Yeah because it's basically more transparent and clear and from there I can add some punch if I want in the middle/ bass range. Instead the Rode is a little bit more dark and I don't like that. Thanks!!!!
HAHAHA, that's true! It's because it's a basement made for storage. I shared it with multiple people and each chicken box has its own apartment in the building.
The fact that you're doing a blind test with both mics recording the same take on different tracks was almost perfect. You earned a sub and a like for the methodology (and your singing).
I found the Aston Origin to be a little bit more "airy" (which I like). pretty close though. If I were shopping for this particular mic and the shop only had one, not the other, I wouldn't feel cheated buying either. I slightly preffered the Aston, though.
I prefer the Rode in this example. I think the Aston sounds too bright. However, this is a matter of taste. I'm sure each microphone has a practical application.
Gonna go with the Aston Origin on this one! It was super close, but the recordings with the Aston had a bit more of a bodied sound to them in my opinion!
I heard it blindly and prefer the 1st = RODE NT1A. That's Wonderfull you have just reinforced me in my choice cause i have just select it and bought it yersterday. Now i'm longing to receive it. Thanks for your video
Wow aston Origin is amazing, the 'body is in 200-300hZ range so just boost it in the mix, but it' s a little bit harsh after 5k, rode sounds balanced out of the box, it's just eq thing
Jake Borg Rode is warmer and impressive. Aston is also very good but the highs of the Aston are a bit too much. On the high notes it’s exploding more than it’s necessary. So, Rode will continue it’s championship on the budget condenser mics category. Thanks for the review it was really helpful saved me from buying the Aston 😊 Sorry Aston 🤷🏻♂️
Fiorella Gentile Hi Fiorella, what do you think about NT2 vintage when you compared it with NT1, NT1A or NT2A? Which one is your favorite between those four microphones? I have a RØDE NT2 Vintage that’s why I’ve asked this question.
@@baris.keskin The NT2 vintage is more "natural". The NT1-A is a little punchier and virtually hiss free but you can mitigate that by placing the nt1a at the right distance for your voice . I think your's the best. Don't sell It ;-)
NT1: Mic 1 Cleaner, brighter & yet smoother. I thought it was the Aston. Good test that just saved me buying an Aston.. It sounded better to me in all ranges.
Thank you so much for this test! Your method is fantastic. I am pretty familiar with the Rode NT1A but was recommended to check out the Aston Origin so this is incredibly helpful for me. Thank you!
I guessed which was which correctly because I knew the Aston sound is very clean rather than coloured as I am looking to buy one.... however this video has me now considering the Rode as I really liked the tone offered in this comparison. Excellent video and very well made.
This is the best comparison i have ever seen by far and i mean it ! Nice. Thank you. In my opinion the Atson Origin got a slighty better Low and High Voice sounding and the Rode NT1A got the better sounding at mid voice
Best review on these two so far. Really helps to visually see the mic’s responses and to hear different songs with no editing to the sound. Thank you! The origin is definitely better for my voice and I think it will also push me to become a stronger vocalist.
Just found this comparison test, as just last week I was doing a comparison in a music store of a variety of mics ranging from around $200 - $400 US. This included Blue, AKG, Sennheiser, Aston, and the Rode NT-1 microphones. With my comparison test I came down to the Rode NT-1 and the Aston Origin as the final contenders. I would note that the Aston Spirit is also a great sounding mic but more in the higher cost range (around $400 plus). For my voice I really appreciated the low noise floor of the Rode, but I preferred the overall sonic palette of the Aston Origin. It has more depth, texture, clarity, and presence in my opinion. But the "correct" choice is the right one for your voice individually. Both are great mics. The Blues were excellent as well. Nice job.
At first I thought the NT1A was the better one because it seems to have more warmth, but when I listened to the high end vocals I decided on the Aston Origin. The Aston Origin seems to have a lot more space for the high frequencies, it feels more alive. It's a tough one.
thats somehow true, however, those highs are sharper and not ideal for vocals, the Aston works perfect with string instruments such as guitar, violin, cello... for vocals, the NT1a is warmer and ideal for vocals
I just bought that Aston yesterday. The guy at my local store recommended it as per my specifications and budget. They know me from many years ago, so I trust them. Beyond that, I stop to see a review and ended out watching an excellent singer. Man you have an Melodyne built up in your brain. Congrats! I'm happy with the Aston, though. I tested last nigh and whatever the comparison results are, that's the one I owe now. :)
Bought an Aston Origin...sold my NT1-A later that week. Haha. If you miss the Brightness of the NT1-A just add a little 14KhZ to the Aston and it will sound incredible.
@@ohmyside9361 The Aston sounds more detailed to me with less hassle of Sibilance and Mouth Noise compared to the Rode NT1-A. I loooove the Rode NT1 but the NT1-A's chassis creates really harsh frequencies for S sounds and seems to be a magnet for clicks and harsh frequencies around 4Khz. I often go back and forth between the Aston and the NT1 for my Voice Over clients. The Aston is for "Natural" sounding gigs and the NT1 is for "Masculine/Deep Voice" gigs.
