Rode Wireless GO II 2-Person Compact Digital Wireless Microphone System/Recorder (Dual Set)

Rode Wireless GO II 2-Person Compact Digital Wireless Microphone System/Recorder (Dual Set)

Expanding on the original Wireless GO with updates allowing for two-person shoots, onboard recording, a greatly extended range, and flexible output options, the black Rode Wireless Go II system lets videographers, vloggers, and mobile journalists confidently and quickly incorporate wireless audio into their setup regardless of their experience level or what device they're recording to.

Boasting secure Series IV 2.4 GHz digital transmission, easy operability, and built-in mics (lavalier mics available separately), the system is ready to go at the press of a button; you can focus on getting the shot knowing that the Wireless GO II is delivering quality audio at a range of up to 656 feet. There are no menus and no finicky dials, just simple power-on-and-go functionality and a bright, informative LCD screen showing you what you need to see. When you're ready for more, use Rode's companion app to access a powerful feature set and extended customisation of settings.

Special Note

The transmitters can capture uncompressed audio with a maximum resolution of 24-bit / 48 kHz. Using Rode's companion app, you can export files in the same recording resolution, or other settings such as 32-bit float / 48 kHz, which only offers compatibility with DAWs and other programs that support 32-bit float. The transmitters do not record in a 32-bit float.

Version II Upgrades

Whereas the original Wireless GO employed a single channel, version II is a dual-channel system, capable of handling two transmitters at the same time for simple, two-person shoots with low latency (3.5 to 4 ms).
Use the Rode Central Mac/Windows companion app (iOS/Android apps coming soon) to unlock powerful features and device customization—onboard transmitter recording, configurable safety track recording in dual-mono mode, file playback and export, and more.

Via the app, each transmitter provides an onboard audio recorder offering up to seven hours of uncompressed recording (24-bit / 48 kHz WAV) or 24 hours of compressed recording, perfect for worry-free backup recording or a fast and easy way to capture sound from your subjects. Export files in various formats such as MP3 or WAV (16-, 24-, or 32-bit float) with the date and time stamp information as well as automatic markers anywhere the transmitter-receiver link was broken.

Since the Wireless GO II can handle two transmitters at once, it features the ability to switch between stereo or dual-mono output modes. This enables each transmitter, and therefore each subject, to be recorded to a separate channel. Alternatively, the signal from both transmitters can be mixed together and recorded identically to left and right channels. Use the app to activate safety track recording (-20 dB on the right channel).

In addition to the traditional 3.5mm TRS analog output, the Wireless GO II receiver has a USB Type-C digital audio output for operation as a 24-bit / 48 kHz audio interface. This can be connected to a computer with the supplied USB Type-C to USB Type-A cable, to the Lightning port of an iOS mobile device via the Rode SC15 cable, or to the USB Type-C port of a laptop, iPad Pro, or Android mobile device with the Rode SC16 cable (SC15 and SC16 cables available separately).

The new Series IV technology extends the line-of-sight operating range of the Wireless GO II to approximately 656' compared to the 230' maximum range of the original Wireless GO. It also offers increased signal strength in crowded wireless environments. Plus, the system is designed to run both transmitters without affecting the range performance.

Out of the Box, onto the Set
Designed with stunning simplicity and efficiency in mind, the Rode Wireless GO II offers instantaneous functionality out of the box for your next news shoot, video project, or interview. Power up, let the receiver and transmitters automatically pair, then GO!

Mobile journalists, videographers, and vloggers will appreciate the Wireless GO II's pocket- and bag-friendly portability. With the transmitters and receiver each weighing just over an ounce and measuring approximately 1.7 x 1.8 x 0.7 inches, the subjects and camera operator will forget they're even there!

Clip each miniature transmitter to clothing, attach it to a belt, or slide it in a pocket; use it as a lavalier mic (no need for a separate mic), or operate it as a traditional bodypack transmitter with an external lav mic such as the Rode Lavalier GO (available separately).

Thanks to the receiver's minute form factor and integrated clip, it provides the flexibility to be easily mounted on a camera, in a sound bag, or to a mobile device. Its bright, high-contrast display shows battery status for the receiver and transmitter, audio level, signal strength, and more.

