Rode NT1A vs NT2A
Rode Microphones, an Australian company founded in 1967, has built its reputation on creating high-quality audio equipment that punches well above its price point. The NT1A, introduced in 2003, quickly became one of the world’s quietest studio microphones, earning acclaim for its incredibly low self-noise and crystal-clear reproduction. The NT2A, launched as a more versatile counterpart, offered additional features while maintaining the exceptional audio quality that made the NT1A famous.
Both microphones represent Rode’s commitment to democratizing professional audio recording, making studio-quality equipment accessible to a broader range of users, from bedroom producers to professional recording engineers.
Physical Design and Build Quality
The Rode NT1A embodies minimalist elegance with its sleek, understated design. Measuring 190mm in length and weighing 326 grams, it strikes an ideal balance between substantial build quality and manageable size. The microphone features a classic large-diaphragm condenser design with a distinctive gold-plated capsule that not only looks striking but also serves functional purposes in terms of conductivity and corrosion resistance.
The NT1A’s body is constructed from high-grade aluminum, providing excellent durability while maintaining a professional appearance. The internal shock mounting system is designed to minimize handling noise and vibrations, crucial for capturing clean recordings. The microphone’s finish is a sophisticated matte black that resists fingerprints and maintains its appearance over time.
On the other hand, The NT2A shares many design elements with its sibling but incorporates additional hardware to support its expanded feature set. Slightly larger and heavier at 860 grams, the NT2A feels more substantial in hand. The most immediately noticeable difference is the addition of physical switches on the microphone body, including a high-pass filter switch and a pad switch, which we’ll explore in detail later.
The NT2A maintains the same premium aluminum construction but features a more complex internal architecture to accommodate its additional circuitry. The capsule design is similar to the NT1A, featuring the same gold-plated membrane, but the supporting electronics are more sophisticated to enable the microphone’s enhanced functionality.
Both microphones demonstrate Rode’s commitment to build quality. The tolerances are tight, the finish is consistent, and the overall feel is that of instruments built to last decades with proper care. The threading is smooth, the switches on the NT2A operate with satisfying precision, and both microphones feel balanced when mounted on stands. In terms of durability, both have proven themselves in countless studios and have excellent track records for reliability.
Technical Specifications
The frequency response of a microphone fundamentally shapes its sonic character, and both the NT1A and NT2A exhibit carefully crafted response curves that serve different purposes.
The NT1A features a frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz, with a gentle presence boost in the high frequencies around 12kHz that adds clarity and air to recordings. This boost is subtle enough to enhance detail without becoming harsh or sibilant. The low-end response is remarkably flat down to 20Hz, making it excellent for capturing the full harmonic content of instruments and voices. The midrange is notably neutral, providing an honest representation of the source material.
The NT2A shares a similar frequency response philosophy but with some refinements. Its range extends from 20Hz to 20kHz as well, but the high-frequency boost is slightly more pronounced and occurs at a slightly different frequency. This makes the NT2A particularly well-suited for vocals and acoustic instruments where clarity and presence are paramount. The bass response includes a high-pass filter option (80Hz at 12dB per octave), allowing users to tailor the low-end response to their specific needs.
One of the most remarkable features of both microphones is their exceptionally low self-noise. The NT1A boasts a self-noise level of just 5dBA SPL, making it one of the quietest microphones ever produced when it was released. This incredibly low noise floor means that even the most delicate recordings can be captured without unwanted hiss or electronic noise.
The NT2A, while slightly noisier at 7dBA SPL, still maintains an impressively low noise floor that rivals microphones costing significantly more. For most recording applications, the difference between 5dBA and 7dBA is negligible and unlikely to be audibly significant in real-world use.
Both microphones can handle substantial sound pressure levels before distortion becomes an issue. The NT1A can handle up to 137dB SPL (144dB with the optional pad), while the NT2A offers similar performance with a maximum SPL of 147dB (157dB with its built-in pad engaged). This high SPL handling makes both microphones suitable for recording loud sources like brass instruments, guitar amplifiers, and percussion.
The dynamic range, calculated as the difference between the maximum SPL and self-noise, is exceptional for both microphones. The NT1A offers approximately 132dB of dynamic range, while the NT2A provides around 140dB. These figures place both microphones in the professional tier, competing with units costing thousands of dollars.
The NT1A has a sensitivity rating of -31.9dBV/Pascal (25.12mV/Pascal), while the NT2A is rated at -36dBV/Pascal (15.8mV/Pascal). The higher sensitivity of the NT1A means it will produce a stronger output signal for a given input, which can be advantageous when working with preamps that have limited gain or when recording quiet sources.
