Do you want to set up a podcast? Or maybe you’re trying to have a microphone set up for a professional meeting. Either the case, this guide was made to compare the RODE NT1 VS. RODE NT1A.
We’ll show you the ins and outs of each microphone bundle package. While both are great, only one can be a winner. Keep reading to see which microphone set will come out on top.
The Rode NT1KIT Cardioid Condenser Microphone Package is one of a kind. It has sound performance, a great frequency range and is designed to create high-quality recordings. If you’re looking for a good microphone for home studio or podcast usage, this is the right bundle package for you.
When opening the box, you’ll receive a microphone, a pop filter, a shock mount, and a microphone pouch, documentation, and a sticker! While the microphone pouch isn’t made for full protection, it will prevent dust from getting to the mic.
The Rode NT1 has a 20Hz – 20kHz frequency range. When in use, the microphone provides a clear bass without sounding muddy or boomy. The high frequencies don’t sound too harsh or shrill, delivering a smooth and clear sound.
Another significant feature is its top-notch build quality. It has an all-metal construction and has some weight to it. The microphone doesn’t contain any dials, just an XLR port to the bottom. The shock mount is made of plastic, but it feels sturdy when held.
For vocals, it is excellent for having excellent midranges. It has an airy clarity with the top end, and the pop shield is effective and unobtrusive. Not only is it good for vocals, but the mic is tuned to handle loud sources like amplified guitars or drums.
The microphone provides extraordinary results when recording 12-acoustic guitars and six-string guitars. The NT1’s top-end comes in handy here, as it captures hand-held percussion with ease.
This is a large-diaphragm mic and is known for producing clear sound. It has a 4.5dBA rating, making it highly sensitive to sound.
Mainly, the RODE NT1 is a great package for those wanting to optimize their sound opportunities. It has a great sound, a high-quality build, and comes with everything needed to start podcasting.
The RODE NT1-A is the perfect microphone if you’re concerned about sound performance. It features a 20hz – 20kHz frequency response and a 132dB max SPL. SPL stands for Sound Pressure Level (how much sound the microphone takes before distortion occurs). Despite being a condenser mic, the NT1-A does not l4.5dBAack in this department.
The NT1-A has a natural, flat, and warm frequency curve. Unlike competing mics, this device has no coloration. As a result, your original sound source will have an accurate recording. The microphone has a warm bass, silky high frequencies, and a detailed mid-range – without being over-emphasized or harsh.
With a 4.5dBA self-noise rating, the NT1-A operates quietly. This is great news; there’s nothing more annoying than continuously gate or suppress a microphone because there’s too much noise. This is not an issue with the NT1-A.
Because of this, we suggest getting soundproofing within your recording space. This microphone is highly sensitive and will pick up background noise in your room. Loud fans, people talking, and noisy pets should be avoided!
All microphones need to have stability, or else they will fall apart when used. The Rycote “Lyre” system dramatically enhances the sound. This feature allows the microphone to suspend the transducer inside of it.
This is definitely a welcome addition. The NT1-A’s Rycote system is effective at protecting the electronics inside and minimizing external vibrations. With this device, you’ll get the optimal vocal performance without sacrificing sound quality.
Overall, the RODE NT1-A is a great addition to your home studio. The microphone bundle comes with an additional dust cover, pop filter, and RM6 shock mount, further increasing its utility. Get this if you want to take your recordings to the next level.
Which is Best?
In this RODE NT1 VS. NT1A section, we’ll determine which microphone package is better. We will judge them based on their frequency range, accessories.
Frequency Range
Both microphones have a 20hz – 20kHz frequency range. This is not bad, as both microphones have great control over the high, mids, and low frequencies when in use. However, the NT1-A tends to sound harsher in the top range.
Meanwhile, the NT1 gives you a natural, honest, and transparent sound that doesn’t sound too intrusive. Thus, making the NT1’s subtle frequency advantage suitable for piano and vocal performances.
Winner: RODE NT1
Accessories
It’s hard to determine a winner as both microphone packages have great accessories associated with them. Both accessories have an XLR and a dust cover to clean the mic when it’s not in use.
The RODE NT1 and NT1-A are designed to keep your recording quiet and protect your microphone from knocks and bumps.
Winner: Tie
Build Quality
The NTA1 is superior when it comes to building quality. For example, it has a military-grade ceramic layer. The NT1-A is sturdy, but its all-metal chassis still falls short in comparison. The NT1 has nickel-plated, which is resistant to corrosion.
While the NTA-1 is a great microphone in its own right, the NT1 is the winner in this category.
Winner: NT1
SPL Handling
The NT1-A is the winner in this category. While it is the slightly older model, it has a 137 dB rating, which is higher than the NT1 (132 dB). Both microphones can handle any sound you throw at it, but the NT1-A has a slight advantage based on the pure numbers.
Winner: NT1-A
Our Verdict
At the end of the RODE NT1 VS. RODE NT1A debate, we picked the RODE NT1. Pound for pound has better sound quality and noise reduction and is the better choice for recording.
While NT1-A is still an excellent microphone, it’s slightly less proactive than the NT1 at reducing sound. Thus, the NT1 is the better microphone for beginner and professional podcasters alike.
Music is the lifeblood of my veins. I love to listen, play and write music. Being a music band manager is what I love to do mostly because I love working with artists on their personal branding and brand building while helping them find the next level of success.