@@Crowbar11115 I have a deep voice and I got an origin. Aston microphone I love it I also am getting a at4050 tomorrow gonna try it out and compare those and my st66 tube as well as the st159 on all polar patterns
#2. Hands down. I kept being blown away with how clear the mid-range was. That Aston sounds so good to me! I generally love flat frequency response microphones. Because it makes them so much more useful on more than just vocal recording. I will end up owning both NT1-A and the Aston but the Aston first. I like both of these microphones a lot though.
First of all: please accept sincere compliments for this video, one of the best made amongst the many I have seen, so good job! For the comparison matter, I thought the #1 was the Origin, as I was noticing more artefact clarity in the #2 so I thoght it was the Rode, while the #1 I felt more Full, so I prefered it.
Thanks for great comparison! I like the way Aston Origin sounds in high tone(3rd song in this video) which is very characteristic. but I prefer NT1 in other parts, but couldn't here much deference. It's envious that you have a vocal booth because I have to record my vocal in my rented one room which causes acoustic problems...😋
Yup , I would say Rode was the best for me. Less sibilant than #2, and overall a better tone. It was a very good video actually mate. You are clearly in the early stages of a long youtube career! Good skills and good content.
Good test mate well done, I was surprised, I picked Mic 1 as having better low frequency response and thought it would be the Aston so was surprised it was the Rode, I think I preferred the slightly warmer Mic 1, but of course it's always good to hear it in a mix as well, I never pick an 87 out when raw but it often sounds best in a mix.. Cheers!
I thought mic 1 was going to be the Astin for sure. It just sounded a bit fuller. Was really surprised to find out it was the Rode! Overall both mics sounded great though
This test was top notch. These mics are so close that I don't see the need to spend the extra cash on the Aston. I'm curious what they sound like with acoustic guitar.
Aston hands down I own both and a at4050 and a few others baby bottle ..st66 tube...st159 ...I love the st159 over manyyyyyy mics it has a awesome floor and a awesome neutral but warmth of natural that is rare Imo .. I used a Neumann 49 and like it but not as much as I like the origin or at4050 weirdly??!? Anyways cheers and thx how u like a tlm107 ? Any chance you know about the 107 or any experience I'm debating on getting it ?!
GREAT comparison. You've obviously been frustrated by all the same things that frustrate me in almost all the mic comparisons on RUclips. Comparison clips WAY too short usually. Or they compare apples to oranges or they compare apples take 1 to apples take 2. Or their singing is off-putting and/or idiosyncratic. You have solved all those problems and provided everything I could want in a mic comparison. THANKS!!! About the microphones themselves, I did hear a pretty decent comparison of the NT1a and the NT1 and preferred the NT1. I was expecting to prefer the Aston in this one. However, I had to listen to many of the samples several times to make sure I could hear a real difference. Eyes closed I couldn't tell where you were switching from one to the other. Eyes open, my instant reaction initially was to prefer the NT1a but as we moved from the lower to the higher samples I began to register that the Aston had a noticeably cleaner sound which I gradually began to like better. But to my ear they are surprisingly close for all three songs.
Thank you very much! You are correct in your analysis! It surprised me to how close they were, I had the same troubles as you when it came to knowing when the switch happened even though I made the video! :P
Great job with this comparison. I was able to pick them apart, only because I listened to them on another video before this. The Rode has a bit more body to me. But in the 2nd song I couldn't tell them apart at all. Both are quality for sure.
On tight budget. KNEAT KING BEE is the best CM. It costs about 130 bucks. It is better than AT2020. If the budget is even more tight go for Behringer C1. Buy a low budget MIC or a high budget mic. Pl. don't spend money for mid budget mic.
The aston was more open, more detailed, a touch brighter but overall more representative of the full expanse of the spectrum. Often switching from mic 1 to mic 2 was like lifting a mask off a duller sound. I was not particularly concerned with what mic I was specifically listening to, but what was most pleasing.
Thanks for the vid! Was looking for a vocal test for the røde nt1 and i loved the 1e better so he survived the test ;p. Sounds like a Nice mic! Im gonna buy it^^
NT1 seems to "colour" more the sound, It ends up more earfriendly but I always avoid this kind of gear though. I stick to the flattest responses possible, at any gear - particularly mics and preamps. Wanna see what a good mic is? Just look at their frequency response. (The more even the best IMHO...)
I might be wrong and stupid, but could you bring any better argument? At the end it depends on what you prefer. Do you stick to gear that collour your signal source? Go ahead. I prefer those which don't. And if you reseach a little you'll find out that this is what most hi-end producers strive for.
