My passion for technology is evident through my online identity, the 8 Bit Librarian. I’m always exploring the latest gadgets, software, and tools that enhance productivity or add a spark of joy to my life. In this post, I’ll discuss a small yet somewhat expensive gadget that has surprisingly become an indispensable tool in my library technology kit.
The RODE Wireless Go II microphone has been a game-changer for me, both in the classroom and more generally at work, saving the day on multiple occasions this year. Despite its compact size, it delivers impressive power and performance. This isn’t a post meant for product placement; rather, it’s what Bob Ross would call “a happy accident” – a serendipitous find that I’m excited to share.
What is the RODE Wireless GO II?
The RODE Wireless GO II microphone stands out for its remarkable versatility and compact design, making it a favourite among educators and professionals alike. Its dual-channel capability allows for easy recording with two microphones simultaneously, perfect for interviews or multi-speaker presentations. With an impressive range, clear audio quality, and the ability to connect directly to smartphones, cameras, and computers, it offers seamless integration into a variety of settings. Its portability ensures it can be brought into any teaching environment, whether it be a traditional classroom, an oddly shaped seminar room, or even outdoor spaces, providing a reliable audio solution that enhances the quality of presentations and recordings without the need for a complex setup.
Uses for the RODE Wireless GO II
Impromptu recording (psychology)
In July and September, I authored a series of posts under the titles “Mastering the Art of Teaching in Oddly Configured Spaces” and “No Projector? No Problem!” Through these pieces, I delved into the unique challenges associated with teaching in the unconventional spaces found on campus. In the concluding section of “No Projector? No Problem!” I highlighted how the RODE Wireless GO II became an instrumental tool in setting up an impromptu recorded session for a third-year psychology class, showcasing its versatility in addressing unexpected teaching scenarios.
Faced with a classroom without a video projector, a basic requirement in my instructional toolkit, I needed to innovate to continue presenting live. My workaround involved distributing a Zoom link, allowing participants to join and view my shared screen. To avoid the echo of double audio, students were instructed to mute the audio from my recording, ensuring a seamless auditory experience but would still allow me to capture the audio for students not able to make it to the live presentation.
The small footprint of this piece of tech allows me to toss it into a bag and easily bring it to the classroom. I have several adapters that allow me to connect it to a series of devices, e.g. USB-C, 3.5mm microphone jack, and lightning adapter (for iPhone). With technology, we have to worry about compatibility. The RODE Wireless GO II offers the flexibility of connecting the microphone to a variety of technology.
Impromptu recording (promotional videos)
In February, as co-hosts for the IDEAL Conference 2024, we faced the challenge of creating an 80-second video to showcase our library space and explain our role in co-hosting the conference. Ideally, we would have used institutional equipment for such an endeavor, but circumstances required us to adapt. Fortunately, the RODE Wireless GO II microphone enabled us to produce a highly professional video with multiple scenes throughout various areas of the library. Its wireless lavaliere design granted us the flexibility to record anywhere within the library, significantly enhancing the video’s professionalism.
The battery life and range of the wireless mics were more than adequate for our needs, and the dual-channel capability was particularly useful, allowing us to equip a second participant with their own mic. While this post isn’t a detailed “how-to” guide, it’s crucial to mention that the mics record in dual channel, with one mic dedicated to the left speaker and the other to the right. This setup necessitates some post-production editing to balance the audio output through both speakers. Without this adjustment, viewers might not experience the audio as intended, highlighting the need for some additional effort in post-production to ensure the best possible outcome.
Impromptu recording (NVivo)
Last week, during a last-minute request, I facilitated an NVivo session and recorded it for students who couldn’t attend in person. By connecting the RODE Wireless GO II to a computer in the lab, I was able to use this microphone for the recording seamlessly. Initially uncertain about its performance in such a setting, the microphone once again proved its reliability. As someone who prefers not to be anchored to the podium, the RODE Wireless GO II offers the ideal solution for dynamic presentation delivery, enabling movement without compromising recording quality.
Moreover, although the raw recording included lengthy periods of interaction with students in the class, I was able to refine the audio and video into concise, useful segments in post production. This editing process has made my presentations more accessible, especially valuable as the term concludes and students juggle various commitments. The RODE Wireless GO II not only enhances the quality of my instructional material but also supports students’ learning by providing flexible access to content.
Conclusion
Originally, my purchase of the RODE Wireless GO II lavalier mic was motivated by the prospect of recording videos during future travels, rather than for professional use. However, it has become a stellar addition to both my tech bag and my teaching toolkit. Its versatility and robust performance have solidified its value, making it an indispensable part of my expanding collection of technology resources.
Header image created by ChatGPT.
RODE Wireless GO II photo by Onur Binay on Unsplash