Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Review
Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
- Plug & Record Kit for DIY Videographer
- Up to 8 Mics on Set / 330' Range
- 30-Hr AA Batteries + USB Power
- Omnidirectional Lav Microphone
- Bodypack Transmitter
- Diversity Camera-Mount Receiver
- Protected Peer-to-Peer Connection
- Easy to Use, Flexible Operation
Introduction
In this article, we delve into a detailed analysis of 25,903 user reviews from various languages worldwide to examine the Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit. This analysis is performed by the RR artificial intelligence and updated daily with newly submitted reviews. The RR AI utilizes a complex algorithm to first scrutinize user reviews for credibility, filtering out unreliable ones. It then proceeds to dissect and evaluate the valuable insights within these reviews, providing users with ratings regarding the features of this product. Based on these assessments, users can make informed decisions about whether this product is suitable for them or not.
Ratings Based on Features
These results are a summary of user reviews of the Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit. For example, 85% of 8,799 users who have commented on the Value for money of the Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit have given positive feedback.
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 20 of 267 Reviews
I was skeptical before. Now I'm a believer.
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Eric on B&H Photo Video
I'll admit, I was skeptical when these were launched. It was almost too good to be true. The perfect product at a great price point, digital signal, the whole nine yards. They're bulkier than other lavaliers, but not by much. And the kit conveniently comes with an adapter on the receiver to connect to the hot shoe of your camera for single person shooting. Interestingly, when I went to test out this product at a local store, they tried to discourage me. They said that it was mainly designed for DSLR shooters, since the kit does NOT include an XLR cable to connect the receiver to the camera. It must be purchased separately. And it does come included with a mini to mini jack. So sure, that claim is believable. From my perspective however, and experiences on various shoots at this point, it is ideal for both. This gives this wireless kit unique versatility in small crews moving quickly. Also, in the tests we did at the facility we found that not all XLR adapters worked properly with the unit, some would not work pushed all the way in to the receiver, and had to be slightly out of the socket in order to function. I found one however that worked perfectly fine, and locked into place. Since then, it's been the cleanest sounding lavalier I've used for the price point. The body is made out of plastic, which bothers some people. Unless you're strapping it to the general before a battle however, I really think it's a non issue. You aren't exactly smashing them on the ground, and the plastic is strong and well constructed. Some people are also bothered by the size. Yes, they are bigger than your average wireless system, but I have never had a situation where I thought that the size interfered with performance or logistics of getting a shot. At the end of the day, the most important quality of a lavalier mic is the quality. This kit has fantastic range, a crystal clear signal, and is fantastic. It's easy to use, and immediately syncs upon being turned on. The T and R each take two double a batteries that last about 4-5 hours. If you're on the fence about this, don't be. It's a worthwhile investment. For a long time I was a naysayer of Rode. I never cared for their videomic pro. Then I tried the NTG3, which I loved. This rode wireless lavalier kit has the added advantage of matching really well with other rode products that you happen to own. ... More
I chose this over the more expensive models used
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Peterinhi on B&H Photo Video
I'm a professional videographer (I get paid for doing videos full-time) and was looking for another wireless lavalier but didn't choose to spend more than necessary. I used other products in the $ to $ range (not naming names, but the cheap ones start with an A and the two expensive ones both start with S) but the cheaper wireless systems didn't provide the range and sound I needed and the expensive systems were simply, expensive.I researched the Rodelink Filmmaker Kit extensively by watching review videos and reading numerous reviews. What I like about it is that it is comparable to or possibly exceeds the features of the expensive S-brand models. It has the same clarity and range, however, being digital like cellular phones, when the signal starts degrading, the sound stops abruptly and doesn't crackle and fade like the high end analog systems. Just think of what happens on a cell phone call when you go into an elevator.Moreover, the Rodelink pairing is quick. Just a few seconds. There's no fiddling with channel frequencies, just