@@rafaelmarmusic i actually hear a distinct difference between the origin and rode. I sing generally in a mellow, understated way and my voice naturally has strong resonance & brightness. The rode captures the nuances of detail without this chalky high mid boost. It provides a darker, flatter sound which is better as an all-purpose mic. The nice part of the origin is the “crispness” and pop-filter like shield on the exterior but ultimately i feel it ever-so-slightly distorts my voice. Rode hands down imo
you have a great recording voice. i prefer the rode. i actually own an aston origin. im listening on good monitor speakers also. the rode sounds a bit thicker in the low mids. sounds better in isolation. maybe the origin would fit better into a mix... however its hard to know if the differences are due to a mic being slight off axis etc. i think they are close enough soundwise to each other that it wouldnt make much of a difference when put into a mix. thanks for video.
txs. SUrprised how good the Rode sounded without pop filter. But well you were 18 cm away. I wonder which would be preferable in our case. Its a semi treated room but windows just beside were we sing. SO at first I figured the Aston Spirit/or Origin would be preferable. But I also considered the ROde Nt1 because it is flatter than the Rode Nt1 a. But I guess these that you compare are more similar. WOUld you suggest the Aston Spirit over the Origin and the Aston over the Rode Nt1 if not having a completely soundtreated room plus deflections from windows etc? Of course there is the Halo which one could actually buy for the Rode Nt1/Nt1a. I am guessing that since there is some acoustics then a more flat curve would be preferable. I think that an inflated high or low mostly serves when a lot of sound is absorbed due to the surroundings (the v shape). COrrect me if wrong. Just something I recalled. Maybe an unfair question since you did not compare those. So would you prefer the Origin for a not so sound treated room although with some absorption pictures and furniture, sofa, but as mentioned the windows just beside? Singing parallel to those, not directly into them. I like the sound of the Aston AND the Rode. THey are so similar. THe only way I was capable of guessing which was which (into song 2) was that I found the bottom of the 1 mic more bassy and I remembered that there is a roll of in the bass with the Aston Spirit (so perhaps also the Origin) haha. My deduction. Txs for the video.
From pure instinct I could tell Rode was #1 and Origin was #2. On my ears the Rode sounds fuller, but Origin sounded crisper on the higher end (not too bright either). What I'm struggling with is how everyone's hearing is so different in conjunction to what each mic can and can't do well. Rode is considered a 'starter' mic, but it still sounds pretty good to me. It feels like it has more presence.
I totally agree! There's a HUGE difference in opinion on which microphone is better. Some people claim the RODE has better presence, others say Aston. I'm no sure who's wrong or right. But I was surprised when I made the test of how equal they sounded raw. Thank you for your comment!
I have listening a lot if comparison agenst Rode NT1 and NT1A and it's big difference for me. I was surprised that it was the same with the Aston origin vs Rode NT1A (NT1-A losing). It would be really fun to hear the Rode NT1 vs Aston Origin, I think it would be almost a dead even race.
I own both the nt1 and the origin and imo, the Aston blows the rode out of the water. Much wider frequency band and suitable for more voices. The rode is a good sounding mix but not for every voice. I’ve yet to hear a voice on the Aston I dislike.
Hey Jake! Great video, very comprehensive and useful... I knew I wanted one of these mics so to find a side by side comparison has really helped me decide. I'm going with the Rode!
Throughout I tended to prefer the mic 1 sound for musicality (especially when you did highs)and natural warm sound and I'm glad it's the one I just bought! haha The whole time I was like please let the one I like best be the rode! XD The other is obviously also good but just a bit more tight and unexciting. Not quite as natural and pleasing
First of all, really great job on this video... I appreciate the work you put into it. (As a side note, your basement looks like a place one would find a serial killer hanging out... not sure I could be creative down there...) I actually tried these two mics myself today at a music store with headphones -- a highly unscientific environment, but I loved the way the Origin sounded on my voice. However, I think it comes in a distant second place here -- too much high-mid kind of nasally stuff going on with your singing. The Origin kind of worked as an effect on "Kiss" -- had an ultra-tubey, kind of compressed sound to it that was a fine alternative to the NT-1A for that song for more color. I could tell right away which mic was which just from my own shootout today, because the NT1A sounded brighter and more detailed in the hi end, at the cost of more sibilance. I was kind of hoping the Origin would blow it away because I liked it better today on my voice... and maybe it IS better on my voice, but your clips here scare me a little as I don't care for that nasally upper-mid push whatsoever. Thanks again for the work. edit: FYI I was listening on my AT M70x headphones which are very bright and very detailed in the treble; I often mix with them so I'm accustomed to that sound.
Thank you! Yeah, my basement is super creepy. I've been down there so much now that I've gotten used to it though :D You have interesting thoughts about the mics, I appreciate you took the time to write them down!
The NT1A is a little darker, a little warmer. I've been using one for years and it definitely softens any harsh or crisp upper frequencies. I actually have two, and I use them both all the time. If you want a more mellow, less bright vocal, the NT1A is a brilliant mic for the price. I wish the Aston was able to make me part with some $$ but I just don't hear anything I need in this comparison.
