Delivery and accessories: (10/10 points)
First of all is to say that the further delivery was declared by the manufacturer as a gift - if this is really due to the fact that Rode would like to thank our customers for the numerous purchases of most likely the most popular Studio microphone or the curls of even more potential was introduced buyers, everyone must decide for themselves.
The fact is that Rode the buyer far more on the way there as most other manufacturers, so are - in addition to the microphone itself, of course - even a shock mount with integrated pop filter (called SM6), a dust cover, a 6m Microphone cable, DVD about the appropriate use of the microphone, an instruction manual, a sticker Rode and the warranty card in the box. Briefly describe the interesting of these things, we can say that the shock mount even though excellent, the pop screen is however processed more moderate. So it can be for example, not properly fix firmly and Rode logo was even printed at a slight angle on one side. The cable in turn leaves no wish unfulfilled and able to compete with alternatives from reputable manufacturers such as Neutrik or Cordial. The Studio Solution Disk, as is the name of the already introduced DVD, should at least be acknowledged as a glance, there are some interesting tips included. The manual is being short but well designed and the 10-year guarantee need not go further into.
All in all, the scope of supply in this price range almost unrivaled, I know alternatives has again only Rode itself, for example in the form of the NT2-A.
Processing and Design: (10/10 points)
Well, about can not say overly much. The processing of the microphone itself is impeccable (the pin of the shield conductor protrudes further than that of ground and signal conductors intention!), It is slightly larger and leicheter than one would expect it first.
Sound quality (double-counted because wichtigestes criterion; 9/10 points):
In general, the sound of the NT1-A is quite precise. Before I get into that, I want to say that I use the microphone with nothing but my voice at normal room acoustics (best by establishing optimized), speaking distance about 20 to 25cm. Interface: Zoom R16
Let's start from the bottom: Bass are the NT1-A very naturally and smoothly again. My taste of you are in a good contrast to the remaining sound; Meaning, they are not dominant, but not too cautious, perfect coordination precisely. Of course, the microphone by changing the distance (Keyword "proximity effect") can change what podcasting, Let's Playen or the like can be quite interesting turn.
The centers of the microphone are incredibly accurate. They are really extremely brilliant and emphasize the voice very well. In my opinion is here - even if it is not suggesting the Response Graph - the tonal focus of the microphone, which now does not mean that the centers out sting, but in my opinion precisely characterize the NT1-A and be especially voices very much alive and look real. If the vocalist / singer will be accompanied by music, may his / well enforce their voice thanks to the strong middle very against the musical accompaniment, creating a good contrast between voice and accompaniment is created, which I or especially in the genres jazz, funk Soul would "barely need editing" call.
The heights are the reason why I had to pull in my "10-points-per-criticism-rating system" a point. Although they are also quite accurate, however, stand in normal use (as described above) a bit out. In particular, the S-sounds are sometimes a little pointed, from which I conclude that the micro is slightly raised at the 6 kHz, even if it hardly looks in the frequency diagram so. However, this is now no longer disruptive and can be easily solved by an equalizer, so even a point deduction. And my general impression of the NT1-A will change nothing anyway;)
In addition to voice and acoustic guitar, I can the sound of the microphone has also very good with Chello, Hi, imagine basin, snares, or saxophone.
Conclusion:
The Rode NT1-A is not as widespread for no reason. Not to mention the huge delivery gets to a microphone with excellent sound quality, I would have my judgment would be paid 100 more likely to be the same. The noise you have to not only appeal and the value for money is top.
Strong buy recommendation
Moder Master
Calculate the points: (10/10 + 10/10 + 2 * 9/10) / 4 = 0.95 '95%' 5 Star Rating (100%)
