Rode GO Lavalier Review: Kevlar Quality | €99.99

Tired of missing interviews or videos because your microphone picks up all the background noise but not your voice? The Rode Lavalier GO, an omnidirectional lavalier microphone priced at €99.99 , could be the solution . In this detailed review, we break down its sound quality, its legendary discretion, and why it’s generating so much buzz among discerning content creators.

Summary

  1. Introducing the Rode Lavalier GO
  2. Rode Lavalier GO Microphone Sound Quality
  3. Design and robustness of the Rode Lavalier GO
  4. Lavalier microphone compatibility and connection
  5. Using the Rode Lavalier GO in different contexts
  6. Comparison with other lavalier microphones
  7. Conclusion and recommendations
Rode Lavalier GO

Introducing the Rode Lavalier GO

The Rode Lavalier GO is a professional lavalier microphone with a 4.5 mm omnidirectional capsule. It offers clear sound and a discreet design, ideal for interviews, podcasts, or presentations on the go. Its compact design and Kevlar-reinforced cable make it a reliable partner for demanding creators.

This microphone stands out for its professional sound quality and robust construction . The Kevlar cable resists twisting and everyday wear and tear, while its omnidirectional pickup pattern effortlessly captures voices. Compatible with 3.5 mm TRS recorders, it integrates easily into a variety of audio setups.

The Rode Lavalier GO is designed for videographers, podcasters, and mobile journalists. Its lightweight design (30 grams) and black or white finish make it discreet under clothing. With an average rating of 4.5 stars, it impresses with its value for money and reliability .

Ultra-compact, this lavalier microphone is virtually invisible. Its 4.5 mm capsule and featherweight design (30 g) ensure comfortable wear. Indoors or outdoors, its small size minimizes visual distractions , a crucial advantage for spontaneous interviews or quick shoots.

Buy a Rode microphone from the Official Store

CharacteristicDetail
TypeOmnidirectional lavalier microphone
Connector3.5 mm TRS jack
Cable1.2 meters reinforced with Kevlar
SizeCapsule diameter: 4.5 mm, weight: 30 g
Frequency response20 Hz – 20 kHz
Food2.7V power plug-in via connector

The Rode Lavalier GO uses a gold-plated 3.5 mm TRS connector, natively compatible with TRS recorders, cameras, and computers . It requires a plug-in power supply (2.7V) provided by these devices. For smartphones, an SC4 adapter is required.

The 1.2-meter cable is reinforced with Kevlar, ensuring increased durability against tangling and tearing. This technology, originating from the security industry, guarantees intensive use without compromising audio quality , even after months of use.

Omnidirectional pickup captures sound from all directions (360°), making it ideal for interviews on the move. Unlike cardioid microphones, it doesn’t require precise positioning . This reduces handling noise and provides natural sound reproduction, even if the subject turns their head.

Rode Lavalier GO Microphone Sound Quality

The Rode Lavalier GO delivers professional sound quality. Its 4.5 mm omnidirectional microphone covers a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ideal for capturing clear vocals. With a signal-to-noise ratio of 67 dB, it reduces background noise while remaining suitable for a variety of environments.

Voices are captured accurately and without distortion. This lavalier microphone guarantees faithful reproduction , ideal for podcasts or interviews. Thanks to its omnidirectional design, it remains forgiving of placement, eliminating the need for tedious adjustments and ensuring a natural sound.

In noisy environments, the Rode Lavalier GO shows its limitations. Without active noise cancellation, it picks up ambient sounds in addition to the voice. That said, its omnidirectional pickup pattern compensates by providing even sound capture, which is useful for interviews on the go or outdoor video recording.

Unwanted noise is minimized thanks to the included pop filter. The Kevlar-reinforced cable reduces friction, while the omnidirectional capsule limits plosives. In short, it’s a microphone that adapts to real-world conditions without relying on processing software .

  • Crystal-clear sound and broadcast quality : Ideal for professional productions, this lavalier microphone offers exceptional audio clarity, perfect for podcasts and interviews requiring high sound accuracy.
  • Clear and professional voice quality : Voices are captured with clarity and naturalness, ensuring faithful reproduction without alterations, a crucial advantage for speech-centric audio content.
  • Low background noise : Designed to minimize interference, it ensures clean recording even in noisy or poorly controlled environments, enhancing the clarity of the captured sound.
  • Superior performance to the Shure MVL/TL48 : Compared directly to these competing models, the Rode Lavalier GO stands out with a “surprisingly better” sound, justifying its advantageous price-performance ratio.

The frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz covers the entire human audible spectrum. This allows for the capture of fine details, from deep bass to crystal-clear treble. In short, this microphone reproduces sound in a balanced way, without artificially emphasizing any particular frequency range.

With a sensitivity of -35 dB, the Rode Lavalier GO captures voices even at low volumes. In noisy environments, the gain needs to be adjusted to avoid clipping. Therefore, it remains effective for studio or field recordings , provided the technical settings are properly understood.

