A couple of years ago there was a revolution in USB Microphones. There had been a number of high quality mics prior to this time, but the revolution had nothing to do with the microphone itself, but what came with it: its software.
Software had become a major selling point to the new generation of microphones, allowing for mixing and even processing to be done in one place, rendering obsolete many third party software mixers and letting the user send one single source to their streaming or recording software of choice. This addition made USB solutions as viable as an XLR Mic/Hardware Mixer combination for a fraction of the price. Among the mics on the forefront of this revolution was the Rode NT-USB Mini, a microphone that is small in stature, simple in design and packs a real punch.
In the box, you get the NT-USB Mini microphone with a built-on shock mount, a stand that connects to the shockmount magnetically and a USB-C to USB-A Cable. The microphone itself is built like a brick. Typical of Rode microphones, the capsule is solid and has some weight to it given its size.
What surprised me is the fact that the stand itself was quite light in comparison. One would expect a more sturdy base, but it left me wanting a bit. I will say, though, that the small stature of the NT-USB Mini itself keeps a low centre of gravity, so you don’t really risk it getting knocked over. I do like the magnetic connection to the stand, though, for easy transfer from the stand to a mic stand. There are threads where the NT-USB Mini connects to the stand, so it can still be screwed on properly.
“At the affordable price of $99.99 USD, the NT-USB Mini is not the price of a starter mic, but offers so much more than any starter microphone can offer…”
I maintain that no microphone should be left on a desk anyway. Get it on a stand and close to your face, especially because it is a condenser microphone and the ambient noise will be insane with the mic being too far away.
Setup is a breeze and when you are up and running, you are hearing a fantastic condenser microphone. The sound of my voice as captured by the NT-USB Mini was so warm and clear with the right amount of bass and high frequency without so much of the mid-tones. In terms of EQ, I made only the slightest changes to get it just right, but I easily could have used it as is out of the box.
But you can go a step further and download Rode Connect, the software that turns your mic into a full recording studio and streaming station for a low cost. That software turns your computer into a Rodecaster Pro in virtually every way. The UI looks identical to the surface of the Rodecaster (maybe we’ll see an update to reflect the look of the Rodecaster Pro II?) and features so much of its functionality, including the ability to combine up to four microphones, adding two additional virtual sources, allowing you to add sources like Music, Chat, Game and more.
In addition to these sources, access to a soundpad opens up your production to the instant integration of stings, audio clips and sound effects without the need to add them in post.
“The sound of my voice as captured by the NT-USB Mini was so warm and clear with the right amount of bass and high frequency without so much of the mid-tones.”
While it lacks the total number of playable sources that some other mic’s softwares offer, in addition to the functions I have already listed, they have a crucial function that none of the others offer. Rode Connect can record. Either as a stereo mix or as a multichannel recording, it can all be done from this software, removing the need for additional software for podcast records, for example.
I do have some issues with the NT-USB Mini, though. First, its volume control is hard to handle. The knob does not protrude from the mic, the only part that you can manipulate is across the bottom and the knob was a little stiff. I concede that once you get this set up the way you want it, you shouldn’t have to monkey around with it so much.
Another thing about the knob is that pressing it in lets you monitor with zero latency. I am unclear as to a reason why you wouldn’t want to hear yourself in the mix with the rest of the audio. The ability to mute your mic to yourself exists in the software, so this push button function could have been used elsewhere.
One of the functions that could have replaced it is a mic mute, something that currently doesn’t exist on the hardware. The ability to mute your mic quickly, especially on podcasts or streams, is paramount and leaving this off of the microphone felt like an oversight. This is a situation where the software slows down the process. Even with current functionality in place, other options could have been explored. A long press of the knob or perhaps a capacitive touch on the top of the mic à la the Elgato Wave microphones could have maintained the design while incorporating a key feature into the NT-USB Mini.
At the affordable price of $99.99 USD, the NT-USB Mini not the price of a starter mic, but offers so much more than any starter microphone can offer, yet is more affordable than other options with a software solution. It also is a price that is conducive to people buying multiple mics for a podcast setup.
Also, available for the NT-USB Mini are colour-coded caps and cable covers that would allow you to differentiate the different microphones and where they connect to the computer. The colour coding extends to the software, so you will know which mic you are controlling based on the colour (assuming you assign the right mics to the right spots).
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
