Rode NT1A and Rode NT2A are both ‘Anniversary’ microphones released by Rode, some sort of special edition mics that are launched by the company to mark their anniversary. Both mics are quite popular on the market. The two boast each own’s high-class specifications and features. Both are ultra-quiet mics with very low self-noise levels. However, Rode NT2A is quite more expensive than Rode NT1A. Are you interested in investing in one of these mics, yet unable to choose which mic to invest on? Let’s compare these mics!
Similar in Many Ways
Rode NT1A and Rode NT2A are indeed similar in many ways. They do share some resemblances in the designs. They both are silver in color, with a tiny tint of creamish light brown. They have identical shapes, except that Rode NT2A being slightly bulkier than Rode NT1A. Both mics are pressure-gradient condenser microphones with JFET impedance converters and bipolar output buffer. Each of them features a one-inch gold-plated diaphragm. They can work with both 24V and 48V phantom power, and have XLR output. Each includes the Rode SM6 shock mount, a pop filter, and a dust cover. (Please read also: Rode NTK Vs NT1A Comparison)
Needless to say, the similarities end there. Rode NT2A is more feature-packed than Rode NT1A. As the effect, though, Rode NT2A is also considerably heavier than Rode NT1A. Rode NT2A weighs 860 grams, whereas Rode NT1A only weighs 326 grams.
Technical Specs
| Rode NT1A | Rode NT2A |
|---|---|
| - Frequency Range: 20Hz - 20kHz | - Frequency Range: 20 Hz ~ 20 kHz |
| - Output Impedance: 100Ω | - Output Impedance: 200 ohms |
| - Polar Pattern: Cardioid | - Directional Pattern: Three position variable – omnidirectional, cardioid or figure 8 |
| - Maximum SPL: 137dB SPL (@ 1kHz, 1% THD into 1KΩ load) | - Maximum SPL: 147 dB (@ 1 kHz, 1% THD into 1k ohm load)(157 dB with pad at maximum) |
| - Maximum Output Level: 13.7mV | - Maximum Output Voltage: > + 16 dBu (@ 1 kHz, 1% THD into 1k ohm load) |
| - Self noise of only 5dB (A) | - Signal to Noise Ratio: > 87 dB SPL(A-weighted per IEC651) |
| - 11.5 ounces | - Weight: 860 grams |
| - 15.2 x 4.5 x 11 inches | - Dimensions (HxWxD): 209 x 55 x 55mm |
Multiple Polar Pattern
Rode NT1A only has a single polar pattern, which is cardioid. It picks up sounds primarily from the front and sides, while attenuating the rear. On the contrary, Rode NT2A features multiple polar patterns. The model comes with a three-position variable polar pattern: cardioid, omnidirectional (picks up equally from all angles), and figure-eight (picks up from the front and the rear while attenuating the sides). The feature indeed provides a lot more versatility, allowing you to adjust the polar pattern according to the condition on the field.
High-Pass Filter and Pre-Attenuation Pad
Furthermore. Rode NT2A features an adjustable high-pass filter and pre-attenuation pad. The high-pass filter can be set to be flat, 40 Hz, or 80 Hz. The feature will attenuate the low frequencies that has been set, effectively boosting the presence of midrange and treble while reducing LF noises such as wind sounds, breath sounds, and mechanical vibrations. Meanwhile, the pre-attenuation pad can be set to be 0dB, -5dB, or -10dB.
Higher Maximum SPL Handling and Output Level
Last but not least, you may want to know that Rode NT2A has higher maximum SPL handling and output level than Rode NT1A. The NT1A has a maximum SPL handling of 137dB SPL at 1kHz with 1% THD into 1 kilo-ohms load, and a maximum output level of 13.7mV. On the other hand, the NT2A can handle up to 147dB and produce up to 16mV. Using Rode NT2A, you will be able to capture louder voices in good quality and produce louder output sounds.
Rode NT1A Vs NT2A
Conclusion
All in all, Rode NT2A indeed makes a better choice, as the extra features allow more versatility to face different circumstances. The high-pass filter and pre-attenuation pad are especially very handy for recordings.