Rode History

RØDE Microphones evolved from the Freedman Group of Companies, established in 1967 by Henry and Astrid Freedman, after immigrating to Australia from Sweden. Freedman Electronics was a pioneer in the Australian audio industry for the design, manufacture, installation and servicing of a diverse range of audio products. Loudspeakers, amplifiers, custom electronics and microphones were all a part of the company's expertise; all of which took place within the confines of the small but unique Australian market.

Ongoing microphone research and development within Freedman Electronics, both in the laboratory and in the field, would later drive the ambition to design and produce superior microphone products. In 1990, the decision was made to produce and market the first RØDE microphone.

RØDE's early manufacturing coincided with the emergence of the much larger home recording and project studio markets. The company was aware; that by using the latest technologies, and the best design and engineering staff, production quantities could be produced which would achieve previously unheard of economies of scale.

In 1998, having established itself as a leading force in this emerging market, RØDE Microphones moved into a new purpose-built 20,000 sq ft factory and offices near the home of Sydney 2000 Olympics. The premises allowed for the necessary increases in electronic production, assembly, warehousing, dispatch and administration, to supply the growing worldwide demand.

A separate dedicated metalwork facility located in Mudgee, 250 km north west of Sydney, is equipped with the latest computer controlled machinery, producing microphone bodies and associated fittings and componentry to the highest international standards.