Both microphones feature transformerless circuitry, which contributes to their low noise characteristics and helps maintain signal integrity across the entire frequency spectrum.
Features
The NT1A represents the “less is more” philosophy taken to its logical conclusion. It features no switches, no pads, and no filters – just pure, unadulterated audio capture. This simplicity offers several advantages:
Reliability: Fewer moving parts mean fewer potential failure points. The NT1A’s simple design has proven incredibly reliable over decades of use.
Ease of Use: There are no settings to adjust or switches to worry about. Simply connect it and start recording.
Signal Path Purity: Without additional circuitry for switches and filters, the signal path remains as clean and direct as possible.
Cost Effectiveness: The simpler design allows Rode to offer the NT1A at a lower price point while maintaining exceptional quality.
On the other hand, The NT2A offers several features that expand its versatility and make it suitable for a broader range of applications:
High-Pass Filter: The switchable 80Hz high-pass filter helps eliminate low-frequency rumble, air conditioning noise, and other unwanted low-end content. This is particularly useful in untreated rooms or when recording in less-than-ideal acoustic environments.
Pad Switch: The -10dB pad allows the microphone to handle extremely high sound pressure levels without distortion. This feature is invaluable when recording loud sources like drums, brass instruments, or guitar amplifiers at close distances.
Multiple Polar Patterns: Unlike the NT1A’s fixed cardioid pattern, the NT2A offers cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8 polar patterns. This versatility allows for different recording techniques and acoustic considerations.
Variable Output: The NT2A provides variable output control, allowing users to optimize the signal level for their recording chain.
Pattern Selection and Applications
The NT1A’s cardioid pattern is optimized for most recording applications, providing excellent front-to-back rejection and minimal off-axis coloration. This pattern is ideal for vocals, acoustic instruments, and any application where you want to focus on a single source while minimizing room tone and background noise.
The NT2A’s multiple patterns open up additional recording possibilities:
Cardioid Mode: Functions similarly to the NT1A, ideal for close-miking applications and situations where background rejection is important.
Omnidirectional Mode: Captures sound equally from all directions, excellent for room recording, ensemble work, or when you want to capture more of the acoustic space.
Figure-8 Mode: Picks up sound from the front and back while rejecting sound from the sides. This pattern is useful for recording two sources simultaneously (like a duet) or for mid-side recording techniques.
Sound quality
The NT1A has developed a reputation for its transparent, honest reproduction of source material. Its sonic character can be described as clean, detailed, and slightly bright without being harsh. The microphone excels at capturing the nuances of acoustic instruments and vocals with remarkable clarity and precision.
Vocal Performance: On vocals, the NT1A provides a clear, present sound that sits well in mixes without requiring extensive EQ. The slight high-frequency boost adds clarity and intelligibility without creating sibilance issues. It works particularly well with warm, rich voices that benefit from added clarity.
Acoustic Instruments: The NT1A shines on acoustic guitars, capturing both the warmth of the body and the detail of the strings. It’s equally impressive on piano, strings, and woodwind instruments, providing a balanced representation that requires minimal processing.
Electric Instruments: While primarily designed for acoustic sources, the NT1A can excel on electric instruments when used appropriately. It’s excellent for recording clean electric guitar tones and can even work well on overdriven tones when the source isn’t too aggressive.
On the other hand, The NT2A shares much of the NT1A’s sonic DNA but offers its own distinct character. It tends to be slightly more forward in the midrange and can sound more aggressive or present than the NT1A, making it particularly well-suited for certain vocal styles and contemporary music production.
Vocal Versatility: The NT2A’s slightly more prominent midrange makes it excellent for contemporary vocal styles. It can add presence and cutting power to vocals that might otherwise get lost in dense mixes. The multiple polar patterns also allow for creative vocal recording techniques.
Instrumental Flexibility: The pattern switching capabilities make the NT2A more versatile for instrumental recording. The omnidirectional mode is excellent for recording acoustic instruments in well-treated rooms, while the figure-8 pattern opens up possibilities for creative stereo recording techniques.
High SPL Sources: With its built-in pad, the NT2A is better equipped for recording loud sources directly. This makes it an excellent choice for recording drums, brass instruments, and guitar amplifiers without requiring additional attenuation.
Accessories
The NT1A comes with a comprehensive package that includes everything needed to start recording immediately:
- SM6 shock mount with integrated pop shield
- 6-meter XLR cable
- Dust cover
- Instructional DVD
- 10-year extended warranty (upon registration)
The SM6 shock mount is particularly noteworthy, as it combines effective vibration isolation with an integrated pop filter, eliminating the need for separate accessories in many applications.