a few buttons to press to get the receiver and transmitter to connect. And once connected and paired, the next time they're turned on, they work instantly.I also like that you can see the battery level of the transmitter on the receiver. And of course you can see the receiver's power level as well. I've been on jobs where we would have to check the transmitter's battery power midway through the event. I've even had the transmitter die without me noticing (I was on a one-man multi-cam gig) because those expensive models don't show the transmitter's power.Yet the feature I like the most is the mute switch. While the transmitter can mute itself like those expensive models, the Rodelink receiver can override the transmitter's mute and make it live again. I had jobs where the speaker/host accidentally muted their transmitter (they didn't know it happened) and I was left with dead silence on that feed and couldn't interrupt the event to check the mute switch. However, I always have multiple backups going but they weren't as good as the muted transmitter.With all the great features I like about the Rodelink, I would say that it is kinda big. Because Rode placed built-in antennas into the Rodelink, there are no protruding antennas sticking out. I like this in that I've had broken antennas on those expensive S-models. Yet those built-in antennas would need a material to transmit through. Hence the plasticky nature of Rodelink. It is not as thin and tiny as the other models but about the same weight. Hopefully Rode can solve this size challenge in the future and make a more compact model.All in all, I'm totally satisfied with the Rodelink Filmmaker Kit. I'm planning on purchasing another Filmmaker in addition to purchasing the yet-to-be-release Newsshooter Kit. Forget those other S models out there as the Rodelink is more than a match at a price point that won't break the bank.FYI, I purchased the Rodelink outright from B&H as I'm not a compensated endorser, just a regular hardworking video guy. I already have the VideoMic Pro and also plan to purchase the Stereo VideoMic Pro. But if Rode were to give me one, I'd be super happy and appreciate! Thanks Rode and B&H! ... More
Works Great, after I figured out the digital noise issue
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Phil Avery on B&H Photo Video
I concur with others on quality and performance. You may hear digital tone/noise in the background. I finally discovered this is actually the microphone picking up RF noise from the transmitter. This will not be an issue if you use it as intended, a lapel microphone, because the microphone is on the person's chest and the transmitter down on their beltline. But, let's say you are trying to use this as a hidden location microphone. You coil the cord around the transmitter and hide it in some flowers. Now the microphone is right next to the transmitter, and you will get the noise. The fix is easy: Don't use it that way! ... More
Hiss problems with the adapter
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Nico Madrid on B&H Photo Video
I bought two systems and both have problems with the adapter Rode Micon 1 provided to connect lavalier mic to RX 3,5 mini jack. This adapter makes a lot of hiss and one of them also makes crispy noise. After several tests, and after writing to Rode Australia, I bought a new adapter and problems disappear. Please check your systems (try with a different mic, with my sennheiser k6 works perfect). I have heard that some kits are having this problem with the adapter.
Unbalanced signal output
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
I bought this kit to use it with an external recorder, the Tascam DR-680. This recorder has combo inputs, (XLR and 1/4 inch TRS jacks). I connected the receiver unit using the 3.5 coiled cable provided with the kit,(for this, I used a 3.5 to 1/4 TRS jack adapter). But it produced a lot of interferance and noise. Since I have other systems like the Sennheiser G3, (with, which I 've never had issues like this), I decides to try it with one of the 3.5 to XLR cables from my Sennheiser kit, and the noise and interfereance was considerably reduced, but sitll, somewhat present. A frew days ago, I spoke with one of the tech suppport agents at Rode and he explained that the output audio signal from the Rode Kit is and UNBALANCED ONE. Therefore the output cable needs to be specially wired to use with a professional wired for balanced signals. Apparently this Rode kit was designed to be used directly with DSLR's cameras. And since DSLR's have unbalanced audio inputs, the Rodelink filmmaker kit is NOT AS A PROFESSIONAL wireless lavalier system. I seriously don't undestand why Rode would design this kit to have an unbalanced output. And why don't they specify that this kit would not work well with certain recorders. After months and months od research, and reviews on line, It is VERY FRUSTRATING, to find out, only after you bough it, that the components of this kit are not the proper ones for your needs. Not Cool Rode!,..not Cool at all!!! ... More
Ads
Fantastic value!
