What’s Changed? When comparing the RODE VideoMic GO II Ultracompact Analog/USB Shotgun Mic to its predecessor, the RODE VideoMic GO Camera-Mount Shotgun Microphone, just about everything. A complete overhaul of features and design to the microphone, shockmount, and cable promises clear, uncolored sound, a more durable mounting solution, and built-in cable management. Just like the VideoMic GO, this microphone can be powered by its TRS cable when used with a camera, but the GO II is now a fully functional USB microphone as well, able to connect to a computer, smartphone, or tablet and operates at 24-bit / 48 kHz, providing uncompressed high-quality audio. When used as a USB microphone, the GO II can provide headphone monitoring directly through the built-in 3.5mm output.

VideoMic NTG Technology. Rather than linear slots as found in most shotgun microphones, the RODE VideoMic NTG features acoustic perforations, and this design language is brought over to the VideoMic GO II, providing clear, uncolored sound with a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz. The supercardioid polar pattern featured on the GO II focuses on noise right in front of the microphone while reducing noise on the sides, and its low-noise electronics and sensitive condenser element deliver more detailed audio than mics typically found in cameras and portable recorders.

Redesigned Shockmount. While most shockmounts utilize rubber bands, the GO II features a rugged Rycote Lyre suspension-style shockmount, intended to reduce vibrations just as well while being more durable. A sliding rail system allows you to move the microphone forward or backward, and the included foam windscreen helps further reduce unwanted environmental noise. The VideoMic GO II works with RODE apps and is MFi-Certified for Apple iOS mobile devices.

Using this Mic with an iPhone? If you’re planning on using this mic with an iPhone or other Apple mobile device, you’ll need a USB Type-C to Lightning accessory cable, which is not included with this rental. You cannot use a Lightning-C charging cable to connect this mic to an Apple mobile device.