Are you a podcaster, YouTuber, singer or musician? And are you looking for a good studio microphone for your audio recordings? Why not opt for the Rode NT-USB mini? A model with a compact design that delivers remarkable sound quality . You want to know more ? Discover the complete test of this USB microphone.
Focus on the Rode brand
Before discovering the review of the Rode NT-USB mini, I will draw your attention to Rode for a moment. Indeed, the brand is a criterion of capital importance when choosing a microphone . If you do not want to be faced with unpleasant surprises, it is better to favor reputable brands. This is particularly the case for Rode.
Rode and microphones is a story that was born in 1990. This Australian brand has become known to audio enthusiasts and professionals thanks in particular to the legendary Rode NT1 . In 1992, two years after the release of the NT1, Rode distinguished himself once again with the NT2 , a large diaphragm condenser microphone .
Since then, Rode has embarked on the design of several types of microphones . These include camera microphones, stage microphones, wireless lavalier microphones and many others.
Please note that Rode was the first brand to manufacture a USB microphone , notably the Podcaster. In this category, the most popular model is undoubtedly the NT-USB. In this article, we will look at a compact version of this model: the Rode NT-USB mini.
Are you eager to know what the Rode NT-USB mini is worth? Let's review its design quality and technical characteristics . Without forgetting of course to dedicate a large paragraph to its sound quality .
Rode NT-USB mini microphone overview
As its name suggests, the Rode NT-USB mini is a USB microphone just like the Blue Yeti X , Blue Yeti Nano and Blue Microphones Snowball. These types of microphone benefit from the Plug and Play system and are ideal for use in a home studio .
Unlike traditional condenser microphones, USB mics have the advantage of being easy to plug in . In fact, to make them work, you don't need third-party software, phantom power, an XLR cable, or a sound card. All you need is a computer. To start using the NT-USB mini, simply connect the USB cable that came with the mic to your computer and you're done.
When you open the box, you realize that the NT-USB mini does not come alone. It is in fact supplied with a USB-C cable to connect the microphone to a computer. Additionally, the mic also comes with a user manual and a thread adapter . This device allows you to mount the microphone on a stand or boom.
This microphone measures 43.9 mm in diameter , 54.5 mm in width and 108.1 mm in height . At only 585 g , this lightweight model will certainly delight mobile podcasters.
After testing the Rode NT-USB , we can't help but compare it with this compact version. So, let's focus a little on the main differences between these two versions.
In terms of size, the NT-USB is larger than the NT-USB mini. In fact, these two versions measure 184 mm and 108.1 mm in height respectively.
As for accessories, the NT-USB comes with a tripod unlike the mini which does not have one. On the other hand, you can adapt the Rode NT-USB mini with other supports thanks in particular to its base which can be easily detached.
Another difference : the length of the supplied USB cable. In fact, the maxi version and the mini version have a 6 m and 2 m cable respectively.
The NT-USB mini is easier to handle than the NT-USB. The latter actually has two additional buttons on the sides. These allow you to adjust the volume of the headphones and the amplitude of the sound pickup. It’s sort of like a mini mixer .
Furthermore, the NT-USB's pop filter is external. For the mini, this device is integrated into the chassis of the microphone .
When it comes to sound quality, both of these models produce great sound . I also suggest you discover our complete test of the Rode NT-USB so that you can compare it with this mini version.
The Rode NT-USB mini and its compact design
This is a very compact USB microphone . With its steel construction, it is robust. Its matte black finish gives it elegance.
The front of the microphone is perfectly decorated with the Rode logo in a white font. Above the logo, there are two LEDs that light up when the mic is plugged into a computer. There is also a gain adjustment . This allows you, among other things, to adjust the intensity of your voice in your earbuds.
On the back of the microphone, there is a USB-C port as well as a 3.5 mm jack . The latter allows you to connect the microphone to headphones or earphones.
The microphone attaches to its support using a magnet. This support can rotate up to 360° . This allows you to tilt the microphone according to your preferences.
The base of the support is also equipped with a magnet to stabilize it once placed on the table of your recording studio.
Rode Connect: software designed specifically for Rode NT-USB mini microphones
Microphone manufacturer Rode provides its Rode Connect program to facilitate audio management and processing. This free software is compatible with Rode NT-USB mini and available on Windows and Mac.
Basically, the Rode Connect application was intended only for NT-USB mini. Among other things, you can use 4 microphones of this model simultaneously. The Australian designer recently updated this software to make it compatible with the Rode Wireless Go 2 microphone and the Rode Wireless Go.