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Jaime on B&H Photo Video
The Rode RodeLink WirelessFilmmaker Kit is pretty much everything you need for wireless audio for interviews and presentations. Easy as pie to link the transmitter and receiver (you literally turn on both devices and you're set) and the sound quality is great. Crystal clear, with no hiss or interference. I also own a Sennheiser G3 wireless kit and I can't tell the difference between that and the Rode in sound quality. Plus, because the RodeLink is digital and not UHF, not having to deal with finding available frequencies is truly wonderful, especially in RF congested areas like New York City. Coupled with the dirt-cheap Rode VXLR adapter, I am able to connect it to any camera or audio recorder with XLR inputs. I only have two complaints (which is why it doesn't get 5 stars): 1) The cable for the lavalier microphone included in the RodeLink doesn't seem to be very high quality. It sounds just fine, but I question its durability. It came tightly bundled with a twisty-tie around it, and when I try to lay it flat it stays all crinkled and crooked, which looks ugly. Again, this doesn't seem to affect the sound quality, I just wish it would straighten out like the Sennheiser G3 lav cable. 2) The Rodelink transmitter and receiver are bulky. They're much larger than the more discreet Sennheiser G3 units. Tying to hide it under a person's shirt is difficult without having the bump be visible. However, the RodeLink doesn't have a flimsy antenna that can get bent or broken, which is a plus. Overall, the RodeLink is a great, inexpensive wireless kit that delivers fantastic quality at a fantastic price. ... More
I wanted to like this product...
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Gabriel on B&H Photo Video
I love the idea that I don't have to check the channel and that I don't have to worry about UHF frequencies being used for different things in different areas.The sound out of the device is to my ears very rich and nice... BUTThere is a hiss and crackle w/ that rich creamy sound.... from my research it is the Micon1 adapter... a common problem from what I am reading online. This little adapter is finely threaded and can break. This is a major problem. It doesn't matter how rich the sound is if I show up to a paid job and my lav mic doesn't work because some cheap adapter. In my opinion this is a major fail...The entire kit seems a bit cheap and like I would need to be very careful least the thin little plastic pieces break. So although the sound quality seems to be great, the build quality is sub par. I was supposed to bring an extra wireless kit to a job tomorrow and now I am in a jam. The lav cord is thin and the adapter is obviously flawed... on my unit and others. The device is large and plastic.For $ more I could get an all metal thin body with robust cables with either the Sony UWP or the G3. I am pretty disappointed. I have the older version of the Sony and though the sound isn't as rich I know for a fact that it will work. Though it should be noted that my two sony lavs will not work when plugged into the RodeLink Transmitter. So for me... this purchase was only **. I will be sending my RodeLink back to BH for a refund. ... More
Easiest way to record two channels on one camera.
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Dudley on B&H Photo Video
I purchased this set along with an additional RodeLink for a 3rd channel. It is easy to pair TX & RX pair. I use 3 simultaneous channels without experiencing any dropout. I especially like the ability to record left and right channels onto one camera. It performs without any crossover. In seminar settings, I feed the wireless Lavalier mic and the handheld wireless to one camera, separating L/R channels. This is great for audience feedback. I then use a 4 channel isolated headphone amplifier to capture the Camera headphone output to feed to the sound system. This provides a full loop to verify total system performance while minimizing wire runs. Note that the Lavalier mics are very sensitive. There is a tendency to cause echo in sound systems. Mounting the lavalier as close as possible to the head and using a minimum amount of gain helps reduce feedback. Be careful to place Sound System speakers even or in front of the person speaking. The signal level indicators are a little deceptive. One bar of signal is usually acceptable for recording, with no more than two bars. Always check what the camera is recording for final verification. I use lithium batteries and can record off and on all day on one set. The carry case is a must. ... More
It Just Works
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Steve on B&H Photo Video
I purchased two units one filmmaker kit and one news shooter kit and two VXLR Mono-Jack to XLR adapters. Everything works as expected. I have been able to configure these units in many different ways to meet all of my needs. I would suggest you watch a few YouTube videos on these units to get up to speed on how they work before you buy. I have a number of very good older Shure Dynamic mics that work great with either transmitter using the proper adapters. Phantom powered mics work fine on the news shooter as well as Lav mics. Unfortunately my Rode VideoMic GO created a lot of hum when trying to use it. I asked RODE about this issue they saidmicrophones like the VideoMic Go weren't designed to be used with a wireless system. Something about the signal from the filmmaker transmitter is being induced into the capsule of the microphone and unfortunately they said there isn't a way around this. It's no big deal for me all my other RODE shotgun mics, lavs and Shure dynamic mics work great with these units. However you may want to check with RODE if you already have some of their mics and are expecting them to work with these units. So far these two units are holing up fine but they are made with plastic and can not be drop kicked, thrown against a wall or heavily abused if you treat them with a reasonable amount of care you shouldn't have any issues. However if your tuff on your stuff then you may want to look for a wireless system with a full metal jacket. ... More
Not what I hoped for
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Macky on B&H Photo Video