@@rizzoprod_ I use both in my home studio. I've had a pair of NT1s for years and they're my go-to mics for guitar and vocals. But I'd recommend the Aston as well. Both good mics.
They aren't a million miles apart, but i think where you really notice the differences of sounds is when you treat them and stick them in a mix, like i bought a new fender p bass, didn't sound crazily;ly different to my other bass, but once in a mix it seemed to respond to plugins a lot nicer and popped out of the mix more, i wonder if it is the same for mics? Might be something to look into. Anyways great video, I'm very tempted to get the origin, both sounded great, though I did notice a weird resonance in your voice, may be worth doing some subtractive eq as it was across both mics. CANT WAIT FOR MORE VIDEOS DUDE xxx
Cheers! Yes, one of them sits WAY nicer in the mix so I really agree with what you are saying. Yes, my voice seem to resonate extremely around 3.8-4khz, you probably have great ears since you noticed ;)
OK, Jake, I don't do studio vocal recording so I don't give a damn about the mics. LOL But, wow, I appreciate your voice even more now. Dude, seriously. Hearing your voice "naked" was wonderful. Particularly the nuances - like in the word "guarantee" in the Gershwin; loved that. When I commented on We Are Onto Something, I commented that I liked your vocal control. Holy cow, make that X 10! I'm just a old music nerd, not even close to a pro, but if I may be so bold, I would have liked to hear just a little more articulation of the consonants - just a bit. I noted the same on We Are Onto Something. Maybe that's the style of the day; or your style. Maybe it's a Swedish/English thing, however your speaking english is great. (Just to be clear - so is your singing english - this is merely a picky point.) It's probably just my "old school" ear. Just thought I'd mention it and I sure hope you're not annoyed. I'm a definite fan and a subscriber, who comments on YT videos.
Thank you! Very kind of of you, I still hear a lot of mistakes though! Thank you also for your feedback, I will try to articulate a bit more. I really like it when singers do that, so thank you for pointing it out!!
Interesting you heard it that way! I can assure you that the balance of volume was more or less the exact same. Spent a lot of time just making sure that volume was precisely the same. Hope you'll find the mic that you are looking for! All the best!
@@JakeBorg Well I am listening on a smaller pairer of speakers. Its subjective for sure, and in my earrs the I was hoping to find a difference, where if I hadn't been so critical, I may never have noticed. The Orgin seemed more accurate, by that I mean the Rode sounded darker (that may be good) but it seemed like it had been brioken down and reassembled into bits and bites that ddn't tell as accurate story. Overthink much? thank you for your response and of course the help in my buying decicion.
The idea of capturing a recoding is to get a crisp clear recording, in my opinion its not the rode nt1a raw sounds funky and flat #2 definitely allows you to capture his vocals smooth the mixing and mastering will be able to do so much with a vocal thats clearer that warmer when it come to specific things, but there both definitely great mics but Aston definitely takes the cake
Writing as I hear: first song Aston is mic 2; song 2 Aston is mic 1; third song Aston is mic 2 (last was hardest to tell, if right). Post answer given: my mistake as I thought the mics might be switched between songs. Just shows that the low-tone range makes for a clearer distinction. I could tell the Rode was the first because the Aston adds a false raspy tone and which is why I wouldn't use it for vocals (rapping).
It’s down to personal taste I guess but the Rode seemed to shine in the first song as there were lower frequencies going on but then the next 2 songs seemed to benefit from an more pronounced music and top from the Aston. It seemed to have a more “airy” feel to it which I liked. I’ve now bought an Aston Origin. 👍🏻
Thank you for demo. So, I own an NT1a, doesn't suit my voice, struggle with it, though I appreciate a trained voice will sound better, yours sounded good on both. I assume while I listen mic 2 is the nt1 as I notice the air on it creeping in. Not so noticeable now, but one you add some compression and eq, makes my voice very thin. Lets see what the results are.... okay wow, that shocked me, I preferred tone on mic 1, which probably means Aston is not suited to me either. Great demo though. Keep up the good work man.
Looking to get a decent mic in this price range. The Rode is cheaper, I'd go with that based on these clips. The Aston sounds a little more forward and brighter. The Rode a little smoother and more balanced. I think I'm going to go with the Rode for sure. Looking for an affordable microphone to compliment my darker sounding AT4047.
Aston on all three songs. The difference is very slight to my ear though, and I'm not sure I would hear the difference in the mix. Overall great demo, btw. Your singing is extremely good.
@@JakeBorg thank you for a reply. I think about buying an Aston, and your comparison helped a lot. Probably one small question: do you find the built-in pop-filter satifactory, or does it still require an external pop-filter? Thanks!
IS ASTON ORIGIN THE BEST? LIKE THIS COMMENT!
Yeah because it's basically more transparent and clear and from there I can add some punch if I want in the middle/ bass range. Instead the Rode is a little bit more dark and I don't like that. Thanks!!!!
