Rode Nth 100 Review

The Rode NTH-100 headphones deliver an impressive combination of comfort, accurate sound reproduction, and robust build quality, making them an excellent choice for audio professionals and discerning listeners alike. If you’re hunting for a pair of headphones that won’t fatigue your ears during long sessions and provide a neutral, uncolored listening experience, the NTH-100s stand out. They’re designed with a focus on critical listening tasks, from mixing and mastering to podcasting and field recording, providing clarity that helps you make precise audio decisions. With their unique FitLok™ headband and Alcantara earcups, they offer a premium feel often found in much higher-priced models, ensuring they stay comfortable for hours on end. This review dives deep into what makes these headphones a compelling option, pitting them against some of their notable competitors to help you decide if they’re the right fit for your audio toolkit.

Here’s a quick rundown of how the Rode NTH-100s stack up against some popular alternatives:

• Rode NTH-100

  • Key Features: Custom-matched 40mm dynamic drivers, Alcantara earcup and headband cushions, FitLok™ headband locking system, dual-sided cable attachments.
  • Average Price: $149 USD
  • Pros: Exceptional comfort for long sessions, highly accurate and neutral sound signature, excellent build quality, dual-sided cable entry, good passive noise isolation.
  • Cons: Non-detachable earpads though replaceable by Rode, soundstage might feel a bit intimate for some.
  • Rode NTH-100

• Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

  

  • Key Features: 45mm large-aperture drivers, collapsible design, detachable cables three included.
  • Average Price: $169 USD
  • Pros: Punchy bass, good clarity, very popular for tracking and general listening, durable build.
  • Cons: Can be fatiguing over long sessions, clamp force can be high for some, sound signature is V-shaped less neutral.
  • Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

• Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 Ohm

  • Key Features: Diffuse-field equalized, robust build, velour earpads, excellent passive noise isolation.
  • Average Price: $159 USD
  • Pros: Extremely comfortable, great for tracking and general listening, detailed sound, very durable.
  • Cons: Non-detachable cable, can be bright in the treble for some, different impedance versions for different uses.
  • Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro

• Sony MDR-7506

  • Key Features: Neodymium magnets, 40mm drivers, foldable design, coiled cable.
  • Average Price: $99 USD
  • Pros: Industry standard for broadcast and studio monitoring, very durable, clear midrange, affordable.
  • Cons: Can be bright in the treble, less comfortable for extended wear, non-detachable coiled cable can be cumbersome.
  • Sony MDR-7506

• Shure SRH1540

  • Key Features: 40mm neodymium drivers, carbon fiber and aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction, Alcantara earpads.
  • Average Price: $499 USD
  • Pros: Superb sound quality, expansive soundstage for closed-back, premium build materials, incredibly comfortable.
  • Cons: Significantly more expensive, not as rugged for portable use.
  • Shure SRH1540

• Sennheiser HD 280 Pro

  • Key Features: Collapsible design, high passive noise attenuation, neutral sound profile.
  • Pros: Excellent noise isolation, very durable, affordable, good for tracking.
  • Cons: Can be tight on the head, less comfortable for very long sessions, sound can be a bit dry.
  • Sennheiser HD 280 Pro

• Focal Listen Professional

  • Key Features: 40mm Mylar/Titanium drivers, memory foam ear cushions, hard-shell carrying case.
  • Average Price: $299 USD
  • Pros: Very accurate sound, comfortable, good detail retrieval, premium feel.
  • Cons: Higher price point, can be less durable than some alternatives for heavy professional abuse.
  • Focal Listen Professional

Sound Quality: Neutrality and Detail for Critical Listening

When you strap on the Rode NTH-100s, the first thing that hits you or rather, doesn’t hit you, in a good way is the absence of coloration. These headphones aren’t designed to flatter your podcast with exaggerated bass or shimmering highs. Instead, they aim for a flat, neutral frequency response that is crucial for audio professionals. Think of them as a magnifying glass for your sound – they reveal details, nuances, and potential issues in your mix that might be masked by more consumer-oriented headphones.

