One of the most challenging tasks that every podcaster has to face at some point is choosing the perfect microphone for their show.
However, one brand that stands out among the microphones available is
And, amongst
We decided to compare them side by side and find out!
Table of Contents
Rode NT1
Features
Let’s start by taking a look at the
It’s not just aesthetically pleasing; however, the all-metal construction ensures that this microphone can withstand the occasional bump without showing any damage. The entire microphone has also been nickel-plated, and this makes it corrosion-resistant.
So, we know it’s durable, and a 10-year warranty also backs this up. But what about its recording quality?
The
The
An XLR input port is located directly on the bottom of the
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Pros:
- The strong, durable construction keeps the capsule well-protected and ensures the microphone can withstand general wear and tear
- Features a 1-inch, gold-sputtered condenser capsule
- Operates with a cardioid pickup pattern, focusing on vocals and eliminating background noise
- Has a low 4.5dB self-noise level
- Can pick up a variety of vocal tones with a 20Hz – 20kHz frequency range
Cons:
- It is pretty expensive, so not the best choice for anybody working with a limited budget.
Rode NT1A
Features
One of the world's quietest studio mics.
You might think that the
Before we get into the details of those, however, let’s examine the similarities between the two.
As with the NT1, the
The 1-inch, gold-sputtered condenser capsule is the same as the NT1 and operates with a cardioid pickup pattern. If you’re looking for crystal clear vocals, a cardioid microphone with a condenser capsule will give you the best performance possible.
So, what makes the
First of all, it’s lighter in weight at just 325g (compared to the 395g weight of the NT1).
The Rode NT1A has the same frequency range of 20Hz-20kHz as the NT1, but it is notably brighter in the treble regions. This makes it better for pairing with male voices, as it will produce more precise notes from lower tones.
It also has a lower self-noise of just 4dB. While this is only 0.5dB smaller than the NT1, it does make a noticeable difference during those short periods of silence. It also has a higher SPL (sound pressure level) than the NT1 to record louder noises more effectively.
The XLR cable port is conveniently located on the bottom of the microphone for easier positioning.
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Pros:
- The robust and durable construction is tough enough to handle the studio and life on the road.
- Features a gold-sputtered, 1” condenser capsule that produces concise vocals
- It also features a cardioid polar pickup pattern to eliminate ambient noise and concentrate solely on vocals.
- It is lighter in weight than the
Rode NT1 so it can be suspended from a boom arm or shock mount with greater confidence. - It has a 20Hz-20kHz frequency range that is brighter in the treble regions, so it’s ideal for pairing with low male vocals.
- The 4dB self-noise level ensures no buzzing or electrical noise in silent recording periods.
- Features an XLR port conveniently located on the bottom of the microphone for easy setup and unrestricted use
Cons:
- As with the NT1, the
Rode NT1A is an expensive microphone, so it may not be the best choice for anybody new to podcasting or a hobbyist podcaster.
Which is better?
The truth is that there isn’t too much of a difference between the
Both models offer a large, gold-sputtered condenser capsule and operate with a cardioid pickup pattern. This makes each of them ideal for podcasting since you’ll want most of your show to focus on capturing clear, concise vocals.
However, the frequency range of each is something to consider when deciding between the two. While both have the same frequency range of 20Hz-20kHz, the
They are also similar in their construction and are backed by a generous 10-year warranty. However, the
Finally, the
User experience and reviews
Based on reviews, the NT1 is heavier and feels more solid, whereas the NT1A has a lighter feel. Some users think that the NT1-A gives a better representation of what a voice sounds like in real life, so it’s a better choice if you’re looking for a realistic sound. On the other hand, the NT1 will pick up less background noise, which is more appropriate if you need a more precise sound with no distractions.
Also, it’s good to remember that both microphones are very sensitive and require very little pre-amp. If you prefer non-processed sound, the NT1 is an excellent choice, as it has been shown to have better dynamics at high frequencies with minimum distortion.
Overall, opinions on these two models may vary, and it all comes down to personal preference. You can check out this video for more reviews in the comments!
Conclusion
If you’re still torn between the two, the simplest way to look at it is this; if you want a warmer-sounding microphone that works particularly well for male voices, then the best choice would be the
Whichever you go for, you need to remember that both the
However, if you can stretch the price tag, you’ll be adding an invaluable piece of recording equipment to your studio that will last for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Rode mic is best for recording vocals?
The
Does the Rode NT1A need phantom power?
Yes! The
How can I make my Rode mic sound better?
Here are some tips for making your
