I've tried before. Sorry about that.

[@Bavary1]

i need advice from expert person like you , can i use rode nt5 with goxlr ??? or i need to buy another different phantom power ?? please answer

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, they should work nicely together.

[@Bavary1]

@@curtisjudd thanks alot , last question how much gain need to work good ?

[@curtisjudd]

@@Bavary1 I'm not sure. Just adjust the gain up while you're talking until the meters top out around -10 to -12dB.

[@UnauthorizedCreations]

Will this interface work with the black magic camera app

[@curtisjudd]

It should

[@UnauthorizedCreations]

@@curtisjudd it did and it worked beautifully

[@anyuisbjoern]

This Røde AI Micro vs. the Zoom H1N? Which small-scale-pocket-recording-device do you prefer?

[@curtisjudd]

Probably the RODE, but it depends on what you're recording. For nature, ambience, or anything else where you need a stereo recording, the H1n. For two people speaking, the RODE.

[@NimrodAUS]

Does this work independent of the rode app once connected say for recording audio in video or voice memos?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes

[@IncurableInsanity]

hi, can this be powered by a powerbank and used to monitor live audio from the mics.(wireless go 2). i have a camera without headfone jack and use zoom h1n for live audio monitoring. Thinking whether this can replace the h1n in that use case scenario. thanks

[@curtisjudd]

I’m not sure and I’d be afraid to plug mine in to a power bank to find out. Probably best to contact RODE support and see what they say.

[@MichaelStoneham]

This is for people needing spoken Audio. Is there a similar small mini interface for musicians to record an instrument and vocals.

[@curtisjudd]

IKMultimedia has a few iRig models which are more oriented for musicians.

[@mattgray9297]

Thanks for the detailed overview!

[@curtisjudd]

You bet, thanks for stopping by!

[@harpreetsinghmoga]

Inbuilt eco,reverb ?

[@curtisjudd]

No.

[@harpreetsinghmoga]

Thanks Sir.

[@harpreetsinghmoga]

Sir,Plz Suggest me any mixer for mobile with eco,reverb in budget.

[@curtisjudd]

@@harpreetsinghmoga I'm sorry, I don't have experience with any sub $100 mixers with reverb.

[@JogieGlenMait16]

Can you split the headphone out to accommodate two monitoring cans?

[@curtisjudd]

I didn't try, but technically, it should work with a splitter. I'd be careful to use low impedance headphones as this is not the strongest headphone amp.

[@hatenakiben]

Hi Can I use my 3.5mm jack port on my galaxy s10 for this rode ai micro? Or it is usb-c only? I'm considering to use two vidomic go II in my galaxy s10 but I need to be able to plug it into my jack since I need to use power bank on my phone in exact same time

[@curtisjudd]

Unfortunately, no.

[@markshirley01]

Im trying to figure out if this will let me connect my Google Pixel 6 with my Rode filmaker kit. My Pixel 6 has a usbc and no headphone jack like most new android phones.

[@curtisjudd]

Probably best to contact RODE support to confirm.

[@markshirley01]

@@curtisjudd they have just confirmed that it will connect - great news as I like the fact the filmaker takes batteries as I may only use the unit 2-3 times a year. The new intergrated units batteries would probably have become less efficient with my usage

[@Ozpeter]

For anyone wanting something like this but with XLR combo jacks and other upmarket features, the iRig Pro Duo I/O device is worth a look - but of course it's more expensive.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Peter. And bigger.

[@keith3069]

Hi is this audio interface support asio driver? I want to use this audio interface for daw because windows onboard sound card is too much latency

[@curtisjudd]

It does not need an ASIO driver because it only has to input channels and two output channels. It is a class compliant USB audio device which means it does not need a driver of any sort.

[@chriscrow9652]

Can this be used for live music streaming?

[@curtisjudd]

Sure.

[@NewYorkerPEACE]

would this be a Tentacle track E solution for monitoring sound in real time? many thanks

[@curtisjudd]

I'm trying to imagine how that would work...Not quite seeing it.

[@Podcastage]

The iPhone 12-Pro-Max-Mega-Large-Big is the best iPhone.

[@creatorsvillage]

Clearly.

[@Steveoaudioandstuff]

😂

[@curtisjudd]

This review is really about that. So glad you picked up on the nuance! You are an incredibly sensitive viewer which is why I've always respected you and your work.