First, let me say that I'm a fan of Rode. I've owned two VideoMics and the NTG4+ is one of the best mics out there. However, this wireless lavalier mic is a disappointment. I bought two to replace Sony wireless mics, which were solid, but falling behind. The price was slightly cheaper - maybe $100 less each. What I found were plastic kits with thin cabling and hard-to-access battery areas. I've already had one battery coil come off while taking out a battery. Under good circumstances, sound is good. However, if a speaker touches a cable to the transmitter box, you get a solid background hiss. Tough to fix in post. The lavalier cable is also thin, and does not inspire trust. Also, the receiver's out-port is on the side, so if you need to place receivers close to each other to go on a t-mount or into a recorder, you've got a tough task. If you're in a controlled environment, this might work fine - especially if you switch out the lavalier mic and cable. Beyond that, spend a bit of extra money and get a Sony. ... More
Great sturdy audio solution for a shooter constantly moving
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Charles F. on B&H Photo Video
I've only had the chance to shoot one wedding so far with this kit but it was great. Running around trying to get shots at a wedding one thing I really don't want to have to worry about is my audio. the receiver sits on top of the camera, I put the transmitter on the groom, hit the button and I'm done, beautiful. It feels like a well built piece of equipment. Something I always loved about the Sennheiser's is that they feel like you could run them over with a truck and they'd be alright. For $400 I think the quality of the build is top notch. I did notice the problem others were mentioning about the cable on the actual mic being kind of flimsy and creating some nasty hiss and cracks at times, but it wasn't too bad, and as long as he wasn't moving around the audio was perfect. The batteries lasted a very long time as well. I had the kit up and running for at least 4 hours and by the end of the night I was just starting to dip down in to the first bar. Mic wire problems aside, for the price you really can't go wrong if you're trying to break away from the soul crushingly expensive Sennheiser crowd. I think I might upgrade to a better mic eventually, just be careful with the cable, make sure its not pinched or tangled anywhere and you should be fine. I'm looking forward to using this kit more in the future and highly suggest it if you're not rich ;) ... More
Not What It Used To Be
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Jeff on B&H Photo Video
I'm a wedding filmmaker and when this unit came out it was almost too perfect for someone like myself. Over the past 3 years, however, I've had to replace the unit twice because I started to get horrible noise/possible interference or just a bad connection with the TRS cable into the transmitter. I would play back footage and my heart would drop because as the officiant was talking all of a sudden it would lose signal or have an incredible amount of noise or crackling making the audio inaudible. I can no longer take that chance with this unit even after Rode replaced the cable twice (don't listen to the haters here about their customer support because it is amazing) I have moved onto the Tascam DR-10L units which are great and I don't have to worry about losing signals or anything like that anymore. It's sad because the audio quality when working on this product is amazing, but I can't risk the cable messing up again. Rode, please fix this!! ... More
Fast, easy to setup, great range - would buy again
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Kris on B&H Photo Video
We bought 4 of these for use on various locations / on set, with the receivers plugged into our Zoom H5. They work as advertised and met our expectations had them setup and working in short time (very short time), the built in displays and level meters make it super easy to check signal and channel. Pairing is a breeze. The only downsides we ran into was one of the lav mics seemed to come loose where the mic meets the cable via normal use, it's a one-piece so we'll have to get it fixed on warranty via B&H. FWIW the way the mic wire attaches to the clip could be slightly improved, it's a little tight/hard to get in. Other than that, they rock and would totally get them again. Would give it 4.5 stars if that was a rating option. ... More
Excellent sound quality but bulky
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Brian on B&H Photo Video
Overall, rode has done an excellent job on this mic set up. Sound quality is excellent, and the digital frequency technology is great. However, the packs are much bulkier compared to certain industry standard units, and though I do not have the evidence to support this, I believe because of the fully plastic construction of these mics, they will not stand up to the rigors of professional use when compared to the rugged and metal build of certain industry standard units. As far as sound quality, you are paying 2/3 the price for the same quality when compared to their competitors. However, I'd spent the extra for something that is tried and tested and will last. ... More
Rodelink and Sennheiser ew 112-p G3
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by thevan on B&H Photo Video
I got 2 of them Rodelink here very good price and i have to return and exchange for the 2 Sennheiser ew 112-p G3 ..Every time i turn on the Rodelind it kill the audio technica digital wireless mic and my router try changing Frequncy and it no help at all..I call and email to rodelink customer service and as for the frequency and they wont let me have it and no respond from email..Here is the good and the bad .. 2.4ghz is loaded out there and you dont know what you endup there and you dont know what frequncy that you stayway ..Rodelink has no gain pad for you to deal with .. The king of all wireless is here Sennheiser ew 112-p G3 ..It is very expensive but i have it all auto frequency scan ..know FQ that i am on..60DB pad so i can use it for wireless speaker with battery power speaker also ..wireless guitar ..wireless bass and wireless mic and 560 feet 2 of them for true stereo..Audio is supper ..I am a pro audio and i looking for the one that i can control.. ... More
Great wireless lav set!
