Rode

Rode Rodent5single NT5-S Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

4.1 (73 reviews)
Condenser

Capture Audio with Exceptional ClarityThe Rode NT5-S is a high-quality small-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for critical recording applications. Its precise engineering and top-tier components ensure excellent sound reproduction in a variety of recording scenarios. Capsule: 1/2-inch ...

$219.00*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

Capture Audio with Exceptional Clarity

The Rode NT5-S is a high-quality small-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for critical recording applications. Its precise engineering and top-tier components ensure excellent sound reproduction in a variety of recording scenarios.

  • Capsule: 1/2-inch gold-sputtered cardioid condenser
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
  • Frequency Range: 20Hz - 20kHz
  • Impedance: 100 Ohm
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 77 dB
  • Noise Level: 16 dB
  • Power Source: Corded Electric
  • Connector Type: XLR
  • Material: Heavy-duty cast metal with a satin nickel finish
  • Dimensions: 11 x 2 x 5 inches
  • Weight: 3.53 ounces
  • Special Feature: Omnidirectional (with optional capsule)
  • Included Components: Microphone

Key Features

Premium small-diaphragm condenser microphone

1/2-inch gold-sputtered cardioid condenser capsule

Very low self-noise

Exceptionally accurate cardioid polar pattern and wide frequency response

Available as a certified match pair for stereo recording

10-year warranty

Specifications

Microphone Type
Small-Diaphragm Condenser
Capsule Size
1/2-inch
Capsule Material
Gold-sputtered
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Self-Noise
Very low
Frequency Response
Wide
Availability
Available as certified match pair for stereo recording
Warranty
10-year

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Features a premium small-diaphragm condenser capsule, ideal for capturing detailed and accurate sound.
  • Utilizes a 1/2-inch gold-sputtered cardioid condenser capsule, ensuring high sensitivity and transparent audio reproduction.
  • Exhibits very low self-noise, which results in cleaner recordings, especially in quiet environments or with delicate sound sources.
  • Delivers an exceptionally accurate cardioid polar pattern, effectively isolating the desired sound source while rejecting off-axis noise.
  • Boasts a wide frequency response, allowing it to capture a broad range of sounds from instruments and vocals with fidelity.

👎 Cons

  • As a small-diaphragm condenser microphone, it typically requires phantom power to operate, which may necessitate specific audio interfaces or preamps.
  • The cardioid polar pattern, while excellent for isolation, is less versatile than multi-pattern microphones for capturing ambient room sounds or multiple sources from different directions.
  • This is a single microphone; achieving stereo recordings requires purchasing a certified matched pair, which is a separate offering.
  • Due to its sensitive condenser design, it may be more susceptible to handling noise or plosives without proper shock mounts or pop filters.
  • The 10-year warranty applies to the product itself, but proper care and storage are essential to maintain its delicate internal components.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Rode NT5-S is a premium small-diaphragm condenser microphone, known for its ability to capture detailed audio.
The gold-sputtered capsule contributes to its high sensitivity, very low self-noise, and exceptionally accurate cardioid polar pattern, resulting in clean and precise recordings.
The Rode NT5-S exhibits very low self-noise, which helps ensure high-quality, clear recordings, especially for subtle sound sources.
While this is a single microphone, it is available as a certified matched pair specifically for stereo recording applications.
With its accurate cardioid polar pattern and wide frequency response, it is well-suited for capturing instruments, vocals, and other sound sources where precise isolation is desired.
The Rode NT5-S small-diaphragm condenser microphone comes with a 10-year warranty, demonstrating the manufacturer's confidence in its durability.