Rode M5 and Rode NT5 are two pairs of condenser microphones often used for the stereo recording of live performances, choirs, as well as studio projects. Rode M5 is available at a significantly lower price point, and yet it is glowing with lots of positive reviews. It is praised for the excellent sound accuracy and detail. However, Rode NT5 does come with several advantages, such as the nickel-plated body, lower self-noise, lower impedance, and higher maximum SPL. Continue reading below for more details on Rode M5 vs NT5!
Design
Rode M5 is a pair of stick condenser microphones designed for stereo recording. The mics are identical. Each has an all-metal housing with a ceramic matte-black coating. The housing is rugged and durable. Compared to the more expensive sibling, Rode M5 is shorter and lighter. Each mic measures 3.94 inches long and weighs approximately 3.00 oz.
Rode NT5 certainly looks more elegant and luxurious. This matched pair of condenser microphones features a satin-finish nickel-plates housing. The nickel plating enhances the durability. Nevertheless, the mics are longer and a little heavier. Each mic measures 4.65 inches long and weighs approximately 3.56 oz.
Technical Specs
| Rode M5 | Rode NT5 |
|---|---|
| - Acoustic Principle: Pressure Gradient | - Acoustic Principle : Pressure Gradient |
| - Frequency Range: 20Hz - 20kHz | - Frequency Range : 20Hz - 20kHz |
| - Output Impedance : 200Ω | - Output Impedance : 100Ω |
| - Power Options: +48V phantom power, +24V phantom power | - Sensitivity : -38.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (12.00mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz |
Features
Rode M5’s mics are cardioid. The heads are not replaceable, so you can only have the cardioid polar pattern. This is generally not a problem, but some projects may require omnidirectional heads for better results. For example, if you want to record the sound of a grand piano, cardioid heads may lose the bottom end, whereas omnidirectional heads can capture the sweet bass resonance.
Rode NT5’s mics also have cardioid heads. However, these heads are replaceable. You can purchase the omnidirectional heads for Rode NT55 and use them on Rode NT5. They work well. So, Rode NT5 can be more versatile, as you can use it with cardioid heads or omnidirectional heads for different projects and conditions.
Both Rode M5 and Rode NT5 come with their respective stand mounts and wind shields. Each product is protected by a 1-year warranty, but you can register your purchase to get a 10-year warranty.
Performance
So, how does the performance of Rode M5 vs Rode NT5 compare? Well, for the money, Rode M5 is already quite impressive. It is affordable, and yet it can deliver good sound quality. The sound is accurate and quite detailed. However, it is indeed on a lower level than Rode NT5. It has a higher self-noise level, and the noise may be annoying when you need to capture fine audio details.
Rode NT5 has noticeably better sound quality. It captures and reproduces fuller, more accurate bass. The mids and highs are more defined and detailed. Rode NT5 also has better clarity, thanks to the lower self-noise level. In addition, it has a higher maximum SPL, which means that it can reliably handle loud voices. Rode NT5 is great for recording soft ambient sounds as well as loud performances.
Rode M5 Vs NT5
Conclusion
If you are on a tight budget, Rode M5 makes a good solution. This model is more affordable, yet the performance is quite impressive. However, you should choose Rode NT5 if you can afford it. Rode NT5 has replaceable heads, and the sound quality is much better.