If you want a mic to use in live and studio settings or professional sound industry productions, Rode microphones are a worthy consideration. They are one of the most portable, durable, and versatile mics that give you top-notch audio recording quality.
Another advantage of buying the best Rode microphone is the easy setup, as you can use the mics right out of the package.
The good news is that the following guide presents the reviews of the best Rode mics shortlisted based on performance, additional features, and, most importantly, affordability.
Our Selection Process
With so many microphones available in the market, such as shotgun, wireless, and on-camera microphones, people often find themselves at a crossroads while selecting the best Rode mic.
Don’t worry; we have considered all the important factors, such as better audio pickup quality, noise reduction, and portability, to shortlist the best Rode shotgun microphones.
The first factor that determines the selection criteria is the design. For instance, if you want to record a video or a podcast, buying a shotgun microphone is essentially a cylindrical-shaped mic is best.
One of the most significant advantages of buying a shotgun mic is that it successfully isolates the sound source while minimizing the ambient background sounds.
Another consideration is the tube length to record the on-axis sound while eliminating the off-axis ambiance noise. For instance, a short tube length captures a very natural sounding tone at a shorter distance, such as podcasts, while a longer shotgun tube length is perfect for filmmaking.
Finally, budget determines the choice to buy the Rode microphone. The good news is that the mics reviewed below won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
Let’s proceed to the reviews of the best Rode mics that offer a high-frequency boost in loud environments.
Rode NT1 Kit
Why You Should Buy It
If you want to buy a large-diaphragm condenser microphone, the Rode NT1 Kit won’t disappoint you. From high-quality audio to a fair price, this directional microphone allows you to set up your personal studio at home.
You don’t need to worry about the background noise thanks to the super-low self-noise of 4.5 dB.
There is a transducer suspended inside the mic to reduce vibrations. Not only that, but the suspension shock mount guarantees isolation to minimize vibrations and rumbles due to the surrounding physical factors.
The cardioid polar pattern offers sensitivity to audio from the capsule’s front. Similarly, the mi supports extended frequency response ranging from 20Hz to 20kHz. As a result, you can enjoy accurate highs and deep lows as you record the audio.
As far as the exterior is concerned, the Rode shotgun mic features 6061 aluminum plated with nickel to guarantee corrosion resistance. Additionally, a final coating of a military-grade, robust ceramic layer ensures a scratch-free surface.
What to Look Out For
The Rode NT1 Kit is a versatile mic featuring a one-inch diaphragm condenser mic offering exceptional midrange response. Not only that, but it guarantees round bass reproduction and ultra-smooth higher frequencies.
As the name suggests, it’s not just a microphone; it’s a complete kit with a telescoping arm and removable pop shield.
However, some people have complained about the ineffective pop filter due to which some air sneaks through some syllables, such as P and B.
Rode Procaster
Why You Should Buy It
If you are a podcast producer, we have great news. The Rode Proccaster doesn’t compromise warmer sound quality as it offers high output from the mic capsule.
Thanks to the internal shock mounting capsule, you don’t have to worry about external noise. What happens is that the capsule automatically absorbs the microphone vibrations to handle the noise.
In addition, an internal pop filter minimizes plosive distortion in the syllables, such as Ps and Bs. In the absence of the pop filter, the winds sneak in, thus creating hissing noise in the syllables.
Besides the incorporated technology, the Rode Porcaster features a sturdy all-metal construction, making this mic a long-term and safe investment.
One of the most significant advantages of the tight polar pattern is the exceptional frequency response tailored exclusively for voice. As a result, the mic capsule guarantees balanced low-impedance output, qualifying it as the best mic to record podcasts.
What to Look Out For
The Rode Procaster is an all-rounder mic offering exceptional frequency response to guarantee clear and accurate voice output. Also, the mic weighs only 745 grams and provides an audio sensitivity of 56 dB.
On the other hand, the mic can pick audio from the rear side, which you need to remove in post-processing. Nonetheless, it successfully rejects external noise that distorts the audio quality.
Rode VideoMic Shotgun Microphone
Why You Should Buy It
The Rode VideoMic Pro+ Microphone is perfect if you want to buy a shotgun microphone.
