The RODE NT1-A is one of the most widely used cardioid condenser microphones in the sound industry. Since this microphone offers a great warmth in the sound, also has an extended dynamic range, with a unique clarity coupled with this, an SPL capacity that is typical only in the most expensive microphones worldwide.
It is the best choice for those seeking voice recordings in video tutorials, musical and even to capture sounds of instruments has become widely used by home studios.
Its durability, robustness, good performance and unbeatable value for money make it the best cheap studio microphone for home or semi-professional use.
This marvel of a microphone was released in 2003, as an upgrade to the NT1-A, which was one of the most popular condenser microphones on the market. Likewise, this improved design of RODE NT1-A, has an automatic noise level, which makes it get recognition as one of the quietest microphones in the world.
This particular feature of low noise level RODE NT1-A, places it as the ideal vocal microphone for many, apart from being able to record guitars and percussion for music producers.
Now, the Rode NT1-A is one of the microphones that is designed not only to record the sound of voice but also the sound of instruments, this makes it a very essential tool for studios. For its warmth, clarity and a high sound pressure capability, in addition to including everything you need to make a professional-level recording in a home studio.
Contents
Specs
| Acoustic Principle | Pressure Gradient |
| Active Electronics | JFET impedance converter with bipolar output buffer |
| Capsule | 1″ |
| Polar Pattern Cardioid |  |
| Address Type | Side |
| Frequency Range | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Output Impedance | 100Ω |
| Maximum SPL | 137dBSPL |
| Maximum Output Level | 13.7mV (@ 1kHz, 1% THD into 1KΩ load) |
| Sensitivity | -31.9dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (25.00mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz |
| Equivalent Noise Level (A-weighted) | 5dBA |
| Power Options | +24V Phantom power / +48V Phantom power |
| Weight | 326g |
| Dimensions | 190.00mmH x 50.00mmW x 50.00mmD |
| Output | XLR |
| Warranty | 1 year with free extension to 10 years with registration |
Sound quality
The RODE NT1-A produces a brilliant sound with remarkable detail. The treble is detailed and the bass retains its depth. Because of its profile, it is very well balanced and perfect for recording vocals or acoustic instruments. For example, we often use it when recording notes from acoustic guitars that sound really great and the low noise it produces is perfectly suited for recording them.
Thanks to its high frequency and low noise, it can capture sublime details, such as something as tiny as the guitarist’s fingers. In this sense its performance stands out among other microphone models, making it the first choice of most sound engineers.
The quietest condenser microphone on the market. This microphone has a classic and simple design. It does not integrate pads or filters.
The most important thing when buying a microphone for home recording is to know the advantages it offers compared to others in the same range. The most outstanding ones are:
A good price
Although there are even cheaper studio microphones, there is none that offers the guarantees in materials offered by the Rode NT1-A, nor such an optimized design. This means that there is no other home microphone that competes in value for money with this one. In addition, its high durability will ensure that you will have a new mic for years to come.
Simplicity
In many cases, less is more. This is the case of this microphone for video tutorials that will be more than enough to create dream recordings. If you are not a professional singer, who are usually accustomed to more expensive microphones, the Rode NT1-A is your most practical option. Without a doubt, the best microphone you can have.
Versatility
It offers you a multitude of functions, not just song recording. It is also perfect for creating podcasts, broadcasting radio programs or recording video tutorials for later use on platforms such as YouTube. In addition, you can also make high quality recordings of any instrument other than voice, such as guitar, saxophone, etc.
Portability
Its small size makes it one of the most practical microphones on the market. You can easily transport it at any time and change its location in the studio whenever you need it. In addition, for travel or any other displacement you can use its own box, or any other since it has contained dimensions and a reduced weight.
Very good details
Being from the prestigious and established brand Rode, this NT1-A microphone is usually recognized by most sound cards automatically when connected. This is a great advantage because, on many occasions, it is often very difficult to integrate all the necessary elements in the recording process.
High sensitivity and fidelity to voice pickup. Just whisper it and send it to the sound card. In addition, by default, the integrated software of this microphone makes any voice or sound have a very good quality.
Design
Good manufacturing materials. Just by holding it by hand and noticing its finish you will realize that all materials are of quality.
Sound test of the Rode NT1-A
Here is a great video where you can check the high quality of this cheap studio microphone Samson C01U PRO. You will want to try it immensely after seeing the good quality and presentation of it.
You should know this before buying the Rode NT1-A
Although it is honestly a very good microphone and you really won’t regret it if you buy it, I think I should clear all your doubts.
I have seen many criticisms of the NT1-A for having unnatural treble and a sound not as warm as others in a different range, but I think it all depends on the sound you are looking for.
I think that for those who are starting a project it is without a doubt one of the best options and that it can be a very good tool for any professional. It is very versatile, so far I have tried it on vocals, acoustic guitars and amps, piano, sax, strings and I am sure that the results have been good.
Despite being a semi-professional studio microphone, when you try it you will realize that it seems to be of a higher class, both in terms of finish and quality, both in terms of sound pickup.
I come back and emphasize its good quality, simplicity and good value for money, something I consider very important before choosing a studio microphone.
If you are starting a project and are looking for a microphone to make voice recordings, the Rode NT1-A is a good choice, despite its speculation, if it has a good level in the world of microphones of 2021.
Conclusion
There is no better value for money in condenser microphones in the entire market today. Whether used for leisure or professional use, in this segment, the Rode NT1-A is the undisputed leader.
Finally, a big plus point of the Rode NT1-A is its unbeatable price. It is an economical model that has been designed taking care of all the details, both constructive and software, details of microphones that triple its price.