[@Podcastage]

@@curtisjudd And you only review the best. It's why I appreciate everything you do. =)

[@DarkPa1adin]

13 Pro Max gets my vote :) I am waiting for USB C iPhone before I jump to iPhone from android!

[@RizwanPervez]

can we use rode video mic NTG with this?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes

[@RizwanPervez]

@@curtisjudd does this improve audio quality as well? I mean if we use rode ai-micro with rode videomic ntg we will get better audio recording quality?

[@curtisjudd]

@@RizwanPervez depends on what you were feeding the audio to before addin the AI-micro. Might be a tiny bit less self noise.

[@RizwanPervez]

@@curtisjudd I just want to use rode videomic ntg with my iPhone. Will ai-micro make any improvements? Or using the mic directly with iPhone without ai-micro will create the same audio quality

[@curtisjudd]

@@RizwanPervez I doubt that it will improve the quality, in that case. I would just connect the mic directly to your phone.

[@bryanbarajasBB]

I got mines a while back. Your post editing sounds great!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Bryan.

[@叶叶逸峥]

Does it provides a plugin power of lav like 6061. and also is it possible to monitor a solo track

[@curtisjudd]

It does supply plugin power, yes. It does NOT allow you to solo one of the inputs.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

No joke... well a little.. I have recently started putting together a quick and dirty camera setup. An iPhone 12 mini, tiny, micro, ultra little. I wanted to run two mics. The rode videomic ntg and my wireless go with my rode lavalier. I was considering just using the Rode sc11 cable. But now that I think of it that would just record both devices to the same track in post. This just may be the ticket so I can have multiple track options in post. Plus I can monitor the audio. Hmmmmm 🤔 Thank you sir! -Will

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@michaelpoczynek]

Thanks, Curtis. Cute device. Have a great day, always nice to see you! 😀

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Michael, happy new year!

[@AllenCavedo]

If you plug in an Apple set of wired TRRS EarPods does the built-in mic work and do you hear any audio in the EarPods?

[@curtisjudd]

I’ll check next time I pull this out. My hypothesis is it’ll work as a mic but you won’t hear anything.

[@Kroess]

Recording from the EarPods' mic works, but you can't hear any audio.

[@curtisjudd]

@@Kroess Confirmed.

[@Rosa_pantern]

Hey I don’t know if this is the rigth place but I need something that can record in the 40-60kilohertz range (dog hearing range) basically I wanna see if my neighbour is using some kind of dog whistle or some ultrasounds. Any tips for the best approach?

[@curtisjudd]

The only mic I know of which can record up to 50kHz is the Earthworks Audio M50. It is not cheap and would also require and audio interface or recorder with XLR inputs.

[@Rosa_pantern]

@@curtisjudd thanks for the answer :)

[@jacobnussbaum2309]

I HAVE BEEN LOOKING FOR SOMETHING LIKE THIS FOR SO LONG

[@curtisjudd]

You found it!

[@milesian1]

Thanks for this nice introduction and overview, Curtis. I can't seem to find this in stock anywhere right now. Anyone have any luck?

[@curtisjudd]

Hmm, no, seems to be coming soon where I look.

[@jhowie]

Hi, I'm just wondering if i could connect a remote caller on Mic2, using a trrs to trrs cable if it works or if anyone has tried it?

[@curtisjudd]

Should work with a second phone, yes. BUT, how are you going to hear the remote caller? You’ll probably need a custom cable/adapter.

[@jhowie]

@@curtisjudd that's what i'm worried about but thanks for responding. 😊

[@curtisjudd]

@@jhowie In short, I don’t think this is the right device for the job.

[@MM-oh3zs]

Can you record calls with it ???

[@curtisjudd]

Hmm...no, you need an app to record calls.

[@MM-oh3zs]

@@curtisjudd Yes I am looking for a device and not an app as I want to use it on both phones whenever I need it (android/ios).

[@MM-oh3zs]

@@curtisjudd Again, I do not care about the apps LOL. If you want to use an app, go ahead. I am using an USB device that can act as audio mic/output and record. There are some devices on the market like that but not many reviews. I cannot take an app between multiple devices (I am using Grandstream Android, Android phone, iOS, tablets, PC and mac). Show me the app that can do that ;)

[@curtisjudd]

@@MM-oh3zs I'm sorry, I don't know anything about the device you're using and whether this will work with it. Probably best to contact RODE support to confirm. Best wishes and happy recording!

