I think the 5th gen sounds more different to the signature series than the lewitt does based on the video. I love my signature mic, it sounds pretty good for the price. I use it over my at4033a and perception 220. I like using dynamic mics for vocals as well but the condenser mics seem to pop in the mix with less processing.
Oh I wanna help. The reason why you don’t see the print in reverse looking through is because the method they use only deposits paint on the one side of the fibers. Also, thank you for comparing the lewitt I’m torn between the two.
Another good review Tom. I actually just reviewed the 5th gen to mention that you can connect the 5th gen to an iPad with USB-C and probably an iPhone with USB-C. This is something Rode is not marketing but this is a great feature for VO artist. Many times I've gone on vacation just to get a call for script change or update to the recorded text.
The lack of latency-free monitoring with the NT1 5th gen in USB mode is why I acquired the NT-USB+ even though it doesn't allow 32-bit float recording.
The first one sounds the best on my momitors, i'm in a room treated with 6 inches of 703 with a very proper setup. The lows and mids are hyped on the second one and the newest one sounds harsh in the high frequencies to me. But, the price reflects it so i'm not complaining, just pointing out what i hear. Great video btw
Awesome review Tom!!! I believe the 4th gen is still being sold but just not with the old school shock-mount and pop shield. It now comes with the same one as the Signature Series. In my testing the 4th gen has a more neutral frequency response while the signature series has a bit of a treble boost. All in all, really tough to beat at this price point!
I have the Lewitt LCT-540s, and have been thinking of adding the Rode NT1 Signature, largely because I have the Rodecaster Pro 2, and have heard so many good reviews of the NT1. Noise rejection is a major consideration as I narrate audiobooks in a neighborhood that's rich with environmental sounds of weed whackers and roofing contractors. (For audiobooks, I use the Sennheiser MKH-416). Nevertheless, my attraction to the NT1 is strong, and I may succumb. Thanks for this useful and entertaining review, Tom. Even a year later, you're providing value.
Oh hey, I just finished editing my video and I immediately come to this. I would prefer XLR connection ones, Because they look pretty old school to me. (A USB on a condenser mic is kinda a bit weird to me) Btw, The Rode mic themselves are the great quality microphones. Despite they are being expensive. And it's good for high quality "Studio graded" vocals and audio quality. (Sounds great to me!) i still don't why i like peh-ing the mics out, lol. xD
12:19 It's simple, it's not glass, it's mesh. The there is paint is on the mesh, so you only see the logo on the side you look at. You can replicate the same with any mesh plaint it your self or print your own logos if you have the equipment.
The Rode pop filter is two layers of "fabric" bro! Only printed on one side, so you don't see through the other side 😂😅 I have the 5th Gen NT1. I do love it, but I never use the usb... but knowing I could I guess is neat. 100 dollars neat? No. And yes, the ability not to monitor breaks it. I agree with your conclusion. If it were today, I'd get the signature series.
I have my NT1 Signature Series hooked up to the Rode DS2 desk boom arm wired into the Rode Procaster. Ready to try it out and a stack of thunderstorms are rolling through. Guess I'll have to wait until tomorrow. Typical Australian Summer weather in December. Cyclone season in Queensland. Ho hum. At least I can watch the reviews on You Tube. Thanks Tom. Merry Christmas mate.
I always seem to find your videos late. That being said, you had a video talking about the Blue Yeti not being as bad as its reputation and I started my VO career using it. Well I’ve now upgraded to a NT1 SS so, again, I’m glad to see your video helping me feel better about my decision.
Dude! Such an awesome point about no headphone jack for the usb model-I hadn’t thought of that! And I would have the same problem as you with that! Also, great pun about latency! Had me rolling! 🤣🤣🤣
USB connection is really huge for nt1 imo. For someone getting into mics they also have to add mixer which good enough ones cost 100 or more for XLR which realistically would make lewitt cost around 260 to get into
Love your channel--fair, concise reviews with a perfect amount of engaging wit! Q. I'm starting an online discussion group with my wife sitting next to me and up to 8 guests, all onscreen at the same time. I'm using Streamyard On-Air as the platform along with the Elgato Prompter for eye contact. We'll be about 18 inches from a single shock-mounted AT897 shotgun mic in the Prompter cold shoe closest to my wife. We are both wearing in-ear monitors. Would you suggest any other mic setup for our two-person gig? As with our in-ear monitors, we want any mic(s) to be out of the shot. Thanks in advance for any suggestions you might offer and keep up the good work. 😊
Lewitt has Self-noise 19 dB (A) and Rode NT1 4dbA. For some this might be important (in a sound treated room) and yes... latency free monitoring is really important. For looks and aesthetics Lewitt is the winner if someone doesn't need the low shelf noise floor (no studio use).
I would say Lewitt LCT 440 Pure is more of a direct competitor to the NT1 4th gen, and even the newer 5th gen. Lewitt LCT 440 Pure houses a 7 dBA, which is extremely low. However, with the price similarities, the LCT 240 Pro vs. NT1 SS is more so on the fact that NT1 SS with its design and frequency response is much closer to the NT1-A which also boasts a very similar price point.
Tried the Nt1 Signature Series yesterday in my fairly well treated voiceover booth ... and had to realize it still picks up plenty of room noise. So what people seem to forget: very few people who buy a mic like that have the proper, quiet room for this kind of mic. I will stick to my Shure SM7B and return the Nt1.
@thawthaw03 you'll be fine, if you have to you can use some noise suppression. Especially if you are in a fully furnished room with carpeting. I am in a big empty garage with a crazy loud pc and the room noise isn't bad. I have a video demonstrating the nt1 sig open air if you are interested.
Love all the info. I am a first timer setting up a basic VO set up, I just got the NT1 Signature Series bundle. I like the colorful cables you have, are they also Rode and what other brand, for the same look, would you suggest that are reliable of course?
