Rode NT-USB Condenser Microphone

Updated April 1, 2019 | by Hollagully

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In our pick for the best USB microphones, the RODE NT-USB cardioid condenser microphone is a strong candidate for our podcaster and home studio musician readers. RODE is a prominent audio brand with a renowned reputation that instills a high degree of confidence for the quality of both their manufacturing and recording results.

Rode NT-USB

Specifications:

Type: Condenser
Sample rate: 48kHz
Resolution: 16-bit
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz
Dimensions: 184mmH x 62mmW x 50mmD

Pros:

Includes pop filter and stand
Low noise
Direct monitoring allows mix control between mic signal and audio from your device
Durable
Easy to use
Affordable

Cons:

No gain control
Included pop filter doesn’t attach to an alternate mic stand

Check Price

The RODE NT-USB offers simple operation and durability fit for any multimedia content producer, but also performs quite better than other USB microphones of it’s class when recording a wide range of musical instruments.

For connections, the microphone is powered via USB port of any mainstream recording application on both Windows and MAC, needing no additional power of it’s own. Once powered, an LED light will light up from inside the mic’s basket. A stereo headphone jack allows for direct monitoring and an accompanying volume control.

An additional control allows the balance of the mix between the audio coming from your computer, and the audio going into the microphone. In other words, if you are singing along to music, you can easily adjust the level of your voice and the music you’re singing along to as to find perfect mix to suit your performance.

It’s metal construction offers the same quality feel as RODE’s established microphones found in professional recording studios around the world. Though a little heavy in weight, it is still a great choice for mobile recording.

With a subtle presence peak at around 4.5kHz, the RODE NT-USB shines bright on vocals, guitars, and percussion though perhaps not an optimal choice for low frequency applications. Perhaps it’s because of this that they include a curved pop shield with help with plosive sounds and bright sibilance.

Also included is a long USB cable, a soft storage case, and a desktop tripod mount. The pop filter does attach to the tripod for use so if you are looking to use the NT-USB on a taller microphone as to not be constricted by the height of your desk, then consider looking at the RODE SM6 Shockmount with Filter combination. Shockmounts are an excellent investment when using condenser microphones and can prevent a lot of EQ work afterwords removing low end rumble and vibrations.

The RODE NT-USB is simply one of the best choices of USB microphones on the market with powerful features and great quality audio. It compares very well with hard-wired microphones in the same price range, offers a full and open sound with a clear low end, and has a great direct monitoring control. At an affordable price, it is a very solid USB microphone and comes with some great accessories.

Check Price

www.rode.com

Further Reading:

To help you out on your quest for the right USB microphone, we’ve included links below to detailed reviews of a few models that feature similar characteristics to the RODE NT-USB.

We put together The Ultimate Guide to USB Microphones that will teach you about different types of mics, the applications they serve best, and a long list of great candidates for your recording setup.

Alternatives:
Blue Yeti USB Microphone, CAD U37 USB, Blue Snowball, Samson Meteor, Audio-Technica ATR-2500-USB