Frequency Response and Tonal Balance

Rode has done an excellent job with the NTH-100’s frequency response. They claim a response of 5Hz – 35kHz, and while those extreme ends are less critical for human hearing, the overall tonal balance is remarkably even.

• Bass: The low end is present, tight, and articulate, but never overbearing. You get enough bass to hear the fundamental frequencies of kick drums and basslines, but it doesn’t bleed into the midrange or sound boomy. This is vital for mixing, as an overhyped bass can lead to mixes that sound thin on other systems. You won’t get the chest-thumping impact of some consumer headphones, but you’ll get accurate low-end information.
• Midrange: This is where the NTH-100s truly shine for vocal and instrument clarity. Vocals sit naturally in the mix, and guitars, pianos, and synths come through with excellent definition. There’s no harshness or scoop in the mids, which can plague cheaper headphones. This neutral midrange makes them superb for editing dialogue, identifying vocal sibilance, or balancing instrument levels.
• Treble: The high frequencies are clear, detailed, and extended without being fatiguing or overly bright. Cymbals have a natural shimmer, and reverbs and atmospheric elements are rendered with precision. Unlike some studio headphones that can exhibit a harsh treble peak, the NTH-100s maintain a smooth, airy quality that prevents listener fatigue during extended sessions. This smooth treble is a major win for critical listening.

Detail Retrieval and Imaging

The detail retrieval of the NTH-100s is exceptional for their price point. You can pick out subtle reverb tails, background effects, and quiet instrument layers that might disappear on less resolving headphones. This level of detail is indispensable for tasks like noise reduction, mastering, and identifying subtle artifacts in audio.

• Imaging: While the soundstage is typical for closed-back headphones – meaning it’s more intimate than open-backs – the NTH-100s offer precise stereo imaging. You can clearly discern the placement of instruments and vocals within the stereo field. This aids in panning decisions during mixing and helps to identify phase issues.
• Transient Response: The headphones demonstrate fast and accurate transient response, meaning they can reproduce the initial attack of sounds with clarity. This is important for percussive elements, where the snap of a snare drum or the pluck of a guitar string needs to be rendered accurately.

Build Quality and Durability: Ready for the Road

Rode has a reputation for building robust audio gear, and the NTH-100 headphones are no exception.

From the moment you pick them up, they feel solid and well-engineered.

They’re built to withstand the rigors of studio life and even some light travel, prioritizing longevity without feeling overly bulky.

Materials and Construction

The NTH-100s incorporate a thoughtful blend of materials that contribute to their durability and premium feel.

• High-Grade Plastics and Aluminum: The majority of the headphone housing is constructed from high-grade, robust plastics that feel incredibly sturdy and resistant to everyday knocks. The headband sliders, however, are made from spring steel – a crucial detail for long-term durability. This prevents the common failure point of plastic headbands cracking over time.
• Alcantara and Memory Foam: The earcups and the headband cushion are clad in luxurious Alcantara fabric a synthetic suede-like material. This isn’t just for comfort. it’s also highly durable and resistant to wear, making it a great choice for professional use where headphones are handled frequently. Beneath the Alcantara, high-density memory foam provides exceptional cushioning, ensuring the headphones maintain their shape and comfort over time.
• Proprietary Locking Cable: The NTH-100 features a locking cable system on both earcups. This is a brilliant design choice, as it prevents accidental disconnections and reduces strain on the cable connection point, a common vulnerability in many headphones. The included cable is also robust, with good strain relief at the connectors.

Longevity and Roadworthiness

These headphones are clearly designed with a professional user in mind, someone who needs gear that can perform reliably day in and day out.