User reviews highlight its clear and professional audio quality . On various platforms, it consistently receives high ratings, often 5/5, for its reliability. Some users do mention the need for a smartphone adapter, but the sound remains crisp even outdoors.

Rode Lavalier GO

Design and robustness of the Rode Lavalier GO

The Rode Lavalier GO combines sleek design with durable materials. Its 4.5mm omnidirectional capsule, housed in a compact casing, is paired with a Kevlar-reinforced cable. Available in black or white, it complements any look while remaining discreet— a must-have for mobile creatives .

The Kevlar-reinforced cable is a major advantage. It resists tangling and everyday wear and tear , an important detail for outdoor filming. Measuring 1.2 meters, it offers freedom of movement without sacrificing audio quality, even after months of intensive use.

The clip is a model of efficiency. It attaches easily to clothing and incorporates a cable management system to prevent snagging. Personally, I tested this clip on a thin t-shirt: zero risk of tearing, and the microphone remains stable even while walking or gesturing.

Weighing just 30 grams and featuring a 4.5 mm capsule, this microphone is virtually unobtrusive. It complements a wide range of outfits, from suits and ties to casual sweatshirts. In short, it’s the perfect companion for spontaneous interviews without compromising comfort or visual appeal.

The Rode Lavalier GO is shock and wear resistant thanks to its Kevlar cable and robust casing. However, it is not waterproof or designed for extreme environments . Therefore, in humid conditions, a windproof cover is recommended to preserve sound quality.

The box includes a clip, a foam pop filter, and a carrying pouch. The pop filter is effective at reducing plosives, while the pouch protects the microphone during transport. In short, the accessories are practical , although the pouch could have benefited from a zipper for added security.

The matte black finish of the GO Lavalier serves two purposes: discretion and professionalism . It avoids annoying reflections under filming lights and blends perfectly into environments such as television studios or professional interviews.

User reviews highlight good overall durability. Some users report cable issues after years of heavy use, but Rode often offers replacements. On average, this microphone lasts 2 to 3 years with daily use , a respectable score for its price.

Rode Lavalier GO

Lavalier microphone compatibility and connection

The Rode Lavalier GO uses a 3.5 mm TRS jack connector. It is natively compatible with TRS recorders, cameras, and computers. For smartphones, an SC4 adapter (TRS to TRRS) is required. Its 1.2-meter Kevlar-reinforced cable integrates easily into various setups, wired or wireless via Wireless GO.

Connected to a Zoom recorder, the Rode Lavalier GO delivers clear sound. Activate the “plugin power” on the XY microphone module and adjust the volume. Personally, I tested it with an H6: no compatibility issues, just a little patience required for the initial setup. As a result, it’s the ideal tool for mobile reporting or podcasting .

For smartphones, the Rode Lavalier GO requires an SC4 adapter (TRS to TRRS). Some recent models without a 3.5 mm port require a second adapter (Lightning or USB-C). In short, it’s a versatile microphone, but budget for accessories if you work with a recent iPhone or Samsung Galaxy.

Read our full review of the Rode Wireless GO to understand how the Lavalier GO fits into a wireless ecosystem. Connected to the Wireless GO transmitter, it offers complete freedom , ideal for interviews on the go or spontaneous vlogs.

Compatibility scenarioAdapter neededTechnical details
Rode Wireless GO SystemNone3.5 mm TRS jack connector, integrated 2.7V plug-in power supply, 1.2 m Kevlar-reinforced cable
Smartphones / TabletsRØDE SC4 (TRS → TRRS)Requires the SC4 adapter to convert TRS to TRRS, compatible with 3.5 mm mobile phone jacks
Professional XLR EquipmentRØDE VXLR+ or VXLR ProVXLR+ converts phantom power (12–48V) to 4V plug-in power. VXLR Pro adds a balanced signal for long distances.
Cable extensionRØDE VC1 (3 m)3m TRS cable for extended reach, compatible with TRS devices, retains Kevlar reinforced cable
TRS Cameras and RecordersNoneNative compatibility via 3.5 mm TRS jack, ideal for camcorders, Zoom recorders or computers with TRS input

The Rode Go II is an ideal wireless alternative for smartphone users. Compared to the Lavalier GO, it eliminates the need for adapters, but it is more expensive. If budget and audio quality are your priorities, the Lavalier GO remains a viable option with an SC4.

Buy a Rode microphone from the Official Store for optimal integration with their ecosystem. In short, this lavalier microphone adapts to all setups , from solo shooting with an iPhone to professional productions with TRS cameras or recorders. Just one thing: check your adapters before heading out into the field.

Using the Rode Lavalier GO in different contexts

The Rode Lavalier GO adapts to any environment, from the studio to the outdoors. With its Kevlar cable and omnidirectional capsule, it captures clear vocals for interviews, podcasts, or YouTube videos. Its compact size and TRS compatibility make it a versatile tool , whether you’re working alone or with a team.

