A firmware update has introduced remote connectivity features for the RØDECaster Pro II and RØDECaster Duo devices.

RØDE, an Australian audio technology company, has partnered with UK-based Vortex Communications to deliver this update, which brings RØDE CallMe to users of the RØDECaster Pro II and RØDECaster Duo. The update is provided at no extra cost via the RØDECaster App and enables remote audio contribution and collaboration over Wi-Fi or Ethernet without the need for intermediary software, additional hardware, or complex configurations.

RØDE CallMe is powered by Vortex’s CallMe Codec and uses secure SIP IP audio connectivity. Users can connect their RØDECaster Pro II or Duo directly to another similar device or invite external guests to contribute remotely using a browser-based interface. Invitations can be sent by email or QR code, providing a streamlined connection process for remote contributors.

Partnership details

The development was a collaborative effort between RØDE and Vortex, drawing on Vortex’s experience with broadcast IP audio solutions. Damien Wilson, Chief Executive Officer of RØDE, commented:

“RØDE CallMe marks a groundbreaking leap forward in remote production. By partnering with Vortex, we’ve removed constrictive technical barriers and eliminated geographic constraints entirely, to deliver broadcast-quality results for creators and professionals alike. It’s intuitive, powerful, and built into the gear that creators already know and trust.”

Ian Prowse, Managing Director of Vortex, added:

“We are delighted to be working with RØDE to fully integrate our established CallMe IP Audio capability, bringing low-delay, broadcast-quality remote audio to the widest possible range of users including broadcasters, podcasters, internet radio creators and voice-over professionals.”

Tiers and features

RØDE CallMe has been introduced with three subscription tiers, each designed to address the varying requirements of content creators, podcasters, and professional broadcasters. All tiers promise high-quality, low-latency stereo audio and provide access to 24/7 support, with specialist support available on the Pro tier.

RØDE CallMe Lite is accessible at no cost following the firmware update and provides support for one remote contributor channel. This allows up to 10 hours per month for RØDECaster-to-RØDECaster calls, plus a five-hour trial for web-based connections.

RØDE CallMe is available for USD $9.99 per month or USD $99 per year. It includes two contributor channels and offers unlimited RØDECaster-to-RØDECaster and web-based connection time.

RØDE CallMe Pro is aimed at professional users and is priced at USD $49.99 per month or USD $499 per year. This tier provides three CallMe channels, multi-guest support, a fully integrated IP audio codec with interoperability, and more advanced Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) options. Pro users also have access to multi-network streaming with external 4G/5G support, broadcast-quality codec options with adjustable jitter buffering, and flexible device control from the touchscreen, a web interface, or the CallMe Hub. A 14-day free trial is available for Pro users, with the option to cancel anytime, as well as a one-time purchase perpetual licence from Vortex and its distributors.

All subscription levels support RØDE’s integrated CallMe technology, with performance and features adjusted to user needs and planned levels of usage. CallMe Pro subscribers receive assistance from the Vortex Technical Support Team in addition to RØDE’s standard 24/7 support.

Remote content creation context

The introduction of RØDE CallMe follows ongoing demand from content creators for easier, reliable ways to work with remote guests and contributors. The system’s focus on secure, broadcast-quality audio over IP is intended to offer advantages for a range of users, from solo podcasters and internet radio hosts to larger professional organisations and broadcasters.

The firmware update for both RØDECaster Pro II and RØDECaster Duo is available now via the RØDECaster App, and RØDE has indicated that existing and new users can make use of the new features immediately.