NT1 5th Generation Condenser Microphone

RODE’s condenser microphones are well known for getting the job done, and they haven’t sat on their laurels with their newest version: the 5th Generation of the NT1.

The complete package includes the mic, shockmount, pop filter, and cables. For ease of use the shockmount has a threaded attachment point for the pop filter, and places it right where it needs to be for a vocalist. Did we mention cables? Yes, XLR and USB cables are included, as this is a dual format microphone, and the USB-C input is tucked in between the XLR pins. The large 1” gold sputtered diameter capsule has a cardioid pattern with a frequency response of 20Hz - 20kHz and a max SPL of 142dB.

Now it can be plugged into any mixer/ DAW inputs via the usual XLR connections, like most normal microphone setups, but the USB brings a few tricks to the table. There’s some extra software to download (it is Mac & Windows compatible) but opens up the doors to the mic being its own interface. The RODE Connect Podcasting software, RODE Central configuration manager and Unify, their virtual mixing software that’s meant for streamers and content creators, gives added flexibility to users in these settings.

Inside the mic resides its own preamp and DSP, and uses RODE’s Aphex Audio processing system for 192kHz audio resolution and 32bit digital floating point output. Not all DAW software is 32-bit floating point compatible, but RODE has step-by-step walk throughs, including our DAW of choice, Studio One. For those going “old school” and sticking with XLR, you certainly aren’t slumming it, but might be missing out on some opportunities, especially with workflow.

Putting this through its paces in a broadcasting/ podcasting setting it certainly does the job nicely, no surprises there, it has a very low noise platform, and is perfect for these applications. Yes, the USB side of things lean towards the content creators and podcasters, that makes sense, with excellent audio quality, and with the complete kit, it’s kind of a nobrainer for that!

However, the previous versions of NT1’s were well known for their adaptability, and this is no exception. We used this for lead and backing vocals, acoustic guitars and electric guitar amps, and it was remarkably amazing across the board. Its EQ profile was great against some high-end frequencies, softening things up like bright acoustic guitars, and some VERY twangy clean Telecaster bits. Vocal- was a really nice surprise. It’s not super bright, but there’s enough chime in there to cut in a mix.

For a content creator/podcaster this is a really great mic, but might be overkill, especially for a user that wants simplicity and less of a need for extra software, especially if they’re only going to be using it in USB mode. For musicians, the coin is flipped; all the reasons you’ve had an NT1 on your wish list are still there, specifically in the XLR connection mode. The added software and USB connectivity could make some sessions easier and offer up some extra tweak ability. It’s one of those mics that could be in any respectable mic locker, but chances are it won’t spend a lot of time IN the mic locker.

Chris Devine

very adaptable, excellent musical response

CONS

Might be overkill for non-music applications. STREET

$249