Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
4.5 (9)
$209.00
Amazon
4.7 (871)
$190.97
Reverb
5.0 (14)
$155.73 New
$161.15 Used
Gear4Music
£143.00

Average Price: $179

Standard/Professional

$100

$401+

Price Tier

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Rode M5". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Elevate your recording game with the Rode M5, a precision-engineered set of matched pair cardioid condenser microphones that redefine quality and affordability in the realm of studio recording. Crafted in Australia, the M5 offers unparalleled clarity and accuracy, capturing the subtlest nuances with its 1/2" condenser capsules. Whether you're working with acoustic guitars, drum overheads, or choirs, the M5 excels with a wide frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz and impressive high SPL handling, ensuring every performance is rendered with lifelike realism.

Designed for versatility, the M5's tightly controlled cardioid polar pattern effectively rejects ambient noise while maintaining a naturally balanced tone, making it an excellent choice for both studio and live settings. When used in stereo recording techniques like spaced pair, XY, or ORTF, the M5 creates a broad and immersive soundscape, providing precise localization of sound sources.

Built to withstand the rigors of travel and live performance, the M5 microphones come with WS5 windshields and RM5 stand mounts for flexible positioning. Their compact and lightweight design ensures easy mobility and setup, making them a highly practical addition to any recording kit. With RØDE's unwavering commitment to quality and a robust 10-year warranty, the M5 combines premium performance with remarkable value, promising a refined touch to any musical endeavor.

Key Features:

  • Matched pair of 1/2" cardioid condenser microphones
  • Frequency range: 20Hz to 20kHz
  • High SPL handling for capturing subtle nuances
  • Tightly controlled cardioid polar pattern
  • Includes WS5 windshields and RM5 stand mounts
  • Compact, lightweight design for easy transport
  • Backed by a 10-year warranty

Product specs

Brand RODE
Model M5 Small Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone Matched Stereo Pair
Finish Black
Year 2015 - 2025
Made In Australia
Categories Microphones
Electronics Solid State
Microphone Type Small-Diaphragm Condenser
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Wired/Wireless Wired

FAQs

Do Rode M5 microphones require phantom power?

Yes, the Rode M5 microphones require either 24V or 48V DC phantom power to operate, which is typically provided by mixers or audio interfaces.

Are the Rode M5 microphones suitable for recording acoustic instruments?

Yes, the Rode M5 microphones are ideal for recording acoustic instruments due to their cardioid polar pattern and wide frequency response, making them great for guitars, strings, and more.

What is the self-noise level of the Rode M5 microphones?

The Rode M5 microphones have a low self-noise level of 19dB-A, which is beneficial for capturing clear and detailed audio recordings.

How does the Rode M5 matched pair benefit stereo recording?

The Rode M5 matched pair ensures consistent sound quality and stereo imaging, making them excellent for stereo recording techniques like X/Y and A/B configurations.

What type of polar pattern do the Rode M5 microphones have?

The Rode M5 microphones feature a cardioid polar pattern, which helps to isolate the desired sound source while minimizing background noise.

Crash Course Recording

Crash Course Recording

Rode Nt5 vs Rode M5 (acoustic guitar) (pt.1)

Video thumbnail for Rode Nt5 vs Rode M5 (acoustic guitar) (pt.1) by Crash Course Recording

Rode Nt5 vs Rode M5 (acoustic guitar) (pt.1)

Crash Course Recording

Crash Course Recording

Video thumbnail for Introducing the new M5 'pencil' condenser from RØDE by RØDE

Introducing the new M5 'pencil' condenser from RØDE

RØDE

RØDE

Video thumbnail for Rode NT5 vs Rode M5 (electric guitar) (pt.1) by Crash Course Recording

Rode NT5 vs Rode M5 (electric guitar) (pt.1)

Crash Course Recording

Crash Course Recording

Video thumbnail for Best RODE Mic for Vocals & Acoustic Guitars - Rode M5 vs Rode NT1A by PMTVUK

Best RODE Mic for Vocals & Acoustic Guitars - Rode M5 vs Rode NT1A

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Rode M3 vs Rode M5 (acoustic guitar) (pt.1) by Crash Course Recording

Rode M3 vs Rode M5 (acoustic guitar) (pt.1)

Crash Course Recording

Crash Course Recording

Video thumbnail for Rode M5 vs Rode NT1a (acoustic guitar) (pt.1) by Crash Course Recording

Rode M5 vs Rode NT1a (acoustic guitar) (pt.1)

Crash Course Recording

Crash Course Recording

Video thumbnail for Neumann TLM102 vs Rode M5 (acoustic guitar) (pt.1) by Crash Course Recording

Neumann TLM102 vs Rode M5 (acoustic guitar) (pt.1)

Crash Course Recording

Crash Course Recording

Video thumbnail for Unboxing RODE M5 Condenser Microphone + TEST by KevinStiphen

Unboxing RODE M5 Condenser Microphone + TEST

KevinStiphen

KevinStiphen

Video thumbnail for Rode M5 vs Shure SM7b (acoustic guitar) (pt.1) by Crash Course Recording

Rode M5 vs Shure SM7b (acoustic guitar) (pt.1)

Crash Course Recording

Crash Course Recording

Reviews

PROS

  • Solid construction ensures durability

  • Excellent sound pick-up for live performances

  • Clean sound reproduction enhances audio quality

  • Punchy and warm sound signature

  • Low noise, suitable for studio recording

  • Versatile for recording drums, acoustic guitar, piano, and more

  • Budget-friendly without compromising on quality

  • Neutral sound with a slight presence boost for clarity

CONS

  • Not as sonically pleasing as higher-end models for some users

  • May not capture ambient sound as well in quiet environments

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Rode M5.