[@DavidBrackett385]

Interesting. Would this power a dynamic mic via xlr to 3.5 mm ? I wonder if it’s got enough to handle an sm58

[@curtisjudd]

No, not enough gain.

[@DavidBrackett385]

@@curtisjudd thank you for saving me from adding to my Amazon account balance 😂

[@AlexTseitlin]

I used a lot a previous version . This seams the right upgrade

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@rumial-afghani4589]

Hi Curtis! may i ask you , i was wondering if i could use MV7 or any dynamic mic with XLR to 3.5mm TRS cable to this AI Micro? what is the trade off here, just wonder if its even worth trying :) please tell me what do you think, or any other pros kindly appreciate your feedback :)

[@curtisjudd]

I. haven't tried it, but I'm highly skeptical that it would work well. Dynamic microphones need a lot more gain that this can provide.

[@rumial-afghani4589]

@@curtisjudd Well said curtiss, just curious since i see the specs and it said provide 24b, soo its not enough ya, anyway really appreciate your feedback, cant wait to see more audio interface content in your channel, please keep educating us :)

A really nice piece of kit.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@ToddWhirley]

1) Any idea what the plug-in power range is on it? 2) Wondering what max ohm headphones will work with it.

[@curtisjudd]

1) No, not listed in the specs 2) it drove my 48 ohm Beyerdynamic headphones comfortably at about 2/3 volume setting. If I had to guess, you’d want to work with 100ohm or lower headphones.

[@nickyoutube6094]

Plug in power measures 2.8 volts.

[@soetanoluwasegun8541]

Pls how can I get this

[@curtisjudd]

Link is in the description.

[@robnewton4930]

Hi Curtis, would a Rode VideoMicro mic connected to the A1Micro to an Ipad work? cheers - Rob

[@curtisjudd]

I haven't specifically tested that combination but I would expect it would work. You might contact RODE support if you want to be 100% certain. Best wishes!

[@DoronBond]

@2:05 What iPhone camera app were you using to record this episode, which sound superb by the way.

[@curtisjudd]

The native iOS app 👍

[@DoronBond]

@@curtisjudd Nice! You afterwards synced it up in FCPX correct?

[@curtisjudd]

@@DoronBond Yes.

[@binoykv]

Nice review , shall i use this unit for zoom calls / mobile calls ?..thanks

[@curtisjudd]

Hmm...you could.

[@mohamedeltaleb]

Amazing video.. thanks Curtis 👍🏻

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Mohamed!

[@AP_LSR]

Can I record 4 people in Al-Micro using 2 wireless go2?

[@curtisjudd]

In theory, yes, but the phone or computer still only records two independent tracks so they’ll be pre-mixed.

[@alexmerino6173]

Can I use this while on Zoom?

[@curtisjudd]

In theory, yes, but I haven't specifically tested that.

[@RebeccaFinch8]

Hi Curtis! Helpful video! Was wondering if it will pick up two of the same mic as separate devices? Often when you plug two of the same mic straight into a mac, it thinks that they're both one device. Do you think if I used two of the same mic with the AI Micro it would pick them up as separate devices? Thanks!

[@Giorginho]

Would this work with Atem Mini

[@curtisjudd]

No, the output is usb or lightning.

[@MySouLisBlue]

is mac/pc recognize it as an audio interface / audio card ? i mean with audio /video editing software (no Rode soft)

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, the OSes recognize it as an audio interface.

[@guyattpark]

@@curtisjudd I note, however, that on at least 4 sessions when I've used the AI in Zoom calls as a 'live' mic input interface the PC simply loses control of the audio input levels and they flatline at 100%??? This has been both annoying and frustrating given my long wait for such a portable device. I have stopped using it and gone back to my Mixpre 6.

[@patrickpaganini]

@@guyattpark Interesting!

[@patrickpaganini]

@@guyattpark I know the old interface SC6-L claimed to also work with any app, but it didn't work with a heap, including wechat and whatsapp.

[@DarkPa1adin]

does it come with a Lavalier? or do I have to buy it separately?

[@curtisjudd]

The lavalier is separate.

