Rode NT1

Rode NT1, a high-end microphone 

Do you want to acquire a condenser microphone with impressive value for money? The Rode NT1 is renowned for its excellent sound recording, especially for amateurs. Compared to other microphones of the same type, this microphone has received several conclusive reviews for its ability to effectively capture sound.

In fact, most professionals and sound engineers say that it is ideal for use in a recording studio. This microphone is suitable for the sound of drums or acoustic instruments such as guitars. However, still try using an amp for best results.

It is therefore suitable for stereo recording. In order to get a more detailed sound effect, the Rode NT1 is highly recommended everywhere on the internet. But to be sure, I decided to test the microphone for you.

Presentation of the Rode NT1

The Rode NT1 is a studio microphone used by many professionals and amateurs. They trust it given its effectiveness and its versatile aspect. Designed in the Rode workshops in Australia, it is accompanied by a RØDE SM6 with pop filter.

This eliminates the noise of plosive consonants that is unpleasant for listeners. This means that your lyrics as well as your texts with lots of “p”s and “ts” will be filtered. This characteristic of the filter will reduce, or even eliminate, high-pitched or slightly overdeveloped noises.

We can therefore say that it is an anti-spit filter in that it removes all sounds that could interfere with voice recording with the microphone.

I was able to take advantage of this best studio microphone for singing and playing my acoustic guitar, and I noticed that it was easy to filter out unwanted noise. It's really great, especially with its telescopic arm and its pair of adjustment axes.

Thanks to them, even if sometimes I move it a little, you don't hear the noises of mobility, which pleasantly surprised me.

Finally, in addition to sound amplification, you will have almost perfect reproduction of the sounds you will record with this professional microphone, even those with low frequencies. This makes it a modern ally for all your sound recording.

The Rode NT1 therefore brings together both the innovation and the good traditions of the brand with its capsule which stands out for its quality.

Given that it has resistance to high acoustic pressures, I can assure you without pretension of its excellent quality, especially with regard to the sound amplifier and the vocal result that we obtain.

However, you can also our recording studio microphone buying guide through this link

Features of the Rode NT1

• High level of capture

When I picked up this NT1 condenser mic, I noticed that it has a high pickup level. You will surely tell me that this is what a microphone is for (see also all our USB microphones ), but this sound quality is so noticeable from the first recordings that it had to be specified.

You will therefore easily have a refined sound, even at low volume. The large diaphragm of the microphone provides a sound that will leave you speechless.

What's more, the microphone can capture a wide acoustic spectrum with its large capsule. The latter is of capital importance for microphones since it allows you to have both a range of sounds and keep the main sound.

I also noticed that the sound emitted is warmer and clearer. This is mainly due to the fact that, unlike a small diaphragm microphone, this one better captures the vibration of the sound while reproducing it faithfully.

I quickly noted the fact that it presents a better ratio between the electrical signal emitted and the noise produced by the amplifier. This ratio amounts to 90 decibels without distortion. I can therefore tell you that the sensor of this Rode NT1 is phenomenally precise for this type of microphone.

• Low noise microphone 

This is a relatively quiet model considering its self-noise at just 4.5 dBA. Concretely, when the sound reaches our ears, it is soft while being precise. This makes this little gem of technology one of the quietest sound recording equipment available.

Like the AKG C414 XLII , the microphone allows you to record almost perfect singing without any disturbances. Obviously, for reference, know that it is even more efficient than the Rode NT1-A on this point. Moreover, the Rode NT1 is its worthy successor.

Today, the Rode NT1 condenser microphone is therefore among the references if you want to have high sound quality. What's more, its high-pass filter will help you eliminate low frequencies. You will then be able to better benefit from the width of your sounds, but also from your mixes, in particular thanks to the stereo microphone.

• A careful design

When I saw its sober design, I immediately liked the Rode NT1. The microphone is not bulky at all since it is not a toy, but a technical and professional condenser microphone.

Aside from its artistic design, it also comes with a capsule as well as a gold-plated membrane which adds to its elegance. How else can I say this, even if it is not very bling-bling, when I saw this particularity, it immediately attracted me.

Designed with precision, the Rode brand guarantees both its robustness, but above all its ergonomics. Like the Neumann TLM 102 microphone , this condenser microphone with a large diaphragm is built to last. By purchasing it, you are investing in high-quality equipment that is easy to handle over the long term.

The condenser microphone has an original but neat texture, particularly due to its nickel-plated aluminum design. Finally, in addition to its design, its ceramic layer has been designed to make its finish safer and prevent it from breaking easily, for example in the event of a fall.

