Introduction
The Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro Rycote is a high-quality stereo on-camera microphone designed for videographers. It is ideal for capturing music, atmospheric ambiance, and general audio for video production. Featuring matched half-inch condenser capsules in a coincident XY pair, it delivers a wide stereo image with natural depth. This manual provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your microphone.
Key Features
Figure 0: The matched half-inch condenser capsules of the Stereo VideoMic Pro.
- Rycote Lyre Shock Mounting: Integrated Rycote Lyre shock mounting system provides superior isolation from handling noise and vibrations, ensuring clean audio recordings.
- Broadcast Recording Quality: Delivers high-quality stereo audio suitable for professional video applications.
- Enhanced Sensitivity & Low Noise Floor: Upgraded capsules offer higher sensitivity and a lower noise floor for crystal-clear and immersive recordings.
- Durable Construction: Features a robust design with an advanced thermoplastic shock mount that will not snap, bend, or break.
- Integrated Camera Shoe Mount: Billeted metal camera shoe mount with a 3/8-inch thread for easy attachment to cameras or boompole mounting.
- Improved Foam Windshield: Supplied foam windshield made from a denser, acoustically transparent material for enhanced wind noise protection.
- Kevlar-Reinforced Output Cable: Thicker gauge, Kevlar-reinforced output cable with improved RF shielding for robust and interference-free audio transmission.
- Audio Controls: Conveniently located high-pass filter (80Hz) and three-step level control (-10dB pad, +20dB boost) for optimal audio management.
Package Contents
Please ensure all items are present before proceeding with setup.
- Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro Rycote Microphone
- Foam Windshield
- Integrated Rycote Lyre Shock Mount
- Attached 3.5mm TRS Output Cable
Note: This microphone requires a 12V battery (not included) for operation. Please refer to the "Powering the Microphone" section for details.
Setup
1. Powering the Microphone
- Locate the battery compartment on the underside of the microphone.
- Open the compartment and insert a fresh 12V battery, observing the correct polarity.
- Close the battery compartment securely.
2. Attaching to a Camera or Boompole
The Stereo VideoMic Pro features an integrated camera shoe mount and a 3/8-inch thread for versatile mounting options.
- Camera Hot Shoe: Slide the microphone's camera shoe mount into your camera's hot shoe until it clicks into place. Tighten the locking wheel if available on your camera.
- Boompole/Stand: For boompole or stand mounting, utilize the 3/8-inch thread located at the base of the shoe mount. Screw the microphone onto the compatible thread of your boompole or stand.
Figure 1: Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro mounted on a camera, ready for recording.
3. Connecting to Your Device
Connect the attached 3.5mm TRS output cable from the microphone to the microphone input jack on your camera or recording device. Ensure the connection is secure.
Operating Instructions
The Stereo VideoMic Pro features intuitive controls on its rear panel for optimal audio capture.
Figure 2: Rear controls of the Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro.
1. Power On/Off
Slide the power switch (located on the left side of the rear panel) to the "ON" position to power on the microphone. The power indicator LED will illuminate green. Slide to "OFF" when not in use to conserve battery life.
2. High-Pass Filter (HPF)
The HPF switch (left switch on the rear panel) allows you to reduce unwanted low-frequency rumble from sources like traffic, air conditioning, or handling noise. Set it to the "80Hz" position to activate the filter, or "OFF" for a full-range response.
3. Level Control
The three-step level control switch (right switch on the rear panel) adjusts the microphone's output level:
- 0 dB: Standard output level for most recording situations.
- -10 dB Pad: Reduces the microphone's sensitivity by 10dB. Use this setting when recording very loud sound sources to prevent distortion.
- +20 dB Boost: Increases the microphone's output by 20dB. This is particularly useful for cameras with noisy preamps, as it allows you to lower the camera's input gain, thereby reducing the camera's internal noise floor while maintaining a healthy audio signal.
4. Wind Noise Reduction
The included foam windshield helps to reduce light wind noise. For outdoor recording in windy conditions, it is highly recommended to use an additional furry windshield (e.g., Rode Dead Kitten, sold separately) for maximum wind protection.
Figure 3: Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro with foam windshield.
5. Understanding Polar Pattern and Frequency Response
The Stereo VideoMic Pro utilizes a cardioid polar pattern in an XY configuration, providing a wide stereo image. The frequency response is optimized for clear audio capture across a broad range of sounds.
Figure 4: Polar Pattern of the Stereo VideoMic Pro.
Figure 5: Frequency Response of the Stereo VideoMic Pro.
6. Product Overview Video
For a visual guide on the features and operation of the Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro Rycote, please watch the official product overview video below.
Video 1: Official product overview of the Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro Rycote, detailing its features and benefits for videographers.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the microphone body. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Storage: When not in use, store the microphone in a protective pouch or case to prevent dust and damage. Remove the battery if storing for extended periods to prevent leakage.
- Handling: While the Rycote Lyre shock mount is durable, avoid excessive force or dropping the microphone to prevent internal damage.
- Battery Replacement: Replace the 12V battery when the power indicator LED begins to dim or the microphone ceases to function.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No audio output | Microphone not powered on; dead battery; incorrect cable connection; camera input settings. | Ensure power switch is ON; replace 12V battery; check 3.5mm cable is fully inserted into both microphone and camera; verify camera's audio input settings are correct and input level is not muted or too low. |
| Distorted audio | Input level too high (clipping); very loud sound source. | Engage the -10dB pad on the microphone; reduce the input gain on your camera. |
| Excessive background noise/hiss | Camera's preamp noise; environmental low-frequency rumble; RF interference. | Engage the +20dB boost on the microphone and lower your camera's input gain; activate the 80Hz high-pass filter; ensure wireless systems or Wi-Fi are not too close to the microphone or cable. |
| Wind noise in recordings | Insufficient wind protection. | Ensure the foam windshield is properly fitted. For strong winds, use an additional furry windshield (e.g., Rode Dead Kitten). |
| Handling noise/vibrations | Physical contact with camera/microphone during recording. | The Rycote Lyre shock mount minimizes this, but avoid unnecessary contact with the camera or microphone during recording. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Audio Sensitivity | 38 dB |
| Item Weight | 0.11 Kilograms (3.87 ounces) |
| Impedance | 200 Ohm |
| Microphone Form Factor | Shotgun |
| Item Dimensions (L x W x H) | 8 x 3 x 5 inches |
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
| Number of Batteries Required | 1 x 12V battery (not included) |
| Material | Foam (windshield) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 73 dB |
| Hardware Platform | Camera |
| Number of Channels | 2 (Stereo Output) |
| Frequency Range | 40Hz - 20kHz |
| Noise Level | 20 dB |
| Model Name | SVMPR |
| Connectivity Technology | Auxiliary |
| Connector Type | 3.5 mm Jack |
| Compatible Devices | Camera |
| Color | Black |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional (Cardioid in XY configuration) |
Warranty and Support
Rode Microphones products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards. For detailed warranty information, product registration, and technical support, please visit the official Rode Microphones website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Official Website: www.rode.com