I didn't like the 's' in NT1. It sssounded too ssspitty. :)
@ShreddedBale thats why you use a pop shield and pre process the vocals to get rid of sibilance but im hearing the aston as more sibilant
The Rode gives a truer sound.
Why does his basement look like a prison for chickens?
HAHAHA, that's true! It's because it's a basement made for storage. I shared it with multiple people and each chicken box has its own apartment in the building.
hahahahahahahaha
Haaahahah
It looks epic
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤦♂️
The fact that you're doing a blind test with both mics recording the same take on different tracks was almost perfect. You earned a sub and a like for the methodology (and your singing).
Thank you a lot for the kind words!!
I found the Aston Origin to be a little bit more "airy" (which I like). pretty close though. If I were shopping for this particular mic and the shop only had one, not the other, I wouldn't feel cheated buying either. I slightly preffered the Aston, though.
This is how tests should be done, thank you!
I prefer the Rode in this example. I think the Aston sounds too bright. However, this is a matter of taste. I'm sure each microphone has a practical application.
Best methodology for mic comparison i have ever seen on youtube. Thanks for doing this!
Thank you!
I wish all audio gear comparison videos were as good as yours. Great job, thanks
Thank you!!
The Aston sounded harsher to my ears on the high end for sure, thankyou for the thorough review great method!
agreed
Gonna go with the Aston Origin on this one! It was super close, but the recordings with the Aston had a bit more of a bodied sound to them in my opinion!
Yes, they were way more similar than I expected! :)
I heard it blindly and prefer the 1st = RODE NT1A. That's Wonderfull you have just reinforced me in my choice cause i have just select it and bought it yersterday. Now i'm longing to receive it. Thanks for your video
Hope for the best with your new microphone!
This is absolutely perfect! Thank you SO much @Jake Borg!! Literally the two microphones I'm questioning to get!
No problem! :)
Regardless which one is better, I do thank you for the effort invested in this comparison. You are perfect man!!
the most reliable review I have ever seen :) big up
Thank you! Very kind!
Wow aston Origin is amazing, the 'body is in 200-300hZ range so just boost it in the mix, but it' s a little bit harsh after 5k, rode sounds balanced out of the box, it's just eq thing
IS RØDE NT1-A THE BEST? LIKE THIS COMMENT!
Jake Borg Rode is warmer and impressive. Aston is also very good but the highs of the Aston are a bit too much. On the high notes it’s exploding more than it’s necessary. So, Rode will continue it’s championship on the budget condenser mics category. Thanks for the review it was really helpful saved me from buying the Aston 😊 Sorry Aston 🤷🏻♂️
Fiorella Gentile Hi Fiorella, what do you think about NT2 vintage when you compared it with NT1, NT1A or NT2A? Which one is your favorite between those four microphones? I have a RØDE NT2 Vintage that’s why I’ve asked this question.
@@baris.keskin The NT2 vintage is more "natural". The NT1-A is a little punchier and virtually hiss free but you can mitigate that by placing the nt1a at the right distance for your voice . I think your's the best. Don't sell It ;-)
I prefer the NT1-A over the NT1, though. Didn't test the NT2-A
Fiorella Gentile Thank you for your reply:)
NT1: Mic 1 Cleaner, brighter & yet smoother. I thought it was the Aston. Good test that just saved me buying an Aston.. It sounded better to me in all ranges.
Same here
agreed. i was disconcerted.
I thought the Rode was Cleaner and brighter specifically as well; glad I wasn't the only one
Yeah but the Aston Spirit is better than the Rode NT1a, but the Origin is a bit harsh sounding
I hope you understood that there are two. The nt1 and nt1-a
Thank you so much for this test! Your method is fantastic. I am pretty familiar with the Rode NT1A but was recommended to check out the Aston Origin so this is incredibly helpful for me. Thank you!
A great comparison man, tnx. Excellent technique in your voice. I prefer the Aston.
Good luck.
Thank you! :)
I guessed which was which correctly because I knew the Aston sound is very clean rather than coloured as I am looking to buy one.... however this video has me now considering the Rode as I really liked the tone offered in this comparison. Excellent video and very well made.
This is the best comparison i have ever seen by far and i mean it ! Nice. Thank you. In my opinion the Atson Origin got a slighty better Low and High Voice sounding and the Rode NT1A got the better sounding at mid voice
I Need to add that the difference ist very very low so i will safe the Money and go for the Rode :) Go on with your channel mate
@@Fegefeuerferkel Thank you! Yes, they are surprisingly even!
Best review on these two so far. Really helps to visually see the mic’s responses and to hear different songs with no editing to the sound. Thank you! The origin is definitely better for my voice and I think it will also push me to become a stronger vocalist.
Thank you and good luck!
I have the Rode and I love it, but here I thought it was a bit muddy compared to the Aston, especially in the low-mids.
