Rode M5 Compact 1/2” Cardioid Condenser Microphone Manual
Introduction
The M5 is a studio-quality half-inch condenser microphone, designed for highly detailed sound reproduction. It features a cardioid polar pattern and end address design, meaning that it will pick up sound directed into the end of the microphone, and reject sound from the rear of the mic. This pickup pattern allows for the recording of the desired sound source while reducing the level of other surrounding instruments, noises, or sound sources. The M5 is not only ideal for recording music but is a fantastic microphone for environmental recordings and indoor dialogue on film sets. The enclosed pair has been hand-picked by RØDE’s audio engineering team to be acoustically matched to ensure perfect compatibility when used in stereo configurations.
Features
- ½” capsule with gold-plated membrane
- Cardioid polar pattern
- All metal body
- Ultra-low noise transformerless circuitry
- State-of-the-art surface mount electronics
- Heavy-duty matte black finish
- Gold-plated output connectors
- Designed & manufactured in Australia
- Free 10-year extended warranty
Warranty
The M5 is covered by a limited warranty for one (1) year from the date of purchase. This can be extended free of charge to a full ten (10) year warranty by registering your microphone online at visiting our website as below.
Specifications
- Acoustic Principle Pressure Gradient
- Active Electronics JFET impedance converter with bipolar output buffer
- Directional Pattern Cardioid
- Frequency Range 20Hz ~ 20kHz
- Output Impedance 200Ω
- Equivalent Noise 19 dBA SPL (as per IEC651)
- Maximum Output +13.5 dBu (1KHz, 1% THD into 1K Ω load)
- Sensitivity -34 dB re 1V/Pa (10.46mV @ 94dB SPL) ± 2dB @ 1kHz
- Dynamic Range 121 dB SPL
- Maximum SPL 140 dB SPL
- Signal / Noise 75 dBA SPL (as per IEC651)
- Power Requirements 24V phantom power 48V phantom power
- Output Connection 3 Pin XLR Balanced output between pin 2 (+), pin 3 (-) and pin 1 (ground)
- Net Weight 80g
- Accessories RM5 mic clip (x2) WS5 windshield (x2)
Powering the M5
Connect all cables before supplying phantom power to the microphone(s) and never remove the microphone cable while the power is connected. The M5 requires 48V DC (P48) or 24V DC (P24) phantom power. If the mixer or preamp does not contain this phantom power requirement, then an external phantom power supply is needed. Some phantom power supplies do not supply the voltage at which they are rated. If the required voltage is not supplied, the dynamic range and general performance of the microphone will be reduced. We strongly suggest the use of a reputable high-quality power supply. Damage caused by a faulty power supply is not covered under warranty.
What is Phantom Power?
All condenser microphones require a power source to operate the internal circuitry of the microphone. Phantom power is a DC voltage, supplied to the microphone through the XLR cable, providing the microphone circuit with the power it requires to operate, without the need for an external microphone power supply. Most mixing desks, audio interfaces, and preamp units have a phantom power switch built. If your equipment doesn’t have a phantom power supply, an external one can be purchased and used in-line between the preamp and the M5. Be sure to check that your phantom power supply is either P48 (48V DC) or P24 (24V DC) to operate correctly.
Mounting the M5
The M5 matched pair is supplied with a pair of RM5 stand mounts. These feature a standard 5/8” thread in the base and a 3/8” thread adaptor is supplied to provide even greater versatility in mounting. To mount the M5 in the RM5 place the base of the microphone at the back of the mount and firmly push down towards the front until the microphone clicks into the mount. The tension of the RM5 can be adjusted using the lever on the side of the mount.
General Operation
The M5 is an ‘end-address’ microphone, so the mesh head should always be facing toward the sound source that you wish to record. When recording any sound source, whether it be vocals, instruments, or anything else, always spend time experimenting with mic placement to ensure you are picking up the best possible sound. Adjust the microphone position as many times as you need to achieve this, rather than attempting to compensate with EQ and other processing tools later on.
Microphone Placement
Whether using them as a single microphone or stereo pair, there are no set rules when it comes to placement for your M5 microphones, but the tips below are a great starting point to achieve great results in most scenarios. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your own mic placements to produce the sound that you’d like to pick up with your M5.
Safety and maintenance
After use the M5(s) should be removed from its mount, wiped with a dry, soft cloth, and placed into storage. Be sure to place the moisture-absorbent crystals (supplied) at the head of the microphone when in storage, so as to absorb any moisture present. Eventually, this pack of crystals will need to be dried. This is indicated by the crystals turning pink in color. They can easily be re-used by placing them in an oven at 100 – 150 degrees Celsius for approximately ten minutes. The crystals will operate effectively again once they have turned blue.
Support
If you experience any problems or have any questions regarding your RØDE microphone, first contact the dealer who sold it to you. If the microphone requires a factory-authorized service, the return will be organized by that dealer. We have an extensive distributor/dealer network, but if you have difficulty getting the advice or assistance you require, please do not hesitate to contact us directly. Alternatively please visit www.rodemic.com/support for contact details and a list of Frequently Asked Questions. Importers & distributors For a full list of international importers and distributors, visit our website at www.rodemic.com/distributors.
Contact
International
- 107 Carnarvon Street
- Silverwater NSW 2128 Australia
USA
- 2745 N Raymond Ave
- Signal Hill CA 90755 USA
- PO Box 91028
- Long Beach CA 90809-1028 USA
REFERENCE LINK
https://rode.com/en-us/microphones/studio-condenser/m5
