Quick Start Guide to The RODE Wireless Pros (2023)

I’m going to cover step by step what you need to do when you first get your wireless go pros, and setting them up for your first shoot.

So grab your wireless go pros and follow along.

Setting Up In Rode Central App

First we will check to make sure we update the firmware to the latest version.

Connect the charging case using the provided usb c data/power cable. 

Download and open the Rode Central App for your max or pc. Once opened you will see a red arrow next to the units that require an update. Select that and select update all.

Now we will change some settings.

On the RX settings, we will choose between split or merged audio. Split is great when you are using both transmitters as it will allow you to edit each transmitter’s audio in post. However, if you want to keep it as simple as possible, or if you simply are using only one transmitter, change this to merged. That’s what I’m doing here since I am shooting this video solo.

On the TX settings we will change the gain assist to AUTO. This is best for environments that are more varied and uncontrolled, say like shooting outside or in a noisy room. IF you are in a controlled environment where the audio level is more even, like in a studio setting, then you may prefer DYNAMIC. The only difference between the two is that AUTO will try to keep the same level of audio throughout the whole recording, while DYNAMIC will try to keep the variation it receives. So loud and quiet will still be audibly different. For most people, I would recommend AUTO for simplicity sake.

Next we have the option to have the transmitter always record or only record once the top button is pressed. I like this option so that I can turn on and off recordings as needed. However, if you don’t want to have to think about turning on and off the recording, you should select “always on”. Just know it will only stop recording if the transmitter turns off or is put away in the charging box.

Setting Up on Camera

Next let’s set up our camera.

Go to the audio settings and change the audio level to be as low as possible without being muted.

Then make sure to turn off any audio effects like wind attenuator or noise reduction.

Now connect the Rode Wireless Pro RX to the camera with the available TRSS cable. I like to mount the receiver onto the hot shoe on the top of the camera.

Next we are going to go and hit that like and subscribe button under this video. 

Using The Wireless Pros

Finally, all we have to do is set the mic on our talent and we can start recording.

You have a few options here, you can : use the receiver alone, or connect the wired lav.

When using the receiver alone, you can simply attach it to your collar or shirt/jacket, which I think looks terrible but gets the job done. If you want to have a cleaner look you can use the provided magnets to have your transmitter attached closer to the center of your chest. Simply attach the larger magnet to the clip on the back of the rode wireless pro, and then with the smaller magnet set it where you want on your clothes and allow the magnets to connect. Alternatively you can buy these mic handles and attach the TX to the end and use it like a traditional news microphone.

But, my favorite method is to use the wired lav. The new lavs come with a screw on the bottom and a detachable clip at the other end. Simply screw the lav into the port on the TX, and then attach the clip to the mic. Once you do that, simply clip this onto the subject's shirt, collar, or jacket where possible.

Now with everything on and ready you can begin your shoot knowing you have a clean audio feed being sent to your camera through the microphone. Make sure the transmitter is recording by checking for the red light indicator on the body. With that on you know you have a second backup track in case the transmitter loses connection to the receiver. Luckily that never has been an issue for me.

Outro

If you’d like a simple tutorial on the best camera settings for youtube videos, check out this video next. Thank you all for watching all the way until the end. If you’d like to see an  advanced guide on the Rode wireless pro, let me know down below. I’ll see you in the next one. Ciao.