True Wireless Microphone Ready for Run-and-Gun
Equipped with a high-calibre, pre-polarized, omnidirectional lavalier built into the transmitter's compact housing, the Wireless GO II delivers quality audio without demanding a separate microphone (external lavalier mics optional).
The internal capsule's omnidirectional polar pattern ensures reliable audio pickup, even if mic placement is less than ideal; your subject's voice will be captured with clarity, intelligibility, and consistency.

Grab a Mic and Go
Already have a top-of-the-line external lav? The transmitter packs in a 3.5mm TRS input with plug-in power, so you can connect most lavalier microphones equipped with a non-locking 3.5mm TRS mini plug (such as Rode's own Lavalier GO, available separately), and still enjoy the convenience of the Wireless GO II.
The 3.5mm TRS external mic input passes wideband audio along to the internal mic preamp, which provides requires no manipulation of settings or parameters.

 
Sonically Solid and Secure
Like Rode's popular RODELink wireless systems, the Wireless GO II system utilizes the 2.4 GHz frequency band to get you away from the congested and confusing domain of UHF. Forget about scanning for channels and dialling in squelch to get a strong signal; the Wireless GO II just works!

Courtesy of Rode's optimized transmission algorithm, the Wireless GO II empowers you with a line-of-sight range of up to 200 metres and bolsters signal dependability to mitigate drop-outs in crowded short-range environments such as retail stores, malls, office buildings, and hotels.

Rode's new Series IV 2.4 GHz digital transmission incorporates 128-bit encryption for security, stability, and hassle-free operation while bypassing the frustration of dealing with licenses and frequency mandates. Go anywhere in the world with the Wireless GO II; it automatically gives you a strong signal no matter the scenario.

Note: For optimal performance from this 2.4 GHz system, users are encouraged to maintain as direct a line of sight as possible between the transmitter and receiver. The Wireless GO II is not backward-compatible with the original Wireless GO system.

The Dual Channel Receiver

The Wireless GO II features two transmitters and a dual channel receiver that allows you to connect both transmitters for recording two sound sources into a single device. Out of the box, the transmitters come auto paired to the receiver and will remember which channel they’ve been assigned to, so you don’t have to worry about pairing them again.

The receiver’s LED screen is split into four main sections, with icons for battery life, signal strength and input level displayed for each transmitter on the bottom left and right, and icons for battery life, backlight mode and output gain for the receiver in the middle. Above this is an output level meter for the receiver, which makes it easy to monitor the levels going into your camera or recording device and ensuring your signal isn’t too hot.

Turning On and Pairing Your Wireless GO II

To turn on your Wireless GO II, simply press and hold the power button on the receiver. To pair your transmitters to the receiver, press and hold the power button on the transmitters one at a time. Once turned on, they will automatically pair to the receiver. This should take a few seconds.

If a transmitter loses connection with the receiver, the blue ‘8‘ LED on the transmitter will flash and the icons for that channel will go blank on the receiver, making it easy to identify which one you need to reconnect.

If you need to reconnect a transmitter to the receiver, press and hold the pair button (‘8‘) on the receiver for three seconds to enable pairing mode, then single-click the power button on the transmitter and wait a few seconds.

To disconnect a transmitter, select it by single-clicking the pair button, then press and hold the pair button for three seconds.

Understanding RØDE's Series IV 2.4GHz Digital Transmission

The Wireless GO II utilises RØDE’s all-new Series IV 2.4GHz digital transmission with 128-bit encryption. This delivers an extended transmission range of 200 metres (line of sight). The Wireless GO II is optimised for extremely stable operation in environments where there is a lot of RF activity, including dense urban areas, shopping malls, universities, convention centres, and offices, so you can worry less about dropouts and focus more on what you're recording.
Wireless GO II Receiver
Mono & Stereo Mode

The Wireless GO II gives you the option to record in either mono or stereo mode. This allows you to record each transmitter onto separate channels on the output or combine the two into a single output.

To switch between mono and stereo mode, press and hold both buttons on the receiver for three seconds and keep an eye on the output level meter on the LED screen.

When there are two meters, you are in mono mode. This means that each transmitter's output is being recorded onto separate channels (left and right) on the Wireless GO II’s output, which can be processed individually in post-production. This is great for two-person interviews where you need to be able to edit and mix each sound source independently.

When there is just one meter, you are in stereo mode. This means that the two transmitters are being combined into a single summed output. This is great if you’re only using one transmitter and want the audio recorded onto both channels of your recording device, or if you are using the safety channel (see below for more information). It also works well if you are using the Wireless GO II in a live presentation setup.

