This review dives into the Rode Wireless Go Gen 3, examining whether it lives up to the hype surrounding its release. We'll explore its impressive features, including 32-bit float recording, significantly increased internal storage, and a greatly improved microphone with expanded frequency response and a 3.5mm locking input for external mics. The review also details the ease of use and examines the performance of its automatic gain assist feature and high-pass filter. We'll put its range to the test, comparing it against a competitor to assess real-world performance in various scenarios.Beyond the individual features, this review directly compares the Wireless Go Gen 3 against its predecessor, the Wireless Go II, and Rode's flagship Wireless Pro system. This comparison will help you determine if the Gen 3's advancements justify its price point, particularly considering the lack of included accessories like a charging case and magnet mounts. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a comprehensive assessment to help you decide if the Rode Wireless Go Gen 3 is the right wireless microphone system for your needs and budget.
Pros And Cons
- Upgrades from Wireless Go 2: 32-bit float recording, more storage space, threaded 3.5mm connectors, Auto gain assist.
- Better connection performance at longer distances than DJI Mic 2.
- 7-hour battery life (slightly better than DJI Mic 2's 6 hours).
- 40 hours of onboard recording space for 32-bit float files (significantly more than DJI Mic 2's 11 hours).
- Locking 3.5mm connector.
- Available in more color options.
- Built-in mics sound a little muffled with less high-end presence compared to Wireless Pro (easily corrected in post).
- High-pass filter options don't have a significant effect on frequency response.
- Glossy transmitter with a white logo (requires Gaff tape for on-camera use).
- No redesign of the transmitter; bulky compared to competition.
- Price point makes Wireless Pro a better value for many users, considering included accessories.
Read more: SM Professional XR50 Wireless Microphone: Unboxing, Features & Review
Unboxing and Package Contents
The Rode Wireless Go Gen 3 arrived in a sleek package, immediately suggesting a premium feel. Inside, I found two transmitters, a receiver, a USB adapter, wind muffs, various cables (USB-C to USB-C, USB-C to Lightning), and a carrying pouch. The inclusion of essential accessories is appreciated, although a charging case is sold separately.
While the package includes the basics, the omission of a charging case is a notable point. Rode offers a separate 'Charge Case Plus' for additional cost, which provides charging and data connectivity for firmware updates. The USB adapter in the base kit allows for simultaneous charging and data transfer, a feature usually found only in dedicated charging cases.
The lack of included magnets is another minor drawback. These are sold separately and are necessary for convenient mounting. Overall, the package contents are decent, but the extra accessories inflate the overall cost.
Audio Quality and Recording Capabilities
The standout feature of the Rode Wireless Go Gen 3 is its internal 32-bit float recording. This significantly reduces the risk of clipping and allows for greater flexibility in post-production. The increased internal storage (32GB) provides up to 40 hours of recording per transmitter, eliminating storage concerns during long recording sessions.
The microphone itself boasts an improved frequency response, particularly in the lower frequencies, offering a richer and fuller sound compared to its predecessor. The microphone also features a 3.5mm locking input for external microphones, improving security and compatibility.
Recording modes include merged (mono), split (stereo), and a safety track mode. All modes are supported via both 3.5mm and USB connections. The audio quality is impressive, with crisp and clear recordings, though some users may find it slightly muddier compared to the Wireless Pro.
Features and Functionality
The Rode Wireless Go Gen 3 incorporates Rode's automatic gain assist feature with Auto and Dynamic modes. This intelligently adjusts gain based on the input audio, ensuring consistent levels. Manual gain control is also available, allowing for fine-tuning based on preference.
A high-pass filter (75Hz or 100Hz) is accessible via Rode Central software, effectively reducing low-frequency noise. The system integrates seamlessly with Rode's other products, including the RodeCaster Pro 2 and RodeCaster Duo.
The expanded color options (14 colors) allow for greater personalization, enabling users to choose a color that best suits their recording setup. This is a small but welcome addition, offering more style choices to those who prefer their mics visible.
Range Test and Comparison
A range test against the DJI Mic 2 was conducted, comparing signal strength and audio quality at various distances. The Rode Wireless Go Gen 3 consistently outperformed the DJI Mic 2 at longer distances, maintaining a clearer signal even with obstacles.
At 10 meters, both systems performed flawlessly. However, at greater distances (25m, 50m, 100m, 150m, 200m, and 250m), the Rode Wireless Go Gen 3 showed better stability and audio quality. The test highlights the impressive range capabilities of the Rode system.
The range test provided valuable insight into the real-world performance of the Rode Wireless Go Gen 3. It is well-suited for most filming scenarios, providing a reliable signal even at considerable distances from the receiver.
Comparison with Rode Wireless Go II and Wireless Pro
A direct comparison with the previous generation Rode Wireless Go II and the flagship Wireless Pro was also carried out. The audio differences are subtle but noticeable; the Wireless Go Gen 3 sounds slightly muddier compared to the Wireless Pro, although this can be easily corrected in post-production.
The Wireless Go Gen 3 features almost all the same functionality as the Wireless Pro, lacking only timecode generation. Considering the differences in price and included accessories (charging case, lav mics, magnet clips), the Wireless Pro presents a more compelling value proposition for many users.
The choice between the Wireless Go Gen 3 and Wireless Pro depends on individual needs and budget. The Wireless Go Gen 3 is a solid upgrade from the Wireless Go II, but the Wireless Pro remains a more comprehensive package.
Conclusion and Recommendation
The Rode Wireless Go Gen 3 is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, offering improved audio quality, enhanced recording capabilities, and valuable new features like automatic gain assist. The expanded color options add a nice touch of personalization.
However, the pricing and included accessories, particularly compared to the Rode Wireless Pro, put the Wireless Go Gen 3 in a difficult position. Unless the added cost of accessories is a non-issue for you, the Wireless Pro is generally the better overall value.
I recommend the Rode Wireless Go Gen 3 for users who don't require the charging case, lav mics, or magnet clips, and prefer the flexibility of connecting everything to a computer at once. Those prioritizing value should strongly consider the Wireless Pro, especially if it is on sale.