Best Rode and Shure Microphones (expensive vs Cheap)

Are you going to start your new voiceover setup or video recording studio and want some soothing voice along with high-quality video production.

After spending a lot of the time I have decided to write a complete blog post about some popular/best/expensive and cheap microphones.

So, if that sounds good then keep on reading and let us start without wasting time!

Rode NTK Tube Condenser Microphone

This microphone is a condenser microphone and the capsules are made of K67 type and it has a gold plated membrane.

The rear side of this microphone contains two switches: one for the high pass filter which reduces the bass and boosts the high pitches and the other one is known as a low cut switch which helps in reducing or cutting the lowest frequencies that we do not require.

The pattern selection consists of four patterns such as omnidirectional, cardioid, figure-8, and hypercardioid.

The microphone has a beautiful sparkly build, probably going to last me my whole life. Excellent product by Rode!

First, I would like to thank Rode for giving me this microphone as a gift. It’s gorgeous. The NTK is a cardioid condenser microphone with a large-diaphragm, so it can produce a loud signal from low amplitude soundwaves such as people talking or singing softly.

This is the kind of mic you want if you do voiceover work or live streaming on youtube/twitch/mixer etc., because of its pick-up pattern.

If you were looking for a good microphone for singing or streaming music, you might want to look at other microphones on the market.

For example, the NTK is more suited for speech, as it can handle intense sound pressure levels from a relatively close distance compared to some other mics that I have tried before.

Features:

It’s got a cardioid pick up pattern. If you don’t know what this means, basically when you talk in the microphone it records only the soundwaves that are directly in front of where the mic is pointing towards. The words in green indicate different parts of the microphone in greater detail.

When you’ve got your mic positioned correctly, there should be no signal coming through, just like shown above. It also comes with a little cover for when people accidentally try to drink from it or something (why would anyone do that). Please get sick from drinking out of our studio mics kids.

The sound of the NTK is impressive. From what I’ve experienced with this microphone, it can provide you with clear recording at all times without too much background noise or static, like other microphones that might be cheaper than this one.

At first, my vocals were really loud and crisp but after some time they became too bright (sibilant), which resulted in me using an equalizer to adjust the frequencies more evenly.

Pros: -Very loud and clear audio recording -Beautiful sparkly build -Small diaphragm means vibrant colours produced by this microphone Cons: -Pricey (not everyone can afford this kind of stuff)

The NTK is a very good microphone if you are doing voiceovers or streams with it because of its pick-up pattern and excellent audio recording capabilities. It’s also beautiful and durable! If you’re looking for something else than these then you might want to look at the NT1-A, which costs way less than this.

Neumann U87 Ai

Are you looking for a way to improve your podcast? Then you should definitely invest in a high quality microphone.

The Neumann U 87 Ai Switchable Studio Microphone provides excellent sound quality and is a convenient USB mic with a switch between omnidirectional, cardioid and figure-eight modes with a smooth on/off switch. It comes with a windscreen and a shock mount.

This microphone is best for vocals and if you want to record strings, drums, pianos, and other instruments, then it can be used for them too. The special feature of this model is its bass-reduction switch which helps in reducing unwanted sounds like wind or bone vibrations.

The Capsules are made up of nickel and gold plated membrane; Its sensitivity is 20 mV/pa and frequency range-20Hz-20khz and signal to noise ratio (SNR)-77db and dynamic range (DR)-136 DB. It includes a 10 dB attenuator which is used for increased sound levels.

With outstanding sound quality and an innovative technology, this condenser microphone is a true reference tool in audio recordings. It is widely used in professional studios all over the world and was used for recording acoustic guitar amplifiers, hi-hat cymbals, drums, piano and many others.

When I was first starting out my first podcast, I was looking to build my set up with the best possible sound quality. This microphone does the trick.

The Neumann U 87 Ai Switchable Studio Microphone does everything I need it to do and more. It captures my voice clearly and accurately, regardless of what I’m talking about or who I’m talking to.

My listeners consistently give me positive feedback about the sound quality of my voice recordings. I would recommend this microphone to anyone who needs to record quality audio.

RODE NT1

The microphone has two capsules which are made up of a gold-sputtered 1-inch diaphragm and its sensitivity is -29dbV/Pa, frequency response-20Hz-20kHz, weight-386g, and impedance of 200 ohms. This model includes a 10 dB pad as well as a low-cut filter to reduce the bass sounds.

Rode NT1KIT Cardioid Condenser Microphone Package

It’s official: the Rode NT1 is one of the most popular microphones for studio recording among musicians, sound engineers and audio professionals.

Why?

Because it gives you exceptional audio quality at an unbeatable price! For this reason, we decided to compose a special package that includes not only the microphone itself but also useful accessories which will make your life easier in any future situation or job performance.

