RØDE iXY microphone prototypes
Object No. 2014/23/3
These three prototypes show how the design for the RØDE iXY stereo microphone changed over time. In the first concept the condenser capsules were side by side lying flat. But the X-Y stacking configuration often used in music studios produced better sound quality. These prototypes were all designed in 3D CAD and made at the RØDE factory in Sydney using CNC machining. Together with the sketches and components these prototypes illustrate the design and manufacturing process for a small consumer electronic device. The iXY is a high-quality stereo microphone designed for use with the Apple iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. It incorporates a pair of condenser microphones, in a stacked X-Y configuration to provide immersive, true-to-life stereo recordings. Using the 'RØDE Rec' app and on-board analogue-to-digital conversion it bypasses the Apple device's audio hardware, resulting in high-quality audio recordings. It is an example of the extensive consumer market for Apple iPhone accessories and represents the high-quality design required to be officially endorsed as an Apple iPhone accessory. The iXY is an example of excellence in Australian design and manufacturing. It received an Australian International Design Award in 2013, a Red Dot Design Award, and RØDE Microphones received a number of Australian manufacturing and export Awards in 2012-2013. This object represents a product of a significant local manufacturer. RØDE Microphones, also known as Freedman Electronics, is an Australian company with it's manufacturing based in Silverwater - a suburb of Sydney. A world leader in microphone design and production, this company exemplifies the transformation of Australia's manufacturing industry at the time of acquisition towards high-quality, specialised manufacturing for niche industries. Angelique Hutchison Curator 2014
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Summary
Object Statement
Microphone prototypes (3), RØDE iXY, metal / electronic components, made by RØDE Microphones, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, 2011-2012
Physical Description
Three aluminium microphone prototypes showing different configurations for the RØDE (RODE) iXY iPhone microphone.
PRODUCTION
Notes
Designed and made by RØDE Microphones, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia 2011-2012. These prototypes were made using CNC machining at the RØDE Silverwater manufacturing facility in late 2011 - early 2012. The initial flat configuration was the most straightforward. But acoustic testing suggested the configuration should be redesigned. To obtain better sound quality the traditional XY configuration used in studio microphones was explored. This combined with the introduction of a new type of port or pin dock for the iPhone allowed the XY configuration to become possible. By mid-2012 the final XY design was decided and testing began.
HISTORY
Notes
These objects were lent to the Museum for display in the 2013 Australian International Design Awards exhibition from July 2013 - June 2014. In 2013 the iXY received an Australian International Design Award and a Red Dot Design Award.
SOURCE
Credit Line
Gift of RØDE Microphones, 2014
Acquisition Date
24 February 2014
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