This is the best comparison video I've ever seen, it actually helped alot
Just found this comparison test, as just last week I was doing a comparison in a music store of a variety of mics ranging from around $200 - $400 US. This included Blue, AKG, Sennheiser, Aston, and the Rode NT-1 microphones. With my comparison test I came down to the Rode NT-1 and the Aston Origin as the final contenders. I would note that the Aston Spirit is also a great sounding mic but more in the higher cost range (around $400 plus). For my voice I really appreciated the low noise floor of the Rode, but I preferred the overall sonic palette of the Aston Origin. It has more depth, texture, clarity, and presence in my opinion. But the "correct" choice is the right one for your voice individually. Both are great mics. The Blues were excellent as well. Nice job.
Interesting! I agree with the noise floor, it's a bit under-appreciated in mics. Thank you for your comment!
At first I thought the NT1A was the better one because it seems to have more warmth, but when I listened to the high end vocals I decided on the Aston Origin. The Aston Origin seems to have a lot more space for the high frequencies, it feels more alive. It's a tough one.
thats somehow true, however, those highs are sharper and not ideal for vocals, the Aston works perfect with string instruments such as guitar, violin, cello... for vocals, the NT1a is warmer and ideal for vocals
@@SalahZhouri I ended up getting the NT1a anyway because I've owned it before and know it well. It never disappoints.
me too, i felt more detail in the origin during the high vocals. tough one
I prefer the Aston for clarity and roundness, but those who want a rougher sound may choose the NT1. They are very close anyway.
Wow! I have the Rode and I thought for sure it was #2 because it sounded more brittle. Guess the NTa1 stays my favourite mic!
I have an Origin and I love it. Makes my voice sound silky smooth.
Suuuuuuper helpful, well done review. Thanks mate! Leanng towards the Aston.
Really well worked review. You're really impressive and helpful. Thank you!
Great comparison. Thank you very much for this great work !!!
Thank you for the kind words!!
Very good comparison! really appreciate the editing for the benefit of the listener, thank you!
Best test I’ve seen! Excellent! Thanks so much!
I just bought that Aston yesterday. The guy at my local store recommended it as per my specifications and budget. They know me from many years ago, so I trust them. Beyond that, I stop to see a review and ended out watching an excellent singer. Man you have an Melodyne built up in your brain. Congrats! I'm happy with the Aston, though. I tested last nigh and whatever the comparison results are, that's the one I owe now. :)
Thanks for sharing! I got some notes a bit out of pitch but thank you very much for the warm comment!
Dope comparison thanks so much man
Anytime!
Bought an Aston Origin...sold my NT1-A later that week. Haha. If you miss the Brightness of the NT1-A just add a little 14KhZ to the Aston and it will sound incredible.
why did you end up sticking with the Aston?
@@ohmyside9361 The Aston sounds more detailed to me with less hassle of Sibilance and Mouth Noise compared to the Rode NT1-A.
I loooove the Rode NT1 but the NT1-A's chassis creates really harsh frequencies for S sounds and seems to be a magnet for clicks and harsh frequencies around 4Khz.
I often go back and forth between the Aston and the NT1 for my Voice Over clients. The Aston is for "Natural" sounding gigs and the NT1 is for "Masculine/Deep Voice" gigs.
@@Crowbar11115 I have a deep voice and I got an origin. Aston microphone I love it I also am getting a at4050 tomorrow gonna try it out and compare those and my st66 tube as well as the st159 on all polar patterns
#2. Hands down. I kept being blown away with how clear the mid-range was. That Aston sounds so good to me! I generally love flat frequency response microphones. Because it makes them so much more useful on more than just vocal recording. I will end up owning both NT1-A and the Aston but the Aston first. I like both of these microphones a lot though.
Let loose the chickens-The Aston got my quack
the best comparison of all time
Thanks man
Thank you very much!!
Really nice comparson vid, well done!
Hey Jake, next video nt1a vs Aston Spirit? Thank you for this accurate comparison!
First of all: please accept sincere compliments for this video, one of the best made amongst the many I have seen, so good job! For the comparison matter, I thought the #1 was the Origin, as I was noticing more artefact clarity in the #2 so I thoght it was the Rode, while the #1 I felt more Full, so I prefered it.
Thank you very much!
This is exactly what I needed to make my decision! Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video.
Thank you!
The Aston Origin was definitely more clear.
That wasn't "clear", those highs sound so cheap i was sure it's the NT1A. Turns out the Origin has even worse and cheaper sounding highs.
@@OhItsNoctu agreed!
Lol...
@@OhItsNoctu Totally agree, the highs are brighter and sharper and thats not ideal for condensers
Thanks for great comparison! I like the way Aston Origin sounds in high tone(3rd song in this video) which is very characteristic. but I prefer NT1 in other parts, but couldn't here much deference. It's envious that you have a vocal booth because I have to record my vocal in my rented one room which causes acoustic problems...😋
Good video man, thank you!
Number 1 was my favourite. A lovely top end with good deep low-end. Not sure which one it is. I’ve actually got the NT1a and NT1!