They're the Rode cables, which I really like. They've been very reliable to me and I think are fairly priced/good quality overall. Hope you enjoy your new mic!
Immediate difference between the NT1 and 5th generation. Can't really tell if it's because you're closer or there's a stronger bass response in general or if there's weird coloration in the circuitry.
Hi Tom. I am going to make a jump into a condenser. Pretty much going to start out at a low price point. My question is I have been leaning toward the Lewitt BUT I'll run it through my Rodcaster Duo. With that in mind would you recommend the NT1 Signature as a combo with the built in EQ with the DUO for that specific mic? Or is it basically a preference wash? Gracias sir!
Definitely a preference wash where you can't go wrong either way! The Lewitt sounds great with some of the Duo's presets, and it's also super easy to dial in your own custom settings too. 👍
@@tombuck Thank you Tom. I was leaning that way as I like the Lewitt but got in my head a bit that the NT1 might play better with the Duo, I really appreciate your input. Keep up the great work!
NT1 5th and signature are just as bright as the NT1A and definitely brighter than the NT1 4th... And the Lewitt is brighter than all of them... I would use the foam windscreen on the Lewitt ALL THE TIME...
NT1 4th, with it's awesome shock mount, is the best. The tone is a bit more neutral and warmer with super low noise. USB, though, for those who don't have an interface, is nice.
Tom, 👋, I own and use an NT1-A which I‘ve had for several years now. How is the NT1-A different to all these other NT1 versions? I love its sound a lot and guess I don‘t have to check out all the other NT1s? 😳
Watching this video on my Yamaha 5.1 channel living room system, and I can't hear a difference at all. I wonder if I'd notice a difference on my headphones at my computer. Maybe I'll give that a try later on. That new price is unreal though! It's definitely going to be the mic I recommend most to people. I had a few colleagues ask about the NT1 5th gen, but because of its limited USB functionality, I pointed them to the PodMic USB instead (condenser-v-dynamic didn't factor into their mic needs). It feels like a massive oversight to not provide a headphone jack on the 5th gen, especially given the release of the Signature Series. Honestly, this mic and the PodMic USB make it extremely difficult to recommend the NT1 5th gen to anyone. I do love my NT1 (4th gen I guess?), and while I recognize the benefits of the newer style shock mounts and pop filters, I have to say, I much prefer the "look" of the older ones. That said, I am extremely curious about the magical logo-shifting pop filter. I don't need one, but does anyone want to send me one? Pretty please? 😉
Any differences are definitely super small and totally wiped out with a bit of EQ. Totally agree that the PodMic is a much more usable USB mic than the 5th gen. They did a great job on that one.
Is the resell value of old mics really that great anyway? Just curious, as I view them as somewhat of a hygiene product. I would not find it great to use one previously used by someone else.
@@tombuck sorry for the unrelated question, i know you reviewed the sm7db (i have it!!) but are you ever going to review the re20 or original sm7b? or is that your "are expensive mics worth it" video ?
they gotta add an nt1 with an all black grille, the nt1 4th gen by far has the best design because of that. Thats lowkey why I wanted that one compared to all the others ones 😭
Damn I didn't even notice Signature series. I was wondering which mic to buy. I am a little bit hesitated of condenser microphone because I don't have treated room. I was going back and forth between NT1 5th gen and rode podmic. I want to record voiceovers, singing and rapping and to talk via discord or something.
Hi Tom. Recent subscriber to your channel and loving the content. Curious what mic you would recommend for general talking, but also would do well with an acoustic guitar performance? I work from home so have to attend a lot of Zoom meetings, but I also play guitar for friends online. Space and funds are limited at the moment unfortunately. The 2 contenders on my list are the Road Nt1 5th gen and the Warm Audio WA47JR, and of course anything else you may recommend. Thank you.
Those are both quite excellent. I would lean towards the RØDE since it’s a bit more suited for spoken word but still works great for instruments too. If you don’t need the USB features of the 5th Gen, then you could save some money with the Signature Series.
@@tombuck Thank you for your reply. Although I won't be using the USB functionality all the time, I think I may enjoy having it. I am low vision which requires me me to use screen reading software. Sometimes troubleshooting audio issues can be a little unwieldy with this setup, so the ability to turn off my interface and then plug in the USB to quikly get my input source up and running again could be valuable. Not something I would do every day, but when I need it, I really need it.
Ive been watching your videos for years now and I just cant pick a mic 😅. I have the shure MV7. But want to invest in atleast 2 more mics for guests (dynamic or condesnser) but for sure need 1 condenser for spoken word content. Ive loaded the atem mini pro iso. Podcaster pro 2 and now looking for a monitor, mics and a main camera (i currently have a z50 for side angles). Could you possibly (just with your heart) recommend your fave condenser and fave dynamic. And which of those two you'd say is your top, numero uno mic. Your page has a wealth of knowledge. And you make everything to clean and clear that its gard to decide for over a year now. 😂😢
With the RCP2 you luckily can use basically any mic! For dynamics, I think I’ll keep it classic and vote for the SM7B with some EQ added in the RCP. Condensers are tougher because I love so many! You know my love of Lewitts, so those are total winners. But the Earthworks Ethos is also a super strong choice and a really fantastic mic.
@tombuck thank you so much for narrowing it down haha ! Everytime I watch a video I'm like ouuuuu this is the one. Then you release something like 5th gen NT1 and I dip into the rabbit hole of videos again haha. Merciiii and keep up the good work..because of you I finally have the courage to start the podcast and just buy the damn stuff. Also signing up for your courses 🫶🏾
Heya Tom! First-time viewer here, debating getting the Signature Series for VO/VA work. I know you mentioned RØDE software in the section about the 5th gen vs the Signature, but does the Signature have any sort of interaction with that software?
Hey! The Signature is a pure XLR mic, so it doesn’t work with Rode Central. It’s got to run through an interface to be used with software (or just processed by the interface itself with something like a Rodecaster). Hope that helps!