The Rode NT1KIT is equipped with everything you need to record high-quality audio right out of the box. It comes with all necessary cables (XLR cable – 6 meters; mic cable – 3 meters) and in addition to that, there are some extra items you should know about: a 7-piece accessory kit, a tripod stand and an all-metal pop filter.

Rode NT1 Microphone The Rode NT1 cardioid condenser microphone features a 1″ diaphragm and operates at a fixed cardioid polar pattern. It provides clear and detailed sound for vocals, spoken word and recording acoustic instruments such as strings, piano and flute.

Its excellent transient response ensures that articulation remains crystal clear even when the source is moving quickly. The Rode NT1 also offers extremely low self-noise (14dBA SPL), high maximum sound pressure level (144dB) and dynamic range to handle sharp transients. The mic comes with a custom shock mount and ships in an aluminum road case.

Features:

• Sound pressure level: 144dB SPL, 1kHz at 1% T.H.D.; 158dB SPL, with 10dB gain
• Dynamic range: 98dB, 1kHz
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 73dBA
• Equivalent noise level: 14dBA SPL (IEC 651)
• Self noise: 14dBA SPL (unweighted IEC 651)
• Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz +/-3dB; 40Hz to 18kHz +/- 3dB; 60Hz to 16kHz +/-3dB; 100Hz to 15kHz +/- 3 dB
• Capsule diameter: 16mm (0.63″)
• Polar pattern: Cardioid (unidirection

Rode NT1 Microphone Package Contents: RODE NT1 Cardioid Condenser Microphone 7-Piece Accessory Kit for the RODE NT1 Tripod Stand Studio Pop Filter (6 Pack) 3 Meter XLR Cable, Balanced 6 Meter XLR Cable, Balanced Rode PSM 1 Swivel Mount Studio Boom Arm 5 Year Warranty.

Shure SM57

It is a side-address condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern; its sensitivity -32 dB re 1v/pa, weight 320g, and impedance of 200 ohms. It includes a 10dB pad as well as a low-cut filter to reduce the bass sounds like wind or bone vibrations. The built-in pop shield helps in reducing plosive sounds during live vocals which you will find on air too. There are two switches present on this model that controls for a high pass filter and low cut filter which reduces unwanted low sounds.

The SM57 one of the world’s most popular and versatile microphones. The dynamic SM57 mic performs reliably delivering natural sound even in extremely demanding applications such as high-volume stage performances.

For miking guitar amps, drums, percussion, and other amplified instruments, no other handheld microphone has achieved greater popularity or received higher praise from users across all music genres.

The SM57 uses a Unidyne III capsule which gives a smooth flat frequency response over a 40 Hz to 15 kHz range.

It also features a tailored vocal presence boost at 4kHz with mild low-frequency roll-off to reduce unwanted boominess without masking subtle nuances in vocal performance. In live performance applications, its escalating civil can easily be controlled by radio and monitor engineers.

The Shure SM57 is designed for audio professionals with an uncompromising commitment to quality. It is reliable in the most demanding applications, from studio recording to live sound.

A rugged molded protective case reduces the risk of damage to these highly desirable features when not in use or during travel. The Shure SM57 comes complete with a mic clip and 5/8″ – 27 threaded stand adapter for mounting on stands and booms.

Other items supplied include:

– fitted vinyl storage pouch,

– operating instructions printed on accessory label attached to storage bag,  and  – cardboard display box that can be used as a storage box when not showing the product in retail environments.

Rode NT2

It is also a side-address condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern design; its weight is 304g, its sensitivity is -37dBV/Pa, frequency response-20Hz-20kHz, and impedance of 200 ohms.

This model includes a 10 dB pad as well as a low-cut filter in order to reduce the bass sounds like wind or bone vibrations.

It has a built-in pop shield that will help in reducing plosives sound from vocals while broadcasting on air too. Just like the NTK model, you will get the same features in this model also which are: two switches for high pass filter and low cut filter.

The Rode NT2A Anniversary Vocal Multi-Pattern Dual Condenser Microphone Package is a special 5th-anniversary version of the industry-standard Rode NT2 microphone.

The package contains a vintage grey matte finish body with a pair of gold-sputtered diaphragms and an ABS flight case with custom compartments for the microphones, pop shields, suspension mounts, cables, and other accessories.

Included Accessories:

Two (2) original style large stage fluffy & gold colored microfiber synthetic ‘ALEXA’ style windshields; One (1) original style mesh metal grille chrome-plated screw-in type stand mount; Four (4) discontinued larger mid 80’s vintage-looking black color nonslip rubber feet for microphone body; One (1) discontinued ABS flight case with custom compartments for microphones, pop shields, suspension mounts, cables, and other accessories.