Hola, Bro, cuál prefieres el rode nt1a o el rode nt1? Es que voy a comprar uno de los dos
Yup , I would say Rode was the best for me. Less sibilant than #2, and overall a better tone. It was a very good video actually mate. You are clearly in the early stages of a long youtube career! Good skills and good content.
Thank you very much! Really nice of you to comment!
Good test mate well done, I was surprised, I picked Mic 1 as having better low frequency response and thought it would be the Aston so was surprised it was the Rode, I think I preferred the slightly warmer Mic 1, but of course it's always good to hear it in a mix as well, I never pick an 87 out when raw but it often sounds best in a mix.. Cheers!
repmusic Thank you!
this is a reaaaally well made video 😍
I thought mic 1 was going to be the Astin for sure. It just sounded a bit fuller. Was really surprised to find out it was the Rode! Overall both mics sounded great though
Thank you for your comment!
same, nt1-a all day long
This test was top notch. These mics are so close that I don't see the need to spend the extra cash on the Aston. I'm curious what they sound like with acoustic guitar.
Thank you!
For your voice, the Rode NT1/a. You can hear with the Aston there is a hole in the mid-range somewhere.
Great comparison 👌
Really nice/emotive voice.
Aston hands down I own both and a at4050 and a few others baby bottle ..st66 tube...st159 ...I love the st159 over manyyyyyy mics it has a awesome floor and a awesome neutral but warmth of natural that is rare Imo .. I used a Neumann 49 and like it but not as much as I like the origin or at4050 weirdly??!? Anyways cheers and thx how u like a tlm107 ? Any chance you know about the 107 or any experience I'm debating on getting it ?!
Got no experience with the TLM107 unfortunately :/
@@JakeBorg well I may pull the trigger on buying it u should do a review?
GREAT comparison. You've obviously been frustrated by all the same things that frustrate me in almost all the mic comparisons on RUclips. Comparison clips WAY too short usually. Or they compare apples to oranges or they compare apples take 1 to apples take 2. Or their singing is off-putting and/or idiosyncratic. You have solved all those problems and provided everything I could want in a mic comparison. THANKS!!! About the microphones themselves, I did hear a pretty decent comparison of the NT1a and the NT1 and preferred the NT1. I was expecting to prefer the Aston in this one. However, I had to listen to many of the samples several times to make sure I could hear a real difference. Eyes closed I couldn't tell where you were switching from one to the other. Eyes open, my instant reaction initially was to prefer the NT1a but as we moved from the lower to the higher samples I began to register that the Aston had a noticeably cleaner sound which I gradually began to like better. But to my ear they are surprisingly close for all three songs.
Thank you very much! You are correct in your analysis! It surprised me to how close they were, I had the same troubles as you when it came to knowing when the switch happened even though I made the video! :P
Great job with this comparison. I was able to pick them apart, only because I listened to them on another video before this. The Rode has a bit more body to me. But in the 2nd song I couldn't tell them apart at all. Both are quality for sure.
Thank you!
Origin brings out more character in your voice. From a mixing perspective, the origin would be easier to work with. Both are great though.
Thanks for your video! I think the Aston Origin sounded smoother and better. I am researching which mic to get on a tight budget
On tight budget. KNEAT KING BEE is the best CM. It costs about 130 bucks. It is better than AT2020. If the budget is even more tight go for Behringer C1. Buy a low budget MIC or a high budget mic. Pl. don't spend money for mid budget mic.
Great review, well done!
The aston was more open, more detailed, a touch brighter but overall more representative of the full expanse of the spectrum. Often switching from mic 1 to mic 2 was like lifting a mask off a duller sound. I was not particularly concerned with what mic I was specifically listening to, but what was most pleasing.
This was really helpful.
Thanks for the vid! Was looking for a vocal test for the røde nt1 and i loved the 1e better so he survived the test ;p. Sounds like a Nice mic! Im gonna buy it^^
Go for it! ;)
NT1 seems to "colour" more the sound, It ends up more earfriendly but I always avoid this kind of gear though. I stick to the flattest responses possible, at any gear - particularly mics and preamps. Wanna see what a good mic is? Just look at their frequency response. (The more even the best IMHO...)
Thank you for your comment!!
You are so wrong. Do some research, before you comment something stupid like that again...
I might be wrong and stupid, but could you bring any better argument? At the end it depends on what you prefer. Do you stick to gear that collour your signal source? Go ahead. I prefer those which don't. And if you reseach a little you'll find out that this is what most hi-end producers strive for.
@@drfleka damn
@@rafaelmarmusic i actually hear a distinct difference between the origin and rode. I sing generally in a mellow, understated way and my voice naturally has strong resonance & brightness. The rode captures the nuances of detail without this chalky high mid boost. It provides a darker, flatter sound which is better as an all-purpose mic. The nice part of the origin is the “crispness” and pop-filter like shield on the exterior but ultimately i feel it ever-so-slightly distorts my voice. Rode hands down imo
Great comparison!