• Spring Steel Headband: The spring steel headband isn’t just about feel. it ensures the headphones maintain their clamping force and shape over years of use. Unlike cheaper plastic headbands that can lose their tension or snap, this design choice offers exceptional long-term resilience.
• User-Replaceable Parts: While the earcups are not easily user-replaceable in a snap-on fashion, Rode does offer replacement earcups and cables. This is a good sign of their commitment to the product’s longevity, as often a damaged cable or worn earpad can render other headphones useless.
• Designed for Studio & Field Use: The robust construction means they can easily handle being tossed in a bag for field recording or moving between different studio setups. They don’t feel fragile, and the included carry bag offers a decent level of protection against dust and minor bumps.

Comfort and Ergonomics: The All-Day Wear Factor

One of the standout features of the Rode NTH-100 headphones is their exceptional comfort, which is paramount for anyone spending extended hours in a studio, editing suite, or recording booth. Rode has clearly prioritized ergonomics, designing a headphone that virtually disappears on your head, allowing you to focus purely on the audio.

Alcantara and Memory Foam Cushions

The choice of materials for the earcups and headband is a must for comfort. Tribit Movebuds H1 Review

• Luxurious Alcantara: Both the earcups and the headband feature generous padding covered in Alcantara. This premium synthetic suede material is not only incredibly soft against the skin but also highly breathable. Unlike protein leather or velour, Alcantara helps prevent excessive sweating during long sessions, keeping your ears cool and comfortable. It also feels far less sticky than pleather after hours of wear.
• CoolTech™ Gel: Beneath the Alcantara, Rode has incorporated a layer of their proprietary CoolTech™ gel. This isn’t just marketing fluff. it actively helps to dissipate heat, further contributing to the headphones’ impressive comfort over extended periods. This is a significant advantage for users who experience discomfort from heat buildup with other closed-back headphones.
• Memory Foam Contouring: The high-density memory foam within the cushions conforms gently to the shape of your head and ears. This ensures an excellent seal for passive noise isolation and evenly distributes pressure, preventing hot spots or pinching.

FitLok™ Headband Locking System

The FitLok™ headband locking system is another ingenious design element that enhances both comfort and practicality.

• Secure and Consistent Fit: Once you adjust the headband to your desired size, the FitLok™ system allows you to lock it in place. This means the headphones retain their setting, so you don’t have to readjust them every time you put them on. For multi-user studios or simply for consistent personal use, this is a huge convenience.
• Ergonomic Adjustment: The adjustment mechanism is smooth and precise, allowing you to find the perfect fit with minimal effort. This, combined with the soft, pliable materials, ensures the headphones accommodate a wide range of head sizes and shapes comfortably.
• Optimal Clamping Force: The clamping force is firm enough to ensure a good seal and stable fit without being overly tight or restrictive. This balance is critical for long-term wear, preventing that “vice grip” feeling that can lead to headaches and fatigue. Even with glasses, the NTH-100s maintain comfort due to the soft Alcantara and memory foam.

Versatility and Use Cases: Beyond the Studio

While the Rode NTH-100 headphones are clearly designed with professional audio applications in mind, their robust build, exceptional comfort, and neutral sound profile make them surprisingly versatile for a range of other uses.

They transcend the boundaries of a dedicated studio tool, proving valuable for diverse audio tasks.

Studio Applications

This is where the NTH-100s truly shine, fitting seamlessly into various stages of audio production.

• Mixing and Mastering: The neutral frequency response and excellent detail retrieval are paramount for mixing and mastering. They allow engineers to hear their audio as it truly is, enabling precise adjustments to EQ, compression, and effects. The consistent sound ensures that mixes translate well to other playback systems.
• Tracking and Recording: For podcastians and vocalists in the studio, the NTH-100s offer good passive noise isolation, helping to minimize bleed from external sounds during recording. Their comfortable fit means performers can wear them for extended takes without discomfort, and the accurate monitoring helps them stay in tune and on beat.
• Podcasting and Broadcast: In spoken word applications, midrange clarity is king. The NTH-100s excel at reproducing vocals with natural timbre, making them ideal for monitoring during podcast recording, voiceover work, or live broadcast. The passive isolation helps presenters focus on their delivery without distraction.
• Sound Design and Post-Production: For film and game audio professionals, the accurate soundstage and detail retrieval are crucial for precise sound placement, layering effects, and identifying subtle sonic elements in complex soundscapes.