Hey there Tom, I bought the 5th gen off this video, it sounds great but one thing i'm noticing is that using the shield seems to make it sounds like i'm in a big room while talking to the mic without the shield sounds better (but i get the S and P issues of course). I've got it connected to my Mac through USB-C. Also, I didn't get a pole / stand for it, do I get any that fits the threads? Thank you!
Glad you're liking it! It's interesting that the pop filter would affect the sound in that way- part of me is wondering if you've got some processing/EQ turned on that's causing that. As for stands/mounts, anything with a 5/8 mount or adapter will work (it's the default universal mic size).
@@tombuck I don’t know that I have, it’s the first time I plugged it in basically after opening the box. Is there some way I can troubleshoot further? I’m loving my voice through this mic 😅😍
I just ordered a RODE NT-1 Signature Series, and so far I love the sound. But when I first received the mic I noticed the diaphragm inside the grill of the mic is tilted slightly backwards, so that if you look at the mic from the side, the diaphragm is not perfectly straight in line with the mic body. Could you please confirm whether or not this is the case with your RODE NT-1 Signature Series?
I checked my Signature Series and my 5Th Gen NT1 and they're both tilted like you said, so it seems to be totally normal and an intentional part of the design. Nothing to be concerned about- hope you enjoy your mic!
The 4th sounds better. The 5th generation ( usb) sounds identical to the 4th grn. However the signature ( 159.00) is high and sharp. I don't like the sound difference 😕. Great review. Thanks you. 😊
I think Signature S. has richer sound in the mids and in highs. It is also more balanced, more full. 4th sounds a little cheap to SS. But differences are pretty small.
The RCPII EQ presets clean up the mic very well... I own a 4th gen NT1, and would be interested in duplicating this preset via DAW post work..... anywhere they'd have the preset settings posted?
Hi Tom, you mention to be able to record directly with the Rode software to a computer or iPad, BUT it does NOT record in 32bit float, which defeats the purpose.
I don't have a dedicated video for the two, but they're both featured in this video on a male and female voice: ua-cam.com/video/QkxgSxBv6gQ/v-deo.html They're both great and I do think the 440 has a nicer overall sound, but I still lean a bit towards the 240 because of the absolute insane value.
Ooh that's tough! They're both 1" condensers that sound terrific. It's honestly pretty close and might come down to form factor preference more than anything. I feel like the 440 has a bit more of a "full" sound while the NT1 is more neutral. Although they can easily be EQ'd to sound nearly identical.
Don't know why they didn't provide the 4th Gen mount and pop filter, much better in my opinion and given that this is their 'signature' piece? Why wouldn't you? By the way, Amazon are stilling selling the 4th Gen at a very good price.
I've noticed in your videos over the past month or so you have colored pads on your NTH-100 headphones. Where can I find those? I checked and Reporter store and other places don't seem to have them.
Hated the LCT 240 Pro. Sent it back on day 3. Could've been defective but left a bad taste in my mouth. While on the other hand I miss my old NT1 which was my first mic ever. the Classic 2/3rd GEN
It's funny because I actually go back and forth in this. I do think that since the 5th gen has the USB option it does have some different guts which might give it a slightly different sound. But if anything I prefer the Signature Series myself.
You should really treat your audio and at least put a high pass filter on your voice signal cutting everything below 80Hz so you don't get all the low rumble when moving the microphones, hit the table, etc.
For me, the downside of the pop filter and shock mount is that it's a bit of a monstrosity. Big, heavy, cumbersome. I think it's much more suited, and probably designed for, recording studios for singing vocals or voice overs rather than for video. That makes something like the Lewitt much more appealing.
Absolutely! It's really less to do with male vs. female voices, and the pitch/tone/quality of a specific voice. In general though, the NT1 series is very adaptable.
Re your comments about the NT1 4th Gen being discontinued. Rode said this in response to something I posted on a UA-cam video a couple of weeks ago: (me) So is the 4th gen going to be discontinued and effectively replaced by the new version? @rodemic 3 weeks ago Hey @yellowcake1964, we are continually iterating and improving on these microphones- so over time older models will cease production. However, we're aware that USB functionality isn't useful for evereyone, so it's worth noting that we do plan to continue producing models of the NT1 which only support XLR functionality. So unless you know differently, Rode ARE going to continue manufacturing the 4th gen variant.
My guess here is that this was what they were saying before the announcement of the Signature Series, but now the SS has taken over (they did tell me that the NT1 4th gen and NT1-A are both being discontinued).
@@tombuck Makes sense. Still prefer the sound of the 4th Gen. I'll be shelling out on a 'budget' condenser soon - the Lewitt LCT 440 is in pole position at the moment!
If anybode already purchased this mic lmk please. I'm lookin for a mic right now and i was thinking about 5th generation of NT1, but they dropped Signature series without USB-C, which i dont even need actually. But damn, 159$ this price is so sweet I can't even believe that this mic is that good like NT1 5th generation, maybe worse buils quality or something, i just don't know. So if anybody already own it, please lmk in replies 💙👁️
How about the rode signature vs the sm7db? I have the 240 pro and a rode podmic. I like the podmic but I do have to tweak it a lot in post. The 240 pro don’t have to do much to it. But I’ve been wanting the sm7db but the price is stopping me…the signature series seems like a great alternative
I don't understand why they have color coordinated every single accessories, and suddenly release colors which are not like their cables and rings. To be specific, I miss my orange! 😆
The 4th gen was a very nice mic for the money while the new Signature is unfortunately headed back to the old Rode briashness that their even earlier mics had.
If your karaoke machine has XLR inputs and phantom power, then this mic can work with it. But since most people like to hand hold the mic while singing karaoke something like the Shure SM58 might be a more practical choice.
