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Rode’s Vlogger Kit might just find its way into my podcast toolbox
One of the best, quickest and more affordable ways to upgrade your phone videos is an external mic. Rode takes things one step further with a whole kit aimed at improving your social clips.
Rode's updated Rodecaster Pro proves software is the key to good hardware
This week, the Rodecaster Pro became a little more useful. When Rode released the Rodecaster Pro in 2018, it was a boon to budding podcasters. The Rodecaster Pro’s noise gate, for example, can be pretty aggressive.
Staples is opening podcast studios in six Boston stores
Staples' latest ploy to get people into its retail stores is podcast recording booths. This week, the podcasting company Spreaker announced that it's part of a collaboration bringing recording spaces to six Staples stores in the Boston area. The booths are part of a new Staples Connect model, in which the retail stores offer coworking and community event spaces.
Tech can take your photography to the next level
Whether you're interested in taking better photos, video or both, the best thing you can do is to practice and take the time to get to know your equipment. But, if you're finding situations where you're struggling to get the perfect shot, or looking for ways to stretch creatively, there's a world of gadgets out there you can use to mix things up.
The best smartphone camera accessories
The two best ways to improve your smartphone photography are "talent" and "practice," but if you'd rather buy your way to better shots, that works too. Nowadays, there's a great selection of accessories like clip-on lenses, stabilizers, stands and other gear you can get without blowing a hole in your budget. If you've been thinking about taking that next step, here are a few questions to ask yourself and some of the best products on the market.
Rise of Dragonian Era sunsets
If an MMO that few people played shut down, how long would it take the community to notice? Apparently "a couple of weeks" is the answer, as we're only now getting word that Rise of Dragonian Era (RODE) sunset this past November 13th. In a shutdown notice on the game's now-defunct Facebook page, the studio posted, "RODE services will close permanently. We apologize for this unfortunate event. But we look forward to seeing our RODE players a part of our Netgame community again in the future." RODE launched in early 2012 and featured a permanent dragon companion and aerial combat as its main selling points. [Thanks to Holden for the tip!]
iXY Microphone brings high-quality stereo recording to 30-pin iDevices
The built-in microphone on your iOS device is fine for conversations, but when it comes to recording high-quality audio, it's somewhat inadequate. Rode's new iXY 30-pin plug-in microphone changes that, offering true stereo recording and companion apps that boasts a litany of audio customization options. Two versions of Rode's iOS app are available: A free version with limited options and a fully-featured version for US$5.99 that includes a full equalizer, high- and low-pass filters, and one-touch sharing via Dropbox, email and more. The iXY is now available for $199, and is only compatible with 30-pin devices, so iPhone 5 owners are unfortunately out of luck. [Via: Engadget]
Rode iXY Microphone ears on (video)
Earlier today, Rode announced its newest addition to its already plentiful lineup of microphones. This time, it's one specialized for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. The microphone uses Apple's outgoing 30 pin adapter (Sorry early adopters), so the user can also use headphones simultaneously while recording at rates of up to 24-bit/96kH. The pair of immovable half inch cardioid condensers are positioned in a 90-degree alignment for proper stereo recording without picking up too much ambient noise. They should also dodge any bi-positional recording issues when recording both guitar and vocals at once. Amongst the angst of CES, the sound quality seemed good, but what really makes the iXY a legitimate contender is Rode's app. There's two versions: a free lite one and a $5.99 pro version, the latter being extremely adjustable in every aspect of audio recording -- gain, input, boost levels, high/low-pass filter options, equalization effects and many more. The iXY Microphone is available now for $199, and comes with a foam windshield and carrying case. Rode has mentioned that an iPhone case with a standard hotshoe attachment with pistol grip is in the works, and will arrive in the next few months. Check out the video past the break, where we compare recordings from the Rode iXY attached to an iPhone and a Rode Videomic Pro on a DSLR. %Gallery-175407%
Rise of Dragonian Era launches with special in-game events
Tired of being stuck in your daily commute, crawling along at 15 mph? Ever fantasize about saddling up a 10-ton dragon to soar above the rat race and deliver a final blow to that driver who cut you off? While Mgame USA hasn't perfected dragon genetics (yet), the company has released Rise of Dragonian Era to give you a virtual taste of the high life. RODE, a free-to-play fantasy MMO, is quite big on our dragon brothers and sisters. The title has two factions, six races, and four classes from which to choose. Players will begin their journey through the game with a freshly hatched dragon pet who will accompany them through thick and thin. If that's not enough Dragonheart for you, you can also get the opportunity to fly one of these majestic beasts later on and engage in aerial warfare. To promote RODE's launch, Mgame is handing out rewards left and right through various means. Players can earn in-game items, gift cards, and big-ticket prizes like a PS Vita just by playing for 30 minutes or more, submitting winning screenshots, leveling up, and attending special events.
