With podcasting rapidly developing into a hugely popular digital medium, exclusive UK distributor Source Distribution is delighted to announce the availability of the new Røde Podcaster the world's first broadcast quality USB microphone.

Based on Røde's acclaimed Broadcaster microphone, the Podcaster delivers studio-grade results through a tight cardioid response that seamlessly connects directly to PC or Mac with a single USB cable, avoiding the added cost and complexity of a separate computer audio interface.

Ideal for online broadcasters, the mic also provides a convenient solution for anyone who records audio directly to their computer, including journalists, voice-over artists, musicians, students and multi-media professionals.

The Podcaster is powered entirely from the USB bus, and uses high-grade A-D converters for optimum quality. It comes complete with an onboard high-output headphone amp for direct monitoring purposes, along with a dedicated volume control and a 3.5mm minijack headphone output. A green status LED indicates that the mic is active and ready for recording.

Like the Broadcaster, the Podcaster benefits from the clarity of Røde¹s tailored-for-voice frequency response and also boasts exceptionally low noise performance, along with internal shock mounting of the capsule for increased rejection of external vibration.

The microphone comes complete with a microphone stand mount and 5 metre USB cable. Optional accessories available shortly include a suspension mount and an anglepoise table mounting arm.

To further enhance the Podcaster's features, Røde has also developed optional downloadable software that allows the user to control the Podcaster¹s recording level, to monitor levels via an LED level meter, and to mute the microphone when playing back recordings. This software is available from www.rodepodcaster.com - a dedicated site that also provides podcast hosting as well as offering a wealth of podcasting information and tips.

"Once again Røde has responded to customer demand by allowing the podcasting community to benefit from professional broadcast microphone technology to enhance the quality of their output," says Howard Jones, Director of Distributed Brands at Source. "With its combination of great sound and total ease of use, we¹re sure that the Podcaster will be warmly welcomed by everyone involved in recording the spoken word."

Recommended UK Retail Price: £149 inc VAT