Even with a pair of decent studio headphones, I doubt that many people, both viewers and content creators, could successfully pass a blind comparison test between the NT1 4th gen, NT1 5th gen, and NT1 Signature series.
"I describe this as a little more rich and full sounding ( NT1 Signature Series), whereas the 4th gen has a slightly, very slightly boxy sound to it." I believe wholeheartedly sir, that you had them backwards.
@@donhilario. According to the greater microphone community, it is. However, the NT1 4th generation is not essentially "just better". It is basically a reboot since the NT1-A from Rode, and they spent over a million dollars on Design and R&D. Now, the new 5th gen and Signature Series is just tuned differently, as you can see from their frequency graph. The 4th gen completely flat tuning is just overly better received and more loved by the community. The 4th gen is smoother akin to the classical/vintage recording mics (U87Ai), whereas the 5th gen and SS is tuned for modern podcasting with treble boosts. Can't confirm, but the NT1 4th gen might be better built overall, since it was a "million dollar" reboot. There's a reason why the 4th gen is still sold more expensive than the 5th gen and almost twice the cost of the Signature Series (either the Kit or standalone). They must of cut costs somewhere with the newer releases.
@@Ryu_Yin oh wow thank you for this. how about the rode nt2a and rode nt1 signature series? which mic do u think is more smoother and great sound for a singer like sam smith or bruno mars? actually i havw a condenser mic but it's kinda harsh in the high end and i don't like it.. i buy the signature series and it just stop working so i got a refund but i have a cover of we can't be friends by ariana (it's in short tab in my channel) using that mic.. but right now i don't know if i should get the rode nt2a or rode nt1 signature! i hope u can help me choose which mic suits me better since ur more knowledgeable in mic. thank you!!
The key is to listen with a REALLY GOOD over the ear headphones. I’ve had clients say ‘the audio is terrible’ while listening through their (GASP!) computer speakers. After I ask them to use headphones (any are better!) they will say, “wow, it’s great.” While I’m ranting, I’ll add that earbuds are pretty bad, too.
The 4th gen sounds sooooo much better than the "new and improved" 5th gen. The 5th gen sounds super muddy while 4th gen sounds super smooth. The lewitt sounds really good too.
No kidding, huge difference between them. The 5th Gen and the Signature series sound kind of distant and thin. The processing brings the Signature series closer to the unprocessed 4th Gen. :D
Sounds better than the 5th gen but overall not a mic we would use for anything. Basically (as you can clearly hear in this review) this microphone sounds bad.
Tom’s voice is soothing regardless of which mic he uses.
Haha aww shucks 😁
Agreed. Any mic sounds good
Im lisrening by phone audio only and was surprised that it was actually very easy to hear that the signature series is much more brighter
Thanks for this! I'm always interested in how things sound to different people on different setups!
I think the 5th gen sounds more different to the signature series than the lewitt does based on the video. I love my signature mic, it sounds pretty good for the price. I use it over my at4033a and perception 220. I like using dynamic mics for vocals as well but the condenser mics seem to pop in the mix with less processing.
Very nice review and love the new mics. And...hello! Yes, still alive. :)
Kevin!!!! I’m so happy to hear from you!
Oh I wanna help. The reason why you don’t see the print in reverse looking through is because the method they use only deposits paint on the one side of the fibers. Also, thank you for comparing the lewitt I’m torn between the two.
Another good review Tom. I actually just reviewed the 5th gen to mention that you can connect the 5th gen to an iPad with USB-C and probably an iPhone with USB-C. This is something Rode is not marketing but this is a great feature for VO artist. Many times I've gone on vacation just to get a call for script change or update to the recorded text.
That's a great point! Mobile device recording with a great mic is pretty amazing.
hi! does this work by the signature series?
The lack of latency-free monitoring with the NT1 5th gen in USB mode is why I acquired the NT-USB+ even though it doesn't allow 32-bit float recording.
The first one sounds the best on my momitors, i'm in a room treated with 6 inches of 703 with a very proper setup. The lows and mids are hyped on the second one and the newest one sounds harsh in the high frequencies to me. But, the price reflects it so i'm not complaining, just pointing out what i hear. Great video btw
i picked up on that too, the flatter the better imo so i’m not all that into the signature for that. Would much rather get the Nt1 4th gen
Awesome review Tom!!! I believe the 4th gen is still being sold but just not with the old school shock-mount and pop shield. It now comes with the same one as the Signature Series.
In my testing the 4th gen has a more neutral frequency response while the signature series has a bit of a treble boost. All in all, really tough to beat at this price point!
Treble boost is so gross in mics.
I have the Lewitt LCT-540s, and have been thinking of adding the Rode NT1 Signature, largely because I have the Rodecaster Pro 2, and have heard so many good reviews of the NT1. Noise rejection is a major consideration as I narrate audiobooks in a neighborhood that's rich with environmental sounds of weed whackers and roofing contractors. (For audiobooks, I use the Sennheiser MKH-416). Nevertheless, my attraction to the NT1 is strong, and I may succumb. Thanks for this useful and entertaining review, Tom. Even a year later, you're providing value.
Oh hey, I just finished editing my video and I immediately come to this.
I would prefer XLR connection ones, Because they look pretty old school to me. (A USB on a condenser mic is kinda a bit weird to me)
Btw, The Rode mic themselves are the great quality microphones. Despite they are being expensive.
And it's good for high quality "Studio graded" vocals and audio quality. (Sounds great to me!)
i still don't why i like peh-ing the mics out, lol. xD
Tom. Was just looking at B&H and they have the LCT-240 Pro and Shockmount together for $119 ATM. Magnetic pop filter is still $25 extra.
12:19 It's simple, it's not glass, it's mesh. The there is paint is on the mesh, so you only see the logo on the side you look at. You can replicate the same with any mesh plaint it your self or print your own logos if you have the equipment.
