Rode NT1 1″ Cardioid Condenser USB/XLR Microphone – 5th Generation (Black)

Revolutionary Studio Microphone with Dual Connectivity

The Rode NT1 5th Generation Cardioid Condenser USB/XLR Microphone in Black is a groundbreaking large-diaphragm studio microphone that combines the iconic NT1 sound signature with cutting-edge technology, ideal for musicians, podcasters, streamers, and content creators across Australia. Featuring Rode’s patent-pending Dual Connect output (XLR and USB-C), a world-first 32-bit float digital output, and ultra-low self-noise (4 dBA), this microphone delivers warm, silky audio with unmatched versatility for both analog and digital recording setups.

Exceptional Audio Performance

The NT1 5th Generation is equipped with Rode’s HF6 1-inch gold-sputtered condenser capsule, offering a cardioid polar pattern that reduces ambient noise for focused vocal and instrument capture. With a frequency response of 20 Hz – 20 kHz, it delivers the classic NT1 sound: rich bass, detailed midrange, and smooth highs, ideal for vocals, guitar, piano, drums, and more. The microphone’s ultra-low self-noise (4 dBA) makes it the world’s quietest studio condenser microphone, ensuring pristine recordings with minimal background hiss. Its high SPL handling (142 dB) accommodates loud sources without distortion. The USB-C output features a built-in Revolution Preamp and 32-bit float A/D converter, providing “unclippable” digital recordings at up to 192 kHz sampling rate, eliminating the need for precise gain adjustments in compatible DAWs (e.g., Logic Pro, Reaper). The XLR output delivers pure analog sound for traditional studio setups with any preamp. Users praise its clarity and warmth but note that the integrated pop filter may require an external filter for close-mic vocals to fully tame plosives.

Robust Design with Premium Accessories

Crafted in Rode’s Sydney, Australia facilities, the NT1 5th Generation features a durable aluminum body with a high-grade black finish, resistant to wear. The internally shock-mounted HF6 capsule minimizes vibrations, and the included SM6 shock mount with integrated pop filter further reduces plosives and handling noise. The package includes a 6-meter XLR cable with Neutrik® connectors and Canare cabling, a USB-C to USB-C cable, and a dust cover for protection. Rode Central, a free companion app, unlocks advanced DSP features like APHEX Aural Exciter and Big Bottom, input gain control, and firmware updates, with settings persisting across DAWs. The absence of a headphone jack for zero-latency monitoring is a noted drawback, requiring an external interface for USB mode. The microphone supports phantom power (48V) for XLR use or bus power for USB-C, but it’s incompatible with mobile devices like iPhones or iPads, limiting portability. A custom ASIO driver is recommended for Windows users to enable 32-bit float recording and multi-mic setups (up to eight NT1s via USB).

Key Performance Features

• HF6 1-Inch Condenser Capsule – Cardioid pattern with warm, silky sound (20 Hz – 20 kHz)

• Dual Connect Output – XLR for analog setups, USB-C for plug-and-play digital recording

• 32-Bit Float Digital Output – Unclippable audio with 192 kHz sampling rate via USB-C

• Ultra-Low Noise – 4 dBA self-noise, the quietest studio condenser microphone

• High SPL Handling – 142 dB for distortion-free recording of loud sources

• SM6 Shock Mount with Pop Filter – Minimizes vibrations and plosives

• Rode Central App – Unlocks DSP processing, gain control, and firmware updates

Notes

• Requires 48V phantom power for XLR use (e.g., via Focusrite Scarlett 2i2) or USB bus power for digital recording; not compatible with mobile devices like iPhones or iPads.

• The integrated pop filter may not suffice for close-mic vocals; an external pop filter (e.g., Kayotica Eyeball) is recommended for optimal plosive control.

• Download the Rode Central app and ASIO driver (for Windows) to enable 32-bit float recording and advanced DSP features; ensure your DAW supports 32-bit float to avoid clipping issues during monitoring.

• Some users report USB recognition issues on Windows 11 with Rode Connect software; test with a high-quality USB-C cable and update firmware for best performance.

• For budget-conscious buyers, the NT1 Signature Series (XLR-only, ~$200) or Shure MV7X (dynamic, XLR) are viable alternatives, as noted in X posts.

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