Rode announced a new sub-brand titled 'Rode X.' Rode X will focus on the professional gaming and streaming scenes, with high-quality microphones and software leading the collection. The two microphones in the Rode X collection are the 'XDM-100' and the 'XCM-50.' The XDM-100 is the flagship product, boasting dynamic cardioid condenser technology that ensures only the speaker's voice is picked up, while background noise is automatically filtered out.
The XDM-100 connects to a device over USB-C, meaning it supports most new PCs, laptops, and tablets. Additionally, the device comes with a USB-C to USB-A converter, as well as a shock mount, pop filter, and a headphone extension cable. The interface options directly on the microphone include a volume control for the connected headphones, as well as an input mute for the microphone itself.
The XCM-50 is a more budget-friendly microphone with a desktop-focused design, rather than coming on a mounted boom-arm. This microphone still features cardioid condenser technology and the ability to connect to headphones, but features a smaller microphone capture size, resulting in potentially less quality than its premium counterpart.
The XCM-50 retails for $149, while the XDM-100 comes in at $249.
Professional Gaming Microphones
Rode Announced the 'Rode X' Collection of Gaming-Focused Products
Trend Themes
1. Professional Gaming Microphones - The rise of professional gaming for entertainment requires investment in specialized high-quality equipment such as microphones, which could present an opportunity for electronic device manufacturers and gaming hardware producers to expand their offerings.
2. USB-C Microphone Connectivity - As more devices migrate to USB-C, there is an opportunity for electronic accessory manufacturers to focus on developing products compatible with this connection type.
3. Streaming Audio Software - With the increasing demand for high-quality audio in the gaming and streaming industry, there is an opportunity for companies to develop innovative software solutions to enhance listener experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Consumer Electronics - Consumer electronic device manufacturers could capitalize on the rising gaming industry and enter into the space by offering specialized gaming devices or gaming-focused versions of current products.
2. Audio Equipment - Audio equipment manufacturers can expand their product lines by developing specialized or customized microphones for industries like gaming and entertainment.
3. Software Development - Opportunities exist in the development of software that streamlines the audio editing process, enhances microphone functionality, and incorporates voice recognition software to recognize and enhance speech.