RØDE NT-USB Microphone

RØDE NT-USB Microphone — image 1
RØDE NT-USB Microphone — image 2
RØDE NT-USB Microphone — image 3
RØDE NT-USB Microphone — image 4
RØDE NT-USB Microphone — image 5
RØDE NT-USB Microphone — image 6
RØDE NT-USB Microphone — image 7
RØDE NT-USB Microphone — image 8
87%
94%
Sound Quality
92%
Ease of Setup
89%
Build Quality
85%
Noise Isolation
87%
Mic Sensitivity
91%
Accessories Included
88%
Ease of Use for Beginners
78%
Plosive Handling
83%
Portability
90%
Compatibility
81%
Microphone Gain Control
80%
Customer Support
More

Overview

The RØDE NT-USB Microphone is a high-quality, USB-powered condenser mic designed to meet the needs of streamers, podcasters, and musicians alike. This microphone stands out with its plug-and-play functionality, eliminating the need for additional software or drivers. Its compact design includes a built-in tripod and pop filter, making it an excellent choice for those who need convenience without sacrificing audio quality. Users consistently praise it for being easy to use and providing a professional-grade recording experience. This microphone’s versatility makes it a solid option for both beginners and experienced content creators.

Features & Benefits

One of the standout features of this USB microphone is its unidirectional polar pattern, which minimizes background noise, ensuring clear and focused sound. The high-quality condenser capsule delivers detailed, rich audio, making it ideal for vocals and instruments. With adjustable gain control and a mute button, it offers flexibility for various recording environments. The included pop filter helps reduce plosives, while the tripod ensures stable positioning. Plus, setup is effortless—just plug it in, and you’re ready to record. Whether you're streaming or producing music, this microphone delivers reliable, professional results.

Best For

This condenser mic is particularly well-suited for streamers, gamers, and podcasters who want a straightforward, reliable setup. Those recording vocals or instruments will also appreciate its clear sound and easy integration into any workflow. Content creators who value portability and need a microphone that doesn't require complex installation will find this a great fit. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, the RØDE NT-USB provides the flexibility and high-quality performance that creators demand without overwhelming them with technicalities.

User Feedback

Users love the RØDE NT-USB for its excellent sound clarity and ease of setup. Many reviewers appreciate the microphone’s plug-and-play capability, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned professionals. However, some note that it can be sensitive to plosives, requiring careful microphone positioning to avoid distortion. A few users have also mentioned the lack of a volume control knob for headphone monitoring as a downside. Despite these minor issues, most users agree that this mic offers an exceptional balance of performance and affordability for a wide range of applications.

#Multipurpose
#Condenser Microphones
#Microphones
#Microphones & Accessories
#Musical Instruments

Pros

  • This USB microphone is praised for its plug-and-play functionality, making it easy to set up and use with minimal effort.
  • The condenser mic delivers clear and detailed sound, which is especially appreciated by podcasters and streamers.
  • Its compact design, with a built-in tripod and pop filter, makes it an ideal option for portable setups and small studios.
  • Users appreciate the unidirectional polar pattern, which helps reduce background noise and improves recording clarity.
  • The microphone's compatibility with PC, Mac, and tablets allows for versatile use across different platforms.
  • Perfect for beginners and advanced users alike, as it offers high-quality audio without the need for complicated setups.

Cons

  • Some users report that the microphone is highly sensitive to plosives, requiring careful positioning to avoid distortion.
  • There is no volume control knob for headphone monitoring, which can be a drawback for users who need real-time adjustments.
  • The included tripod may not provide sufficient stability for users recording in environments with vibrations or movement.
  • While great for casual setups, more professional users may find the microphone lacks customization options for advanced audio control.
  • This device is not as effective in environments with significant ambient noise unless positioned very carefully.
  • A few users felt the build quality could be more robust, particularly when compared to higher-end microphones.

Ratings

After analyzing verified reviews from users worldwide across various platforms and languages, the RØDE NT-USB Microphone received positive feedback for its performance, build quality, and ease of use. All reviews were carefully filtered to exclude any spam, bot-generated, incentivized, or off-topic comments, ensuring that only authentic and valuable user experiences contributed to these results. Both strengths and pain points are reflected in the scores, providing an honest and comprehensive view of this product's overall quality and user satisfaction.

