Rodecaster Pro SM7B with without Cloudlifter TEST
Вставка
- Опубліковано 15 вер 2024
- I had a request to show the Rodecaster Pro unit using 2 Shure SM7B mics, 1 mic without Cloudlifter CL1 and 1 mic WITH cloudlifter CL1. Here ya go.
*side note, i'm a moron and left the NOISE GATE effect ON both channels in this video. I WILL turn off the gates and do another NOISE FLOOR test and if there's a difference, I'll post another video. Sorry for my oversight.
This was maybe one of the best reviews of the Rodecaster capabilities, and the real value it can provide...looking at the cost of 4 Cloudlifters if they were necessary, would really compromise the pricing but from this review the Rodecaster Pro becomes a steal at $600..
I searched for “rodecaster pro sm7b” and your video was first. It answered all my questions. I like that I get to see the RodeCaster Pro in operation in addition to actually seeing the SM7b work with and without the CL-1. Looks like the RodeCaster Pro can handle it. Thanks for the concise example!
Thanks for the video. I have the Rodecaster with sm7b and although the Rodecaster provides enough gain.. the noise from Rode is clearly always noticable. For example, listeners hear when the mic is on or off when nothing is said in the mics. The cloudlifter adds enough gain to get a far better signal to noise ratio... reducing the noise (actually the noise-level doesn't reduce, but the wanted signal is more louder then before.. resulting the user in reducing the audiolevel (or else things distort) by which the noiselevel seems to be reduced).
Edit: Notice that I used a dynamic microphone. Those mics require more gain compared to other types. Note: The Rodecaster had to work hard with the SM7B.
This was a VERY helpful video. I am looking at upgrading to the Shure SM7B and Rodecaster Pro and wasn't sure how well they would work together without the cloudlifter. My goal is to sound good with minimal hardware/devices. This was a huge help and showed me that this will be a great solution for me.
Thank you for the kind words. There's a beta update for the RCP (2.1) that allows for detailed control of the on-board effects. It really allows that compressor and noise gate to help the SM7B shine a little more than before. The SM7B is an amazing vocal/broadcaster mic. If you're a singer and a podcaster - it's a no-brainer. I'm about to lay down some vocal tracks now - as soon as my daw finishes updating GRRR! lol. Thx again!
Thanks for doing this comparison. Saved me $$ as I thought I needed the CL with the SHURE. Loving the rodecaster pro so far!
thank YOU for the feedback.
I’m looking to get the Rodecaster and the Shure also... now that I know that the CL is optional, do I need anything extra, besides the obvious XLR cable?
Big Shrimp Entertainment I use Hosa and PigHog Cables. If you watch American Musical Supply (one of the oldest catalog/online stores for musicians) - sub to their emails. They do BuyOneGetOneFree aka 2ForTuesday about every 6-8 weeks. They always offer those 2 brands of mic cables. Get 2 nice cables for $25/30 that way. I have a hundred mic cables easy. The PigHog and Hosa are great. I suggest getting colored braided cables for the podcast setup. I also recommend the Blue Compass mic arms. $99 and they are nice.
The SM7B isn’t a must. If you can wait, the Røde Podmic should be hitting the USA soon. I ordered 2 in February. Delayed. For $99 - they look amazing. (Watch vids on Podmic). I have an entire mic locker - I snagged a Røde Procaster from Guitar Center used (website) for $120. Got the shock mount for $30 from B&H photo.
Hope that helps.
Cloudlifter is gear from the past. You dont need it with modern preamps
@@koenignero Yeah, but unfortunately the Rodecaster in combination with the Shure sm7b produces enough noise to be noticable, and the sm7b is a dynamic microphone (so it's needing lot's of gain). When I use the Rodecaster, 35 dB of gain is needed at least. The Rodecaster gives that easily, but with noticable noise. Let a cloudlifter do the amplification, so the Rode doesn't have to work hard. Sm7b's really come to life with good clean amplification.
A very interesting comparison. I didn't really notice a difference in the sound between the two setups. Maybe the Rodecaster preamps are good enough on their own. Thanks for the video.
The cloudlifter makes a huge difference in sound! I'm going to get one.
I think it’s more of a minor difference. Most people probably wouldn’t notice a difference.
Mickey right.
I got the cloudlifters too
@K0ngs D0ng what difference actually ?
@K0ngs D0ng i use SM7B with Rodecaster Pro for live brodcasting and i need more quality. Should i buy it ?
The one with the cloud lifted sounded better or clearer. I have a similar setup but with a Fethead between my SM7 B and my Rodecaster but I have pretty bad room noise as my room is totally untreated. The room noise is consistent so it should be easy to remove in Adobe premiere(hopefully). I really like the Rodecaster so far(only arrived two days ago) as it makes things easier, I don’t have to mess around with voicemeeter potato anymore!
