Description
The RØDE NT2-A Studio Solution Microphone is a highly acclaimed large-diaphragm condenser microphone known for its versatility and high-quality sound. It’s often referred to as a “studio solution” because it comes as a complete package with essential accessories and offers a wide range of features that make it suitable for almost any recording scenario in a professional or home studio.
Features and Specifications:
- Microphone Type: True Condenser (externally biased). This means it requires +48V phantom power from your audio interface or mixer to operate. True condensers are prized for their detailed and accurate sound reproduction across a wide frequency range.
- Diaphragm: Features a large 1-inch (25mm) HF1 gold-sputtered capsule. This large diaphragm design contributes to its rich, full, and classic condenser microphone sound.
- Multiple Polar Patterns: This is one of the NT2-A’s most significant strengths, offering three selectable patterns directly on the mic body:
- Cardioid: Focuses sound directly from the front, ideal for isolating vocals, instruments, or speech while rejecting off-axis noise.
- Omnidirectional: Picks up sound equally from all directions, great for capturing room ambience, choirs, or multiple instruments in a live setting.
- Figure-8 (Bidirectional): Picks up sound equally from the front and rear, while rejecting sound from the sides. Perfect for recording two vocalists facing each other, or for capturing room reflections with a specific instrument.
- On-Board Controls (Switches): The microphone features convenient three-position switches for:
- High-Pass Filter (HPF): Flat, 40 Hz, or 80 Hz. This helps to reduce unwanted low-frequency rumble, hum, and proximity effect.
- Pad: 0dB, -5dB, or -10dB. This attenuation pad allows the microphone to handle very loud sound sources (high SPLs) without distorting your preamplifier.
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz. This wide frequency range ensures it captures the full spectrum of audible sound with detail and accuracy. RØDE has voiced the NT2-A to offer a silky smooth character, reminiscent of legendary microphones from the ’50s and ’60s, while still being suited for modern recording.
- Max SPL (Sound Pressure Level): 147 dB SPL (157 dB with the -10 dB pad engaged). This is an extremely high SPL handling capability, making the NT2-A suitable for recording very loud sources like drums, loud guitar amplifiers, and powerful vocals without any distortion.
- Equivalent Noise Level (Self-Noise): 7 dBA. This is an exceptionally low self-noise figure for a condenser microphone, indicating a very quiet microphone that won’t introduce noticeable hiss into your recordings, even for subtle or distant sources. This contributes to its wide dynamic range.
- Transformerless Output: Features transformerless JFET active circuitry, which results in an ultra-low-noise output while maintaining maximum signal gain.
- Connectivity: Standard 3-pin XLR output. Requires an XLR cable to connect to an audio interface or mixer.
- Build Quality: Known for its robust all-metal body with a durable satin nickel finish. It’s built to withstand the rigors of studio life.
- Internal Capsule Shock Mounting: The capsule is internally shock-mounted to help reduce mechanical noise and vibrations transmitted through the microphone stand.
What Makes it a “Studio Solution”?
The “Studio Solution” aspect of the NT2-A comes from its comprehensive package and versatile features, making it ready for almost any studio task right out of the box:
- Versatile Sound Capture: The three selectable polar patterns (cardioid, omni, figure-8) allow you to record almost anything – solo vocals, acoustic guitars, drum overheads, piano, room ambience, duets, and more.
- On-Board Controls: The High-Pass Filter and Pad switches provide essential tools for tailoring the microphone’s response to different sound sources and environments, preventing issues like rumble or distortion before the signal even hits your preamp.
- Ultra-Low Noise and High SPL: This combination means you can record both very quiet, nuanced sources and extremely loud, dynamic instruments with pristine clarity and without fear of clipping.
- Included High-Quality Accessories: The “Studio Solution” package typically includes:
- RØDE SM6 Shock Mount with Detachable Pop Filter: This is a professional-grade shock mount that effectively isolates the microphone from vibrations and handling noise, along with an integrated metal pop filter to eliminate plosives and breath sounds.
- Premium XLR Mic Cable (often 20 feet/6 meters): A high-quality cable for immediate connection to your audio interface.
- Dust Cover: To protect the microphone when not in use.
- Instructional DVD (by John Merchant): Often included, providing valuable tips and techniques for recording with the NT2-A.
- Durable Build and Warranty: Its robust construction combined with RØDE’s impressive 10-year warranty (upon online registration) ensures long-term reliability and peace of mind.
Rode Nt2-A Performance and Sound Quality:
The NT2-A is highly regarded for its smooth, clear, and balanced sound. It’s often praised for:
- Vocal Clarity: It provides excellent detail and presence for lead and backing vocals, often described as having a “polished” or “broadcast” quality.
- Acoustic Instrument Fidelity: Captures the nuances of acoustic guitars, pianos, and string instruments with rich detail.
- Amp Miking: The high SPL handling makes it a strong choice for electric guitar and bass amplifiers.
- Drum Overheads: Its wide frequency response and clear top end make it popular for drum overheads, capturing the full kit and cymbals beautifully.
Rode Nt2 Target Audience:
- Home Studio Owners: Looking for a versatile, high-quality “desert island” microphone to handle a wide range of recording tasks.
- Project Studio Professionals: Seeking a reliable and flexible workhorse condenser.
- Vocalists, Musicians, Podcasters, and Voice-over Artists: Who prioritize professional sound quality and versatility in their recordings.
