The RØDE NT-USB is a popular choice for content creators seeking a user-friendly USB microphone that delivers good audio quality. While not the most feature-rich option on the market, its combination of decent sound, straightforward operation, and attractive price point has made it a mainstay for beginner podcasters, YouTubers, and home studio enthusiasts. Let’s explore the pros and cons of the RØDE NT-USB in 2023 to see if it remains a relevant choice for today’s creators.

Pros:

  • Easy to use: The NT-USB boasts a plug-and-play design. Simply connect it to your computer’s USB port, and you’re ready to record. No additional drivers or software are typically required for basic operation on most operating systems.
  • Studio-grade sound (for a USB mic): The NT-USB captures clear and warm audio with a cardioid polar pattern that minimizes background noise. While not on par with high-end XLR mics, it delivers a significant step up from most built-in laptop microphones.
  • Solid build quality: The microphone features a metal body construction, making it feel sturdy and built to last.
  • Headphone jack with zero-latency monitoring: The integrated headphone jack allows you to directly monitor your recordings in real-time without any audio delay.
  • Pop filter and desktop stand included: The NT-USB comes with a detachable pop filter to reduce plosives and a basic desktop stand for positioning the microphone.

Cons:

  • Limited features (as of 2023): Compared to some newer USB microphones, the NT-USB offers a more basic feature set. It lacks onboard gain control or a mute button, requiring adjustments through your recording software.
  • Higher noise floor compared to XLR mics: While the NT-USB offers good audio quality for a USB microphone, it may have a slightly higher noise floor compared to higher-end XLR condenser mics. This can be noticeable in particularly quiet recording environments.
  • Large footprint: While relatively portable, the NT-USB’s size can take up valuable desk space, especially when compared to some more compact USB mic options.
  • Limited polar pattern options: The NT-USB offers only a cardioid polar pattern, which may not be ideal for all recording scenarios. Some users might prefer microphones with selectable polar patterns for more flexibility.

Overall:

In 2023, the RØDE NT-USB remains a solid choice for creators prioritizing ease of use and good audio quality at a reasonable price point. It’s a great option for beginners, podcasters, YouTubers, and musicians creating content in home studios. However, if you require more advanced features like on-mic controls or a lower noise floor, or have limited desk space, you might be better served by exploring some of the newer feature-rich USB microphones on the market.