The Rode pop filter is two layers of "fabric" bro! Only printed on one side, so you don't see through the other side 😂😅 I have the 5th Gen NT1. I do love it, but I never use the usb... but knowing I could I guess is neat. 100 dollars neat? No. And yes, the ability not to monitor breaks it. I agree with your conclusion. If it were today, I'd get the signature series.
The Heil PR40 is my choice for the best I have found!
Oooh that’s an interesting recommendation!
Heil!
I have my NT1 Signature Series hooked up to the Rode DS2 desk boom arm wired into the Rode Procaster. Ready to try it out and a stack of thunderstorms are rolling through. Guess I'll have to wait until tomorrow. Typical Australian Summer weather in December. Cyclone season in Queensland. Ho hum. At least I can watch the reviews on You Tube. Thanks Tom. Merry Christmas mate.
I always seem to find your videos late. That being said, you had a video talking about the Blue Yeti not being as bad as its reputation and I started my VO career using it. Well I’ve now upgraded to a NT1 SS so, again, I’m glad to see your video helping me feel better about my decision.
I've had the nt1 setup and love the sound quality, however it's wayy too bulky I had to go back to the shure sm7b
Dude! Such an awesome point about no headphone jack for the usb model-I hadn’t thought of that! And I would have the same problem as you with that! Also, great pun about latency! Had me rolling! 🤣🤣🤣
USB connection is really huge for nt1 imo. For someone getting into mics they also have to add mixer which good enough ones cost 100 or more for XLR which realistically would make lewitt cost around 260 to get into
Love your channel--fair, concise reviews with a perfect amount of engaging wit!
Q. I'm starting an online discussion group with my wife sitting next to me and up to 8 guests, all onscreen at the same time. I'm using Streamyard On-Air as the platform along with the Elgato Prompter for eye contact. We'll be about 18 inches from a single shock-mounted AT897 shotgun mic in the Prompter cold shoe closest to my wife. We are both wearing in-ear monitors. Would you suggest any other mic setup for our two-person gig? As with our in-ear monitors, we want any mic(s) to be out of the shot. Thanks in advance for any suggestions you might offer and keep up the good work. 😊
Lewitt has Self-noise 19 dB (A) and Rode NT1 4dbA. For some this might be important (in a sound treated room) and yes... latency free monitoring is really important. For looks and aesthetics Lewitt is the winner if someone doesn't need the low shelf noise floor (no studio use).
I would say Lewitt LCT 440 Pure is more of a direct competitor to the NT1 4th gen, and even the newer 5th gen. Lewitt LCT 440 Pure houses a 7 dBA, which is extremely low. However, with the price similarities, the LCT 240 Pro vs. NT1 SS is more so on the fact that NT1 SS with its design and frequency response is much closer to the NT1-A which also boasts a very similar price point.
@@Ryu_Yin I like Lewitt too but some say AKG C214 is even better...
Tried the Nt1 Signature Series yesterday in my fairly well treated voiceover booth ... and had to realize it still picks up plenty of room noise. So what people seem to forget: very few people who buy a mic like that have the proper, quiet room for this kind of mic. I will stick to my Shure SM7B and return the Nt1.
So regular bedroom won't be good for this mic ??
@thawthaw03 you'll be fine, if you have to you can use some noise suppression. Especially if you are in a fully furnished room with carpeting. I am in a big empty garage with a crazy loud pc and the room noise isn't bad. I have a video demonstrating the nt1 sig open air if you are interested.
The hiss generated from the SM7B is louder than any room, unless you're room is next to a street with cars constantly driving by.
@@thawthaw03 yes
Excellent review! I appreciate the lightheartedness; now I know where to go for a nice dose of puns, the highest form of humor in the universe!
Thank you! I appreciate the punderful compliment!
Could this mic work on my audio interface that plugs into my iPad?
Love all the info. I am a first timer setting up a basic VO set up, I just got the NT1 Signature Series bundle. I like the colorful cables you have, are they also Rode and what other brand, for the same look, would you suggest that are reliable of course?
They're the Rode cables, which I really like. They've been very reliable to me and I think are fairly priced/good quality overall. Hope you enjoy your new mic!
Immediate difference between the NT1 and 5th generation. Can't really tell if it's because you're closer or there's a stronger bass response in general or if there's weird coloration in the circuitry.
The NT1 4th gen and NT1-A being discontinued made me a little sad… mostly due to nostalgia lol.
Great video as always my friend!!
Definitely some nostalgic tears there for shure.
Hi Tom. I am going to make a jump into a condenser. Pretty much going to start out at a low price point. My question is I have been leaning toward the Lewitt BUT I'll run it through my Rodcaster Duo. With that in mind would you recommend the NT1 Signature as a combo with the built in EQ with the DUO for that specific mic? Or is it basically a preference wash? Gracias sir!
Definitely a preference wash where you can't go wrong either way! The Lewitt sounds great with some of the Duo's presets, and it's also super easy to dial in your own custom settings too. 👍
@@tombuck Thank you Tom. I was leaning that way as I like the Lewitt but got in my head a bit that the NT1 might play better with the Duo, I really appreciate your input. Keep up the great work!
NT1 5th and signature are just as bright as the NT1A and definitely brighter than the NT1 4th... And the Lewitt is brighter than all of them... I would use the foam windscreen on the Lewitt ALL THE TIME...
NT1 4th, with it's awesome shock mount, is the best. The tone is a bit more neutral and warmer with super low noise. USB, though, for those who don't have an interface, is nice.
Tom, 👋, I own and use an NT1-A which I‘ve had for several years now. How is the NT1-A different to all these other NT1 versions? I love its sound a lot and guess I don‘t have to check out all the other NT1s? 😳
Watching this video on my Yamaha 5.1 channel living room system, and I can't hear a difference at all. I wonder if I'd notice a difference on my headphones at my computer. Maybe I'll give that a try later on. That new price is unreal though! It's definitely going to be the mic I recommend most to people. I had a few colleagues ask about the NT1 5th gen, but because of its limited USB functionality, I pointed them to the PodMic USB instead (condenser-v-dynamic didn't factor into their mic needs). It feels like a massive oversight to not provide a headphone jack on the 5th gen, especially given the release of the Signature Series. Honestly, this mic and the PodMic USB make it extremely difficult to recommend the NT1 5th gen to anyone.