Features and functionality

  • Users suggest using Rycote wind jammers instead of Rode's due to superior performance in windy conditions.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Rode M5 is noted to have higher self-noise compared to the Rode NT5, making it less ideal for quiet recordings.

    Source
  • The Rode NT5 allows for capsule switching, offering flexibility with omni capsules, which is not available with the M5.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The M5 is easy to clip with high SPL sounds, such as recording cars, making it less suitable for loud environments.

    Source
  • For a wider sound with a single Rode NT5, record twice and pan each take to opposite sides.

    Source

User experience

  • For ambient field recordings, the M5s are comparable in quality to the Zoom H4n Pro's built-in mics, though quieter preamps may enhance performance.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • To reduce room noise with the Rode M5 in an untreated space, use blankets or an open closet with hanging clothes to minimize reflections.

    Source

Critic Reviews

RØDE M5 Matched Pair Condenser Microphones Review

audio-times.com

Rode M5 Matched Pair Condenser Microphones offer impressive tonal balance and sensitivity, especially for acoustic instruments like guitars and djembes. With low self-noise and versatile stereo configurations, they capture rich sound detail without overwhelming the performer. While they lack the premium finesse of higher-end mics like the DPA 4011, their affordability makes them a standout choice for budget-conscious studios.

positive

Rode M5

soundonsound.com

Rode’s M5 microphone pair packs a punch with its detailed, clean sound and robust build at a surprisingly low price. Ideal for acoustic instruments, the M5s deliver quality reminiscent of Rode’s higher-end models. The absence of storage pouches is a minor drawback, but the extended warranty and excellent stereo recording capabilities make it a top contender for budget-conscious musicians.

positive

Review: RØDE M5 Matched Pair Pencil Condensers — AudioTechnology

audiotechnology.com

Rode's M5 Matched Pair Pencil Condensers are a budget-friendly intro to stereo miking, ideal for musicians seeking simplicity and decent performance. These fixed cardioid mics are praised for their easy setup and solid stereo imaging, though they lack a bit of low-mid body and can sound slightly artificial in the highs. While not the best for capturing the full body of a drum kit, they excel with cymbals and field recordings. The price-to-performance ratio is a highlight, making them a great addition for those lacking stereo width in their mic collection.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 14 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
jeremy_crockett

I Guess This Makes Me a RØDE Fanboy... So Be It!

This is the second product I have purchased from RØDE when equipping my home "Music Studio". I got them to use as overheads for a drum kit and they work exceedingly well for my purposes. I would say that you could mic a guitar amp, keyboard amp, piano, indeed any instrument with them and be happy with the results.

Again, they are budget-friendly while being extremely well-made. And (as my experience with RØDE's NT-1) the hype is well-deserved.

If you have been considering them, go ahead and pull the trigger. You will be happy that you did.

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From Gear Setup
msall_98

A very good Small Diaphragm Condenser (SDC) for its price.

Honestly, having a very first SDC is really like a very first child for instrument recording. Rode Mic always won't let me down for its price per performance ratio. I have recorded with this mic in a lot of either in very bad room acoustic environment with a metal band, A decent sized room for ambient with a Orchestra or even a fully open area with a Indie band, it does most of the job for really what it is.

To me, the mic's signature is more to neutral but a bit of presence boost which it normal of a mic (Trust me, a fully flat mic without a proper engineering will sounds really horrible) but I more prefer to use it with something with a dynamic range critical task like Drums overheads. Use it as a Ambient mic may not good enough if you're looking to capture the ambient with a quiet sound source at the same time.

Recording done with this Microphone,

Telur Susu dan Matahari (Eggs, Milk and Sunshine) by Tiny and the Stonewaller (aka Tiny and the Crackheads) UNMC Sessions #10 (Overheads)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RAWj4kizVh4

Frostbite by Prodigium on UNMC Sessions #9 (Overheads)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upTtvTMCWtg&t=348s

Cover of Josh Groban's You Raise Me Up by MUSOC (UNMC Music Society) on UNMC Sessions #7 (Ambient)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3l2KhAK-GsI

ben_champion

Main SDC

Seriously great value, these puppies! :)

jimmarchi1

wow, they come in black now? cool... mine were silver.... great SDCs

Artist usage

Add artist
See how The Fencesitters uses Rode M5

The Fencesitters

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via Twitter

In this tweet, he admits to using the Rode M5.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Community setups

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jeremy_crockett

jeremy_crockett

Gear IQ 6786

jeremy_crockett

jeremy_crockett

Gear IQ 6786

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