Welcome to my in-intensity review of the Rode NT-USB Mini microphone! Rode is widely recognized for making top-notch microphones and audio tools utilized by experts worldwide. The NT-USB Mini is undoubtedly one of their modern-day releases geared toward podcasters, musicians, gamers, streamers, and anyone seeking the studio-first-rate sound without the studio fee tag.
In this review, I’ll cross over the microphone’s key capabilities and specifications, unboxing revel in, build quality, setup method, audio overall performance, battery life, and more. I’ll also compare it to some popular USB mics.
Whether you’re seeking to improve your private home recording setup or need an easy plug-and-play mic for vocals, voiceovers, or interviews, keep reading to see if the Rode NT-USB Mini is the right mic for you.
Quick Review: Rode NT-USB Mini Microphone
Thе Rodе NT USB Mini is an еxcеllеnt USB microphonе that dеlivеrs professional quality audio in a compact and portablе form factor. It’s еasy to sеt up & usе and еvеn for bеginnеrs and an’ producеs clеar & dеtailеd sound for vocals and podcasts and voicеovеrs and music and morе.
Pros:
- Broadcast-quality cardioid condenser capsule
- Plug-and-play USB connectivity
- Built-in pop filter and tripod stand
- No drivers or additional software required
- Compact and lightweight design
Cons:
- The cable is not removable
- Limited controls
Specifications
Before getting into the hands-on details, let’s take a look at the Rode NT-USB Mini’s key specs:
| Capsule | 16mm cardioid condenser |
| Bit Depth | 24-bit |
| Sample Rate | 48 kHz |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Maximum SPL | 110dB SPL |
| Sensitivity | -37dBFS |
| Power | 5V (USB bus powered) |
| Weight | 73g / 2.6oz |
Rode NT-USB Mini Price and Availability
The Rode NT-USB Mini has an MSRP of $99; however, it can be purchased online and from musical device shops for around $79. This makes it relatively cheaper for a USB condenser microphone with studio-degree overall performance.
It comes in one color option (black) and includes the tabletop tripod stand and a nice storage pouch for travel. Optional accessories like growth fingers, surprise mounts, and cables can be purchased individually.
Overall, at below $100, the Rode NT-USB Mini gives top-notch value given its audio quality, versatile design, and Rode emblem recognition. It’s an ideal entry-level XLR microphone for those trying to upgrade their setup without breaking the financial institution.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The NT-USB Mini comes well packaged in a cardboard field with a molded plastic housing to shield the microphone for the duration of delivery. Opening it up reveals the microphone, the tripod tabletop stand, and a handy zippered pouch for storage and transport.
My first impression upon unboxing was how compact and lightweight the microphone was. Weighing just 2.6oz, it’s fantastic that Rode fits pro-level components like the condenser capsule into such a portable form factor.
The included tripod stand feels sturdy and provides easy positioning with the adjustable tilt. The microphone securely clicks into the stand’s mount and can be unclipped easily. The USB Type-C cable is permanently connected to the mic.
Build Nice is high-quality with a long-lasting aluminum body that looks and feels excessive-quit. The base features a pleasing rubberized coating to save you from sliding on surfaces. Overall, the unboxing experience and build left me eager to get it connected and start testing the audio.
Build Quality and Design
As mentioned, the Rode NT-USB Mini is built exceptionally well from quality materials to ensure lasting durability. The capsule uses Rode’s renowned 1/2″ condenser element, while the body is made from aluminum alloy. This provides an excellent feel in the hand without being overly heavy.
The base has a non-slip rubberized finish that prevents the mic from sliding around on a desktop or when mounted. The threading connecting to the supplied tripod or optional boom arms also feels sturdy and secure.
One unique design feature is the integrated pop filter built around the capsule. This uses a fine mesh screen to block plosives and harsh consonant sounds that can ruin recordings. It’s not a gimmick either – during my testing, I found it worked incredibly well without using a bulky external pop filter.
The permanently attached USB Type-C cable is braided nylon, making it firm and tangle-free. However, it does mean you can’t remove or replace the cable if anything happens to it. The total cable length is just under 7 ft, giving you much room to work with.
Overall, I’m thoroughly impressed by the Rode NT-USB Mini’s quality construction and clever design, given its affordable price and ultra-compact size. A lot of thought went into maximizing performance and durability.
SETUP AND USE
Setting up the Rode NT-USB Mini could not be any easier. There is no external power needed and no drivers or software to install. Just plug the USB cable directly into your computer, phone, or tablet, and you are ready. The mic draws power from the connected device.
The mic works seamlessly with all major operating systems, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. It automatically installs on Windows and Mac computers and can be selected as the input device in your recording software. There are no complicated settings to configure – keep all system volumes at 100% for optimal gain staging.
