2012/12/20 12:30:19
M_Glenn_M
I'm hoping to find a mic that fits my sound.
I know it's mainly personal but is there any hard reasons for not buying a Rode NT1-A?
Problems?
2012/12/20 14:15:59
SvenArne
It's a very bright mic. The brightness might be fine on some voices but it's a pain in the ass on acoustic guitar, especially. I would recommend the MXL 2003A instead. It's far more balanced and natural, without being dull.
2012/12/20 14:38:03
Rob[at]Sound-Rehab
What do you guys think about the more expensive brothers?

RODE NT2000
RODE K2

advertised with "Infinitely variable control of the K2's polar patterns" ...
2012/12/20 16:10:20
bitflipper
I've had an NT1-A for many years. Unfortunately, it didn't suit my own voice at all and I considered selling it. But one day I tried it on someone else's voice and it was a perfect fit for him, so I hung onto the mic. I've also tried it on acoustic guitar and wasn't terribly impressed, though it was OK.

Based on my experience, I would not recommend it as your one all-around general-purpose condenser, although it'd be a nice addition to a mic collection. If you don't have any LDCs now, look instead for something that's fairly flat, has good off-axis response, a high-pass filter, and preferably one with multiple polar patterns for best versatility (the NT1-A has none of these features).

Unfortunately, that set of features jumps you into a higher price range than the NT1. Some of the mid-range Audio Technica mics offer excellent price/performance value. Consider saving up for an AT-4050, for example (~ $700), or an AKG C414 (~$1K) or Shure KSM-44 (also about a grand).

But if you need something now and you're limited to an under $400 price range, your best bet is to order from somebody with a liberal return policy such as Sweetwater and just try the Rode out. If that doesn't float your boat, return it and try an MXL, AKG C214, AT-4040 or Shure SM-27.
2012/12/20 16:17:58
SvenArne
FreeFlyBertl


What do you guys think about the more expensive brothers?

RODE NT2000
RODE K2

advertised with "Infinitely variable control of the K2's polar patterns" ...

I've used the NTK a bit and think it's kinda "meh" (Maybe a little unfair, since it always ended up being compared to the vintage U87 they had at that place). The K2 is supposed to be better and it's nice to have a big impressive 'toob' mic up when your friends and clients walk in... 


Dunno about the NT2000...
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