I do love my NT1 (4th gen I guess?), and while I recognize the benefits of the newer style shock mounts and pop filters, I have to say, I much prefer the "look" of the older ones. That said, I am extremely curious about the magical logo-shifting pop filter. I don't need one, but does anyone want to send me one? Pretty please? 😉
Any differences are definitely super small and totally wiped out with a bit of EQ. Totally agree that the PodMic is a much more usable USB mic than the 5th gen. They did a great job on that one.
In a weird way, I’m pissed by the low price of the new NT1 SS. The resale value of my NT1 4th gen just fell by about $80-100.
i dont think it has, though i have a nt1 4th gen and dont want to sell it
Is the resell value of old mics really that great anyway? Just curious, as I view them as somewhat of a hygiene product. I would not find it great to use one previously used by someone else.
Mics are interesting because older/discontinued models can become super valuable.
@@tombuck Ah, okay. Interesting to know. However, the NT1 is probably not such a case, isn't it? Since there is an almost identical follow-up.
@@tombuck sorry for the unrelated question, i know you reviewed the sm7db (i have it!!) but are you ever going to review the re20 or original sm7b? or is that your "are expensive mics worth it" video ?
they gotta add an nt1 with an all black grille, the nt1 4th gen by far has the best design because of that. Thats lowkey why I wanted that one compared to all the others ones 😭
It is a REALLY nice looking mic. I like the silver grills on the colored mics, but the black on black is super sweet.
Damn I didn't even notice Signature series. I was wondering which mic to buy. I am a little bit hesitated of condenser microphone because I don't have treated room. I was going back and forth between NT1 5th gen and rode podmic. I want to record voiceovers, singing and rapping and to talk via discord or something.
Hi Tom. Recent subscriber to your channel and loving the content. Curious what mic you would recommend for general talking, but also would do well with an acoustic guitar performance? I work from home so have to attend a lot of Zoom meetings, but I also play guitar for friends online. Space and funds are limited at the moment unfortunately. The 2 contenders on my list are the Road Nt1 5th gen and the Warm Audio WA47JR, and of course anything else you may recommend. Thank you.
Those are both quite excellent. I would lean towards the RØDE since it’s a bit more suited for spoken word but still works great for instruments too.
If you don’t need the USB features of the 5th Gen, then you could save some money with the Signature Series.
@@tombuck Thank you for your reply. Although I won't be using the USB functionality all the time, I think I may enjoy having it. I am low vision which requires me me to use screen reading software. Sometimes troubleshooting audio issues can be a little unwieldy with this setup, so the ability to turn off my interface and then plug in the USB to quikly get my input source up and running again could be valuable. Not something I would do every day, but when I need it, I really need it.
Ive been watching your videos for years now and I just cant pick a mic 😅. I have the shure MV7. But want to invest in atleast 2 more mics for guests (dynamic or condesnser) but for sure need 1 condenser for spoken word content.
Ive loaded the atem mini pro iso. Podcaster pro 2 and now looking for a monitor, mics and a main camera (i currently have a z50 for side angles).
Could you possibly (just with your heart) recommend your fave condenser and fave dynamic. And which of those two you'd say is your top, numero uno mic.
Your page has a wealth of knowledge. And you make everything to clean and clear that its gard to decide for over a year now. 😂😢
With the RCP2 you luckily can use basically any mic!
For dynamics, I think I’ll keep it classic and vote for the SM7B with some EQ added in the RCP.
Condensers are tougher because I love so many! You know my love of Lewitts, so those are total winners. But the Earthworks Ethos is also a super strong choice and a really fantastic mic.
@tombuck thank you so much for narrowing it down haha ! Everytime I watch a video I'm like ouuuuu this is the one. Then you release something like 5th gen NT1 and I dip into the rabbit hole of videos again haha. Merciiii and keep up the good work..because of you I finally have the courage to start the podcast and just buy the damn stuff.
Also signing up for your courses 🫶🏾
Hi, where did you get the blue accents for the headphones?
Heya Tom! First-time viewer here, debating getting the Signature Series for VO/VA work. I know you mentioned RØDE software in the section about the 5th gen vs the Signature, but does the Signature have any sort of interaction with that software?
Hey! The Signature is a pure XLR mic, so it doesn’t work with Rode Central. It’s got to run through an interface to be used with software (or just processed by the interface itself with something like a Rodecaster). Hope that helps!
@@tombuck thank you!
Hey there Tom, I bought the 5th gen off this video, it sounds great but one thing i'm noticing is that using the shield seems to make it sounds like i'm in a big room while talking to the mic without the shield sounds better (but i get the S and P issues of course). I've got it connected to my Mac through USB-C. Also, I didn't get a pole / stand for it, do I get any that fits the threads? Thank you!
Glad you're liking it! It's interesting that the pop filter would affect the sound in that way- part of me is wondering if you've got some processing/EQ turned on that's causing that.
As for stands/mounts, anything with a 5/8 mount or adapter will work (it's the default universal mic size).
@@tombuck I don’t know that I have, it’s the first time I plugged it in basically after opening the box. Is there some way I can troubleshoot further? I’m loving my voice through this mic 😅😍
I just ordered a RODE NT-1 Signature Series, and so far I love the sound.
But when I first received the mic I noticed the diaphragm inside the grill of the mic is tilted slightly backwards, so that if you look at the mic from the side, the diaphragm is not perfectly straight in line with the mic body. Could you please confirm whether or not this is the case with your RODE NT-1 Signature Series?
