Rode NT5-MP

Rode NT5-MP Matched Pair — Studio-Grade Pencil Condensers for Stereo Recording

The NT5-MP matched pair delivers the detailed, balanced capture that small-diaphragm condensers are prized for, packaged as a factory-matched stereo set ready for overheads, acoustic instruments, and orchestral work. Each microphone uses a 1/2-inch gold-sputtered externally biased capsule with a tight cardioid polar pattern, focusing on the source while rejecting bleed from the sides and rear. The set ships with windshields, mic clips, and a custom carrying case.

What Sets This Pair Apart

What makes this pair stand out is the combination of an externally biased gold-sputtered capsule with a JFET impedance converter and bipolar output buffer — a circuit topology more often found on higher-priced pencil condensers. The satin-nickel-plated body handles daily studio and stage use, while matched-pair certification guarantees consistent sensitivity and frequency response between the two microphones.

Specifications That Shape the Sound

The headline numbers tell a story of headroom and accuracy that suits both delicate acoustic sources and loud drum kits.

• Polar Pattern: Cardioid — focused front-facing pickup that rejects rear bleed in multi-mic setups
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz – 20 kHz — full-spectrum response from low drum resonance to airy cymbal shimmer
• Maximum SPL: 143 dB SPL — handles loud drum overheads and brass without distortion
• With self-noise of just 16 dBA (A-weighted), these mics capture delicate acoustic guitar and string recordings with absolute clarity.
• Package Contents: 2× NT5 microphones, 2× WS5 windshields, 2× RM5 stand mounts, RC5 custom case

Who Should Reach for This Pair

The NT5-MP is the right choice for project-studio engineers, home recordists, and location sound operators who need a dependable matched pair for stereo work. Drummers appreciate the 143 dB SPL headroom on overheads, while singer-songwriters get the transparency needed for acoustic guitar, violin, and flute. Filmmakers can also deploy the pair indoors for dialogue capture on boom or stand.

Designed and Made in Australia, Backed for a Decade

Rode designs and manufactures the NT5 in Australia, finishing each microphone in durable satin nickel and covering it with the brand's industry-leading 10-year warranty. The NT5 has become a fixture in studios worldwide, often spotted parked over drum kits. An interchangeable omnidirectional NT45-O capsule is available separately, opening up room ambience and field recording applications.