• High frequency recordings

Its frequency curve varies from 20 Hz to 20Khz. The Rode NT1's frequencies allow you to enjoy pleasant vocals and detailed sound when recording. This is explained by its pressure gradient which allows you to capture bidirectionally, more precisely in directivity 8.

Unlike omnidirectional microphone types, it will be able to easily capture sounds both in front of a microphone and from the sides.

Its frequency response is also one of its strong points, because it provides much more detail by allowing more vibrations and therefore different sounds to be captured.

While testing it, I noticed the high sensitivity of this condenser microphone. Of course, this is not so surprising given that it is a professional microphone. Basically, the Rode NT1 makes it easy to pick up sound in both hostile and isolated environments.

Unless you're recording in a football stadium, or in the middle of a market, you'll always have exceptional audio quality.

Versatile function 

The Rode NT1 is capable of recording any form of recording. I tested it on several platforms and I can confirm that it can be used to record a wide range of sounds.

Whether it's a voiceover, a song, a podcast or an acoustic instrument, the microphone will condense and highlight whatever you are going to record.

Its additional options are updates to version NT1-A. You will no longer need another microphone when using it since it has a cardioid polar pattern.

This means that it also enhances noises from the side and less from behind the microphone. You can therefore rest assured since this condenser microphone will ignore ambient noise.

By the way, also discover our comparative guide and test of dynamic microphones . This guide suggests the best dynamic mics you can buy.

Why choose the Rode NT1 microphone?

This microphone is suitable for both beginners looking for a multifunction device and professionals wanting to add high-end equipment to their range of sound tools.

To save you a long mix, this little microphone has both a quality recorder and equipment with a more than satisfactory quality-price ratio.

So, I recommend it especially for those who want to get started in the home studio, but all recording lovers will find it just perfect. Among its main qualities:

• The RODE NT1 is sold as a complete pack and is not just the microphone
• This is an excellent, high quality condenser microphone
• Its ease of use makes it sound equipment that is sure to please beginners and professionals alike.

The sound quality of the Rode NT1

For a more refined and brilliant sound, opt for the Rode NT1 microphone. Unlike omnidirectional microphones, it is less sensitive to background noise and interference. Certainly, you will need to use it in a quiet environment to get its best potential.

But you will often have a result without too much interference, in particular thanks to its magnet transducer which serves as a capacitor for your vocal recordings.

Next to it, the microphone offers an unparalleled proximity effect. The closer the sound source is, the more precise this effect will be. However, it can also adapt to various sound sources, even if the microphone volume is not too high. It is therefore up to you to decide whether you prefer to highlight its precision or its capture effect.

Despite its neutral sound, this condenser microphone still has solid and varied bass. It has a peak better suited to when your voice is higher and will eliminate unpleasant sounds.

All of this will help you when you put your recording through the mixing board . You will then have the opportunity to spend less time on it and more time recording.

Comparison with other condenser microphones

• In terms of condenser microphone, compared to the Neumann TLM 103, the RODE NT1 is the best alternative
• Its technology with its cardioid directivity gives it an advantage over the Neumann U87
• Even the Blue Yeti pro which is cheaper is less efficient than this Rode NT1

This is a type of microphone whose specificities lie mainly in:

• Its precision
• The quality of its amplification
• Multiple recording, without losing sound quality

Compatible accessories

You can buy the small microphone, preferably the one with a ribbon ( see ribbon microphones ) if your budget is limited, make sure to use a 48V phantom power preferably. Using a preamp can also be a good idea to optimize the result of your vocal recording.

You should also get an XLR3 connector whose pins can be used as a mic stand.

But, I still suggest you buy it with the RodeNT1-KIT or even the complete Studio KIT if necessary. In addition to having optimal value for money, this will allow you to benefit from a pack to start assembling your studio equipment.

With the Rode NT1-KIT, you will have:

• An SMR anti-shock mount which will notably cancel handling and shock noise with your music equipment, among other things.
• A Rycote Lyre suspension system to facilitate transport and sometimes turn it into a boom microphone
• A two-layer stainless steel windshield, ideal for isolating your unpleasant sounds

Concerning the Studio Kit, it goes hand in hand with:

• NT1 accessories with their new AI-1 interface to better control your vocal recordings
• Matched low impedance XLR cables for protection to ensure durability. It effectively protects it against dust.

Our opinion on the NT1

The Rode NT1 condenser microphone is the right studio recording equipment to highlight the sound quality of your works. Experienced musician or budding artist, if you want to buy a microphone, what could be better than equipping yourself with this high definition equipment?

It is a professional microphone that is quiet, but precise and above all offers exceptional value for money.

Alone, it can already amplify and condense the voice effectively. But nothing stops you from accompanying it with a lavalier microphone to vary the sound.  

Rode NT1 Demo

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