I checked my Signature Series and my 5Th Gen NT1 and they're both tilted like you said, so it seems to be totally normal and an intentional part of the design. Nothing to be concerned about- hope you enjoy your mic!
@@tombuck Thank you!
Hi, Tom. If I got it right, only the 5th generation records in 32-bit, right?
You have the option via USB, but not XLR.
Any XLR mic can record in 32-bit if your interface and DAW allow it. XLR is an analog signal.
Still love the Lewitt
So good! Always impressed by how it sounds.
@@tombuck I also have two 440 pure and they are also amazing
The 4th sounds better. The 5th generation ( usb) sounds identical to the 4th grn. However the signature ( 159.00) is high and sharp. I don't like the sound difference 😕. Great review. Thanks you. 😊
I think Signature S. has richer sound in the mids and in highs. It is also more balanced, more full. 4th sounds a little cheap to SS. But differences are pretty small.
What Mic Cables or you Use in ?
The RCPII EQ presets clean up the mic very well... I own a 4th gen NT1, and would be interested in duplicating this preset via DAW post work..... anywhere they'd have the preset settings posted?
Hi Tom, you mention to be able to record directly with the Rode software to a computer or iPad, BUT it does NOT record in 32bit float, which defeats the purpose.
i plan to buy, within nt1 ss or Procaster .. do you have an idea for my voice over and live broadcast?
day three million and a half for Tom's review on the presonus revelator dynamic.
😬
The high SPL (142 dB) makes the new NT1 interesting for me, because it almost fits the 24-bit range (24 × 6 dB = 144 dB).
Thanks Tom. Do you have a video comparing the 220 Pro with the 440 Pure? I have the NT-1 4th and the 440 Pure and love them both.
I don't have a dedicated video for the two, but they're both featured in this video on a male and female voice: ua-cam.com/video/QkxgSxBv6gQ/v-deo.html
They're both great and I do think the 440 has a nicer overall sound, but I still lean a bit towards the 240 because of the absolute insane value.
Thanks. I’ll check out that video.
What mic stand did you use for the microphones? Could you possibly provide the link?
These are mostly Samson MD5 stands with some mic extension tubes to make them a little taller: geni.us/Ayyv
I think the 5th gen is a great choice if you have no interface. Otherwise the Signature Series is amazing
Totally agree.
To my ears, the 4th gen NT1 had less sibilance than signature series and 5th gen. It figures that I like the discontinued mic best.
whats your favorite usb (or usb/xlr combo) mic setup for gaming for under $200?
My favorite USB mic is the Sennheiser Profile 👍
(MSRP $129)
How does the Rode Nt1 signature series compares to LCT 440 Pure? Confused... what's your view @tombuck ?
Ooh that's tough! They're both 1" condensers that sound terrific. It's honestly pretty close and might come down to form factor preference more than anything. I feel like the 440 has a bit more of a "full" sound while the NT1 is more neutral. Although they can easily be EQ'd to sound nearly identical.
Can it be used as out of frame mic or at least not as close as you have it in the video?
Would it be suitable for streaming gameplay?
Yes with some compression
What are the name of those earphones he’s wearing
He's wearing Rode NTH100's 👍
Don't know why they didn't provide the 4th Gen mount and pop filter, much better in my opinion and given that this is their 'signature' piece? Why wouldn't you? By the way, Amazon are stilling selling the 4th Gen at a very good price.
I’m kinda upset Rode didn’t send you the blue one 😂
Judging by their online store, it seems like a lot of the colors aren’t available yet…but dang I really want the blue one 😁
@@tombuck depends on location, have ordered the purple one last night
I've noticed in your videos over the past month or so you have colored pads on your NTH-100 headphones. Where can I find those? I checked and Reporter store and other places don't seem to have them.
I think he had them custom made
You've probably already answered this question, but can you control pc volume with the rodecaster pro 2?
You can't control the actual volume on the computer, just how the computer's output is mixed in with your other sources in the RCP.
@@tombuck Thank you 🙂
I see you like pink XLR cables cool 😊
Hated the LCT 240 Pro. Sent it back on day 3. Could've been defective but left a bad taste in my mouth. While on the other hand I miss my old NT1 which was my first mic ever. the Classic 2/3rd GEN
I love it, but so much is personal preference. Hope you can find a new mic that suits your tastes!
THere's just too many NT1s now
Nice mic love it
To my ears the Signature Series has a tad more clarity on the top end when compared to the NT1 fifth gen.
It's funny because I actually go back and forth in this. I do think that since the 5th gen has the USB option it does have some different guts which might give it a slightly different sound. But if anything I prefer the Signature Series myself.
For the most part, all of these sound very similar. I’d say save money and get the xlr version unless you want the usb xlr combo.
You should really treat your audio and at least put a high pass filter on your voice signal cutting everything below 80Hz so you don't get all the low rumble when moving the microphones, hit the table, etc.
4th is definitely warmer.
I’m half-tempted to buy one of each colour and use a different one in every video, well, every video within every series of six 😂
For me, the downside of the pop filter and shock mount is that it's a bit of a monstrosity. Big, heavy, cumbersome. I think it's much more suited, and probably designed for, recording studios for singing vocals or voice overs rather than for video. That makes something like the Lewitt much more appealing.
Do you think signature microphone is suitable for female vocals
???😊
Absolutely! It's really less to do with male vs. female voices, and the pitch/tone/quality of a specific voice. In general though, the NT1 series is very adaptable.
Re your comments about the NT1 4th Gen being discontinued. Rode said this in response to something I posted on a UA-cam video a couple of weeks ago:
(me) So is the 4th gen going to be discontinued and effectively replaced by the new version?
@rodemic
3 weeks ago
Hey @yellowcake1964, we are continually iterating and improving on these microphones- so over time older models will cease production. However, we're aware that USB functionality isn't useful for evereyone, so it's worth noting that we do plan to continue producing models of the NT1 which only support XLR functionality.