General Listening and Audiophile Use

While not marketed as audiophile headphones, their neutral sound makes them surprisingly enjoyable for casual listening.

• Critical Listening: If you’re an audiophile who values accurate reproduction over hyped bass or sparkling highs, the NTH-100s offer a rewarding experience. They let you hear recordings closer to how the artists and engineers intended them to sound, revealing nuances in your favorite tracks.
• Podcast Enjoyment: For everyday podcast listening, the balanced sound ensures that all genres are presented faithfully. You won’t get artificial excitement, but you’ll appreciate the clarity and natural presentation of your podcast collection. They are a great tool for rediscovering details in familiar songs.

Gaming and Content Creation

Beyond professional audio, the NTH-100s can also elevate the experience for gamers and general content creators.

• Immersive Gaming: While not designed for competitive gaming, the accurate imaging can help with sound localization in games, allowing you to pinpoint enemy footsteps or environmental cues. The comfort ensures you can game for hours without discomfort.
• Video Editing and Livestreaming: For YouTube creators or streamers, reliable audio monitoring is essential. The NTH-100s provide a clear and accurate representation of your audio feed, whether it’s your microphone, game audio, or background podcast, helping you maintain high production quality.
• Online Meetings and Remote Work: The passive noise isolation makes them excellent for noisy home office environments, helping you focus on calls and virtual meetings. The clear sound reproduction means you won’t miss important details during discussions.

Accessories and Portability: What’s in the Box?

Rode understands that a professional tool isn’t just the main device.

It’s also the ecosystem of accessories that make it practical and durable.

The NTH-100 headphones come with a thoughtful selection of extras that enhance their usability and protect your investment, whether you’re in the studio or on the go.

Included Accessories

The unboxing experience reveals that Rode hasn’t skimped on the essentials. Sony Fe 70 200Mm F28 Gm Oss Ii Review

• High-Quality Straight Cable: The NTH-100 comes with a 2.4m 7’10” straight cable. This length is ideal for most studio setups, allowing ample movement without excessive slack. The cable is robust, designed for durability, and features a locking connector on both ends either headphone side, as it’s dual-sided, and the source side. This locking mechanism is crucial for preventing accidental disconnections during critical listening or recording sessions.
• ¼” to ⅛” Adaptor: A screw-on ¼” to ⅛” adaptor is included, making the headphones compatible with a wide range of audio equipment, from professional audio interfaces and mixing consoles to consumer devices like smartphones and laptops. The screw-on design ensures a secure connection that won’t easily detach.
• Drawstring Carry Bag: A soft drawstring carry bag is provided. While it’s not a hard case, it offers adequate protection against dust, scratches, and minor bumps when transporting the headphones in a backpack or larger gear bag. It’s lightweight and adds minimal bulk.
• Set of COLOR ID Rings: This is a neat and practical addition, especially for multi-user studios. The NTH-100s include a set of colored rings red, orange, green, blue, pink that can be attached to the headphone cables at the earcup connection. This allows users to quickly identify their headphones or to color-code different pairs for specific tasks or users in a shared environment. It’s a small detail that enhances workflow efficiency.

Portability and Travel Considerations

While the NTH-100s are primarily studio headphones, their design and included accessories make them reasonably portable, especially for professionals who need to move between different locations.

