The Rode NT5-MP is a small-diaphragm microphone belonging to the renowned RØDE family, and it's available as one of the best-selling models in the "Matched Pair." Featuring a gold-sputtered 1/2" diaphragm and high-quality components on the SMD circuit board, it promises outstanding transmission quality and has already gained an excellent reputation in the audio industry. Now, we want to share our personal experiences and impressions with you in this review to help you make an informed decision. So, let's dive into the world of Rode NT5-MP together!
Design and Construction
Right from the first glimpse of the Rode NT5-MP, we are impressed by the elegant design and premium craftsmanship of the microphone pair. The satin-nickel metal housing gives it a robust and professional appearance. The gold-sputtered 1/2" capsule is characteristic of small-diaphragm microphones and promises precise and clear sound reproduction. The attention to detail in the manufacturing of this microphone pair is evident and gives us the feeling of holding a top-notch product in our hands.
The foam windshields and microphone stands included in the package are practical additions that support the versatile applications of the NT5-MP. The provided ABS molded case not only offers secure protection for the microphones but also gives an impression of sturdiness and high quality. We were glad to see that the microphones were well organized and protected, which is especially advantageous during frequent transportation.
The handling of the NT5-MP is pleasant and straightforward. The microphones feel robust and stable, so we didn't have to worry about accidental damage. The included microphone stands allow for flexible positioning of the microphones to achieve the best sound result.
Overall, we were impressed with the design and construction of the Rode NT5-MP microphone pair. It's evident that a lot of attention to detail has gone into its development to create a high-quality and reliable product. The combination of elegant design, solid materials, and premium craftsmanship makes the Rode NT5-MP a true eye-catcher in any studio and already hints at promising sound quality even before the first use.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of the Rode NT5-MP microphone pair fully convinced us during our test recordings. The gold-sputtered 1/2" capsule, together with the high-quality components on the SMD circuit board, delivers remarkable audio performance. The characteristic presence boost, typical of many RØDE microphones, adds a silky shine and pleasant brilliance to the recorded signal.
We used the NT5-MP for both acoustic instruments and drum overheads and were impressed by the clarity and balance of the sound. For string and choir recordings, the microphone pair provided impressive detail accuracy, capturing the nuances of the instruments and creating a natural, vibrant sound image.
The high-frequency reproduction proved to be balanced and transparent, without ever sounding sharp or overemphasized. The midrange was warm and present, and the bass range was clear and defined. The microphones captured transients with precision, which is especially important for drum recordings. The dynamic range of the NT5-MP was impressive, allowing for accurate recording of both quiet and loud signals.
The noise performance of the NT5-MP was also highly commendable. Even at high gain levels, the self-noise remained minimized, resulting in clean and noise-free recordings. Overall, the sound quality of the Rode NT5-MP microphone pair left an extremely positive impression and demonstrated its capability in professional studio environments.
The Microphones in Practice
For our comprehensive practical test, we extensively evaluated the Rode NT5-MP microphone pair in various situations and applications. From studio recordings to live sound reinforcement, we put the microphone pair through its paces to assess its performance and versatility.
-
Studio Recordings: In the studio, we used the NT5-MP for various instruments, including acoustic guitars, strings, woodwinds, and percussion instruments. The sound quality of the microphone pair proved to be impressive. The microphones delivered a transparent and precise reproduction of the instruments. For acoustic guitars, they captured the string tones and nuances of the performance perfectly. For strings and wind instruments, the stereo imaging provided a natural spatial representation of the sounds. The high detail accuracy allowed us to highlight the nuances of the instruments in the recordings and achieve an authentic sound reproduction.
-
Drum Recording: As overhead microphones in drum recording, the NT5-MP proved to be highly capable. They delivered a clear and balanced representation of the drum kit, capturing the transients of cymbals and snare with precision. The spatial representation of the drums allowed us to create an impressive stereo width and capture the natural sound of the drum kit. The microphones also proved to be extremely resilient and distortion-free, even at high sound pressure levels.
