RODECaster Video EXPOSED! A review + The future of streaming

The RODECaster Video ($1,199) is designed to simplify the production of video content, specifically for podcasts or, I suppose, vodcasts… but I think that term has fallen out of favor! 

Unlike traditional video switchers, this device combines the ease of audio recording seen in RODE’s previous podcasting products with video-switching capabilities. What sets it apart from competitors like Blackmagic’s ATEM systems (which it does feel very similar to aesthetically) is the more fully realized audio capabilities and a new automatic cutting mode. 

Key Features

• Compact Design: Significantly smaller than previous Rode podcasting products, making it more portable.
• Multiple Inputs: Four HDMI inputs and two outputs, configurable for program feeds or multiview.
• Audio Inputs: Two Combi XLR/TRS inputs for microphones and instruments.
• USB Connectivity: Six USB-C ports for various connections, including external SSDs and microphones, USB webcams and power. 
• Recording Capability: Ability to record both mixed down and isolated video & audio tracks.
• Automatic Cutting: An intelligent feature which allows users to switch between speakers in an intelligent fashion based on preconfigured priority ratings and who is currently speaking. 
• Live-streaming: Go live direct from the RodeCaster Video 
• Integrated playback of VTs, Images & Audio: No need for external video players or soundboards.

Connection and Configuration

The selection of I/O on this product is really solid, and it’s great to see the inclusion of full-sized XLR connectors. Even better, they are Combi XLR/TRS and switchable for mic, line, and instrument-level sources. 

The Routing of the HDMI outputs also offers some flexibility. It can be configured directly on the device, allowing you to switch between program and multi-view outputs.

Recording a real Podcast with RODECaster Video

I always like to test products I’m reviewing in the real world to see how they perform. 

This tends to show up frustrations or things that aren’t clear under the pressure of a real shoot, to this end I got in touch with Will at Berwick House. They have recently started a podcast, ‘Country House Confidential,’ and I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to put the RODECaster Video through its paces! 

The venue provided an excellent backdrop for testing the device’s features in a real-world scenario. The combination of high-quality cameras and lighting helped create a professional environment for the podcast.

Setting up the RODECaster Video for a podcast is straightforward. Users can easily navigate through the menus to select their audio and video sources. The layout of buttons and controls is intuitive, making it accessible even for those who may not have extensive technical knowledge.

As a side note, RODE also sent a pack of four colour-coded HDMI cables, which look great and also make it very clear which camera is connected to which input. 

I definitely recommend using something like this if you are new to video production. Tracking down one specific black cable in a nest of them while under pressure and trying to film something live is no fun! 

Camera Setup

For the recording, I used two Canon C70s and a Canon R6. This setup allowed for two close-up shots and a wide shot, enhancing the overall production quality, even if it is a bit over the top! The color-coded HDMI cables provided by Rode made connecting the cameras straightforward, reducing the chances of errors during setup.

Audio Configuration

On the audio side, I utilized the Rode Wireless Pro system for two participants, while the host used a Shure SM7B microphone. This combination is a popular choice among podcasters due to the SM7B’s rich sound quality, but it is notoriously low in output level, so I ran it through a cloud lifter. Dialing in the levels was simple, and I appreciated how quickly I could navigate the menus to ensure optimal audio settings.

Challenges Encountered

Despite the overall positive experience, I faced a couple of challenges during the setup. One issue involved connecting the Rode Wireless Pros, which required adding an extra track in the menu to select the wireless inputs. This was a minor hiccup, but having the manual on hand would have made the process smoother.

Additionally, I encountered difficulties with the SSD connection. The device requires an exFAT formatted drive, which I initially overlooked, (being a fully fledged apple boy)… However, I found a workaround by using a USB thumb drive which I was able to format to exFAT as there was nothing important on it, demonstrating the device’s flexibility in accommodating different storage options.

RODECaster Video specs

Available M/E Layers	9 M/E
Effect Types	2x Chroma Key
Downstream Keys	2x Overlay
Audio Mixing	20-Channel Mixing
Processing
Switching Type	Pushbutton
Processing Resolution	1080p at 23.98/24/25/29.97/30/50/59.94/60
Color Processing	8-Bit 4:4:4 RGB
Input
Number of Video Input Sources	6
Video Inputs	4x HDMI (1.4b)
	2x USB-C (UVC)
Input Video Format	HDMI (8/10/12-Bit 4:4:4/4:2:2 RGB, YUV)
	1080p at 23.98/24/25/29.97/30/50/59.94/60 fps
	1080i at 25/29.97/30 fps
	USB-C (4:4:4/4:2:2 YUV)
	1080p at 23.98/24/25/29.97/30/50/59.94/60 fps
Audio Inputs	2x Combo XLR-1/4″ TRS
	5x Proprietary (Shared with Video)
Embedded Audio Input	Wireless
	USB-C
	HDMI
Output
Video Output Channels	2
Video Outputs	2x HDMI
Output Video Format	HDMI (8-Bit 4:4:4 RGB, YUV)
	1080p at 24/25/30/50/60 fps
Audio Outputs	2x 1/4″ TRS
	2x 1/4″ TRS Line
Connectivity
Inputs/Outputs	3x USB-C(Stereo)
Other I/O	1x RJ45 LAN
HDCP Support	No
IP Video	1920 x 1080 at 23.98p, 24p, 25p, 29.97p, 30p, 50p, 59.94p, 60p Encoding
Transport Protocols	RTMP
Compatible Services	Facebook Live, Twitch, YouTube Live
Recording Media	1x microSD (Unspecified Type)
Recording Modes	1920 x 1080p (H.264/AVC)
Display
Display Size	2″
Hardware
OS Compatibility	macOS 10.15 or Later / Windows 10 to 11
OS Compatibility	macOS 10.15 or Later
	Windows 10.1803 or Later
	Windows 11
Processor	Not Specified by Manufacturer
Wi-Fi	Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax); Dual-Band (2.4 & 5 GHz)
Bluetooth	5.3
Power I/O	1x USB-C Input
Power Consumption	Power Supply: 20 VDC at 3 A (60 W)
General
Dimensions	12 x 5.2 x 2.4″ / 305.9 x 132 x 61.4 mm
Weight	2.8 lb / 1257 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight	5.35 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)	13.8 x 8.3 x 4.3″

Final Thoughts on the RODECaster Video

The RODECaster Video presents a compelling option for those looking to enhance their video podcasting capabilities. Its combination of user-friendly design, robust features, and high-quality audio makes it a valuable addition to any content creator’s toolkit.

It is more expensive that some other products which offer a roughly similar set of tools, however the unique aspects of the RODECASTER Video such as auto cutting and a well implement solution for audio will help to justify this cost.

The RODECaster Video is available for preorders for $1,199.

While there may be a learning curve for some aspects, the overall functionality and ease of use make it worth considering for anyone serious about producing video content.

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