• Non-Foldable Design: Unlike some headphones that fold for compact storage, the NTH-100s feature a fixed-cup design. This means they don’t collapse into a smaller form factor. While this contributes to their structural integrity and long-term durability, it also means they take up a bit more space in a bag.
• Robust Build for Transit: Despite not folding, their solid build quality means they can withstand the bumps and jostles of typical transport better than many flimsier, foldable alternatives. You don’t have to baby them.
• Dual-Sided Cable Input: The ability to plug the cable into either the left or right earcup offers flexibility in routing the cable, which can be convenient depending on your setup and where your audio source is located. This also means if one jack were to ever fail unlikely given the build quality, you have an alternative.
• Practical for Gig Bags: While not pocketable, they fit comfortably in the main compartment of most standard gig bags alongside other audio gear, making them a practical choice for podcastians, podcasters, or videographers who need reliable monitoring on location.

Rode’s Reputation and Support: Backing Up the Product

When investing in professional audio equipment, the brand behind the product matters.

Rode Microphones has built a formidable reputation over decades, not just for innovative products but also for their commitment to quality, customer support, and sustained product development.

The NTH-100 headphones arrive with the backing of this established legacy.

Rode’s Legacy in Audio

Rode initially RØDE is an Australian company that has become a global leader in microphone technology and, more recently, in other audio categories.

Their journey started in the early 1990s and gained significant traction with their high-quality, affordable condenser microphones.

• Innovation and Accessibility: Rode has consistently pushed boundaries in audio technology, making professional-grade tools accessible to a wider audience. They’re known for features like excellent build quality, low self-noise in microphones, and user-friendly designs.
• Professional Trust: From small home studios to major broadcasting networks, Rode products are found in countless professional environments. This widespread adoption is a testament to the trust audio engineers, producers, and content creators place in the brand’s reliability and performance.
• Expanding Ecosystem: Rode has strategically expanded beyond microphones into audio interfaces like the Rodecaster Pro series, wireless systems, and now headphones. This expansion aims to provide a comprehensive ecosystem of tools for creators, ensuring seamless integration and a consistent user experience.

Warranty and Customer Service

A strong warranty and responsive customer support are crucial for professional gear, and Rode generally excels in this area.

• Extended Warranty Potential: Rode typically offers a generous warranty period on their products, often requiring online registration to extend it. For the NTH-100, this generally translates to a significant peace of mind, knowing that your investment is protected against manufacturing defects for an extended period. Always check the official Rode website for the most current and specific warranty details in your region, as terms can vary.
• Global Support Network: As a global company, Rode has a well-established network of distributors and service centers worldwide. This means that if you encounter an issue, you can usually find authorized support and repair services, rather than being left in the lurch.
• Accessible Resources: Rode’s website is a rich resource for product manuals, firmware updates, and troubleshooting guides. They also maintain active online communities and social media presence, often providing direct support or guidance through these channels.
• Commitment to the User: Rode’s product development often reflects direct user feedback. The NTH-100s themselves were a highly anticipated product, with Rode taking their time to develop them, showcasing a commitment to delivering a well-thought-out and high-performing product rather than rushing to market. This user-centric approach is a hallmark of the brand.

Comparative Analysis: NTH-100 vs. The Competition

Understanding how the Rode NTH-100 stacks up against its direct competitors is essential for making an informed purchasing decision.

While some headphones excel in specific areas, the NTH-100 aims for a balanced approach, prioritizing accuracy, comfort, and durability.

Let’s pit it against some of the industry’s common choices. Keepass 234 Review

Rode NTH-100 vs. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

• Sound Profile:
  • NTH-100: Presents a neutral, uncolored sound with a flat frequency response. Excellent for critical listening, mixing, and mastering where accuracy is key.
  • ATH-M50x: Known for its “V-shaped” sound signature with enhanced bass and treble. This makes it popular for general listening and tracking where a more exciting sound is desired, but less ideal for critical mixing due to its coloration.
• Comfort:
  • NTH-100: Superior comfort due to Alcantara earcups, CoolTech™ gel, and memory foam. Designed for extended wear without fatigue.
  • ATH-M50x: Good comfort initially, but pleather earpads can lead to heat buildup and fatigue during long sessions. Clamp force can be tight for some users.
• Build & Features:
  • NTH-100: Robust, non-folding design with spring steel headband, dual-sided locking cables, and FitLok™. Built for long-term durability.
  • ATH-M50x: Foldable design for portability, multiple detachable cables. Durable, but the NTH-100 feels more premium and robust in hand.
• Verdict: For critical studio work and all-day comfort, the NTH-100 is the clear winner. For a more bass-heavy, exciting sound and compact portability, the ATH-M50x remains a popular choice, though it’s less neutral.