Positioning the mic is easy, thanks to the tilting tripod desktop stand. Having that head tilted slightly delivered the best results so the capsule is aimed directly at your mouth from below. You can also remove the mic from the stand and use a boom arm for positioning flexibility.
One tip I learned is to speak about 6 inches from the head grille for the best volume mix and minimize plosives. The mic’s cardioid pattern focuses most on what is directly in front of it while reducing side and rear sounds.
I love that the NT-USB Mini provides the simplicity of a headset mic but with vastly improved professional sound. It’s the perfect plug-and-play desktop mic for everything from game streaming to podcasting to vocal recordings.
Performance and Audio Quality
So, how does the Rode NT-USB Mini sound? In short – fantastic. The audio quality is crisp, clear, and accurate, which is impressive for a USB mic under $100. Even with no effects or post-processing, the sound it captures is warm and well-balanced.
The frequency response sounds excellent right out of the gate for recording vocals and voiceovers. There is ample clarity in the vocal range without saying harsh or sibilant. The proximity effect (boosted bass when close to the capsule) provides pleasing richness and depth to the low end.
Acoustic instruments also sound complete and detailed through the NT-USB Mini. Strummed guitars and pianos come through with their natural resonance intact. Drums have good attack and decay characteristics without blurring into a muddy mess. Horns and strings sound bright and lively as well.
The built-in pop filter works wonders at taming plosives on spoken word tracks. I could capture consistently smooth, broadcast-ready vocal takes without any pops, even when recording on the mic grille. This allows you to track narrations or podcasts without needing a separate filter.
Background noise rejection is also excellent, thanks to the tightly focused cardioid pickup pattern. I never heard noticeable heat from computer fans or minor room noises, even at high gain levels. The mic only captures what is directly in front of it.
Whether you’re recording video, streaming, music, or podcast audio, the Rode NT-USB Mini delivers clean, professional sound, rivaling mics costing 2-3x as much. It’s perfect for content creators who want excellent quality without a complex setup.
Battery Life and Charging
The Rode NT-USB Mini offers unlimited battery life since it draws power directly via a USB bus from your computer or mobile device. You never have to worry about recharging any internal batteries. As long as it’s plugged in, it will paint without interruption.
This makes it exquisite for lengthy recording sessions, streaming marathons, or on-the-cross mobile use, where you don’t need to cope with swapping batteries or outside power packs. The mic will keep working as long as your connected device has sufficient charge.
ALTERNATIVES TO CONSIDER
The Rode NT-USB Mini is an outstanding USB condenser mic, but there are some alternatives worth searching at within the identical price variety:
| Blue Yeti Nano | More compact with built-in controls, less rounded sound |
| Razer Seiren Mini | Ideal for travel with case, also great for games/streaming |
| Shure MV7 | Hybrid XLR & USB connections, more tuning controls |
| Elgato Wave:3 | Great software integration for content creators |
| Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ | Slightly lower cost, professional neutral sound |
Depending on your specific needs and budget, these mics would also be good options. The Rode NT-USB Mini compares very favorably amongst these top choices for beginner USB condenser microphones under $150.
Conclusion
The Rode NT-USB Mini punches way above its class for the price point. It provides the straight plug-and-play connectivity of an amateur USB mic but with audio quality rivaling pro-level XLR condensers.
If you want to upgrade to a professional desktop mic for gaming, streaming, vocals, instruments, or podcasting, the NT-USB Mini is one of the best options under $100. It’s the perfect gateway mic for higher-quality recording and broadcast audio.
Given its compact all-metal construction, convenient built-in pop filter, and exceptional condenser capsule sound – the Rode NT-USB Mini earns an easy 5-star rating and our highest recommendation. It’s an incredible value USB microphone that will take your recordings to the next level.
FAQs
- What devices is the microphone well suited with?
The NT-USB Mini works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices. All it honestly wishes for is a USB-C port to attach it.
- Does the mic need any special drivers or software?
Nope! The mic is true plug-and-play with no special drivers required. Just connect it and select it as your input.
- How long is the included USB cable?
The attached braided cable is 6.5 feet (2 meters) long. His gives you excellent flexibility, but it’s far permanently attached.
- Can the mic be used with gaming consoles like the PS4 or Nintendo Switch?
Unfortunately, the NT-USB Mini isn’t always immediately well-matched with gaming consoles right now until you buy a devoted outside adapter. It works excellent for live-streaming games on a computer, though.
- Does the mic have any controls or buttons on it?
No, the mic does not have any built-in controls. You make any settings adjustments, such as gain in your recording software.
- What is the most SPL (loudness) the mic can report?
The NT-USB Mini can document as much as a hundred and ten dB SPL, making it suitable for extremely loud resources. You’ll likely distort your audio playback device before hitting the mic’s limit.
- Is the mic compatible with audio interfaces, or does it need phantom power?
No, since this USB mic cannot be connected to an XLR audio interface or use phantom power. It must be connected directly to a USB port.