Honestly, it's not bad without the Cloudlifter but it's a bit more present with it. Either way, sounds nice. You did have room to gain up also. One thing you didn't mention or show was if you had all of the effects bypassed or whatnot. Thanks for the video! This in my opinion is a better video than most on the product. There's such a saturation of half assed videos doing a "Review" but they're all saying the same stuff. Maybe next time be a bit more prepared and get those phones on! would love to hear someone do a final product sound clip share as a fully produced episode that isn't just for showcasing audio quality going in on a video. :)
Cloud-lifter sounded way better and you have extra head room as well… I just got one to add to the same setup and tested it in a zoom conference… they are telling me my feedback issues and noise are gone and I sound a lot clearer and smoother and that the mic sounded great this time!!!
I feel like there was just the slightest improvement in low-end sound with the CloudLifter, but it's great to know you can by without one with this unit. Thanks for the demonstration!
What I learned tonight is that you have to choose dynamic mic then add phantom power for the cloud lifter, I chose condenser mic because it has phantom power and shows the phantom power on, but it's not! It is for a condenser mic, but won't run the cloud lifter properly! But it should! Crazy, now it is amazing!
Choosing 'condenser' setting on the RCP automatically sets Phantom Power to ON position since condenser mics require PP to operate. Using a CL or any other gain enhancer like the CL along with ANY DYNAMIC mic will require PP - and therefore, work fine with the 'condenser' setting on the RCP. You can also choose DYNAMIC and set PP to ON and get the same result. It may show up as you setting the dynamic mic to condenser when turning on PP while in Dynamic setting. Nature of the beast.
@@BobSoloMan @Bob SoloMan BRO, PLEASE LISTEN, lol. I am an audio guy 30+ years, I am telling you Rode screwed up! Test it yourself!
I know all about PP and condenser and dynamic mics! And how a condenser needs PP but a dynamic doesn't, lol. But you need PP to run the CL. The Rode has a PROBLEM. It does NOT provide enough PP for a cloud lifter if you use the condenser setting even though it SHOWS the PP ON!!
It will provide 48v for a condenser mic, I tested it just now, but when I run my SM7B into my cloud lifter, then choose condenser on the mic choices, then go to level, it SHOWS PP ON, but IT'S NOT!!
So I chose the dynamic setting, went to level, turned on the PP there, and it WORKED!! Blew my mind, brother! Sounds incredible now!!
Crazy that they made that mistake! Please respond when you test it yourself!! 🤘😁
@@ClearAdventure it’s me on another account. It could be a firmware thing. I’ve always just picked condenser with the ‘7B and any booster. I’ve ran sound since the mid 90’s myself. Lol. I have 2 CL1’s and a Klark Technic CM-2. On spoken word… no difference. Just the $59 for the cm-2 (2 mics) or the $150 for the CL1. How long have you had the RCP? I pre-ordered mine with the Podmics and waited like 3mo for the RCP and 6mo for the podmics. Never again!
@@boomerbob I owe you a big apology! I just checked it again, and it was as I said. But somehow the level on my condenser setting was down to 18 instead of 35!! I thought I checked that a long time ago?? OMG, operator error. 🤦
I was wondering how Rode.could make such a monumental mistake!! 🤘🤣
@@boomerbob I found the problem! When I raise the level to 35 on the condenser setting it sounds great, and if I then go to the dynamic setting, it is STILL good at 35 as I left it, but if I then go BACK to condenser from there, it _AUTOMATICALLY_ reverts the level back to 18!!
So it was my fault for not having checked the level, but like going to dynamic, I don't have to, it stays the same. And that is my fault for not checking every single time, but it is STILL a problem that Rode has.
Now maybe that is a problem that only newer units have? Or maybe with the new update? I don't know. But why would it save under one mic choice but not the other? Makes no sense.
Please let me know if yours does the same thing. At least I found it! I almost thought I was going crazy there for a minute, lol. Nope, not this time at least.
This was great, thanks man! I read some of the comments and am curious if you’ve made progress on the Multi Cam setup combined with this? Would love somewhat of an in-depth video on how to most efficiently make that work together with this Audio system. Thanks man!
I really appreciate this video. Thanks!
This really helped me out. Thanks mate!
Maybe it's because of the mixer I use (Yamaha MG12XU) but the Cloudlifter made a significant improvement in the SM7b performance. Good video here; thanks!
PolyByDesign yes. The mic pre’s (preamps) make a huge difference in gain staging. I have numerous mixers and interface units (some quite expensive) and each surprise me with the SM7B. It’s a gain hungry mic. My highest-end unit requires a CL to keep the gain knob at a respectable level. Thx for the comment.
I have the same setup + Cloudlifter. With Cloudlifter, should the Rodecaster microphone type be set to Dynamic w/Phantom Power or Condenser w/Phantom Power? I've noticed when I set it to Dynamic it sounds better and louder but just wondering if that's best practice. Liked and subscribed!