[@mcandelacom]

Any chance you could compare Rode Wireless Go vs DJI mic? I would love to hear your thoughts

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks for the request. I don't have the DJI mic but will keep open the possibility.

[@antisolovey828]

Great invention!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@anyuisbjoern]

One Question: If KZbin target-loudness is -14 LUFS why not normalizing to -14?

[@curtisjudd]

The target seems to have been decided based on loudness for music, just like for Spotify. For popular music, that works nicely. for videos that consist mainly of spoken word audio, I find -14 LUFS is too compressed sounding so I prefer to generally target -16 or -17 LUFS. In the case of reviews of audio gear, I usually target -23 LUFS because that usually does not require any compression or limiting and I want people to be able to hear how the product records audio without any sort of post processing. If I were to do a bunch of post processing, I don't think it would represent what you get out of the box very well. I hope that makes sense and thanks for the question!

[@anyuisbjoern]

@@curtisjudd Thank you for this great answer! It’s very rich in information which help me learn! Big Thanks and all the best for you and your loved ones for the next year!!!

[@onocoffee]

Curtis - A couple of Qs: 1)@3:13 when you have the WirelessGO2 and Video Mic plugged in, does that mean you can record (an effective) three channels of audio (L&R on WG2 and mono VideoMic)? 2) Does the compatibility with apps mean that the audio can be used in Instagram (i.e. for IG Livestreams)? and 3)There's a noticeable difference between the audio of the Real World Sample and the narration - how were they setup differently? Great video. Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi onocoffee, no, you're just recording 2 mono tracks with that scenario. You could set the wireless GO II to merged mode and get those two merged into a mono track. 2) Yes, at least on iOS. Things can be a bit more nuanced on Android where the specific app needs to have the ability to select a USB microphone vs the phone's in-built microphone. 3) I used a bit of EQ and a high pass filter to clean things up a touch.

[@onocoffee]

@@curtisjudd Thanks Curtis!

[@AlexTseitlin]

Very cool and useful device

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@valis1680]

Hello Curtis, Thanks for this video. Since you can connect those lavalier mics with your phone directly I would have been very interested in finding out about the added benefit with respect to the noise floor (i.e. lavalliers without audio device)? Does the device make a substantial difference?

[@PeterAlanJohnson]

You only get mono mic input via the Apple lightning adapter on an iPhone, don’t you?

[@curtisjudd]

My sense is that the microphones produce the majority of the self-noise.

[@curtisjudd]

Actually, 2 channels via lightning. That’s the main thing that makes this special.

[@GregCorson]

Great content as always! I am wondering about 3.5 mm interfaces like this and XLR ones. I have some of each type of mic and I've noticed that most recorders/computer interfaces seem to have one or the other type of input but not both. What I'm wondering is if there is any downside to getting something with XLR inputs and then using a 3.5mm to XLR adapter for the mics with that kind of cable? Some of my 3.5 mics are self powered while others need plug-in power. Also wondering what you would consider some good all-rounder devices that support timecode, can record 2-3 mics in the field and also work as a live interface to a PC for live streaming.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Greg, Yes, you'll just need some quality 3.5mm to XLR adapters. I'd have a look at the RODE VXLR+ which should work with all of your 3.5mm microphones. A Sound Devices MixPre or Zoom F6 should work.

[@oliverchen2614]

Hi Judd, thank you so much for the video, educated me a lot. I would like to ask a question about loudness normalization, I searched quite a few sources that mention a target value of -14 LUFS, I would like to ask you the reason for choosing -23 LUFS in this video. Also, can you recommend a LUFS value to use for uploading youtube videos. Thanks again!

[@curtisjudd]

These two videos should help clarify: Loudness vs Volume: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pIDdi357jK9orc0 How I loudness. normalize: kzbin.info/www/bejne/onmxmat9pM95iLc

[@gummoman]

Hi, i love your channel Curtis. What do you thing about the Tascam Portacapture X8?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Kois. I haven't tried it yet, but hoping to get a copy for review later this month.

[@StarWarsJay]

Hi Curtis. I own a Rode VideoMicro mic (no lavaliers). Will this work with that mic?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, should work with the AI Micro.

[@StarWarsJay]

@@curtisjudd thanks man.

[@GustaVe_CR]

Looks great! Can you record other devices than mics (a sampler, for example) using one (or both) of the 3.5mm inputs?