For more information on how to import and separate your audio in post-production, check out this blog post on ‘How To Record Two Microphones Into Your Camera’.
Wireless GO II - Mono vs Stereo Mode
Channel Selection & Mute Control

Channel Selection

As mentioned, clicking the pair button on the receiver will allow you to cycle between the two transmitters. A single click will select transmitter 1, a second click will select transmitter 2, and a third click will exit the channel selection. Note this will only work when the transmitters are turned on and paired to the receiver. This allows you to connect and disconnect the transmitters and also mute them.

Mute Control via the Receiver

Once the desired transmitter has been selected via the channel selection, single-click the gain control/mute button to mute it. This is useful when the camera operator needs to quickly mute one of the transmitters.

Mute Control via the Transmitter

You can also mute via the transmitter. When paired to the receiver, single-click the transmitter power button to mute and unmute. This is useful when the speaker or presenter wants to mute themselves.

On-Board Recording

Each of the Wireless GO II’s transmitters has an on-board recording function, with internal memory capable of storing over 24 hours of compressed audio or seven hours of uncompressed audio. This feature can only be activated via RØDE Central. When activated, a red recording icon will appear above the channel that the transmitter is connected to on the receiver.

When on-board recording is activated and the transmitter is turned on and connected to the receiver, it will immediately start recording audio direct from either the in-built microphone or any external microphone plugged into the 3.5mm input. This means that if the signal drops out at any time or if you forget to hit record on your device, you will still have a complete backup recording.
Accessing Your Recordings

To access these recordings, open RØDE Central, plug in your transmitter(s) and select the device. Your recordings will be listed chronologically in the left-hand column from oldest to newest, with the recording time, date and length displayed. Click on a recording to access it.

Optimising and Exporting Your Recordings

RØDE Central allows you to listen to, optimise and export all of your recordings from within the software. Click on a recording to get started. A waveform will be displayed with real-time and elapsed recording time on the horizontal axis. This allows you to scrub to the desired time easily.
The waveform will also display any dropouts that occurred during your recording with a red marker. These markers are populated automatically if the transmitter detects the wireless signal quality fell below the acceptable range during recording. This is extremely helpful for pinpointing exactly what section of audio you need, rather than having to listen back through the entire recording.

There are options to export either the entire recording or only a selected section. Clicking on either option will give you access to a dropdown menu of export options for optimising your audio, including:

    File name
    File type (WAV/MP3)
    Bit rate
    Sample rate
    Loudness (LuFs)

There are also export presets for a variety of audio platforms.

Deleting Your Recordings

When storage in the transmitter is full, new recordings will begin overwriting the oldest recordings. After a recording session, it’s a good idea to export all of your audio then delete the files from the Wireless GO II to ensure you don’t lose any audio you haven’t saved.

Clicking the transmitter settings cog in RØDE Central will allow you to see how much storage space you have left and mass delete all recordings on the transmitter.

Manual Marker Drop

In addition to the transmitters automatically dropping a marker in the audio file when a dropout is detected, you can manually drop a marker in your recording at any time via the receiver. This feature can be enabled in RØDE Central by toggling the 'Ø Button' to 'Marker' in the receiver settings. Now when you click the power button on the receiver while recording, a marker will be placed in the audio file.

The Difference Between Compressed and Uncompressed Audio

When using the on-board recording function, RØDE Central gives you the option to configure the format of the audio file. Uncompressed recordings will be saved as WAV files – a very high-quality lossless audio format that can be useful if you plan on extensively editing or processing your audio in post-production. The Wireless GO II can store up to seven hours of uncompressed audio.

Compressed recordings will be saved as MP3 files. These are still high-quality audio files, but they are much smaller – the Wireless GO II can store up to 24 hours of compressed audio – and to most listeners, the perceptible difference between MP3 and WAV recordings will be minimal. However, if you need to edit or process your recordings in post-production with high-quality audio, uncompressed recording may be preferable.  
Safety Channel

RØDE Central allows you to activate the Wireless GO II’s safety channel. This is a handy feature that is also found on the VideoMic NTG and VideoMic Pro+.

The safety channel can only be activated in stereo recording mode (when the two transmitter channels are being combined into a single summed output). These stereo recordings contain two channels of identical audio. However, enabling the safety channel will reduce the volume of one channel by 20dB.

