RØDE NT55 Matched Pair – an acoustically matched pair of premium small-diaphragm condenser microphones designed for critical stereo recording applications. Featuring precision-matched 1/2-inch gold-sputtered true condenser capsules with exceptionally accurate cardioid polar patterns, the NT55-MP delivers stunning stereo imaging and consistency. Each microphone features a three-position pad (0, -10dB, -20dB) and three-stage high-pass filter (flat, 75Hz, 150Hz) for maximum versatility. Both microphones come with interchangeable NT45-O omnidirectional capsules, expanding recording possibilities from stereo acoustic instruments and drum overheads to ensemble recording, live performances, and on-location dialogue capture.
Built around the proven 1/2-inch gold-sputtered transducer technology from RØDE's renowned NT5, the NT55 Matched Pair combines a smooth, balanced frequency response with impressively low self-noise of just 15 dBA. The active electronics incorporate a JFET impedance converter with transformerless bipolar output buffer, ensuring clean signal delivery with wide dynamic range exceeding 121 dB. The three-position variable pad extends maximum SPL capability from 136 dB to an impressive 156 dB with -20dB attenuation, making these microphones equally capable of capturing delicate acoustic passages and extremely loud sources like close-miked drum shells or guitar amplifiers.
The interchangeable capsule system provides exceptional flexibility for diverse recording scenarios. The cardioid NT45-C capsule offers precise directional control with consistent off-axis response, ideal for spot miking and stereo techniques like X-Y and ORTF. The omnidirectional NT45-O capsule delivers a more open, natural sound with extended low-frequency response, perfect for room ambience, ensemble recording, and spaced pair techniques. Finished in durable satin nickel with compact dimensions, the NT55 Matched Pair excels in studio, broadcast, film production, theater, and live sound applications. Designed and manufactured in Australia, each matched pair is supplied in a protective carry case and backed by RØDE's industry-leading 10-year warranty.
KEY FEATURES
- Acoustically matched pair for pristine stereo recording
- 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gold-sputtered true condenser capsules
- Interchangeable capsule system: cardioid (NT45-C) and omnidirectional (NT45-O) included
- Three-position pad: 0dB, -10dB, -20dB for high SPL handling
- Three-stage high-pass filter: flat, 75Hz, 150Hz for low-frequency control
- Full frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
- Maximum SPL: 136 dB (146 dB with -10dB pad, 156 dB with -20dB pad)
- Equivalent noise: 15 dBA for ultra-quiet performance
- Dynamic range: >121 dB (A-weighted per IEC651)
- Sensitivity: -38 dB re 1V/Pa (12.6 mV @ 94 dB SPL)
- JFET impedance converter with bipolar output buffer
- Exceptionally accurate polar patterns for consistent stereo imaging
- Versatile applications: acoustic instruments, drum overheads, ensembles, dialogue
- Compact pencil microphone design for flexible positioning
- Durable satin nickel finish
- Supplied with protective carry case and accessories
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Acoustic principle: Pressure gradient
- Capsule: 0.5" (12.7 mm) gold-sputtered condenser
- Polar patterns: Cardioid (NT45-C) and Omnidirectional (NT45-O)
- Address type: End-address
- Frequency range: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
- Output impedance: 100 Ω
- Maximum SPL: 136 dB SPL (@ 1 kHz, 1% THD into 1 kΩ load)
- Maximum SPL with -10dB pad: 146 dB SPL
- Maximum SPL with -20dB pad: 156 dB SPL
- Maximum output level: 8.0 mV (@ 1 kHz, 1% THD into 1 kΩ load)
- Sensitivity: -38.0 dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (12.60 mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1 kHz
- Equivalent noise level (A-weighted): 15 dBA
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 79 dB SPL (A-weighted per IEC651)
- Dynamic range: >121 dB
- Power requirement: P48 phantom power (48V)
- Active electronics: JFET impedance converter with bipolar output buffer
- Output connection: 3-pin XLR (balanced)
- Weight: 110 g (3.88 oz) per microphone
- Dimensions: 145 mm (H) × 20 mm (W) × 20 mm (D) per microphone
- Body construction: Metal with satin nickel finish
- Pad options: 0dB, -10dB, -20dB (switchable)
- High-pass filter: Flat, 75Hz, 150Hz (switchable)
- Warranty: 10 years (1 year with free extension to 10 years upon registration)
- Designed and manufactured in Australia
- Included accessories: 2 × NT55 microphones, 2 × NT45-O omnidirectional capsules, 2 × RM5 adjustable mic clips, protective carry case, thread adapters
