Rode NT2000 Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

The Rode NT2000 is a side-address, large-diaphragm condenser microphone built for studio recording applications that require adaptable pickup behavior. Its continuously variable controls let one microphone cover close vocal work, instrument recording, room capture, and stereo techniques that use a figure-8 pattern. It connects to a mixer, microphone preamp, or audio interface through a balanced 3-pin XLR output.

This microphone is suited to recording musicians, voice talent, producers, and home-studio users who need more control than a fixed-cardioid condenser provides. The polar-pattern dial moves continuously from omnidirectional through cardioid to figure-8, helping tailor room pickup and off-axis rejection to the source. A gold dot identifies the front of the microphone for cardioid positioning.

The NT2000 has a 20Hz to 20kHz frequency range, 7dBA equivalent noise level, and a 140dB dynamic range. Its high maximum SPL rating supports both quiet detailed sources and louder sound sources when placement and gain are set appropriately. The variable pad can reduce the level entering the microphone's internal preamp by up to 10dB.

Rode uses a 1-inch externally polarised dual-diaphragm condenser capsule with gold sputtering, along with transformerless surface-mount electronics. The microphone uses a JFET impedance converter with a bipolar output buffer and has internal capsule shock mounting. A continuously variable high-pass filter lets the user select a low-frequency cutoff point from 20Hz to 150Hz.

Use the NT2000 as the main microphone in an XLR-based recording chain with an interface or preamp that supplies P24 or P48 phantom power. Its included SM2 shock mount supports more isolated stand mounting, while the variable controls make it practical as a flexible upgrade for a studio that records different sources. The microphone is also supplied with an RC1 carry case according to the manufacturer datasheet.

Key Features

• Variable Polar Pattern: Sweep continuously between omni, cardioid, and figure-8 pickup modes.
• 1-Inch Dual Diaphragm: Gold-sputtered condenser capsule supports detailed studio recording.
• Variable Pad: Adjust attenuation continuously from 0dB to -10dB.
• Variable High-Pass Filter: Set low-frequency reduction from 20Hz to 150Hz.
• Low Equivalent Noise: 7dBA self-noise supports quieter recording sources.
• Internal Shock Mounting: Helps reduce vibration reaching the microphone capsule.

Design & Installation

The NT2000 uses a silver-finished body with a high-strength welded, heat-treated steel mesh head. Its 25mm dual-diaphragm capsule is internally shock mounted, and the microphone measures 208mm long by 55mm in diameter. Net weight is 831g, so use a stable microphone stand or boom with adequate support.

Mount the microphone in the included SM2 shock mount, connect a balanced 3-pin XLR cable, and apply P24 or P48 phantom power only after cable connections are made. Start with the pad at 0dB and the high-pass filter at its lowest setting, then adjust for source level and unwanted low-frequency noise. For cardioid use, point the gold-dot side toward the desired sound source; use omni or figure-8 when their wider or bidirectional pickup patterns suit the recording setup.