So unless you know differently, Rode ARE going to continue manufacturing the 4th gen variant.
My guess here is that this was what they were saying before the announcement of the Signature Series, but now the SS has taken over (they did tell me that the NT1 4th gen and NT1-A are both being discontinued).
@@tombuck Makes sense. Still prefer the sound of the 4th Gen. I'll be shelling out on a 'budget' condenser soon - the Lewitt LCT 440 is in pole position at the moment!
$159?!? I spent $229 for an NT1A, in 2012. I didn’t know the difference between the NT1 and the NT1A at the time.
Is this the mic you couldn't reveal in the podcast?
If anybode already purchased this mic lmk please. I'm lookin for a mic right now and i was thinking about 5th generation of NT1, but they dropped Signature series without USB-C, which i dont even need actually. But damn, 159$ this price is so sweet I can't even believe that this mic is that good like NT1 5th generation, maybe worse buils quality or something, i just don't know. So if anybody already own it, please lmk in replies 💙👁️
worse build quality? any updates
@donhilario_ i actually end up purchasing it and this is great mic with great sound
What about rode nt1 a
Which one you prefer
I haven't used the NT1 A myself, so I can't compare them directly.
@@tombuckthankyouu
The price of the SS is just bonkers. It leaves most other mics in the middle of the rode
I was genuinely shocked when I found out the price.
@@tombuck if not for the price....it would be less than exciting. But the price makes it exciting. I really want a purple one
How about the rode signature vs the sm7db? I have the 240 pro and a rode podmic. I like the podmic but I do have to tweak it a lot in post. The 240 pro don’t have to do much to it. But I’ve been wanting the sm7db but the price is stopping me…the signature series seems like a great alternative
I don't understand why they have color coordinated every single accessories, and suddenly release colors which are not like their cables and rings.
To be specific, I miss my orange!
😆
A super vibrant orange would be awesome.
@@tombuck Something as glorious and unapologetic as your/their blue.
Well... This video was 24 Hours too late! I just got a NT1 5TH Gen Yesterday!
Hey it’s a lovely mic!
The 4th gen was a very nice mic for the money while the new Signature is unfortunately headed back to the old Rode briashness that their even earlier mics had.
Just picked the ride NT1 5th today at a pawn shop brand new. Been going back and forth and decided to get it 😂
Wow- that's a crazy find!
lástima que los hayas probado en la rodebrocaster 2 es un muy mala consola con mala calidad saludos
Subscribed for the really bad pun
to my ears
signature series
too much sibilant is coming
Your explanation is great. I also have a karaoke machine. I hope to receive your experience. If interested, I look forward to your reply.
If your karaoke machine has XLR inputs and phantom power, then this mic can work with it. But since most people like to hand hold the mic while singing karaoke something like the Shure SM58 might be a more practical choice.
Even with a pair of decent studio headphones, I doubt that many people, both viewers and content creators, could successfully pass a blind comparison test between the NT1 4th gen, NT1 5th gen, and NT1 Signature series.
Agreed 100%
"I describe this as a little more rich and full sounding ( NT1 Signature Series), whereas the 4th gen has a slightly, very slightly boxy sound to it." I believe wholeheartedly sir, that you had them backwards.
wdym? the nt1 4th gen better than nt1 signature?
@@donhilario. According to the greater microphone community, it is. However, the NT1 4th generation is not essentially "just better". It is basically a reboot since the NT1-A from Rode, and they spent over a million dollars on Design and R&D.
Now, the new 5th gen and Signature Series is just tuned differently, as you can see from their frequency graph. The 4th gen completely flat tuning is just overly better received and more loved by the community. The 4th gen is smoother akin to the classical/vintage recording mics (U87Ai), whereas the 5th gen and SS is tuned for modern podcasting with treble boosts.
Can't confirm, but the NT1 4th gen might be better built overall, since it was a "million dollar" reboot. There's a reason why the 4th gen is still sold more expensive than the 5th gen and almost twice the cost of the Signature Series (either the Kit or standalone). They must of cut costs somewhere with the newer releases.
@@Ryu_Yin oh wow thank you for this. how about the rode nt2a and rode nt1 signature series? which mic do u think is more smoother and great sound for a singer like sam smith or bruno mars? actually i havw a condenser mic but it's kinda harsh in the high end and i don't like it.. i buy the signature series and it just stop working so i got a refund but i have a cover of we can't be friends by ariana (it's in short tab in my channel) using that mic.. but right now i don't know if i should get the rode nt2a or rode nt1 signature! i hope u can help me choose which mic suits me better since ur more knowledgeable in mic. thank you!!
Damn those plosives are nasty.
The original and SS sound great. The 5th generation sounds so cheap.
Interesting! I was curious what people would think listening on different speakers and stuff.
The key is to listen with a REALLY GOOD over the ear headphones. I’ve had clients say ‘the audio is terrible’ while listening through their (GASP!) computer speakers. After I ask them to use headphones (any are better!) they will say, “wow, it’s great.” While I’m ranting, I’ll add that earbuds are pretty bad, too.
First
The 4th gen sounds sooooo much better than the "new and improved" 5th gen. The 5th gen sounds super muddy while 4th gen sounds super smooth. The lewitt sounds really good too.
No kidding, huge difference between them. The 5th Gen and the Signature series sound kind of distant and thin. The processing brings the Signature series closer to the unprocessed 4th Gen. :D
Wait and see latency. 😂😂😂
you can buy it used lol
The 5th gen sounds as bad as the 1st gen!
"And while NT1 would be a good choice."
That was such a groaner. It caused me physical pain /hyperbole /joke
Sounds better than the 5th gen but overall not a mic we would use for anything. Basically (as you can clearly hear in this review) this microphone sounds bad.
Name one microphone that sounds better. I dare you.
I agree