Setting mic type to condenser just turns on Phantom Power. You could pick Dynamic and then turn on phantom power manually. Same thing. Don’t forget to play with the EQ curve on the back of the SM7B to see what fits your voice best. Thx for the comment and the like. I’m focused on my podcast channel these days - which I won’t share cos I get offensive sometimes - lol. But I am always looking for more ideas to make content for this channel.
Thank you! Your video was very helpful.
Thanks Bob,
I like pighog cables myself, plus I'm also a American Music supply customer
Hi Bob, question for you. What kind of XLR cable you're using from the cloud lifter to the RodeCaster? I see them as a short cable. Thanks
Hitnrun69ify for a good mix of cost vs. quality, I’m using PigHog brand cables. I get mine from American Musical Supply. If you join their email list, they do a ‘2-for-Tuesday’ about every 4-6weeks. This is a great time to load up on mic cables since you get 2@ $28 cables for $28.
Thanks for your comment. I’m working on a video ATM that’s going to discuss all of the gear I have in my possession that will work for podcasting.
As for the one thumbs down I see....that individual missed their Preparation H, treatment today.....
the internet is loaded with critics.
Have you noticed any hissing without the cloud lifter? You should really have the headphones on also. You might be able to hear differences even if the recording sounds good.
I get some noise with and without the CL but it's less noticeable with the CL and the gate takes care of it.
How did you get you sound so clean ?? For some reason I have mine plugging directly to the rode castor pro and there’s a noise in the ground
I have my RCP plugged into a rack-mounted power conditioner and I use mid-grade cables like HOSA and PigHog (thicker insulation and better jacks on each end). Other than that, I can't think of anything else that may be causing you a problem. Hit me on Twitter @boomerbobshow if you have any more questions, I'd be happy to assist.
Can you show your setup of Rode Caster Pro for SM7B please? On my Caster Pro I hear loud recording noise
Hey Dmitry, it's me on another account - What settings are you referring to? Everyone's voice projects differently, so my exact settings may not work well for you. Currently, I'm using a gain booster (Klark Teknik CM2... testing it compared to CL1) - and my gain is around 30-ish so I can pull back from the mic a little, all processing is set to on/off mode (all ON currently) - I messed with the advanced processing settings and found that the on/off simple settings worked better for me and my needs. I keep the fader near unity (5th hash from top) and that's pretty much it. Let me know if there's other things I can answer. You can sample my mic audio at boomer bob show (podcast). It's NSFW cos I curse sometimes but - a minute or 2 in is enough to show you my quality with this gear. Thanks! - bob
side note - I do ZERO post-processing on my podcast audio. what you hear is what's recorded to the sd card in the Rodecaster. I do EDIT my show but only cuts, no processing.
Thank you for this video . i saved a $300.
When you have two people monitoring can each other hear each other’s mics or can you only hear your own mic?
It me just on another YT account - thx for the question. Each headphone output (1-4) has their own volume knob. Each headphone out includes every channel on the RCP. All 4 mics, TRRS (phone), Bluetooth and Soundpad channels are all heard by each listener. If you connect a pair of studio monitors, there is an option to auto-mute when there’s an open mic so you don’t feedback accidentally. (No open speakers with an open mic- it’s a no-no).
hey brother would u recommend this or the GOXLR?
It really depends what you’re using it for. If you’re twitch streaming, the GOXLR is fine, even the mini. If you want to use the unit without a computer… can’t do that with the GOXLR. The RCP operates autonomously.
I have this same setup with the cloudlifter.. but, the board is Not picking the mic up... Did you have to do something special to get the mic to work with the board?
Eric Roberts turn on phantom power in ‘level’ settings
@@BobSoloMan I didn't think the mic needs phantom power because it was a dynamic mic?
@@eric_roberts a dynamic mic does not need phantom power. The cloud lifter needs phantom power to boot the level of the microphone!!!
@@eric_roberts hope that helps! Turn it on in the settings and you will be great!
@@DJEinsteinUSA I did that and it worked! Thank you! My podcast is the Full Chat Podcast if you want to check it out!
Rodes could make a few small modications to this product, making an “M” model , for Music production, substituting two instrument inputs for 2 mic inputs, and re think the blue tooth need. And an “R” model, Internet Radio, doing away with the bluetooth and adding another telco line, and curse delay, maybe some higher quality faders in both...I’d pay an extra $100 for either.....but nonetheless a great product in my estimation.
Nathan Brewer I just uploaded a video hours ago using this to record guitars. I would like to have a line-level input or multi-XLR/quarter-inch input combo. The USB input is limited to Aural Exciter and Big Bottom effects only. Saving multi-track to the micro-SD card would be an amazing addition.