This is a lifesaver in recording situations where your sound source suddenly gets louder and overloads the input of your recording device, causing distortion. This cannot be fixed in post-production and can effectively ruin your recording. Having a second channel recorded at 20dB lower than the main channel – and thus most likely not loud enough to cause distortion – means you will always have a safe backup of your audio.

To find out how to access the safety channel audio, check out this blog post on ‘How To Record Two Microphones Into Your Camera’, as many of the same principles can be applied.
Fine Gain Control

RØDE Central gives you access to an additional fine gain control. Activating this on the Wireless GO II receiver will expand the three-stage pad to a 10-stage pad, going from 0dB to –30dB in 3dB increments. This allows you to precisely tailor your Wireless GO II’s output to your recording device. It also gives you access to an extra 6dB of gain reduction, which is handy if you have a particularly sensitive recording device.

Additional Features
The receiver's 3.5mm TRS output sends a mic-level signal, making it compatible with an array of devices such as DSLRs and portable audio recorders.

A 3-stage level control (0, -12, or -24 dB) on the receiver allows simple and effective optimization of signal levels. Use the app to adjust the level in 3 dB increments from 0 to -30 dB.

View transmitter and receiver battery levels on the receiver's bright, high-contrast display.

Operate up to four systems simultaneously for more complex setups including up to eight microphones.

Includes the SC5 3.5mm TRS "memory" cable for tidy cable management and compatibility with cameras, DSLRs, and portable audio recorders. Plug into your smartphone or tablet via an SC7 TRS-to-TRRS cable (available separately), or snag a VXLR adapter (available separately) for hookup to an XLR-equipped video camera or audio recorder.

Internal lithium-ion polymer batteries offer up to seven hours of battery life to handle long shoots.

USB Type-C ports for battery recharging, powering via external USB battery packs (available separately), and firmware updates.
Easily recharge over lunch and dinner breaks—go from empty to a full charge in just two hours.

Includes three USB Type-C to USB Type-A cables for simultaneously charging the transmitters and receiver.

Includes three furry windshields to minimize noise from wind and rustling clothes. These have been redesigned with a secure screw-lock bayonet attachment method to eliminate slippage.

System
Wireless Transmission    Digital 2.4 GHz
Included Transmitters    2 x Bodypack with Microphone
Diversity    Non-Diversity
Max Operating Range    656.2' / 200 m
Max Systems per Setup    4
Latency    3.5 to 4 ms
Encryption    128-Bit

Receiver
Form Factor    Beltpack
Mounting Options    Belt Clip (with Included Hardware)
Antenna    1 x Internal
Number of Audio Channels    2
Audio I/O    1 x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Female Unbalanced Mic Output
Gain Range    -24 to 0 dB (12 dB Steps)
USB/Lightning Connectivity    1 x USB Type-C (Audio, Bus Power, Charging)
Power Requirements    Battery or Bus Power (USB)
Battery Type    1 x Built-In Rechargeable (Included)
Battery Charging Time    2 Hours
Approx. Battery Life    7 Hours
Display & Indicators    1 x Graphic LCD (AF Level, Battery Status, Metering, RF Level, Transmitter Battery Status)
Dimensions    1.7 x 1.8 x 0.7" / 4.4 x 4.5 x 1.8 cm
Weight    1.1 oz / 32 g

Transmitter 1
Transmitter
Form Factor    Bodypack with Microphone
Audio I/O    1 x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Female Unbalanced Input
Muting    Off/On Switch
Audio Input Level    -20 dBV (Max)
Auto-Level Control    No
Gain Range    +20 dB
Signal Processing    None
Sync Method    Proprietary
Antenna    1 x Internal
Power Requirements    Battery or Bus Power (USB)
Battery Type    1 x Built-In Rechargeable (Included)
Battery Charging Time    2 Hours
Approx. Battery Life    7 Hours
USB/Lightning Connectivity    1 x USB Type-C (Bus Power, Charging)
Display & Indicators    1 x LED (Sync)
1 x LED (Battery Status)
Dimensions    1.7 x 1.8 x 0.7" / 4.4 x 4.5 x 1.8 cm
Weight    1.1 oz / 30 g

Microphone
Form Factor    Integrated
Sound Field    Mono
Operating Principle    Pressure Operated
Capsule    Electret Condenser
Polar Pattern    Omnidirectional
Frequency Range    50 Hz to 20 kHz
Equivalent Noise Level    22 dB A-Weighted
Maximum SPL    100 dB SPL