Rode PSA1+ vs Rode WS2 Windshield
A side-by-side look at Rode PSA1+ and Rode WS2 Windshield for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
Rode PSA1+
The broadcast boom arm standard, upgraded with spring damping
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Rode WS2 Windshield
Foam windshield designed for Rode large-diaphragm studio mics
See site
Check price on AmazonAt a glance
| Rode PSA1+ | Rode WS2 Windshield | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | See site | See site |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Best for | Permanent desk studio setups with heavy broadcast microphones like the Shure SM7B or Rode PodMic | Home studio podcasters using Rode studio condensers or broadcast dynamics in imperfect acoustic environments with drafts or HVAC noise |
Key features
Rode PSA1+
- Supports microphones from 94 g to 1.2 kg weight range
- 37" horizontal reach and 34" vertical travel
- Spring damping for smooth, controlled arm movement
- Fully integrated internal cable management channel
- 360-degree rotation at base and elbow
- Mounts via C-clamp or threaded desk insert (both included)
Rode WS2 Windshield
- Foam construction, 10 g weight
- Dimensions: approx. 110 mm H x 85 mm W/D
- Compatible with NT1-A, NT2-A, NTK, K2, NT1000, NT2000, Podcaster, Procaster, Broadcaster
- Attenuates wind noise and plosive bursts
- Designed specifically for Rode large-diaphragm mics
Pros and cons
Rode PSA1+
Pros
- Spring damping makes repositioning smooth and precise - clear upgrade over PSA1
- Internal cable routing keeps the desk clean without aftermarket cable clips
- Weight range handles every major broadcast mic including heavy-hitters like SM7B
Cons
- Fixed desk installation - not designed to pack away or travel
- Full extension requires significant desk clearance around the mic position
Rode WS2 Windshield
Pros
- Exact-fit design for Rode large-format mics with no improvisation needed
- Negligible weight addition to the mic
- Useful in outdoor or drafty indoor environments
Cons
- Rode-specific fit - not compatible with non-Rode microphones
- Foam accumulates dust and debris over time
- Not a substitute for a pop filter on close vocal recording
The verdict
Choose Rode PSA1+ if
Permanent desk studio setups with heavy broadcast microphones like the Shure SM7B or Rode PodMic.
The original PSA1 was already the default choice for serious desk studios, and the PSA1+ genuinely improves on it. The spring damping makes positioning feel deliberate rather than floppy, and the internal cable channel is a real quality-of-life improvement -…
Choose Rode WS2 Windshield if
Home studio podcasters using Rode studio condensers or broadcast dynamics in imperfect acoustic environments with drafts or HVAC noise.
The WS2 is a focused, utilitarian product: it fits Rode large-format mics correctly, adds minimal mass, and reduces wind and plosive problems in spaces with air movement. It is not a replacement for a proper pop filter for close-mic vocal…