Rode Wireless Go II vs Rode Wireless Go: Should You Upgrade?

Rode unveiled the Wireless Go II dual-channel microphone system in February 2021. One receiver and two transmitters make up this small and inexpensive package. The Wireless Go II has undergone a few firmware updates along the way to enhance its features, such as the standalone onboard recording function. However, there are a few differences between the former Go and the new Go II. Even though there have been some significant changes in the new one, there are some striking similarities as well.

Rode Wireless Go II vs Wireless Go

Transmitter

The transmitter you get for the Wireless Go works as a clip-on microphone or beltpack for a lavalier/headset microphone. On the other hand, the Wireless Go II has a switchable stereo or dual-mono output mode and can manage two transmitters simultaneously. This makes it possible to record from each transmitter, and hence, you can record two different subjects at the same time. You get an alternative way to combine the signals from both transmitters and record them in identical left and right channels. 

For a total of four distinct wireless audio streams, each with its own volume meter and solo and mute buttons, each transmitter can be assigned to its own channel in the software. The vivid, high-contrast display of the receiver is used to view the transmitter and receiver battery levels. In that regard, the Go II has a better transmitter.

Receiver

With a beltpack form factor, the receiver of the Go has an audio output level of +3 dBu. It has a built-in battery charging system, which only requires 2 hours of charging to sustain for 7 hours. The receiver you get is almost the same as the new Go II version. 

Although the Rode wireless Go II receiver has a 3.5mm output for monitoring your headphones, it is most likely already being used by your camera. The headphone jack can be used for monitoring purposes if you connect your computer or smartphone via a USB Type-C connection. However, you get 7 hours of battery life for both. Overall, the Go II is a slightly better version of the Go as it can record audio within a distance of up to 200 meters. 

Range of Connectivity

When it comes to the range of connectivity, you are getting a 2.4 GHz wireless connection for both the versions. However, the Wireless Go II can be fully connected with the Rode Connect software, giving you more flexibility than before to record broadcast-quality sound for your content. This is ideal for IRL streaming, recording lectures, presentations, and more.

Availability and Affordability

While the Rode Wireless Go is still available in the market, it costs higher than the latest Go II that was released in February 2021. Compared to the former version, the new Go II is cheaper and comes with a few new additions. Hence, it can be said that the newer model is a more affordable option. Both are available in the market for you to choose which one you need for yourself. 

Rode Wireless Go II vs Wireless Go: Which One Should You Choose? 

“In short – From a consumer point of view, if you already have the Rode Wireless Go, there is no need for an upgrade considering the difference is not drastic. However, if you want to buy a new Wireless Go, then the Go II would be a better choice considering it comes with a better equivalent Noise level and also has switchable stereo or dual-mono output mode, a feature that is missing in the former one.”

Now, it is up to you which one you should go for.