Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $268
Standard/Professional
$100
$401+
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Budget
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Price History
Based on price data from 8 merchants for "Rode NT5". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Introducing the Røde NT5, a small-diaphragm condenser microphone that's been engineered for precision. Designed for the discerning musician and sound engineer, the NT5 is a reliable and versatile tool in capturing the finest details of your sound.
Whether you're recording a soulful saxophone solo, a full-bodied violin ensemble, or the intricate rhythms on your drum set, the NT5's sensitivity and accuracy shine through. Its compact design allows for unobtrusive positioning, making it an ideal choice for close miking.
The NT5's cardioid pickup pattern and full frequency response ensure that every note is captured with clarity and depth. The gold sputtered 1/2" capsule further enhances sound quality, providing a rich and warm tone that complements a wide range of instruments.
Experience low noise and high fidelity with the Røde NT5, your ally in creating top-notch recordings. This microphone comes in a sturdy satin-nickel-plated body that's built to withstand the rigours of studio and stage use.
Key Features:
- True condenser microphone with gold sputtered 1/2" diaphragm
- Cardioid pickup pattern for focused sound capture
- Full frequency response, ensuring detailed sound reproduction
- Low noise circuitry for clean and clear recordings
- Heavy-duty satin-nickel-plated body for durability
- Comes with custom WS5 Wind Shield and RM5 Stand Mount
- Requires phantom power
- Includes 10 years manufacturer warranty
Owner's manual
Rode NT5 User ManualProduct specs
| Microphone Type | Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Diaphragm Size | 0.5" (12.5mm) |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Max SPL | 143dB |
| Output Impedance | 100 ohms |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 78dB (A weighted) |
| Self Noise | 16dB (A weighted) |
| Connector | XLR |
| Weight | 0.22 lbs. |
FAQs
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What is the Røde NT5 best used for?
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The Røde NT5 is ideal for recording acoustic instruments, drum overheads, and cymbals, thanks to its accurate cardioid polar pattern and wide frequency response.
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Does the Røde NT5 require phantom power?
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Yes, the Røde NT5 requires phantom power, which can be P48, P24, or P12, supplied by your audio interface or mixer.
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How does the Røde NT5 handle high sound pressure levels?
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The Røde NT5 can handle a maximum SPL of 143dB, making it suitable for capturing loud sources without distortion.
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What polar pattern does the Røde NT5 use?
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The Røde NT5 features a cardioid polar pattern, which helps isolate the sound source while minimizing background noise.
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Is the Røde NT5 suitable for live performance recording?
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Yes, the Røde NT5 is well-suited for live performance recording due to its precise sound capture and robust build.
Videos
Andertons Music Co
RODE NT5 - An affordable pencil condenser with a twist!
Reviews
PROS
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Excellent for recording a variety of instruments and vocals
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Comparable to higher-priced mics; great value for money
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Clear, balanced sound with minimal coloration
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Versatile, suitable for both studio and live use
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Low self-noise, captures subtle details well
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Durable build quality
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Comes with useful accessories (windshield, standmount, case)
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Compatible with interchangeable capsules for flexibility
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10-year warranty when registered
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Compact size for easy placement
CONS
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Picks up background noise due to high sensitivity
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Sticker on the mic may peel off easily
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Some units may have quality control issues (loose parts)
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Neutral vocal reproduction might not suit all preferences
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Rode NT5.
Use cases and applications
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NT5s provide a 7dB gain advantage over Zoom H5's built-in mics, improving noise performance for field recording.
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LOM Usi Pro and Clippy mics, noted for low noise, are alternatives for portable field recording setups.
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For recording classical guitar, positioning the NT5 about a foot away, angled towards the neck joint, optimizes sound capture.
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For a wider sound with a single NT5, record twice and pan one take left and the other right.
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NT5s can be used for Zoom calls, but may pick up ambient noise, making them less ideal in noisy environments compared to dynamic mics like the RE320.
Source
Comparisons
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The NT5 has a sensitivity of -38dB V/Pa, making it more sensitive than Behringer C2 (-41dB V/Pa) and Zoom H5 mics (-45dB V/Pa).
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AKG P170 pair is suggested as a budget-friendly alternative to NT5 and M5 for acoustic recordings.
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The RE320 is noted to be brighter and more intelligible for speech compared to the darker Shure SM7B and Electro-Voice RE20.
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Features and functionality
Mods and upgrades
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FetHead Phantoms offer cleaner gain but at a higher cost, making Zoom F3 a potentially better long-term investment.
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User experience
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Condenser mics like the NT5 are prone to picking up unwanted ambient sounds such as room tone, appliances, and even pets.
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Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artist
My microphones:
Rode NT-2A (x2) Rode NT5 (x2)
Shure SM57
Shure SM58
Sennheiser E602
Sennheiser E906
Carlos Cruz uses the Røde NT5, as confirmed in a video featured on Sick Drummer Magazine titled "Carlos Cruz - Warbringer - Firepower Kills - Summer 2020 Drum Play-through Series - Video I of III," authored by SDM.
He also indicated the name of the micro himself (in the description under the video)
In this article and interview with Tony Huerta detailing his process of recording and mixing a cappella, he shares, "To capture the rest of the sound coming off the artist, I use two DIFFERENT high-quality overhead condenser microphones... I use a Shure KSM 32 on one side and a Rode NT5 on the other."
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Rode NT5, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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