Rode NTH-100 vs. Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 Ohm

*   NTH-100: Neutral, accurate, and smooth across the frequency range, with excellent detail without harshness.
*   DT 770 Pro: Renowned for its bright, detailed treble and impactful bass. Can be very revealing but also fatiguing for some due to the treble peak. Excellent for tracking and general monitoring.
*   NTH-100: Exceptional comfort with Alcantara and CoolTech™ gel, offering excellent breathability.
*   DT 770 Pro: Velour earpads are incredibly soft and comfortable, making them a favorite for long sessions. However, they don't have the cooling technology of the NTH-100.
*   NTH-100: Dual-sided detachable locking cable, FitLok™.
*   DT 770 Pro: Non-detachable coiled cable a common complaint, very robust and repairable design with easily replaceable parts.

• Verdict: Both offer superb comfort. The NTH-100 provides a more neutral and less fatiguing sound for mixing and mastering, while the DT 770 Pro’s lively sound and legendary comfort make it a tracking powerhouse, though its coiled, non-detachable cable can be a drawback.

Rode NTH-100 vs. Sony MDR-7506

*   NTH-100: Balanced, neutral, and detailed.
*   MDR-7506: An industry standard for decades, known for its forward, analytical midrange and sometimes piercing treble. Highly revealing for vocals and dialogue, but can be harsh and fatiguing. Bass is less extended.
*   NTH-100: Premium materials and design offer superior comfort for extended sessions.
*   MDR-7506: Smaller, pleather earpads and a lighter build. Can be uncomfortable for very long sessions, and earpads tend to flake over time.
*   NTH-100: More robust, modern build with locking detachable cable.
*   MDR-7506: Legendary durability for its price, but with a non-detachable coiled cable and a more basic, utilitarian build. Foldable design for portability.

• Verdict: The NTH-100 is a significant upgrade in terms of comfort, build quality, and a more balanced, less fatiguing sound profile for modern production. The MDR-7506 remains a highly affordable, classic workhorse for basic monitoring and broadcast, valued for its revealing though sometimes harsh midrange.

The Verdict: Who Should Buy the Rode NTH-100?

After putting the Rode NTH-100 through its paces, it’s clear these headphones carve out a significant niche in the crowded studio headphone market. They aren’t trying to reinvent the wheel, but rather to perfect the core tenets of what makes a great professional monitoring headphone: accuracy, comfort, and durability.

Ideal Users for the NTH-100

The Rode NTH-100 is an excellent investment for a specific demographic of audio professionals and discerning enthusiasts:

• Mixing and Mastering Engineers Especially Home/Project Studio: The neutral frequency response and excellent detail retrieval are paramount for making accurate mixing and mastering decisions. For those working in less-than-perfect acoustic environments, reliable headphones are a lifeline, and the NTH-100s deliver precisely that. They provide a trustworthy reference point.
• Podcasters and Voiceover Artists: For spoken word content, midrange clarity and vocal presence are crucial. The NTH-100s excel at reproducing voices naturally, making them ideal for monitoring recording levels, editing dialogue, and identifying plosives or sibilance. The comfort for long recording or editing sessions is also a huge plus.
• Podcastians and Producers for Tracking: When recording instruments or vocals, accurate monitoring helps performers stay in tune and in time. The good passive noise isolation helps minimize bleed, and the superior comfort means podcastians can wear them for hours of takes without discomfort.
• Video Editors and Sound Designers: For post-production work, precise audio is as important as video. The NTH-100s offer the clarity and imaging needed to accurately place sound effects, balance dialogue, and mix podcast within a video project.
• Discerning Listeners and Audiophiles on a Budget: If you value accurate, uncolored sound over a consumer-oriented “fun” sound, and you appreciate comfort for long listening sessions, the NTH-100s offer exceptional value. They reveal the true nature of your podcast.
• Students of Audio Engineering: For those learning the craft, starting with a neutral and reliable pair of headphones like the NTH-100 can be invaluable for developing critical listening skills and understanding how audio truly sounds.

