Rode releases its first USB audio interface as part of a new recording bundle

It’s long been a microphone specialist, but now Rode is turning its attention to the next link in your recording chain and releasing a USB audio interface.

The AI-1 is a relatively compact device that comes with a Neutrik combo jack and discrete Class-A preamp, so you can plug in a mic, guitar or line-level instrument such as a synth. There’s a phantom power option, while outputs come on a pair of 1/4-inch balanced jacks. There’s a dedicated 1/4-inch headphones output, too. Direct monitoring is here, and the AI-1 is class-compliant.

You can buy the AI-1 as part of The Complete Studio Kit, which includes an NT1 large diaphragm condenser microphone, SMR shock mount with popshield, 20-foot XLR and USB C/A cables as well. It’ll be available separately soon.

We’re still waiting on official confirmation of a price but it looks like the Complete Studio Kit will retail for around $379 and be available this month. Find out more on the Rode website.

Ben Rogerson

I’m the Deputy Editor of MusicRadar, having worked on the site since its launch in 2007. I previously spent eight years working on our sister magazine, Computer Music. I’ve been playing the piano, gigging in bands and failing to finish tracks at home for more than 30 years, 24 of which I’ve also spent writing about music and the ever-changing technology used to make it.