Sound Quality
94%
Many users highlight the impressive clarity and richness of the sound from this microphone. The high-quality condenser capsule ensures that recordings are crisp, full, and detailed, which is especially appreciated by content creators who need clear vocals and audio in their streams or podcasts.
A few users mentioned that while the sound is clear, it may pick up unwanted noise if not positioned correctly. Some also felt that the microphone could benefit from even more noise isolation for certain environments, though this is more of a concern in extremely noisy settings.
Ease of Setup
92%
The plug-and-play functionality is widely praised, with users noting that it works seamlessly with both PCs and Macs. Many find it particularly convenient for beginners, as no drivers are required, and it can be up and running within minutes, making it an ideal choice for those just starting out with recording.
While most users find the setup process easy, a few have reported initial connectivity issues, particularly with older systems or less common devices. Additionally, some felt that more detailed instructions would be useful for absolute beginners, though the process is generally straightforward.
Build Quality
89%
The microphone’s compact design and sturdy build are often mentioned in positive reviews. Its solid construction, combined with the included tripod and pop filter, makes it a durable and practical option for frequent use, whether on a desk or in a mobile setup.
A handful of users noted that while the build quality is generally solid, the tripod feels a bit flimsy for heavy or constant use. Some also mentioned that the microphone could feel a bit top-heavy, especially when extended on a tripod, which may affect stability.
Noise Isolation
85%
The unidirectional polar pattern works well for isolating sounds from the sides and rear, ensuring that most background noise is reduced during recordings. This is especially useful in home office setups or when recording in less-than-ideal environments.
Some users noted that despite the polar pattern, plosives and background noise can still be an issue, particularly if the microphone isn't positioned optimally. A few users suggested using a more advanced soundproofing setup for best results.
Mic Sensitivity
87%
Many users appreciate the high sensitivity of this microphone, which captures clear and detailed audio, even in quieter environments. This sensitivity is ideal for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and podcasts, providing a professional-level sound without needing extra equipment.
However, the sensitivity can be a double-edged sword for some. A few users complained that it picks up slight noises, like keyboard typing or room hum, unless positioned carefully. This requires users to manage mic placement carefully to avoid unintended noise.
Accessories Included
91%
The inclusion of a pop filter and tripod enhances the overall value of this microphone. Users appreciate these additions, as they significantly improve the quality of recordings, especially for voice work. The tripod is compact and portable, making it easy to set up and move the microphone as needed.
Some users felt that the tripod could have been sturdier, particularly when using the mic for long recording sessions. A few mentioned that the pop filter is not very effective in completely reducing plosives, though it still offers some level of protection.
Ease of Use for Beginners
88%
The microphone is incredibly user-friendly, with no complicated settings to manage. Beginners in podcasting or streaming find it especially attractive, as they can start recording right away without the need for technical knowledge or additional equipment. The intuitive controls are a big plus.
Some absolute beginners felt that they would have appreciated more detailed setup guidance or tutorials, especially when first experimenting with mic placement. A few also found the mic's gain control to be slightly difficult to adjust accurately for their needs.
Plosive Handling
78%
22%
The built-in pop filter helps mitigate some plosives, providing a smoother recording experience for most users. This makes the microphone suitable for voice-heavy applications like podcasts or streaming, where reducing harsh 'p' and 'b' sounds is essential.
However, several users felt that the pop filter wasn’t sufficient in completely eliminating plosives, especially when speaking directly into the mic. They recommended investing in an additional windscreen or pop filter for more professional-level plosive control.
Portability
83%
The compact design and lightweight build make this microphone a solid choice for on-the-go content creators. It fits easily into most travel bags and doesn’t take up much space on a desk, which is ideal for streamers or podcasters who frequently record in different locations.
While portable, a few users noted that the microphone could be a bit fragile when handled roughly. Some also mentioned that the included tripod could be improved for better stability when recording outdoors or in a moving environment.
Compatibility
90%
The microphone's plug-and-play compatibility with PC, Mac, tablets, and audio interfaces makes it a versatile option for a wide range of users. Many appreciated how quickly and easily it integrates with various devices without needing additional software or drivers.
Though generally compatible, some users with older operating systems or specific setups experienced occasional connectivity issues. A few reported that the device would occasionally fail to be recognized, requiring a reboot to reconnect.
Microphone Gain Control
81%
19%
The adjustable gain control feature is helpful for fine-tuning recording levels, making it easier to avoid distortion and ensure optimal sound quality. Users especially appreciate the control it provides during streaming or voice recording sessions.
Some users expressed frustration with the sensitivity of the gain control, feeling that it was difficult to find the perfect balance. A few also mentioned that the absence of a headphone volume control affected their overall experience when monitoring live audio.
Customer Support
80%
20%
Several users had positive experiences with RØDE's customer support, noting quick responses and helpful guidance when troubleshooting minor issues. The support team is generally regarded as responsive and committed to resolving problems efficiently.
However, a few users reported delays in response times or felt that the troubleshooting advice provided didn’t always solve their problems. This was especially true for issues related to device compatibility or technical setup assistance.