On the other hand, The NT2A package is similarly comprehensive but includes some different accessories to match its enhanced capabilities:
- SM6 shock mount with integrated pop shield
- 6-meter XLR cable
- Dust cover
- Windshield (for outdoor recording)
- Instructional materials
- 10-year extended warranty (upon registration)
Both packages represent excellent value, as the included accessories would cost considerable amounts if purchased separately.
Who is it for?
Both microphones excel in home recording environments, but they serve slightly different needs:
NT1A for Home Recording: The NT1A’s extremely low self-noise makes it ideal for home recording situations where acoustic treatment might be minimal. Its forgiving character means that less-than-perfect room acoustics won’t be as audibly apparent in recordings. The simple operation makes it perfect for solo artists and singer-songwriters who want to focus on creativity rather than technical considerations.
NT2A for Project Studios: The NT2A’s additional features make it valuable in project studios where versatility is key. The high-pass filter can help deal with room problems, while the multiple polar patterns allow for different recording techniques. The built-in pad makes it suitable for recording a wider variety of sources without needing additional equipment.
Commercial Recording: Both microphones have found homes in professional studios as reliable workhorses. The NT1A is often chosen for vocal tracking due to its transparent character and low noise, while the NT2A might be selected when more flexibility is needed or when recording sources that benefit from its slightly more forward character.
Broadcasting and Podcasting: The low self-noise of both microphones makes them excellent for broadcast applications. The NT1A’s simplicity makes it foolproof for broadcast situations, while the NT2A’s high-pass filter can be valuable in broadcast environments where low-frequency noise might be an issue.
Live Recording: While primarily designed for studio use, both microphones can work well in certain live recording situations, particularly for acoustic performances or when used with proper wind protection.
Vocals: Both excel on vocals but in different ways. The NT1A provides a more neutral, honest representation that works well across various vocal styles. The NT2A can add more presence and cut, making it particularly effective for contemporary pop and rock vocals.
Acoustic Guitar: Both microphones are excellent choices for acoustic guitar. The NT1A provides a balanced, natural tone, while the NT2A might add slightly more presence and detail in the upper midrange.
Piano: The low noise floor of both microphones makes them excellent for piano recording, whether as spot mics or for ambient capture. The NT2A’s pattern switching capabilities can be particularly useful for creative piano miking techniques.
Strings and Orchestra: Both microphones work well for string recording, whether as spot mics on individual instruments or as part of a larger orchestral recording setup.
Drum Overheads: While not their primary application, both microphones can work as drum overheads, with the NT2A having an advantage due to its higher SPL handling and pad option.
Pricing
Both microphones occupy the sweet spot in the market where professional quality meets accessible pricing. They compete directly with microphones from Audio-Technica, AKG, and other established manufacturers but often provide superior value.
NT1A Value: The NT1A typically retails for significantly less than the NT2A, making it an exceptional value for those who don’t need the additional features. Its performance-to-price ratio is outstanding, often competing with microphones costing two to three times as much.
NT2A Investment: The NT2A commands a higher price due to its additional features, but the pattern switching capability alone can make it worth the investment for users who need that flexibility. When compared to other multi-pattern microphones, it remains competitively priced.
Final Thoughts
In summary, The Rode NT1A and NT2A represent two outstanding approaches to studio microphone design. The NT1A proves that sometimes the best solution is the simplest one, offering exceptional audio quality, remarkable low noise, and foolproof operation at an accessible price point. Its transparent character and reliable performance have made it a favorite among home recordists, professionals, and everyone in between.
The NT2A takes the foundation of the NT1A and builds upon it with features that expand its versatility. While it sacrifices some of the elegant simplicity of its sibling, it gains capabilities that make it suitable for a broader range of applications. The pattern switching, built-in pad, and high-pass filter transform it from a excellent vocal microphone into a versatile studio tool.
Both microphones demonstrate Rode’s commitment to democratizing professional audio recording. They prove that you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars to get excellent results in your recordings. Whether you choose the NT1A’s focused excellence or the NT2A’s versatile capability, you’ll be getting a microphone that can serve as the foundation of a professional recording setup for years to come.
The decision between these two excellent microphones ultimately comes down to your specific needs, recording applications, and personal preferences. Both have earned their places as modern classics in the world of studio microphones, and either choice will serve you well in your recording endeavors. The most important thing is to start recording and making music – with either the NT1A or NT2A in your arsenal, you’ll have the tools needed to capture your creative vision with professional quality and clarity.