-
Live Sound Reinforcement: For live sound reinforcement, the NT5-MP proved to be a robust and reliable microphone pair. We used them as overhead microphones for drum kits at various events and concerts and also used them to record acoustic instruments such as guitars and wind instruments. The microphone pair handled the challenges of a live environment effortlessly and delivered clear and consistent sound reproduction. The construction of the NT5-MP proved to be highly durable in the demanding conditions of live performances.
-
Field Recording: The Rode microphone also proved to be extremely useful for field recording sessions. We recorded ambient sounds, nature sounds, and soundscapes and were impressed by the precision and naturalness of the recordings. The clarity of the recordings allowed us to capture the fine details of ambient sounds and create an authentic audio atmosphere.
-
Vocal Recordings: Although the Rode was primarily designed for instruments, we also tested it for vocal recordings. Here, too, the microphone pair delivered a solid performance. The clear and balanced sound reproduction added a natural and pleasant character to the vocal recordings. While the NT5-MP might not be the first choice for professional vocal recordings, it provided satisfactory results for occasional use in the studio or for acoustic performances.
Overall, we were impressed by the versatility and performance of the microphone pair. It proved itself in a variety of recording situations and applications, consistently delivering a clear, precise, and balanced sound reproduction. Whether in the studio, live performances, or field recording projects, the NT5-MP proved to be a reliable and powerful tool for professional audio productions.
Accessories and Package Contents
The package contents of the Rode NT5-MP microphone pair are extremely comprehensive and leave little to be desired. Alongside the two meticulously selected microphones in a stereo pair, it includes two WS5 foam windshields, which effectively protect against wind noise and plosive sounds. Additionally, the package contains two RM5 microphone clips, allowing for secure and flexible microphone placement. These clips are particularly practical, enabling precise microphone positioning on the stand for optimal sound results.
Another highlight of the package contents is the ABS molded case, providing a secure and protected transport solution for the microphones. This case not only offers sufficient space for the microphones but also features removable foam padding, providing additional protection and preventing the microphones from shifting inside the case. The sturdy construction of the case gives us the confidence that our valuable microphones are safely stored, whether we take them to the studio, live performances, or field recording adventures.
Furthermore, the Rode NT5-MP microphone pair comes with an official measurement certificate documenting the rigorous quality control and selective matching of the microphones. This certificate confirms the excellent sound quality and reliability of the microphones, providing us with the assurance of owning a high-quality and tested product.
Overall, we were impressed by the extensive package contents of the Rode NT5-MP microphone pair. The included accessories are practical and functional, supporting the versatile applications of the microphones. The ABS molded case offers a secure and well-organized storage solution, while the measurement certificate confirms the quality and selection of the microphones.
Conclusion and Rating
The NT5-MP is undoubtedly an outstanding small-diaphragm microphone pair that has proven its worth in various applications. The sound quality is excellent, providing a transparent, balanced, and detailed reproduction suitable for acoustic instruments, drum overheads, and vocal recordings.
One particularly noteworthy aspect is the relatively affordable price of the microphone pair, which is around €350. Compared to more expensive Neumann microphones, the Rode pair offers an excellent price-performance ratio. While the quality of the Rode microphone pair is undoubtedly very good, it may not reach the extremely high level of the pricier Neumann models. Nevertheless, the NT5-MP provides impressive performance for its price and can easily compete in many professional recording situations.
The robust construction and high-quality design of the microphone pair exude a professional and reliable feel.
The versatility of the Rode NT5-MP microphone pair is impressive. It performs equally well in studio recordings, live sound reinforcement, field recording projects, and many other applications. The included accessories such as the foam windshields and microphone clips proved to be useful and practical.
Therefore, our rating for the Rode microphone pair is extremely positive. It receives a clear recommendation from us for musicians, sound engineers, and producers searching for a high-quality yet affordable small-diaphragm microphone pair. It is a true all-rounder that should not be missing in any professional audio production.
Whether in the studio, on stage, or during outdoor recordings, the Rode NT5-MP is a reliable and powerful choice.
