The purpose of Rode's new microphone is to improve the audio of DSLR, mirrorless and even smartphones. It incorporates a high-quality cardioid condenser microphone capsule and reduces distracting peripheral sounds while focusing on the audio in front of the camera.

Its pickup is more forgiving than Rode’s other on-camera microphones, providing a more natural sound when recording indoors. The microphone’s body is made from aluminum, giving it a high level of RF rejection and is finished in the company’s high-grade ceramic anti-glare black coating.

Included with the VideoMicro is a camera shoe mount featuring a Rycote Lyre shock mount. It features a suspension structure composed of a hard-wearing thermoplastic that is more effective at minimizing unwanted vibrations, handling and cable-borne noise than traditional elastic suspensions.

Virtually indestructible, the Rycote Lyre will not sag, snap, wear out or require rethreading to maintain its effectiveness. Also included is the WS9 synthetic furry wind shield with foam inner cell, designed for use outdoors where wind and environmental noise can inhibit recordings.

Since the tiny microphone — which weighs 1.5 ounces and is three inches long — is powered by the camera’s plug-in power (a minimum of three volts), it does not require a battery. It also works well as a handheld or podium-mounted microphone for use with portable audio recorders using plug-in power (most portable recorders have the feature).

The audio quality is excellent and works well as a general purpose microphone for news reporters.

A sister model, the VideoMic Me, plugs directly into smartphones. Also, optionally available is the Rode SC7, a TRS to TRRS cable that allows the VideoMicro to be plugged directly into smartphones for use with video applications such as Periscope.

The price of the complete kit is $59.00.