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Pascual on B&H Photo Video
I'm a semi-pro videographer. I shoot weddings, and interviews. So far this set has worked great! I like that the mic screws into th body pack to prevent it from coming out. I like the controls that I can mute from the receiver, see audio levels and see the battery levels. Sounds good. I can attach directly to my my camera's hot shoe mount with the included hardware. Good versatility with the micon connections. Just wish they would have included a output cable to xlr, in addition to 3.5mm. Mic clips are okay, and the windscreen for the lav mic is easy to put on, which is helpful. ... More
Excellent system so far!
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by SWriverstone on B&H Photo Video
After the long wait to get this mic, I can say that so far it has been perfect. I've only used it for close-range interview audio, so haven't tested longer ranges yet (hence the 4-star rating). First-time setup was a piece of cake: popped AA batteries in both units, attached the lavalier mic to the transmitter, powered on both units and pairing was nearly instant and automatic (there is Pair button inside both units but I did not have to use it). I've left it set to the default channel because there is little-to-no RF interference in the university environment where I use it. I'm using it with a Canon 70D DSLR, and it works perfectly. I set gain to +10dB, did a quick audio level check in the camera (had to turn it down a bit), and I was off and running. Listening to the results through a pair of decent Sony MDR headphones, sound quality is excellent. If I had to nitpick (which is tough) I might say it could use a bit more of higher frequencies, but it's by no means muted-sounding. Overall great mic! ... More
Great Quality... As long as you are in direct line of sight.
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
Used this lav as a videographer to mic different people for different shots during different events. The quality of this mic is wonderful! Even better than some of the more expensive lavs I have used. It has a rich, full sound to it. But recently I had a groom mic'ed up that was less than 30 feet away, but around the corner in another room and the sound was in and out. Which created worry about the situation. So I turned off the TX and RX and turned them back on. They picked up better, but still, I expected them to pick up the first time given the distance away. However, it does it's job and sounds great! I've used it now for a few projects and love the sound! P.S.... It's almost as big as a brick though. ... More
Great Wireless Lav Sysytem
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Jeremy on B&H Photo Video
I am a wedding/commercial filmmaker, and use wireless systems all the time. I have used the senheisser and sony systems before this. I have never been a huge fan of the senheisser's system and have actually had a few problems with them on shoots. The sony's have always been really reliable but can be complicated to use especially in high stress situations. Just changing the channel can take a lot of time. The rode mics are really simple to use, they automatically sync up and even if they don't it is as easy to sync them up as syncing a wii remote. The audio clarity is clear and the rode mic holds up to their usual standard. The only downfall I have found is that they are large, much larger than the competitors. Despite the size, I have heard no complaints about them and they have not been visible under jackets or on people's back. They are also fairly light, the size doesn't add any noticeable weight compared to the sony's or senheisser. Just as a tip, either get the 1/8 to XLR converter or buy an 1/8 to XLR cable. ... More
Amazing quality at a great price point
Rode RODELink Filmmaker Kit Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by UBKBrian on B&H Photo Video
I have two kits and have used them simultaneously on run and gun documentary style productions. I had absolutely no frequency hits in a congested setting. The lav quality is superb and the ability to see both the transmitter and receiver's battery level at the receiving end takes away the anxiety of shooting for long periods of time not knowing when the packs are going to die.