Features:

• (3) selectable polar patterns: Omni,
• Cardioid & Figure of 8
• New 20dB Attenuator pad switch with On/Off switch located on the microphone body; Original style metal-cased XLR connectors.

Standard Finish: Vintage matte grey accented by gold-colored aluminum alloy hardware (grille, stand mount, and knobs).

RODE NT4+ Shotgun

This model comes with a dual-diaphragm design that has a cardioid polar pattern; its sensitivity is -32dBV/Pa, frequency response-20Hz-20kHz, weight-340g, and impedance of 200 ohms.

You will get a 10 dB pad as well as a low-cut filter with this model in order to reduce the bass sounds like wind or bone vibrations. The special feature of this model is its side-address design which makes it comfortable for anyone to use without getting any feedback while broadcasting on air too. It includes a pop shield in order to avoid plosives sound during live vocals you are broadcasting music on air.

The Rode NTG4+ is a super-cardioid shotgun microphone with an inbuilt battery and XLR output, which can be powered by phantom power or the internal 9V battery.

It has a broadcast-quality condenser capsule, which sits inside a high-impact ABS plastic case. The noise generated from handling and zooming the microphone can be noticeable but it does not affect the recording at all.

The construction of the microphone is very good and solid and it looks like it will last quite long without malfunctioning or breaking down.

The microphone has no switches on its body so you cannot turn off the low cut filter, switch pattern (omnidirectional/cardioid), -10dB pad nor change polarisation to Cardioid.

You will need to go into the menu of your camera or audio recorder to do all this. A lot of people are complaining about this on the internet, however, it is not a big issue if you are using this microphone properly.

The mic comes with a windshield and hot shoe mount but no carrying case or stand clip adapter.

The included Rode SC7 cable has bad connection and did not work for me (I was never able to get any sound).

I did not like having bare XLR pins exposed either so I had to buy an adapter (Snootlab Cable Tester Solderless PCB UNIVERSAL Adapter 20 cm 1/4″ 2pol.).

Features:

• Supercardioid polar pattern
• High SPL capability (144db)
• Built-in battery
• Low noise
• Broadcast quality condenser capsules
• Compatible with cameras, audio recorders and audio interfaces with 3.5mm mic ports or XLR inputs through using a phantom power or battery box adapter.  

Pros: Solid build Quality Noise Less compression Good design Auto gain Low cut filter options Cons: Cable is not high quality No cable clip Lacks switches High price tag Standard Rode warranty support only available in the USA Mute button switch doesn’t work correctly when used on DSLRs Overall rating: 7/10

Rode NTG2

It is a side-address condenser microphone with a shotgun polar pattern; its weight-350g, sensitivity- -34dBV/Pa, frequency response 20Hz-20kHz, and impedance of 200 ohms.

It also has a 10 dB pad as well as a low-cut filter to reduce the bass sounds like wind or bone vibrations. The special feature of this model is it comes with a camera mini boom mic holder that allows you to attach your microphone anywhere very easily on your DSLR cameras or camcorders for footage recording on air too.

The Rode NTG2 Multi-powered Condenser Shotgun Microphone is a compact microphone designed for professional voice applications.

The microphone offers high sensitivity, low noise, and smooth off-axis frequency response making it ideal for film, video, and television production.

Like more expensive shotgun microphones it features a highly directional pickup pattern with very good side rejection.

The microphone will reject sound originating from the sides of the microphone in favor of sounds arriving at the front thus minimizing unwanted background noise or spill.

It also provides an increased directivity that enhances both isolations and gains before feedback when used close to speaker stacks or in spaces with lots of reflective surfaces such as grand pianos and cathedrals etc.

The NTG2 combines low self-noise, wide dynamic range, and high output, making it a premium choice for professionals working in challenging environments.

It features a switchable high-pass filter at 75Hz which is useful for getting rid of rumble from air conditioners and traffic.

There is also a -10dB attenuation pad to allow use with very loud sound sources or cameras with preamps that are not quite up to the task.

The microphone has an integrated shock mount to reduce handling noise. The mic comes supplied in a durable carrying case along with a windshield, stand mount, and furry windshield. A 10-year warranty gives additional peace of mind.

NTG2 key features:

• Rugged die-cast body
• Available colors include black & nickel,
• black & gold
• Integrated Rycote® Lyre® shock mount
• Power and battery status LED
• Switchable high-pass filter at 75Hz via built-in HF roll off switch (useful for reducing rumbles from air conditioning units and traffic)
• -10dB attenuation pad (useful for extremely loud sound sources such as live drums, heavy rock music, etc.)

Integrated windshield included (windshield supplied with a black ring, see photo) Interchangeable foam windshield supplied with a brushed metal ring (see photo). The foam windscreen is grey in color.