Choosing a Rode Dynamic Microphone

Rode makes dynamic microphones for spoken-word work such as podcasts, streaming, voice-over and video calls. Some are XLR-only models, such as the PodMic and Procaster, which connect through an audio interface or mixer. Others are USB models, such as the PodMic USB, which plug straight into a computer. The right choice depends on how you will connect the mic, what gear you already own, and the room you record in. The lineup changes over time, so confirm current models and specifications on Rode's official product pages before buying.

Dynamic microphones generally pick up less distant room sound than condensers. That helps in untreated rooms, but only if the mic stays close to your mouth. If you sit back from the desk or move around, a dynamic mic may not be the best fit.

Before you start

Recording and calls run locally. The microphone is hardware, and your operating system and apps handle the audio, so no online service is needed for basic use. Rode's optional companion software, such as RØDE Central and UNIFY for supported USB models, also installs locally. Check the current terms to see whether it requires an account and what data it collects or uploads.

• Your connection path: a free USB port of the right type for a USB model, or an audio interface or mixer with an XLR input for an XLR model.
• The apps you will use, such as a video call app, recording software or streaming software. Each has its own input device setting.
• The sources of background noise in your room, such as fans, keyboards, traffic or other people.
• A way to keep the mic close and steady, such as a boom arm or desk stand. Check the model's mount type and included accessories in its specifications.
• Wired headphones, so you can monitor without the speakers feeding back into the mic.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Decide between USB and XLR

A USB model is the simplest option if you only need one mic on one computer: plug it in and select it as the input device. An XLR model makes sense if you already own an interface or mixer, plan to add more microphones, or want to upgrade the preamp later. Hybrid models such as the PodMic USB offer both USB and XLR outputs, so you can start on USB and move to an interface later.

2. Check gain requirements for XLR models

Dynamic microphones have low output, so the interface or mixer must supply enough clean gain. Compare the mic's sensitivity specification with the preamp gain specification of your interface. If your preamp runs out of gain or gets noisy near the top of its range, an inline mic preamp is a common fix. Dynamic mics do not need phantom power. Leave it off unless the mic's manual says otherwise.

3. Compare the features that matter to you

Look at the specifications for each model you are considering:
• Whether it has a headphone output for direct monitoring (relevant for USB models).
• Whether it has onboard processing that you can adjust in companion software.
• What pop filtering and internal shock mounting it includes.
• The connector types.
• Its weight, which matters if your boom arm has a load limit.
If a feature is not listed in the official specifications, do not assume the mic has it.

4. Connect the mic and select it as the input device

Before changing anything, note your current default devices so you can switch back. On Windows, open Settings > System > Sound and choose the microphone under Input. On macOS, open System Settings > Sound > Input (System Preferences on older versions). Then open each app you use and select the mic as its input device, because many apps ignore the system default. Set the output device to your headphones. With a USB mic that has a headphone jack, you can select the mic itself as the output device.

5. Set the input level

Position the mic as the manual recommends. The PodMic and Procaster are end-address microphones, so speak into the end of the mic, not the side. Speak at your normal volume and raise the gain until your voice registers clearly on the meter. Keep the loudest peaks well below clipping. Moving closer adds bass because of the proximity effect. Pick a distance you can keep consistently.

6. Match the sample rate

Call apps usually handle the sample rate automatically. For recording, set your project to a sample rate the mic or interface supports, and keep the system setting consistent with it. A mismatch can cause errors, crackling or pitch problems. On Windows, the device format is in the microphone's advanced properties. On macOS, it is in Audio MIDI Setup. Check the model's specification for the sample rates and bit depths it supports.

7. Handle firmware and software carefully

Update firmware or companion software only when a release fixes a problem you have or adds a feature you need. Read the release notes before updating, because rolling back may not be possible.

Check the output

Record a short sample in the app you will actually use and play it back on headphones. Listen for:
• A comfortable level with no clipping.
• Hum or hiss when you are silent.
• Background noise from the room.
• Popping on p and b sounds.
• Too much or too little bass, which depends on your distance from the mic.
For calls, use the app's built-in mic test or test call, if it has one. Call apps often apply their own noise suppression, echo cancellation and compression, so what other people hear can differ from your local recording. Check the app's audio settings if you want to change that processing.

Common problems and next steps

• XLR mic is too quiet: raise the interface gain, confirm you are on the correct input channel, and make sure you are speaking into the end of the mic. If the gain is at maximum and the level is still low, consider an inline preamp or an interface with more gain.
• Mic does not appear on the computer: reseat the cable, try another port, and avoid unpowered USB hubs. Check microphone permissions under Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone on Windows, or System Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone on macOS.
• The wrong mic is used in calls: select the Rode mic inside the app itself, not only in the system settings.
• You hear yourself twice or with a delay: turn off software monitoring in the app if you are already using the mic's or interface's direct monitoring.
• Too much background noise: move closer to the mic, lower the gain, and deal with the noise source before relying on noise suppression.
• Distorted sound: lower the input level and review any onboard processing settings in the companion software.
• Still unsure which model to buy: if you only need one mic on one computer, start with a USB or hybrid model. If you own an interface or plan to expand, an XLR model gives you more room to grow.