One of the most distinctive advantages of buying this high-quality microphone for the camera is the improved line tube/ capsule and windshield. As a result, you can enjoy a rich and deep audio experience with an ultra-wide range of frequencies.
The microphone comes with LB-1 and a TRS cable; hence you don’t have to buy additional components to attach the microphone to the camera. You can use the mic with AA batteries, a Li-ion battery, or a USB.
No mic can beat the Rode VideoMic Pro+ Microphone in terms of digital switching features and control while recording a singing performance. Since the audio quality is superb, you don’t have to spend hours editing audio in post-production.
It’s an advanced mic comprising a two-stage high-pass filter to minimize traffic noise and lower frequencies.
What to Look Out For
Whether a filmmaker, videographer, or content creator, the Rode VideoMic Pro+ Microphone is one of the best Rode shotgun mics. The +20 dB functions and three-stage gain control enhance audio quality while video filming on mirrorless or DSLR cameras.
On the other hand, you can’t use the microphone with cameras available on smartphones.
Rode NT1-A Condenser Microphone
Why You Should Buy It
If you are on a budget and don’t want to compromise on the audio quality, it’s best to buy the Rode NT1-A Condenser Microphone.
The mic guarantees accurate audio, clarity, and, most importantly, a dynamic frequency range. With only 5 dBA noise, it’s considered one of the most noiseless studio microphones.
Other features include a cardioid polar pattern, 100 ohms output impedance, and a frequency range from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. As a result, you enjoy crisp highs and lows with minimal or zero background noise.
The audio quality is certainly above par; however, the Ps and Bs cloud out due to the wind sneaking through the filter.
Finally, you can enjoy an extended warranty of 10 years, ensuring a safe and long-term investment.
What to Look Out For
The Rode NT1-A Condenser Microphone is an affordable yet featureful microphone offering an SM6 shock mount and a built-in pop shield. The package includes a 20 inches premium-quality XLR cable, an NT1-A Studio Secrets DVD, and a microphone dust cover.
Nonetheless, this microphone offers several features, such as a JFET impedance converter with bipolar output buffer at the best price.
Best Rode Microphone FAQs
You need a reliable microphone for your podcast or streaming, but you don't know which one to choose.
With so many different types of microphones available, it can be hard to know which one will give you the best sound quality and performance. You want to ensure you get the best value for your money, but how do you know which is right for you?
We've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about microphones for podcasting and streaming so you can decide which one is best for you.
Which Rode Mic Is Best for Vocals?
To get the best audio quality without any compromises, consider the Rode NT1-A. This one-inch cardioid condenser microphone is perfect for musicians and podcast producers thanks to its low noise levels of 5dBA, which means you'll be able to capture clear and pristine audio every time. Whether you're recording vocals, instruments, or podcasts, the Rode NT1-A will surely exceed your expectations.
So if you're serious about audio and want to invest in a microphone that will deliver professional-grade results, look no further than the Rode NT1-A.
Are Rode Microphones Any Good?
Without any doubt, yes. No microphone can beat Rode mics in terms of noise suppression and accurate frequency response. Rode specializes in designing shotgun mics to ensure voice isolation from background noise.
A microphone is a necessity for filmmakers or podcast producers. To minimize your workload during post-production, you should invest in any Rode mics discussed in this guide.
What Is the Best Rode Mic for Podcasting or Interviews?
If you want to record interviews for your podcast channel, the Rode Procaster is the ideal choice featuring an audio sensitivity of 56 dB.
First, the mic features an all-metal construction to ensure durability. Besides, the mic comes with a built-in pop filter to minimize plosives. The tightly polar pattern on the mic offers an outstanding frequency response while efficiently rejecting background noise.
Finally, the mic offers a low-impedance balanced output offering accurate audio quality.
Final Thoughts On Best Rode Mic
Rode is considered a pioneer in designing microphones and other products in audio. Whether into content creation, podcast, or music recording, you can buy any of the best Rode mics reviewed above.
You’ll be happy with whichever Rode microphone you select from the above list.
Enjoy clear recording and minimize sound effect productions by investing in a Rode microphone.
Happy Shopping!
