When it relates to microphones, artists have a lot of alternatives for live performances and studio recordings, but high-quality equipment need not be pricey.
Among the first companies to adopt this strategy was the Australian business Rode, with their cutting edge manufacturing techniques.
Rode manufactures famous microphones and high grade electronics at extremely affordable prices, and you can find their products in literally millions of professional and home studios around the world.
The NT1A was updated to become the Rode NT1. The mesh grille is the sole element that the Rode NT1 and NT1A still share in common.
The Rode NT1’s sound signature reminiscent is typically described as “true,” “almost vintage,” and “honest.” The spirit of this microphone is captured in these anecdotes, and you get exactly what you put in.
This clarity is a result of the NT1’s frequency curve. With the exception of a slight roll-off at the ultra low frequencies around 20Hz, it is practically flat up to 4 kHz.
After that, there is a slight increase from 10 kHz before the silky smooth high frequencies from 20 kHz start to disappear.
This is just one of the factors contributing to the NT1’s stellar reputation as a vocal and studio microphone with ultimate application versatility. A wealth of low-end richness and a bright, airy tone with no harshness is produced along with a clear, precise sound of every spoken word.
The key is that nothing is overemphasized, particularly in the mid-frequency range, and if a change is required, a little EQ will take very good care of it.
As a result, we think the NT1 will sound excellent on almost anything, including amplified guitars, but it really stands out on vocal and acoustic guitar audio.
Vocals can more easily be placed in the mix because of the mid-range clarity.
Don’t forget to use the pop filter, though. This article will discuss the Rode NT1 kit so you can decide whether it’s right for you!
Rode NT1 Kit Best Features
- It is an incredibly quiet microphone, with extremely low noise of just 4.5dB, and has a sound profile reminiscent of renowned mics from the past.
- The transducer is suspended inside the microphone by Rycote’s Lyre technology, minimizing external vibrations at the capsule level.
- On the external physical factors, the finish is made with a robust, military-grade ceramic layer that is exceptionally durable and scratch-resistant.
Pros
- It is skillfully designed and an absolute standout.
- It has a traditional tone.
- It is covered by a 10-year warranty.
- The kit includes a high quality suspension shockmount with a filter that is very quiet.
- Its vocal quality sound is superb.
- It is good value.
- The construction is first-rate.
- Its incredible design incorporates a built-in shock mount with a removable pop shield.
- A colorless, detailed midrange response.
Cons
- Neither pad nor roll-off switches are present.
- It can be difficult to capture noisy sources up close because there is no pad – despite being ideal for its size, nature, and cost.
Design Of The Rode NT1 Kit
It has an extremely dark gray paint job.
The machined aluminum body is nickel-plated to prevent corrosion, and there is a military-grade protective coating which guards against scratches and imperfections on the entire finish.
The black exterior mesh basket also features a sturdy, protective construction, and a small gold inlay shows which end of the mic the sound should be pointed at.
The Rode NT1 kit is a condenser mic with a 1-inch diaphragm and a cardioid polar design that captures sounds from both the front and the sides whilst excluding noise from the back.
It needs an XLR cable to link it to the interface and 24-48V phantom power, which the majority of good audio interfaces provide.
Unfortunately, this is not included in the bundle. And this thing is solid and sturdy. This microphone clearly required a great deal of research and engineering to create.
The mic body is nickel-plated to prevent corrosion before being covered in a tough, durable, military-grade ceramic coating that is scratch-resistant.
The body is built of 6061 aluminum and weighs just under 1 lb (440 g). It feels substantial and is of a reassuringly high caliber.
Rode NT1 Performance
The NT1 has a max SPL of 132dB and a frequency response of 20Hz–20 kHz.
The sound pressure levels, or SPL, is the amount of sound that can be directed at anything without causing distortion.
Even though it is a condenser mic, the NT1 performs admirably in this regard.
According to its tens of thousands of admirers worldwide, the NT1’s flat, smooth, natural frequency curve is its key performance differentiator.
There is essentially little sound coloration, in contrast to many other mics in this class, including the NT1A, resulting in a wonderfully precise capture of the sound source.
The top frequencies are super smooth, the mid-range is rich, and the bass reproduction is warm and not over-emphasized.
The Rode NT1 ranks among the quietest in the category thanks to its extremely low self-noise level of roughly 4.5dBA.
This is fantastic news because nothing is more unpleasant than having to continually gate or repress equipment during a recording session because it is too loud. There are no issues with the NT1 in this area.
In light of this, we strongly suggest soundproofing your recording space. It’s advisable to keep background noise and unwanted rumble at a minimum since the NT1 large-diaphragm condenser microphone is a sensitive soul and will pick up a lot of it.
All noisy appliances should be avoided, including air conditioners, fans, and hyperactive animals.
Shock Mount Build Quality
We’ve seen how the Rycote Lyre suspension, which offers protection at the capsule level, keeps the NT1’s fragile inside components safe, but what about dampening vibration outside the capsule?
Thankfully, Rode has you covered. The SM6 shock mount that comes with the NT1 offers a decent amount of separation from potential external knocks, bangs, and bumps that could be transmitted to the microphone.
The SM6 also comes with a retractable pop screen that has two adjustment axes and a telescopic arm.
The pop filter lessens sibilance and plosive noises. Additionally, it helps overly ardent vocalists keep a constant distance away from the microphone.
Final Thoughts
Rode has a wealth of expertise designing and producing high-quality, affordable products. This is a great all-purpose condenser microphone for acoustic and electric guitars as well as for drums and vocals.
The Rode NT1 condenser microphone is a fantastic choice in terms of both quality and value if you can only afford to purchase one.
This is as good as you can get for the money due to its neutral frequency curve, ability to work with a wider variety of applications, extremely hard wearing finish, shock mount, and pop shield.
It’s just frosting on the cake that you also get a shock mount as well as a pop shield.