Why They Stand Out

The NTH-100s aren’t the flashiest headphones, nor do they boast exotic driver technologies. Their strength lies in their holistic excellence in the areas that truly matter for professionals:

• Unrivaled Comfort: The combination of Alcantara, memory foam, and CoolTech™ gel is a must for extended wear. This alone sets them apart from many competitors in their price bracket.
• Neutral and Accurate Sound: Rode has successfully delivered a sound profile that is flat, detailed, and non-fatiguing, allowing for genuine critical listening.
• Exceptional Build Quality: The spring steel headband, robust plastics, and locking cable system indicate a headphone built for durability and longevity.
• Thoughtful Features: Details like the FitLok™ system, dual-sided cable input, and COLOR ID rings demonstrate Rode’s attention to user experience and professional workflow.

In essence, the Rode NTH-100 headphones are a no-nonsense, high-performance tool that prioritizes the needs of the user above all else. They are a strong contender for the “best studio headphones under $200” title, offering value that punches well above their weight class. If you’re serious about your audio and need a reliable, comfortable, and accurate monitoring solution, the NTH-100s deserve a very strong look.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Rode NTH-100 headphones primarily designed for?

The Rode NTH-100 headphones are primarily designed for critical listening applications, such as mixing, mastering, tracking, podcasting, voiceover work, and general studio monitoring, due to their accurate and neutral sound reproduction.

Are the Rode NTH-100 headphones open-back or closed-back?

The Rode NTH-100 headphones are closed-back, which provides good passive noise isolation and minimizes sound leakage, making them suitable for recording and noisy environments.

How comfortable are the Rode NTH-100 headphones for long sessions?

The Rode NTH-100 headphones are exceptionally comfortable for long sessions due to their Alcantara and memory foam earcups with CoolTech™ gel, and a balanced clamping force.

Do the Rode NTH-100 headphones have a detachable cable?

Yes, the Rode NTH-100 headphones feature a detachable straight cable with a locking mechanism on both the headphone and source ends.

Can I plug the cable into either earcup on the NTH-100?

Yes, the Rode NTH-100 headphones have a dual-sided cable input, allowing you to plug the cable into either the left or right earcup for convenience.

What is the FitLok™ system on the NTH-100?

The FitLok™ system on the NTH-100 is a headband locking mechanism that allows you to secure the headband size once adjusted, preventing accidental changes. Dji Mic Review

What is the sound signature of the Rode NTH-100?

The Rode NTH-100 has a neutral, balanced, and accurate sound signature, designed to provide an uncolored representation of your audio for critical listening.

Are the NTH-100 headphones good for bass-heavy podcast?

While the NTH-100 provides accurate and tight bass, it is not exaggerated. If you prefer a highly boosted, consumer-style bass, these might not be your first choice, but they reproduce bass faithfully.

Can the NTH-100 headphones be used for gaming?

Yes, the NTH-100 headphones can be used for gaming. Their accurate imaging can help with sound localization, and their comfort makes them suitable for long gaming sessions, though they are not specifically marketed as gaming headphones.

What is the impedance of the Rode NTH-100?

The Rode NTH-100 headphones have an impedance of 32 Ohms, making them easy to drive with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, and audio interfaces.

Are the earpads on the NTH-100 replaceable by the user?

