Podcast Microphone Battle: Rode NT-USB Mini vs Rode Podmic USB

Hey there, podcasters and audio enthusiasts, I’ve got an exciting episode lined up for you today. We'll be diving into the battle of the microphones - the Rode NT USB Mini versus the Rode PodMic USB/XLR.

Why bother with this showdown you may ask. I wanted to test whether there was enough of a difference between the Rode NT-USB Mini which is a significantly cheaper microphone to the new Rode PodMic. New podcasters are often concerned with budget, so I decided to put these two head-to-head and let you listen to the results.

The Contenders
At the time of this recording, the Rode NT USB Mini has already established itself as a favourite among our clients due to its portability and ease of use. It's compact and comes with a magnetic stand, making it perfect for travellers and content creators on the go. On the other hand, the Rode PodMic USB/XLR is relatively new to the market, and we're eager to see how it stacks up against the NT USB Mini.

The Test
To ensure a fair comparison, I've recorded the same phrase with both microphones using a Rode PSA1 Plus boom arm, so the microphones are the same distance to my mouth. I have not performed any post-production frequency equalisation and only boosted the levels to achieve a similar loudness. The key areas we'll be focusing on are plosives, high frequencies, and overall sound quality.

The Showdown
In the audio demonstration, I invite you to listen carefully with your headphones or quality speakers to hear the differences. Firstly, the Rode NT USB Mini impressed me with how similar it sounded to the Rode PodMic USB, but I found the plosives to be quite distracting. Rode advises that the Rode NT-USB Mini does have an in-built pop filter within the casing, but I found this to not really cut the mustard.

High-Frequency Comparison
Moving on to the high frequencies, I noticed that the Rode NT USB Mini sounded a bit more digital in its response, and there was more presence of sibilance in the audio. This means the S's and other similar sounds were a tad sharper. On the other hand, the Rode PodMic USB/XLR demonstrated a warmer sound with a bit more depth in the bass. The PodMic's audio felt fuller and less sibilant compared to its counterpart.

Final Thoughts
Both microphones perform exceptionally well, especially when used with USB as the input source. However, if I had to pick a winner, the Rode PodMic USB/XLR edges out slightly due to its excellent pop-filtering capabilities and warmer, more balanced sound. For podcasters seeking a versatile and dependable microphone, the PodMic should be a top contender.

The fact that the PodMic also has XLR capabilities, will future-proof your recording experience and allow for more versatility in the long term.

Remember, the right microphone can make a world of difference in your audio content creation journey. Stay tuned for more exciting episodes, and until next time, keep creating great content and happy podcasting!


CHAPTER MARKERS:
00:00:00 Introduction: Overview of the Rode NT USB Mini and Rode PodMic USB/XLR
00:00:21 Rode NT USB Mini Description: Features, Portability, and Recommendation
00:00:44 Distance Testing Introduction: Microphone positioning and preparations
00:01:19 Microphones Side by Side: A visual comparison
00:03:19 RØDE PodMic USB & Screen Test: Testing the sound
00:03:30 Demonstration Introduction: Preparing for the actual sound tests
00:04:08 Sound Tests: Different phrases and numbers tested
00:04:48 Comparison & Analysis: Differences, popping, and plosives
00:05:41 Pop Filter Discussion: Pop filter benefits and recommendations
00:06:19 Sound Quality Analysis: High frequencies, warmth, fullness, and sibilance
00:07:25 USB vs XLR Input: The difference between USB and XLR, cable issues
00:08:54 Final Recommendations: Which microphone to choose and why
00:09:14 Conclusion: Final thoughts, requests for comments, and sign off


GEAR WE USE TO PRODUCE THIS VIDEO:
Rode PodMic:
https://amzn.to/3Opq86q

Rode NTUSB Mini:
https://amzn.to/4bji4Om

Rode SC19 Cable:
https://www.rode.com/accessories/sc19

Satechi Hub:
https://amzn.to/4bhuDtD

Rode Boom Arm:
https://amzn.to/3ucZSW9

XLR Cables:
https://amzn.to/3SJyIje

Focusrite Clarett+:
https://amzn.to/3UpqrSM

Sony ZV E10:
https://amzn.to/483Gfxw

Elgato Camlink:
https://amzn.to/4bjgYCe

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light:
https://amzn.to/4bhFXGe

Aputure Light Box Mini:
https://amzn.to/3u55T7m