Suitable for:

The RØDE NT-USB Microphone is well-suited for streamers, podcasters, and content creators who prioritize ease of use and high-quality audio. Its plug-and-play functionality makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced users, especially those who need a reliable microphone for voice recording or streaming. With its compact design and portability, this device is ideal for gamers, musicians, and anyone who requires a flexible, simple setup without the need for additional equipment. Its rich sound quality and built-in accessories, like the pop filter and tripod, also make it a great option for home studios or portable setups.

Not suitable for:

However, the RØDE NT-USB Microphone may not be the best choice for users seeking advanced sound isolation or those recording in very noisy environments. The sensitivity of the microphone can pick up unintended background noise, especially if it's not positioned correctly. It may also be less ideal for professionals who require a more customizable and intricate setup with specialized features, such as extensive gain control or headphone monitoring. Additionally, users who need a more robust, heavy-duty microphone stand may find the included tripod lacking in stability for certain use cases.

Specifications

  • Connectivity: USB connection for easy plug-and-play setup with no drivers required.
  • Polar Pattern: Unidirectional polar pattern reduces background noise, focusing on the front sound source.
  • Frequency Response: Frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz, providing a broad spectrum for accurate sound capture.
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Signal-to-noise ratio of 82 dB ensures clear and noise-free audio recording.
  • Power Source: Powered via USB, eliminating the need for external power adapters.
  • Included Accessories: Comes with a pop filter and tripod to improve sound quality and recording stability.
  • Weight: Weighs 1.15 pounds, making it lightweight and portable for on-the-go use.
  • Microphone Type: Condenser microphone designed for high-quality audio capture with detailed sound.
  • Mute Function: Features a mute button for quick silencing during recordings or streams.
  • Gain Control: Includes adjustable gain control for fine-tuning microphone sensitivity.
  • Dimensions: Compact size of 2.44 x 1.97 x 7.24 inches, ensuring easy integration into small spaces.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with PC, Mac, tablets, and audio interfaces for versatile use.
  • Recommended Uses: Ideal for streaming, podcasting, and music production applications.
  • Microphone Form Factor: Designed as a desktop condenser microphone for stationary use in professional settings.
  • Mounting Options: Includes a built-in tripod, but can also be mounted on additional stands with the proper adapter.
  • Noise Isolation: Includes a pop filter that helps reduce plosives and improves recording quality.
  • USB Cable Length: Comes with a standard USB cable for easy connectivity to devices without extension needs.

FAQ

Setting up this USB microphone is simple: just plug it into your computer, and it’s ready to use. The device is plug-and-play, so no drivers are required. It comes with a built-in tripod and pop filter to improve the sound quality and ease of use.

Yes, this microphone is compatible with most devices, including PCs, Macs, and even tablets. It connects via USB, making it versatile across multiple platforms without the need for additional adapters or software.

Absolutely. The RØDE NT-USB Microphone is highly recommended for streamers and gamers thanks to its excellent sound quality and easy setup. Its unidirectional pattern helps reduce background noise, ensuring a clear voice during broadcasts or gameplay.

The microphone uses a unidirectional polar pattern, which effectively minimizes unwanted background noise. This makes it ideal for environments like home studios, where you want to capture clear, focused sound without distractions.

The RØDE NT-USB Microphone comes with a pop filter and a tripod stand to improve your recording quality and provide stability. These accessories help reduce plosives and provide a convenient setup for various recording scenarios.

No, this microphone is plug-and-play, meaning it doesn’t require any additional software or drivers. Simply connect it via USB, and it should work with most recording software right out of the box.

Yes, some users have mentioned that the microphone is sensitive to plosives, particularly when speaking directly into it. To avoid distortion, it’s best to position the microphone slightly off-center or use the included pop filter.

Yes, the microphone features an adjustable gain control and a mute button. These allow you to fine-tune the audio levels during recordings or instantly mute the mic when needed.

While this microphone offers excellent audio quality for the price, it lacks certain advanced features like a headphone volume control or customizable sound settings. Some users also report it being sensitive to room acoustics, requiring careful placement.

The microphone is well-built for home and studio use, but it may not be as durable for heavy touring or constant transport. It’s more suited to stationary setups where portability is not a primary concern.