I have a full recording studio. (Very short video on my channel, like 15 seconds) but this Rodecaster is so simple to use for podcasting and narration for product videos, I hardly use my studio gear anymore.
Thanks for the sub, view and comments. I do this to help others, not for monetary reasons.
Bob, I’m a retired (read that as rather bored) expat, living in self exile in the Philippines...been considering a You Tube live stream, so gathered up various pieces of equipment...then it turned out all my camera’s output in 1080i....so now I am waiting to put together the funds for a video switcher that will take in 1080i and convert it to 1080p for my Epiphan Webcaster 2x, but while I am not a musician I have a fair collection for studio use...our church has a lot of great talent....but kids here have little hope, and I am hoping to raise that expectation by pairing the Rodecaster Pro with a Lumantek EZ-Pro VS4 and let them show case their talent. Internet Radio also offers some great opportunities but Licensing can be expensive....but we’ll see where things go....I admire your goal, in delivering the best and most complete reviews without making a display of it. I think your expectations shall be well rewarded.
Nathan Brewer I’m designing a multi cam system as well. Already use a Canon G40 (this video). My setup will include the BlackMagic Design ATEM and WebPresenter with a Stream Deck for camera switching buttons. Currently renovating the studio to include a bar where we will do the podcast from. Please check out the podcast, Metal and Mortgages. On UA-cam.
From what I know, the video standard in Australia is 1050i and 25fps? I’m assuming Philippines is similar?
Bob SoloMan , that’s a good question, I have a friend who is a filmmaker I’ll ask. My hangup on 1080p output is derived from the Webcaster requirements. And honestly I have been trying to keep this thing as cost effective as possible. Life is cheap in the Philippines and personal property cheaper. My neighbors are quick to tell me, keep what you have to yourself less you become a target. Almost unfortunately I have some expensive stuff, I am on a tight budget, have a family, and brought my 7 dogs from the U.S....3+ years ago. Currently I have a Denon Mixer 408 I think. And a Tascam UH7000 interface, the usual GoPro, a Panasonic Camcorder, and a couple of logitech webcams...
In all honesty I watch a lot of You Tube presentations, and frankly it is for content...you’d have to have terrible audio or video for me to switch you off. I find that rare, furthermore I find lighting the biggest trouble with video’s IMHO. That said investing in really high dollar items doesn’t make the best of sense...I had been looking at Radio Broadcast Consoles prior to delving deeper into the Rodecaster all 2 to 4 times the price. Actually the cheapest being the discontinued Allen&Heath XB10, at $800 new...but a good prospect. Now you having solved several unanswered question s prove the value in the Rodecaster...for this I salute you! Take care buddy...I’ll keep watching!
what are you using the windows mic volume for when recording?
Jonnie Zuramski forgive me, but I do not understand the question. The RCP isn’t connected to any computer during this video. The start of this video, I used the video camera mic audio to explain what I was doing. While recording with the RCP, you can not access menus so I was unable to tap around the menus while recording clean audio. My studio, at the time, was dismantled and being renovated.
Bob SoloMan okay, so you were recording internally into an sd card?
Jonnie Zuramski at time stamp 4:07 in video, yes. Prior to that, no. That was all shitty camera mic audio.
Bob SoloMan okay! I’ve been recording with this into my pc then with auditions! That’s where the confusion is coming from.
Have you used all the mastering effects like NoiseGate etc. ?
BOZEK yes. I use all of them except aural exciter. This vid - it’s cam audio til 4:10. SM7b audio starts then. Sorry.
Cloudlifter sounds better. I would want to use a cloudlifter.
video starts at 4:10 Youre welcome!
lol I'm not wearing my headphones cause I'm an idiot haha
It’s not that much of a difference at all. You can get away without using a CL
Get Hype! Media exactly! If you want to keep distance between the mic and your voice, the CL1 gives a clean gain boost that essentially makes any dynamic mic a condenser allowing you to pull back from the mic when speaking. When you do that, It also amplifies small noises like typing, mouse clicks, ppl in the next room... things to keep in mind.
Why have phantom power with a dynamic mic....
DJ UNCLE GEN a cloudlifter requires phantom power.....
No real difference....u just saves me some ENDS
I’ve never heard these mics sound this bad. I would seriously consider some acoustic treatment
No Syd Media did you watch the vid? Mics come in at 4:07. The room is sound proof - yes- sound proof, there is acoustical treatments all around the room.
Bob SoloMan much better lol I didn’t watch far enough sorry about that
No Syd Media yeah. I sorta explain why I’m using camera audio in the beginning. I was renovating my studio so my DAW was not available. Thx for the 2nd chance.
This review is full of excuses. Why bother doing the review if you're not set up properly. Good audiophiles know that w the SM7B you sound so much better with a cloudlifter even w the Rodecaster.