I you want a studio quality condenser microphone then you need a great setup with a mixing desk and XLR inputs, but with the world moving so fast to digital a USB microphone is now the option for many people and Rode has just released something that fits both worlds.

The 5th Generation NT1 takes the classic sound of the RØDE NT1 which with over six million sold is easily the world’s most popular studio microphones, and adds a dual output option.

You can choose XLR for your input to a studio desk or RodeCaster Pro, or choose USB for input into a digital device like a PC.

RØDE lists the key features of the new NT1 as:

  • HF6 large-diaphragm (1-inch) gold-sputtered capsule, precision engineered to sub-micron tolerances
  • Smooth frequency response, high sensitivity and high SPL handling for incredible performance in a wide range of studio applications
  • Exceptionally low noise (4dBA) – the world’s quietest studio condenser microphone
  • Patent-pending Dual Connect output with both XLR and USB-C connectivity for use with audio interfaces, mixers and consoles, or direct plug-and-play recording with a computer
  • World-first 32-bit float digital output
  • Ultra-high-resolution (up to 192kHz) analog-to-digital conversion
  • On-board DSP for advanced APHEX® audio processing, including a compressor, noise gate, two-step high-pass filter, and legendary Aural Exciter™ and Big Bottom™ effects
  • Studio-grade shock mount and pop filter, XLR and USB cables included
  • Available in black or silver with a rugged aluminium body and high-grade finishes – highly resistant to scuffs and scratches
  • Designed and made in RØDE’s precision manufacturing facilities in Sydney, Australia

“The NT1 is not only our flagship microphone, it’s an icon for today’s creative generation,” says RØDE CEO Damien Wilson.

“Countless musicians, podcasters, streamers, broadcasters and content creators consider it their go-to microphone, and for good reason – it sounds incredible, is extremely flexible, and is built like a tank – a true studio workhorse. With this new generation, we wanted to preserve all of these qualities while incorporating innovations that have never been seen before in a microphone like this. The NT1 5th Generation is unlike any studio mic out there, but it hasn’t lost its charm and is sure to continue inspiring creators for decades to come.”

One key feature of the The NT1 5th Generation is the that Rode are calling it the “world’s first microphone to feature a 32-bit float digital output” – this means you can record in a DAW and adjust the audio level AFTER recording, so any clipping, bring that level down.

This is like the advent of RAW photography in digital cameras. An absolute game changer.

I’ve been testing the NT1 5th Gen for a few weeks, you’ll find samples of how it sounds by listening to the last two episodes of the EFTM podcast:

The NT1 5th Gen will set you back $439 in Australia, and it’s worth every cent of that. It comes with a cracking good looking RED 6m XLR cable (if you choose the Black Mic) as well as a USB C cable and the shock mount

Web: Rode

Buy Now: Rode NT1 5th Gen BLACK / Rode NT1 5th Gen SILVER