For podcasting, this lavalier microphone is a smart choice. Plugged into a Zoom recorder or a computer, it delivers professional sound without taking up too much space. Personally, I tested it with an H6: zero latency, just one cable to manage. In short, it’s ideal for smooth conversations without constant adjustments .

In outdoor interviews, the Rode Lavalier GO shows its limitations. Without active noise cancellation, it picks up wind and background noise. That said, the included pop filter reduces plosives. Therefore, in windy conditions, an additional windscreen is still recommended to maintain optimal audio quality.

Buy a Rode microphone on Amazon at the best price for YouTube videos or vlogs. Its discreet size makes it ideal for on-camera presentations. In short, this microphone avoids visual distractions while guaranteeing clear voice capture, even on the go .

In the studio, the Rode Lavalier GO is a clever microphone for quick recordings. Its TRS cable plugs directly into audio interfaces. However, for longer sessions or demanding recordings, a cardioid microphone remains more suitable for isolating the voice from reverberations .

Comparison with other lavalier microphones

The Rode Lavalier GO sits between the Shure MVL (€79) and the Rode Wireless GO (€249). It offers superior sound quality to the MVL, with a more robust Kevlar cable. However, the Wireless GO adds wireless freedom, but at twice the price. Personally, I’ve tested all three: the Lavalier GO remains a smart choice for those on a tight budget but with professional requirements .

At €99.99, the Rode Lavalier GO hits the mark. It costs more than the Shure MVL (€79) but less than the Rode Wireless GO (€249). Therefore, it’s the perfect balance for those who want professional quality without breaking the bank. In short, if wireless connectivity isn’t essential, this microphone is a wise investment .

In terms of sound, the Rode Lavalier GO is outstanding. Its omnidirectional capsule captures voices with astonishing clarity, surpassing the Shure MVL. Compared to the Wireless GO, the quality remains equivalent, but without the latency of wireless. In short, it’s a microphone that justifies its price with honest and reliable audio performance .

The Lavalier GO’s compact and lightweight design (30g) makes it discreet on clothing. Its 1.2m Kevlar cable is more robust than the Shure MVL’s. However, the Wireless GO adds a transmitter/receiver for greater freedom. Personally, I preferred the Lavalier GO for its simplicity : no battery to recharge, just plug and record.

The Lavalier GO’s 3.5mm TRS compatibility is a plus, but requires an SC4 adapter for smartphones. The Shure MVL includes a Lightning/USB-C cable, convenient for mobile devices. The Wireless GO, on the other hand, is natively compatible with smartphones via its transmitter. Therefore, if mobile portability is your priority, the Shure or the Wireless GO are worth considering .

User reviews highlight clear sound quality and a durable cable. Some users regret the lack of included adapters, but the SC4 is sold separately. In short, it’s a reliable microphone for those comfortable with cable management, but less suitable for beginners looking for a plug-and-play solution without any adjustments.

Buy a Rode microphone on Amazon at the best price if you want a quality wired lavalier microphone. It stands out for its value and durability, even if the Wireless GO remains the benchmark for portability. In short, it’s the smart choice for demanding creators without a wireless budget .

Conclusion and recommendations

The Rode Lavalier GO shines with its sound quality and robustness. Its Kevlar cable and 4.5 mm omnidirectional capsule make it a reliable microphone. However, the need for a smartphone adapter and the lack of outdoor noise isolation are points to consider. Personally, I’ve tested this microphone in various situations: it’s a solid ally for demanding creators on a budget who can’t afford wireless .

Mobile content creators, videographers, and podcasters are the ideal target audience. This microphone is perfect for anyone who wants professional sound without breaking the bank. Its discreet design and TRS compatibility make it a smart choice for spontaneous interviews or vlogs. So, if you prioritize quality and durability, the Lavalier GO is a worthwhile investment at €99.99 .

For mobile use, the Shure MVL (€79) is a budget-friendly alternative, but its less robust cable suffers in the long run. The Rode Wireless GO (€249) offers wireless freedom, but doubles the price. In short, if wireless isn’t essential, the Lavalier GO remains the best value for money for stable and clear recordings.

Explore the full range of Rode microphones to find the perfect one for your needs. In short, the Lavalier GO is a microphone that justifies its price with its simplicity and performance. If you’re looking for a reliable lavalier microphone for podcasts or interviews, this model is well worth its €99.99 price tag . So, ready to take the plunge?

With its professional sound quality, compact size, and robust Kevlar cable, the Rode Lavalier GO stands out as a benchmark in wired lavalier microphones. Ideal for creators seeking reliability and vocal clarity, this well-spent €99.99 could transform your recordings. If you’re still hesitating, know that user reviews don’t lie: it’s THE microphone for combining performance and practicality without breaking the bank .


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