Product ReviewsRØDE NT55 small diaphragm studio condenser mic ex-demo boxed accessories VG

Excellent value-for-money microphone

The obvious comparison is with the AKG C451B. The Røde has a slightly smoother top end, so it's a question of taste and what you're using it for.

It has an interesting refinement in that pin 1 is longer than the other two, so that the earth connection is made first. I'm not sure whether this is as important on a microphone as it is on a mains plug! It also has the option of an omni directional capsule (which the 451 doesn't) so that's something to bear in mind.

On the downside, the switches for the bass cut and pad are stiff and well recessed, so they're difficult to operate unless you have exactly the right tool to hand. I also find the extremely rugged clips stiff and over-engineered and I use different ones.

But overall an excellent mic for the money.Read full review...