Rich tube sound and performance, super low self noise, high max. SPL, and mega wide dynamic range.
45 People rated this product : 9 out of 10
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11 People wrote reviews |
Read all Rode K2 Tube Microphone reviews... |
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() 10 out of 10
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Feature:
The mic comes with a shockmount, powersupply, and the 7-pin cable often used by tube mics. The durable plastic case looks like something a power tool comes in, but it does its job well. I do wish that the mic had roll off or attenuation switches, but that can be done with a good mixer and EQ.
Quality:
A ten year warranty and a very well made mic, cable, and PSU. I wouldn't say it would survive a fall, but what condenser (especially a tube) could?
Value:
The K2 is known for its value. It outperforms many Neumanns, and competition isn't seen until you get close to the 2000 dollar range. The only mic I have that outperforms it is a custom vintage U47-U67 hybrid someone built for me.
Desirability:
The mic is a beautiful champagne color that is velvety to the touch--it looks great and feels great. Its variable patterns are something only a few mics have attempted, and it pulls it off extremely well.
Sound:
I've owned the K2 for over a year now and its still my favorite tube condenser. The variable patterns are its best feature, allowing you to dial in the most precise pattern. I will say that the warmth was less than I expected when I first tried it out-- replacing the 6922 tube with a NOS Amperex D-Getter really made a difference. Warm mids, the right amount of lows, and a transparent airiness.
Ease of Use:
Very easy to use. Just plug it into the powersupply, let it warm up for about an hour, and you're ready to record anything from vocals to drums. Placement of the mic didn't seem to be a huge issue with vocals as it doesn't have too much sibilance, a good thing.
Support:
I've talked with Rode regarding their support in case I have any problems. They will replace the mic or the PSU if anything goes wrong. The warranty is void if you attempt to do upgrades, but I don't really think anything is needed beyond the tube rolling.
Overall:
The K2 will remain in my mic locker for years to come, and a second one may be joining it for mid-side or Blumein recording. The sound is velvety smooth, and has an airiness that just makes it so crisp. A great mic on male vocals as well as females-- you can always roll the tube to determine the warmth you will receive. Perfect overall.
Submitted: 12/25/2006
Style of Music: Post-punk, No-wave, Indie
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![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() 10 out of 10
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zZounds has verified that this customer bought this product from us. |
Feature:
The multi-pattern works great. Put it in figure-8 at 90 degrees with it's cousin the NTK, and you've got a great MS Stereo setup.
The figure-8 also sounds KILLER on upright acoustic bass! The proximity effect fattens it up like crazy, and rejects muddy reflections from the floor!
Quality:
Very high quality for the price. I don't believe that it's transformer and caps are on par with microphones that cost up in the thousands, but it's TOTALLY great for the price (ESPECIALLY if you change the tube! Siemens is the best for this mic. Mullards are too deep, Amperex are fine)
Value:
AWESOME value. CANNOT beat the value of this mic for the price.
Desirability:
It looks great. Everyone turns their heads to get a glance of it!
Sound:
CHANGE THE TUBE FIRST!!! Get a hold of a vintage 1960's Siemens Tube (with grey plates) and it'll turn into a totally different microphone.
It has a nice deep, warm sound without the sibalence you usually get with other mics in this price range. It is perfect for vocals. It's not a U47, but it is similar (for the price).
Ease of Use:
Very easy to use. Just don't unplug it before it is turned off...then wait a few seconds for it to power down.
Support:
Called once, and got some great help.
Overall:
It is such a great mic. Change the tube, run it through a high quality preamp, and it'll find a place in your mic closet. Regardless of how expensive (or budgeted) your studio is, you WILL find a place for this mic!
Obviously, no mic is perfect for everything. Great for vocals. And it's great for instruments that might sound harsh on other microphones. It's perfect on banjos!
Submitted: 3/31/2007
Style of Music: Bluegrass, Country
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2 of 2 people (100%) found this review helpful. Did you?
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Because this item is used at your mouth or ear, it cannot be returned once opened due to health reasons. details
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