RØDE X XDM-100 Professional USB Dynamic Microphone User Manual

1. Introduction

The RØDE X XDM-100 is a professional dynamic USB microphone engineered for high-quality audio capture in streaming and gaming environments. It delivers clear, detailed sound with effective background noise rejection. This microphone integrates with the UNIFY virtual mixing software, providing advanced audio processing and mixing capabilities. The XDM-100 features an ultra-low-noise, high-gain Revolution Preamp and 24-bit/96 kHz analog-digital conversion for pure audio. A zero-latency headphone output with level control and mute button is included for real-time monitoring.

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your RØDE X XDM-100 microphone to ensure optimal performance.

2. What's in the Box

Verify that all components are present in the packaging:

• XDM100 microphone
• 3N USB-C to USB-C cable
• Headphones Extension cable
• PSM1 shockmount
• 3/8 to 5/8 Adaptor

Image: The XDM-100 microphone, a pop filter, a shock mount, a USB-C to USB-C cable, and a headphone extension cable are included in the box.

3. Setup

3.1 Attaching the Shock Mount and Pop Filter

1. Carefully unbox the XDM-100 microphone and the PSM1 shock mount.
2. Insert the microphone into the PSM1 shock mount. Ensure it is securely seated to minimize vibrations.
3. The microphone includes an internal pop filter. For additional plosive reduction, an external pop filter can be attached to the shock mount or a separate boom arm.

Image: The RØDE X XDM-100 microphone securely mounted in its shock mount, ready for use.

3.2 Mounting the Microphone

1. Attach the PSM1 shock mount (with the microphone inserted) to a compatible microphone stand or boom arm using the 3/8 to 5/8 adaptor if necessary.
2. Position the microphone approximately 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) from your mouth for optimal sound capture.

Image: The XDM-100 microphone shown from the side, attached to a boom arm for flexible positioning.

3.3 Connecting to a Computer

1. Connect one end of the provided USB-C to USB-C cable to the USB-C port on the bottom of the XDM-100 microphone.
2. Connect the other end of the USB-C cable to an available USB-C port on your computer. If your computer only has USB-A ports, a USB-C to USB-A adapter (not included) will be required.
3. The microphone is plug-and-play. Your operating system should automatically detect and install the necessary drivers.

3.4 Installing UNIFY Software

For full functionality and advanced audio processing, download and install the RØDE UNIFY virtual mixing software from the official RØDE website. UNIFY allows you to control microphone settings, apply APHEX voice processing, and manage multiple audio sources for streaming and gaming.

4. Operating the Microphone

4.1 Microphone Controls

Image: The rear panel of the XDM-100, displaying the headphone volume knob, mute button, and gain control.

• Headphone Volume Knob: Adjusts the monitoring volume for the connected headphones.
• Mute Button: Press to mute or unmute the microphone output. An indicator light will show the mute status.
• Gain Control: Adjusts the microphone's input sensitivity. Use UNIFY software for precise gain staging.

4.2 Headphone Monitoring

Connect your headphones to the 3.5mm headphone jack on the XDM-100. This provides zero-latency monitoring of your audio, allowing you to hear yourself in real-time without delay. Use the headphone volume knob to adjust the monitoring level.

4.3 Using UNIFY Software

The UNIFY software is central to unlocking the full potential of the XDM-100. It provides:

• Virtual Mixer: Manage and mix multiple audio sources (microphone, game audio, chat, system sounds) into a single stream.
• APHEX Audio Processing: Apply professional-grade voice processing effects such as a compressor, noise gate, and Aural Exciter™ and Big Bottom™ for enhanced vocal clarity and presence.
• Customizable Outputs: Route different audio mixes to various applications (e.g., a clean mix for your stream, a separate mix for your headphones).

Image: A user operating the XDM-100 microphone while viewing the UNIFY virtual mixing software interface on a monitor.

5. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and performance of your RØDE X XDM-100 microphone.

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the microphone body. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the finish or internal components.
• Storage: When not in use, store the microphone in a clean, dry place, away from extreme temperatures and humidity.
• Cable Care: Avoid sharp bends or kinks in the USB-C and headphone cables. Store them neatly to prevent damage.
• Shock Mount: Periodically check the shock mount's elastic bands for wear and tear. Replace if necessary to maintain effective vibration isolation.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your XDM-100 microphone, refer to the following troubleshooting steps:

• No Sound Output:
  • Ensure the microphone is properly connected to your computer via the USB-C cable.
  • Check that the microphone is not muted (verify the mute button indicator light).
  • Verify the input device selection in your operating system's sound settings and in any recording or streaming software (e.g., OBS, Discord).
  • Confirm that the gain knob on the microphone or the input level in UNIFY is not set to minimum.
• Poor Sound Quality / Background Noise:
  • Ensure the microphone is positioned correctly, close to the sound source and away from noise sources.
  • Check UNIFY software settings for APHEX processing (Noise Gate, Compressor) to optimize sound.
  • Verify that the shock mount is correctly installed to reduce handling noise.
  • Ensure the pop filter is in place to minimize plosives.
• UNIFY Software Issues:
  • Restart the UNIFY software and your computer.
  • Ensure UNIFY is updated to the latest version.
  • Check for conflicts with other audio drivers or software.
  • If settings are not saving, ensure UNIFY has proper permissions to access and save configuration files, especially if using cloud-synced folders like OneDrive.
• Headphone Monitoring Issues:
  • Ensure headphones are fully plugged into the 3.5mm jack.
  • Adjust the headphone volume knob on the microphone.
  • Check headphone output settings within UNIFY or your operating system.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official RØDE website or contact RØDE customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Optional protection plans may be available for extended coverage. Please check with your retailer for details on available plans.