Rode NT55 Instrument Condenser Microphone Like the NT5, the RØDE NT55 is a small-diaphragm, true-condenser cardioid microphone, sometimes referred to as a "pencil mic". The NT55 adds both a three position pad (0, -10dB, -20dB) and three stage high pass filter (Off, 75Hz, 150Hz), and includes the interchangeable NT45-O omnidirectional capsule. Intended for recording acoustic instruments, drum overheads, cymbals and live performances, the compact externally polarized mic employs a 1/2" capsule, an active J-FET impedance converter with bipolar output buffer. Its tight cardioid pickup pattern also makes it ideal for use as an indoor dialogue microphone for filmmaking on a mic stand or boom. Finished in durable satin nickel, the NT55 available as a single microphone or as an acoustically matched pair. COMPARISON CHART View larger Features Externally biased condenserGold sputtered 1/2 inch capsuleThree position pad: -0 dB, -10 dB and -20 dBThree position high-pass filter: flat, 75 Hz and 150 HzCardioid or omnidirectional polar pattern using interchangeable capsulesHeavy duty satin-nickel plated bodySurface mount circuitryLow noiseFull frequency response