Rode Microphones NT2-A
Best versatile condenser for aspiring professionals and home studio recording.
The Rode NT2-A is a professional large 1" diaphragm multi-pattern condenser microphone that builds upon the legacy of the NT2. It features a gold-sputtered capsule and offers three switchable pickup patterns: omni, cardioid, and figure-8. Conveniently located on the microphone body are controls for a three-position high-pass filter (flat, 40 Hz, 80 Hz) and a three-position pad (-0 dB, -5 dB, -10 dB). Its frequency and transient response are voiced to complement modern recording techniques while evoking the smooth character of classic microphones. This versatility makes the NT2-A a highly adaptable choice for studio recording. It comes with the SM6 shock mount, pop filter, dust cover, and a microphone cable.
$419.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1554
/ 3337
#1554 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-18%
Below average
Package Contents
220
/ NT-A microphone, shock mount, pop filter, ' microphone cable, and dust cover
Who it's for
- Home studio users needing flexibility for diverse recording tasks
- Musicians and voice artists seeking professional-grade audio clarity
- Budget-conscious professionals desiring a reliable, long-lasting studio microphone
Who should skip it
- Beginners without an audio interface or dedicated mixer
- Field recorders or those with limited space for equipment
- Home studio owners in untreated or acoustically challenging environments
Performance breakdown
Versatility
Three switchable polar patterns handle everything from vocals to complex acoustic instruments.
Self-Noise
Ultra-low noise floor ensures pristine recordings for even the quietest sources.
Build Quality
Robust Australian engineering provides long-term reliability for demanding studio environments.
Control Precision
On-body switches for pads and filters allow quick, tactile sound shaping.
Value Proposition
The comprehensive accessory bundle offers immediate professional utility right out-of-the-box.
Sonic Character
Modern clarity meets a smooth, classic warmth suitable for diverse genres.
Key Specs
Package Contents
NT2-A microphone, shock mount, pop filter, 20' microphone cable, and dust cover
Unit Weight
1.9 lb
Tube or Solid State
Solid State
Transducer Type
Condenser
Polar Pattern
Bi-Directional / Figure-Eight, Cardioid, Omni-Directional
Number of Microphones
Single Microphone
Impedance
200 Ohms
Frequency Range
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Features
- Three-position variable polar pattern
- Variable high-pass filter and pad
- Large 1" gold sputtered capsule
- Ultra low noise performance
- Includes shock mount and pop filter
- Designed and manufactured in Australia
- 10 year extended warranty
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Rode NT2 A for its exceptional sound quality and remarkable versatility. Many highlight its clear, professional audio capture across various applications, from vocals to instruments. The microphone's robust build and multiple polar patterns are frequently cited as major advantages, providing excellent flexibility for diverse recording needs. Users often describe it as a reliable workhorse, delivering consistent performance that often surpasses expectations for its price point.
Know before you buy
The cardioid pattern focuses on sound directly in front of the mic, making it ideal for vocals. The omni setting captures sound from all directions, which is great for room ambience, while the figure-8 pattern picks up sound from the front and back, perfect for duets or side-by-side interviews.
Yes, the NT2-A is a condenser microphone and requires +48V phantom power from your audio interface or mixer to operate.
Use the high-pass filter (40Hz or 80Hz) to remove unwanted low-end rumble or traffic noise. The pad (-5dB or -10dB) is useful when recording very loud sources, like drums or guitar cabinets, to prevent the signal from clipping or distorting.
Absolutely. Its wide frequency response and switchable patterns make it highly versatile for capturing everything from acoustic guitars and pianos to strings and percussion.
The NT2-A comes as a complete studio package including an SM6 shock mount with an integrated pop filter, a 20-foot XLR cable, and a protective dust cover.
While the NT2-A is a solid-state condenser, it is voiced to provide a smooth, classic character similar to vintage tube microphones. It offers the benefit of ultra-low self-noise, which is often lower than what you would find in traditional tube designs.
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