RØDE NT3 3/4-Inch Cardioid Condenser Microphone

The RØDE NT3 is a wired 3/4-inch condenser microphone designed for studio recording, live performance, and location sound work. It provides a detailed, full-range capture option for vocals, instruments, guitar amplifiers, drums, and spoken-word recording. Its XLR output makes it suited to mixers, audio interfaces, microphone preamps, and field recorders.

This microphone is made for users who need condenser-microphone detail without being limited to a phantom-powered studio setup. The NT3 can operate from compatible P12, P24, or P48 phantom power, or from an internal 9V battery. That dual-power design is useful when recording with equipment that does not supply phantom power.

The NT3 uses an externally polarized 0.75-inch condenser capsule and JFET impedance-converter electronics with a bipolar output buffer. Its published 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response, 12mV/Pa sensitivity, and low equivalent-noise rating support clear capture across a broad range of sources. A transformerless balanced output is designed for connection to professional XLR audio equipment.

Built for regular studio and field use, the microphone has a cast-metal body with a satin-nickel finish and a durable mesh head. Internal capsule shock mounting helps reduce vibration transferred through a stand or boom. RØDE also specifies a high level of RF rejection for use around common electronic equipment.

The NT3 can be handheld, placed on a microphone stand, or used on a boompole when paired with appropriate mounting hardware. It is a practical upgrade for creators moving from basic dynamic microphones to a more sensitive condenser design. For a complete recording chain, connect it with a balanced XLR cable to a preamp, mixer, recorder, or audio interface with sufficient gain.

Key Features

• 0.75-Inch Condenser Capsule: Externally polarized capsule captures detailed sound across a wide frequency range.
• Dual Power Operation: Runs from phantom power or an internal 9V battery.
• Balanced XLR Output: Connects to professional mixers, interfaces, recorders, and microphone preamps.
• Low-Noise Electronics: Published 16dBA equivalent-noise level supports quieter recording environments.
• Internal Shock Mounting: Helps reduce vibration reaching the capsule during stand-mounted use.
• Metal Construction: Cast-metal body and mesh head support studio, stage, and location use.

Design & Installation

The NT3 has a cast-metal body finished in satin nickel, along with a high-strength welded and heat-treated mesh head. Its internal capsule shock-mounting system is intended to reduce mechanical vibration, while the transformerless output and audio-grade surface-mount components support a professional wired signal path. The microphone weighs 371g without its battery and measures 206mm long by 32mm in diameter.

Connect the NT3 to a microphone input with a standard balanced 3-pin XLR cable. Use P12, P24, or P48 phantom power when available, or install a correctly polarized 9V PP3 battery when phantom power is unavailable; RØDE recommends alkaline or lithium batteries. The included RM3 stand mount, WS3 windshield, and ZP1 zip pouch support common stand-mounted and portable recording setups.