RØDE Microphones has announced the release of its new NT1 microphone, the first update to the company’s flagship studio microphone since the NT1-A was introduced almost 14 years ago.
Although the body of the new NT1 closely resembles the NT1-A, the microphone has been completely redesigned from the ground up, with the only shared component being the mesh grille.
Codenamed the HF6, the new capsule offers a sound signature reminiscent of the famous microphones of old while at the same time exhibiting extremely low noise. It has been developed with a focus on detailed midrange response, coupled with smooth high frequencies, and warm, round, bass reproduction.
In a first for RØDE, the transducer is suspended inside the microphone using Rycote’s industry-leading Lyre system, minimizing external vibrations at the capsule level. The capsule is then married to high-grade electronics that have been designed to provide very low noise, with the NT1 measuring only 4.5dBA of self-noise.
The body is machined from 6061 aluminium and then nickel plated for resistance against corrosion. It is then coated in a durable, military-grade ceramic layer, using advanced electrostatic application techniques developed by RØDE to ensure an extremely hard wearing finish that is resistant to scratches or marks.
“This new NT1 really represents the essence of RØDE – innovation and tradition coexisting in complete harmony,” states RØDE founder and president Peter Freedman. “In the 20-years-plus that we’ve been making microphones here in Australia we’ve come a long way, and the NT1 is on the cutting edge of technology and manufacturing processes, allowing us to offer an amazing instrument at incredible value to our customers.
“At the same time we haven’t lost sight of our roots and the core values that got us where we are today, and the NT1 moniker is a tribute to both our heritage and our family of artists around the world using a RØDE NT1 in their daily recordings.”
The NT1 is sold as a kit along with the new SMR shock mount. Featuring a unique double-Lyre suspension system, the SMR enhances the existing superior vibration cancellation of Rycote’s Lyre system by using a smaller inner Lyre to act as a tensioning element. This maintains each Lyre in the neutral position where it is most efficient at cancelling vibration.
The SMR’s removable all-metal pop filter is as effective as it is visually striking, providing an integrated solution for plosive protection that is easily washable and designed to last as long as the shock mount and microphone.
The SMR is also compatible with a range of large diaphragm microphones from RØDE, and will be made available separately.