The Rode Connect interface is quite similar to that of the famous podcasting software Rodecaster Pro . Among the actions you can perform with this software, here are some examples:
- A gain adjustment
- An integration of pre-recorded sounds
- An addition of sound effects (applause, laughter)
- Digital processing like Noise Gate which makes it possible to attenuate background noise
- Access to Aphex Aural Exciter and Big Bottom processors
- Multi-track recording
Rode NT-USB mini: a versatile micro USB model
The Rode NT-USB mini is a microphone that can be suitable for multiple applications . Whether you are a podcaster, YouTuber, streamer, gamer, you can count on this microphone to deliver a professional performance . You can also use this model to record acoustic instruments (guitar, piano, violin, etc.).
However, despite its versatility, this model does not adapt to some uses. This is particularly the case for recording the atmosphere of a room.
Since it is a cardioid polar pattern microphone , it is not the suitable model if you want to speak or sing with several people. In these contexts, a microphone with omnidirectional polar pattern will give you better results. Opt for example for the Presonus Revelator USB microphone which offers three types of directivity to choose from including cardioid, figure 8 and omnidirectional.
Zoom on the sound quality of the Rode NT-USB mini
The Rode NT-USB mini has good sound quality. Among other things, the sound is clear, rich and warm. In terms of sound quality, this model offers a much higher level than most USB microphones.
Even without the Rode Connect, the performance of this microphone is already exceptional. Using this all-in-one software, you can easily optimize your recording results.
Note that this stereo microphone has a cardioid polar pattern . This means that it was designed to pick up the sound sources in front of it . On the other hand, it rejects sounds coming from the rear. As for the sounds on the sides, these are greatly attenuated.
The frequency response of this microphone ranges between 20 Hz and 20,000 Hz with a sampling rate of 48 kHz . It can withstand sound pressure of up to 121 dB without distortion.
This microphone is capable of effectively eliminating plosives. This is explained by the presence of the pop filter in its chassis.
USB microphones are known for their sensitivity to noise pollution. Well, know that this model is no exception to this rule. You can, however, reduce handling noise by using, for example, a telescopic arm.
The Rode NT-USB mini has a magnetic base. And obviously, this is not without consequences on the rendering of the microphone. In fact, this system allows it to effectively eliminate vibrations when you place it on your desk.
Since NT-USB mini is a condenser mic, it is therefore very sensitive to proximity effect. Moreover, the manufacturer recommends a distance of 10 to 15 cm between the mouth and the microphone when recording a voice.
The technical characteristics of the Rode NT-USB mini
- Microphone type: condenser microphone
- Directivity: cardioid
- Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Maximum SPL: 121 dB A (1% THD)
- Audio interface: 24 bits / 48 kHz
- Power supply type: USB
- Connector: USB-C
- Dimensions (Height x width x diameter): 108.1 mm x 54.5 mm x 43.9 mm
- Weight: 585g
- Operating system required: Windows 10 / Mac OS 10.12
- Analog outputs: studio headphones with 3.5 mm plug
Our Overall Opinion
Overall Sound Quality
Value for money
Global mark
Our opinion on the Rode NT-USB mini microphone
The Rode NT-USB mini is a USB microphone that offers good value for money. With its beautiful matte black finish, it's impossible not to fall in love with this microphone.
The sound quality of the Rode NT-USB mini is simply incredible. It is notably capable of reproducing sound with clarity and precision. In terms of sound reproduction, it tickles the Shure MV7 which is a professional studio microphone whose price is almost double.
It is a stereo microphone designed for multiple applications. It can be particularly suitable for gaming, singing and voice-over recording. You can also enjoy the audio quality of this microphone during a Skype or Zoom meeting.
This condenser microphone is ideal for beginners. In fact, it is easy to use. You don't need to be a sound engineer to achieve professional sound with this microphone.
And what about its integrated pop filter? This is a feature that is very useful for removing plosives and obtaining impeccable sound. What's more, there is no longer any need to invest in a windscreen.
Another interesting point about this USB microphone: the possibility of plugging headphones or earphones into the microphone jack. This is an option not usually found in regular USB mics. This is particularly practical when using the microphone for singing, voice-over recording or podcasting.
And to top it off, thanks to the Rode Connect software, you can easily improve the quality of recordings with the NT-USB mini.
In short, if you are looking for a quality USB microphone without breaking the bank, I recommend that you opt for the Rode NT-USB mini. At this price, it is quite rare to find a USB microphone with all the features that this model offers.
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