recordinghacks

RØDE K2

Multi-Pattern Tube Condenser Microphone

The K2 is a multipattern large-diaphragm tube microphone, with a continuously-variable pattern selection via a switch on the power supply.

The “HF1” capsule was designed and manufactured in Australia. It is a dual-diaphragm, 25mm edge-terminated design with gold-sputtered 5-micron membranes. (The same capsule is used in the NT2-A FET condenser.)

The tube is a 6922 twin-triode, hand-selected and graded at the factory. The amplifier circuitry is Class A.

Supplied complete with SM2 Shock Mount and RC2 Custom Carry Case.

SoundOnSound

As a vocal mic, the K2 sounds very classy indeed, and it has been deliberately engineered to be reminiscent of classic studio mics. It is, however, rather quieter than some of these tube classics… I also tried the mic on the usual acoustic guitar and hand percussion, where it turned in a solid performance, combining warmth with evenness of tone. I particularly liked this mic for strummed acoustic guitar played in a pop style, as you get a punchy, no-nonsense result that sounds almost as though it’s been slightly compressed, with no ragged edges.

Terry Manning

The Classic II and K2 tube (valve) models had true “tube warmth,” yet lower noise than I was used to with my older tube faves.

EQ Magazine

the K2 sounds like a combination of vintage mics. It has smooth, extended top end, fat, round midrange, and solid, thick low end.

At the 2004 Frankfurt Music Messa, leading music industry magazines voted the K2 the “Best Studio Microphone of 2004”.

Permalink: RØDE K2

The mic was released in 2004.

Specifications

Frequency Response - OmnidirectionalClick Graph to Compare!
Frequency Response - CardioidClick Graph to Compare!

Pickup Patterns	Pads & Filters
Omnidirectional (16 mV/Pa; 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz) Cardioid (16 mV/Pa; 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz) Bidirectional (16 mV/Pa; 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz)

Capsule Dimensions	Impedance	SPL/Noise
Diaphragm diameter: 25mm Diaphragm gauge: 5 microns	200 Ohms (Low)	Max SPL: 162 dB Self-noise: 10.0 dB(A)

Weight	Length	Max Diameter	Interface(s)
815g (28.75oz)	209mm (8.23'')	55mm (2.17'')	3-pin XLR male (1)

Power Specifications
Includes tube power supply

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