RØDE Microphones has just announced the TF-5. The TF-5 was designed in collaboration with legendary, Grammy Award-winning sound engineer Tony Faulkner.
According to RØDE, the TF-5 represents a new standard in small diaphragm condenser microphones, and it is unrivaled in terms of airiness and clarity, with a warmth that makes it uniquely versatile.
RØDE goes onto say that the diaphragm condenser microphone has precision sonic matching and the beautiful tone of the TF-5 makes it perfect for recording detailed and natural-sounding performances when used as a stereo pair, or for capturing the nuances of a soloist when used as a spot mic.
RØDE TF-5 Key features
- Matched Pair for Accurate Stereo Imaging
- Optimized for Sonic Transparency
- Cardioid Polar Pattern Reduces Ambience
- Precision Small-Diaphragm Capsule Design
- Wide, Flat Frequency Response
- Low Noise, High SPL Handling
- 48V Phantom Powered
- Compact, Lightweight Housing
- Includes SB20 Stereo Bar for Easy Setup
- Includes Mic Clips and Windscreens
“The TF-5 is the best small diaphragm condenser in the world, plain and simple. The degree of obsession that went into the design and development of this mic has set a new benchmark for our craft of high-end microphones.”
RØDE Founder and Chairman Peter Freedman AM
Specifications
| Acoustic Principle | Externally biased condenser |
| Active Electronics | JFET impedance converter with bipolar output buffer |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Frequency Range | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Frequency Response | 30 Hz – 20 kHz ±3dB // 20 Hz – 20 kHz ±4dB |
| Output Impedance | 63Ω |
| Signal to noise Ratio | 80dB |
| Equivalent Noise | 14 dB SPL (A-weighted, as per IEC651) |
| Input SPL @ 1% THD | 120 dB SPL (1kHz @ 1% THD, 600Ω load) |
| Sensitivity | -29 dB re.1 Volt/Pascal or better (35 mV @ 94dB SPL @ 1kHz) |
| Dynamic Range | 112.6 dB (1kHz @ Max SPL) |
| Power Requirements | 7mA @ 48V phantom power |
| Weight (g) | 114g (single microphone) |
| Dimensions | Length: 98.7mm Diameter: 20mm |
The precision-engineered capsule of each microphone employs a cardioid polar pattern to enhance directionality and reduce ambiance. By utilizing JFET active electronics, the microphones are able to handle high SPLs up to 120 dB while delivering a wide, flat frequency response with low noise.
Being 48V phantom powered, the mics aren’t subject to performance degradation caused by drained batteries.
You can attach both TF-5 mics to a single mic stand via the supplied mic clips and SB20 stereo bar, which features angle/measurement indicators for ORTF and X/Y configurations. The compact, lightweight mic housings ensure a balanced setup with a variety of mic stands from compact to heavy duty. Windscreens are included to reduce noise from wind or HVAC systems.
Price & Availability
The RØDE TF-5 is now shipping. It retails for $1,499 USD.