The NTH-100 earpads are not easily user-replaceable in a snap-on fashion, but Rode does offer replacement earcup assemblies, suggesting they can be replaced if needed, likely requiring some simple tools or professional service.

Do the NTH-100 headphones come with a carrying case?

Yes, the Rode NTH-100 headphones come with a soft drawstring carry bag for protection against dust and scratches during transport.

Are the Rode NTH-100 headphones durable?

Yes, the Rode NTH-100 headphones are very durable, featuring a robust construction with high-grade plastics, spring steel in the headband, and a robust locking cable system.

Can I use the NTH-100 with my smartphone?

Yes, thanks to their 32 Ohm impedance and included 3.5mm adapter, you can easily use the NTH-100 with most smartphones and other portable devices.

What is the purpose of the COLOR ID rings included with the NTH-100?

The COLOR ID rings are included to allow users to color-code their headphone cables, which is useful for identifying individual pairs in a multi-user studio or for personal organization.

How do the NTH-100’s compare to the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro for mixing?

The NTH-100 generally offers a more neutral and less fatiguing sound profile for mixing, while the DT 770 Pro has a brighter treble and more pronounced bass, which can be less ideal for critical balancing. Hisense 100L5G Cine100A Review

Are the Rode NTH-100 headphones good for noise isolation?

Yes, as closed-back headphones, the Rode NTH-100 provides good passive noise isolation, which helps to block out external distractions and prevent sound leakage.

What kind of material are the earcups made of?

The earcups and headband of the Rode NTH-100 are made with Alcantara fabric over memory foam with CoolTech™ gel for superior comfort and breathability.

What is the warranty like for Rode NTH-100 headphones?

Rode typically offers a generous warranty, often extendable via online registration. It’s always best to check the official Rode website for the specific warranty terms in your region.

Are the NTH-100 headphones suitable for professional studio environments?

Yes, the NTH-100 headphones are highly suitable for professional studio environments due to their accurate sound, comfort, and robust build.

Do the NTH-100 headphones require an amplifier?

No, the NTH-100 headphones have a low impedance 32 Ohms, meaning they do not strictly require a dedicated amplifier and can be driven well by most standard audio interfaces, laptops, and mobile devices.

How do the NTH-100 headphones compare to the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x in terms of sound?

The NTH-100 offers a more neutral and flat sound profile, ideal for critical mixing, whereas the ATH-M50x has a more “V-shaped” sound with emphasized bass and treble, making it more consumer-friendly but less accurate for professional mixing.

Can the NTH-100 headphones be used for field recording?

Yes, their robust build, good passive noise isolation, and comfort make them suitable for field recording where durable and reliable monitoring is needed.

Is the NTH-100 a good choice for someone new to audio production?

Yes, the NTH-100 is an excellent choice for someone new to audio production because its neutral sound helps in developing critical listening skills without being misled by coloration.

Are the NTH-100 headphones foldable for portability?

No, the Rode NTH-100 headphones feature a non-foldable design, which contributes to their durability and stable fit, but means they take up more space in a bag.

What type of drivers do the Rode NTH-100 headphones use?

The Rode NTH-100 headphones use custom-matched 40mm dynamic drivers designed for accurate sound reproduction. Victrola Revolution Go Review

Is the cable included with the NTH-100 straight or coiled?

The NTH-100 comes with a straight 2.4m 7’10” cable.

Does the NTH-100 have good passive noise isolation?

Yes, thanks to their closed-back design and well-sealed earcups, the NTH-100 offers effective passive noise isolation.

Can I wear glasses comfortably with the NTH-100 headphones?

Yes, many users report that the NTH-100 headphones are comfortable to wear with glasses, as the soft Alcantara and memory foam earcups conform well without creating pressure points.

Are the NTH-100 headphones good for discerning podcast listeners who aren’t audio professionals?

Yes, if you appreciate accurate, detailed, and uncolored sound and desire exceptional comfort for long listening sessions, the NTH-100 headphones are an excellent choice for discerning podcast listeners.