Rode NT1 5th Generation microphone review

The NT1 5th Generation is a studio-grade, large-diaphragm cardioid condenser that pairs USB-C and XLR connectivity so you can switch between digital and analogue setups. The build feels premium, with an aluminium body and full mesh over the capsule, and the box includes a shock mount, pop filter and both USB and XLR cables.

There’s no stand in the package, but the mic uses standard threading so it will fit most mounts. In use the microphone delivers a very low noise floor and a warm tonal character that suits both singing and spoken voice. It’s largely dead quiet and hard to make clip — Rode even markets it as almost unclippable — and the pop filter and mount help tame harsh sounds.

That low noise floor can make ambient sounds stand out, however, so streaming often benefits from Rode’s free software. When connected via USB you can use the Rode Central app to raise input gain, enable a high-pass filter and manage other settings; the software can also help recover or alter clipped sounds.

rode nt1, usb-c, xlr, cardioid condenser, large-diaphragm, aluminium body, shock mount, pop filter, low noise, rode central