I use the original Wireless GO quite frequently. However, now I’m starting to also use a Zoom F2 for the 32 bit floating WAV recording that it offers and syncing audio in post. This is important to note, because when Rode first released the Wireless GO II, the original listing on B&H clearly stated that it had the ability to record 32 bit floating audio as well. Furthermore, Rode has a couple of YouTube videos promoting the new Wireless GO II. On one of those videos, I asked to confirm that it offered 32 bit recording, and they replied that it did. One product to replace two that I’ve been using? Perfect! B&H had the Rode Wireless GO II in stock, so I purchased one the day it was released.
Here’s a copy of the initial B&H listing that clearly states that the Wireless GO II supports 32 bit float:
Less than a day after I placed my order, Rode deleted their comments on YouTube about 32 bit floating performance. I couldn’t find any mention of 32 bit float on their website at this time, so I started to have some doubts. I then messaged via Twitter to both B&H and Rode about this. Here’s a screenshot of that conversation. Many parts of which appear to have been hidden from public view:
It turns out that the 32-bit floating feature is marketing nonsense. It’s not a true 32 bit float and doesn’t offer the same features as the Zoom F2. Based upon learning this, I have since returned the Rode Wireless GO II back to B&H. I’ll stick with version 1 and a Zoom F2.
If you have a need for version II, are aware of its pseudo 32 bit audio recording, and are cool with that, then by all means get one. However, now with 32 bit audio recording being available with devices like the Zoom F2, perhaps looking at that in conjunction with the original Wireless GO, might be a better option.
Late to the party:
I don’t understand how they can up-convert but still have the benefits of 32-bit float. I’m just now discovering the benefits of this 32-bit float and I love the idea of a (practically) clipless audio. I literally just shot an on-location video in Death Valley where the peaking was occurring AT THE PACK with the Wireless Go 1’s and had some bad peaking audio burned into the audio, even though the device that was recording the audio was still well below -12dB… so I buy Wireless GO 2’s thinking that 1) I’ll be good next time around and 2) I’m getting the next natural progression with all the benefits and none of the drawbacks — only to find that PR/Marketing either miscommunicated/misunderstood the engineering or COMPLETELY just fabricated a lie. Either way, I’m REALLY hoping that a firmware update can fix the problem. The only limiting factor is whether or not the hardware of the device itself can physically handle that kind of recording. I wonder if it’s possible.
So with a little buyer’s remorse, I’m wrestling: I still REALLY like that there’s two transmitters with only one receiver AND the ability to split the audio for dual audio situations. But… that might be the only pro. I don’t like the size of the F2’s, even if they are still decently small.
… oh, Rode. You done messed up.
I don’t think any amount of firmware can fix that… it’s just marketing embellishments.
This is another alternative that I’ve watched reviews on… perhaps it’s worth looking at. It’s the Tentacle Sync Track E. Check out the two reviews below:
https://www.geraldundone.com/the-perfect-pocket-audio-recorder-track-e-from-tentacle-sync/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2mdXyhmtyg