Rode Microphones NT2-A Review – Definition Of Versatility

Design:
Features:
Performance:
Value:

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Australian mic brand Rode’s NT2 was something of a legend in the higher-end condenser mic market, although it was sadly discontinued in the early part of the 21st century. But fear not! The multi-pattern NT2-A is its spiritual successor, with an astounding range of features. Let’s take a closer look to see if it can stand up to its predecessor.

Design

From a distance, the NT2-A doesn’t look too unique. It features a relatively standard chassis with a somewhat small grille with a side-address layout. With a sturdy all-metal body, the NT2-A is finished in a light champagne – again pretty standard, but quite attractive. Most importantly, this mic is built like a tank. Crafted in Rode’s facility in Australia, it is more than capable of withstanding daily abuse in even the busiest studios.

While a simple mic in design, it’s only when you take a closer look at the panel on the side of the NT2-A that you notice the details. Compared to many other popular mics in this price range, this model is swamped with switches, which offer a good hint as to the features the NT2-A brings to the table.

Features

It’s the hardware that makes the Rode NT2-A the microphone that it is. The capsule itself is a large 1” gold-sputtered unit, with very well-designed circuitry and an internal shock mount for an ultra-low noise performance. Quite standard at this price range, but very solid.

Looking at the panel we have mentioned, this is where the real versatility arrives. We find a trio of three-position switches. Firstly, we find a switch to change between three polar patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional and figure-8), as well as a high-pass filter that switches between a flat setting, 40Hz mode and 80Hz mode. Finally, the attenuation switch offers a -5dB and -10dB pad as well as the zero attenuation position.

Specs-wise, the listed frequency response range is 20Hz to 20kHz, with a high 147dB max SPL. In addition, this mic comes with a good-quality external shock mount, a mic cable, pop filter and dust cover.

Performance

Core performance is as solid as it gets, although the focus with the NT2-A is still on versatility. Because of this it is excellent for a wide range of applications, both vocal and instrumental. Vocals are smooth and warm, with good transparency – no matter what kind of vocal profile you are recording, it works well.

Thanks to its array of switches, pads and filters – and that hefty max SPL – you can use the NT2-A to comfortably record pretty much any instrument, from acoustic guitar to drumkits to full orchestras. As we have mentioned, the self-noise is very low and should pose no problems in delivering a clean recording.

Conclusion

With so many features, the Rode NT2-A is the Swiss army knife of large-diaphragm condenser microphones under $500. It sounds great whatever you are recording and the myriad of switches make it an incredibly handy addition to any studio or live scenario.

For more info about the Rode Microphones NT2-A, click here.
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