[@curtisjudd]

These are mic level inputs so if you can send the equivalent of a mic level from your sampler, then it should work.

[@PaulKwitekmusic]

I am wondering if an output of a sampler can go low enough to attenuate the signal , I would like to purchase this interface the only thing that is stopping me is if its actually going to work with samplers synthesizers . Does rode have some sort of a cable that attentuates line level signals .. ?

[@curtisjudd]

@@PaulKwitekmusic No, but there are attenuator cables over at B&H. Should do the job.

[@omniscope7]

Thank you for the video. Nice to know a compact interface is now available from a reputed brand. However, just curious, this can't support condenser mics needing phantom power does it?

[@curtisjudd]

Correct, no phantom power.

[@PeterAlanJohnson]

@@curtisjudd It does support the 5v or so that is needed to power most lav mics, I assume? (This requirement is the reason you can’t just plug a lav into a typical Focusrite-type interface using a ¼ Jack adaptor, you need a step-down 48v->5v adaptor from the XLR socket)

[@MikeNovelli]

2 channel? Stereo? Multi-track?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, can be configured to what they call merged or split.

[@RobertShaverOfAustin]

Great review. Does the RODE AI-Micro provide plugin power to those mics that require it?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes.

[@nickyoutube6094]

No. It provides plug in power but only to the left side of each mic socket. This is fine if you are using 2 separate mono mics as in this review. However it will not work with a stereo mic which requires plug in power. It will only work with a stereo mic which is self powered.

[@RobertShaverOfAustin]

@@nickyoutube6094 Thanks for the followup. That's good info.

[@emanuelecorti9947]

Hello Curtis! Love your channel! I would like to ask you if you had the chance to test or try the new Saramonic uwmic9s kit 2 and what is your opinion about it. I am looking for a reliable UHF wireless system to use in some low-budget short film production, considering that my budget is around $500. Thank you very much!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Emanuele, I have not tried it. I tried the original version and it did not work well for me, but haven't tried the new version.

[@WhippyWhipGaming]

is the real time monitoring truly zero latency?

[@curtisjudd]

When set to that mode is is playing from the AI and not waiting for the return audio from the phone or computer. I don’t know whether it was routing the audio through the converter first or not, but for spoken word recording, it didn’t have that annoying 1/2 second latency type of experience.

[@JonnyZhu]

An excellent alternative to the Rode SC6-L

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, a nice update.

[@KristianValdini]

@@curtisjudd Just picked one up today after seeing this. (had the SC6-L previously). Keen to see how the post effects measure up - the audio within this video is incredible for such an accessible set of kits, if we hit 50% of this quality I would be happy!

[@curtisjudd]

@@KristianValdini I hope it works well for you. Happy recording!

[@MegaBalanel]

What about live usage? Isn't it a little on the silent side of the road, even with all settings maxed out? For me it was just unusable in live. Stock iphone handsfree is amazing compared with this interface...

[@curtisjudd]

Interesting. I don’t use it for live sound reinforcement.

[@AlbertVicol]

Is it just me that could see this one connected to the camera offering you the ability to monitor sound? Does it connect to a camera ? Cause that would be awesome!

[@LennertK]

Maybe plugging the 3.5mm monitoring jack into the mic input on the camera could work (if the AI-Micro still works while using an external power source) but I highly doubt a camera would be able to connect a usb audio device and use that as the audio source. Also there are better on-camera mixers with more control if all you need is mixing/monitoring with no ADC or interface capabilities, and most mid to high-end cameras have monitor outputs

[@curtisjudd]

No, not made for that and I don't see an easy way to make that work. but good on you for thinking outside the box!

[@AlbertVicol]

@@curtisjudd Røde should maybe update it and offer an update or something. I am pretty sure many looking for something like this. For me honestly to have an audio splitter (ntg+wireless go)and monitoring, that is a big win !

[@PNJ452]

Awesome background. Is it a croma or a light game?

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks, it is an Amaran 100d with the Aputure Spotlight Mount and a gobo. It is not a chroma key and I haven't heard the term light game so I'm not familiar with that.

[@PNJ452]

@@curtisjudd Thanks and sorry about my English :)😅. Btw, do you offer private consultancy for small video and audio set-ups?

[@curtisjudd]

@@PNJ452 No worries at all! I wish I could consult, but alas, my schedule does not currently allow it.

