RØDE NT55 Multi-Pattern Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

The RØDE NT55 is a small-diaphragm true condenser microphone for detailed recording of instruments, ensembles, ambience, and sound sources where placement flexibility matters. It provides interchangeable cardioid and omnidirectional capsules, allowing one microphone body to serve different recording approaches. Its balanced XLR output and P48 phantom-power operation make it suited to studio interfaces, mixers, recorders, and professional preamps.

This microphone is designed for musicians, engineers, content creators, and location recordists who need a compact condenser with switchable pickup patterns. The cardioid capsule helps focus on a source while reducing sound arriving from the rear, while the omnidirectional capsule offers a broader, more open capture. This makes the NT55 useful for acoustic instruments, drum overheads, room capture, stereo techniques, and live or broadcast applications.

The NT55 uses a 0.5-inch externally biased, gold-sputtered condenser capsule and a JFET impedance converter with bipolar output buffer. Its published 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency range, 15 dBA equivalent noise level, and 100-ohm output impedance support clean capture with compatible professional equipment. The microphone has a smooth, balanced character intended for critical recording rather than built-in tonal coloration.

A three-position pad provides 0 dB, -10 dB, and -20 dB attenuation for adapting to louder sources. The selectable high-pass filter offers flat response, 75 Hz, or 150 Hz settings, with 12 dB-per-octave filtering at the two cutoff positions. These controls help manage excessive level, low-frequency rumble, handling noise, and proximity-related low end before the signal reaches the preamp.

The NT55 can be the primary close microphone for acoustic instruments or part of a larger recording setup with additional microphones and channels. Its interchangeable capsule design lets users change directionality without changing the microphone body, which can simplify a compact mic locker. For stereo recording, RØDE also offers the model as an acoustically matched pair configuration.

Key Features

• Interchangeable Capsules: Includes cardioid and omnidirectional options for flexible pickup coverage.
• 0.5-Inch True Condenser: Externally biased, gold-sputtered capsule supports detailed instrument recording.
• Three-Position Pad: Select 0, -10, or -20 dB attenuation.
• High-Pass Filter: Flat, 75 Hz, and 150 Hz settings reduce low-frequency buildup.
• Low-Noise Electronics: JFET impedance converter and bipolar output buffer support clean signal transfer.
• Balanced XLR Output: Connects to P48-equipped microphone preamps, mixers, and interfaces.

Design & Installation

The NT55 has a compact 145 mm by 20 mm body with a heavy-duty satin nickel-plated finish. Its small-diaphragm format is practical for close placement around instruments and other space-limited recording positions. The supplied components include an NT45-O omnidirectional capsule, RM5 mic clip, WS5 windshield, and ZP1 zip pouch.

Connect the NT55 with a standard 3-pin XLR microphone cable to a compatible interface, mixer, recorder, or preamp that provides P48 phantom power. Turn phantom power off and disconnect the XLR cable before changing capsules, then screw the selected capsule onto the microphone body. Use the pad for high-level sources and select the high-pass filter when low-frequency rumble or unwanted bass buildup is present.