[@PNJ452]

@@curtisjudd Understandable! Could you please refer to any of your videos to acomplish similar lighting and visual appearance than the video above? Thanks in advance and congratulations!!!

[@curtisjudd]

@@PNJ452 Here's my video covering the Spotlight Mount: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nl6olaSCpcylpKc

[@umbertoaguiar]

Hello Judd. Thanks for your reviews. I've watched many of them and learned a lot. Thanks for being so generous in sharing your experience and knowledge. I've contacted Rode but they replied to a question I didn't ask... It happens. As for Deity, they will not deal with customers who buy their products from Amazon such as myself. So I thought about you and have a question. I normally write too much so I will try to be brief: I am shooting news with my iPhone 13 Pro. I really need a wireless system which allows me to connect my phone to a XLR transmitter so the reporter can have a microphone to do interviews in the street etc. I have Rode reporter, which I don't like so much, and Sennheiser MD46 , which I really like. I tried several wireless sets for iPhone. I really liked the Deity pocket wireless because their XLR plug on transmitter is clearly better than the ones from Godox , Mackey, Saramonic and Comica. Godox and Rode have a handheld adapter for their little box/transmitter but they are no good to me as there is too much handling noise and some more conservative reporters would think that I am handing them a toy. But the Deity pocket wireless system has a very serious flaw: The receiver doesn't have a port for a headphone ! And they say their system is compatible with smartphones! It's not. Not if you are any serious about your job and cares to monitor the audio being recorded. Anyway, a fellow cameraman told me about this Rode AI interface. I bought it, tested it with a headphone and at first I thought that my problems were solved. But they are not. So it happens that the sound I hear on the headphone is much louder than the sound that is actually recorded to my iPhone. This Rode interface reduces the sound volume so much that is unusable for broadcast purposes. Unless I boost the gain considerably. I did some tests and I would need to use +30 dB in the Deity XLR transmitter in order to get a strong, loud audio. I am no sound expert but I simply don't like the idea of artificial gains. So here is my question: How bad would be, in terms of audio quality, if I use the Deity XLR transmitter to boost the audio to +30 dB? Could you please let me know? I am sorry. It is a long comment again 💤. But I have a second question. The Mackey XLR plug on transmitter is very basic but it does transmit a louder audio than the Deity when connected to a phone via Rode interface. The receiver of the Mackey, as all other receivers I've seen, has a headphone port so no need of Rode interface. I like the Mackey. It comes in a neat case, like the Deity, but they obviously care more about their customers. Mackey has an owner manual, for example, which is a rarity as it is very detailed, unlike most manuals today and, amazingly enough , they use a decent font size so I can read the manual without the need of a magnifier... Anyway, this is the second question: If you had to choose between the Deity Pocket wireless set with the Deity XLR plug on transmitter and the Mackey set with XLR plug on transmitter which one would you choose? I have both and am about to send one of them back but don't really know which one. I like the Mackey set. I saw Mackey on KZbin and he looked like Santa Claus. And, as I said before, they clearly care about their customers (I know Mackey is not the owner anymore but I guess his spirit, let's say, is still present at Mackey). But the Deity transmitter is so much better! Then again, how good is that if I have to boost the audio 30 db? I hope you will have the time to go through my long message and answer my two questions. 🤞

[@curtisjudd]

1) probably pretty noisy. I’d test before I’d rely on that.

[@curtisjudd]

2) I haven’t used either of those so I can’t say. Sorry about that.

[@RustyTube]

Sounds good, actually.

[@curtisjudd]

👂

[@TonyBabarino]

Curtis works part-time for the CIA Black Ops division for audio eaves dropping; that's why he's in black. He forgot to change before recording this video. See? He's been helping to keep his viewers safe from the villains of light-and-sound all over the world!

[@curtisjudd]

🕵🏻‍♂️

[@TheUnMarketingGroup]

Lookin' very sharp Curtis! I hear a substantial amount of hiss in both your two-mic interview setup and also your on-camera/vo dialog. Given they're different rooms and recording scenarios, is that hiss the self noise from the interface, the mics or a combination of both? Would using a cos 11 reduce that hiss?

[@curtisjudd]

Probably from both, would need to do further tests. But if one is truly concerned about self noise, I’d probably recommend the much more expensive DPA product like this.