Great video man!!! Thanks a lot
BTW I think the Aston Spirit won this but to be fair I think the better comparison would be at this point the Aston spirit vs the rode nt-2a
you have a great recording voice. i prefer the rode. i actually own an aston origin. im listening on good monitor speakers also. the rode sounds a bit thicker in the low mids. sounds better in isolation. maybe the origin would fit better into a mix... however its hard to know if the differences are due to a mic being slight off axis etc. i think they are close enough soundwise to each other that it wouldnt make much of a difference when put into a mix. thanks for video.
Thank you for your comment!!
Very helpful 👍 thank you!
Fabulous . I liked the first one.
txs. SUrprised how good the Rode sounded without pop filter. But well you were 18 cm away. I wonder which would be preferable in our case. Its a semi treated room but windows just beside were we sing. SO at first I figured the Aston Spirit/or Origin would be preferable. But I also considered the ROde Nt1 because it is flatter than the Rode Nt1 a. But I guess these that you compare are more similar.
WOUld you suggest the Aston Spirit over the Origin and the Aston over the Rode Nt1 if not having a completely soundtreated room plus deflections from windows etc? Of course there is the Halo which one could actually buy for the Rode Nt1/Nt1a. I am guessing that since there is some acoustics then a more flat curve would be preferable. I think that an inflated high or low mostly serves when a lot of sound is absorbed due to the surroundings (the v shape). COrrect me if wrong. Just something I recalled.
Maybe an unfair question since you did not compare those. So would you prefer the Origin for a not so sound treated room although with some absorption pictures and furniture, sofa, but as mentioned the windows just beside? Singing parallel to those, not directly into them.
I like the sound of the Aston AND the Rode. THey are so similar. THe only way I was capable of guessing which was which (into song 2) was that I found the bottom of the 1 mic more bassy and I remembered that there is a roll of in the bass with the Aston Spirit (so perhaps also the Origin) haha. My deduction.
Txs for the video.
From pure instinct I could tell Rode was #1 and Origin was #2. On my ears the Rode sounds fuller, but Origin sounded crisper on the higher end (not too bright either). What I'm struggling with is how everyone's hearing is so different in conjunction to what each mic can and can't do well. Rode is considered a 'starter' mic, but it still sounds pretty good to me. It feels like it has more presence.
I totally agree! There's a HUGE difference in opinion on which microphone is better. Some people claim the RODE has better presence, others say Aston. I'm no sure who's wrong or right. But I was surprised when I made the test of how equal they sounded raw. Thank you for your comment!
Amazingly helpful video! subscribed!!!!
I have listening a lot if comparison agenst Rode NT1 and NT1A and it's big difference for me.
I was surprised that it was the same with the Aston origin vs Rode NT1A (NT1-A losing).
It would be really fun to hear the Rode NT1 vs Aston Origin, I think it would be almost a dead even race.
Yes, that would be a fun comparison!
I own both the nt1 and the origin and imo, the Aston blows the rode out of the water. Much wider frequency band and suitable for more voices. The rode is a good sounding mix but not for every voice. I’ve yet to hear a voice on the Aston I dislike.
thank you - I like the Rode better, sounded warmer to me, not as harsh
Anytime!
Great video 💪🏾💯
works great perfect !
Hey Jake! Great video, very comprehensive and useful... I knew I wanted one of these mics so to find a side by side comparison has really helped me decide. I'm going with the Rode!
Good luck with it!!
You have a nice singing voice ! good video..thx!
Thank you!
Throughout I tended to prefer the mic 1 sound for musicality (especially when you did highs)and natural warm sound and I'm glad it's the one I just bought! haha The whole time I was like please let the one I like best be the rode! XD The other is obviously also good but just a bit more tight and unexciting. Not quite as natural and pleasing
First of all, really great job on this video... I appreciate the work you put into it. (As a side note, your basement looks like a place one would find a serial killer hanging out... not sure I could be creative down there...)
I actually tried these two mics myself today at a music store with headphones -- a highly unscientific environment, but I loved the way the Origin sounded on my voice. However, I think it comes in a distant second place here -- too much high-mid kind of nasally stuff going on with your singing. The Origin kind of worked as an effect on "Kiss" -- had an ultra-tubey, kind of compressed sound to it that was a fine alternative to the NT-1A for that song for more color.
I could tell right away which mic was which just from my own shootout today, because the NT1A sounded brighter and more detailed in the hi end, at the cost of more sibilance.
I was kind of hoping the Origin would blow it away because I liked it better today on my voice... and maybe it IS better on my voice, but your clips here scare me a little as I don't care for that nasally upper-mid push whatsoever.
Thanks again for the work.
edit: FYI I was listening on my AT M70x headphones which are very bright and very detailed in the treble; I often mix with them so I'm accustomed to that sound.
Thank you! Yeah, my basement is super creepy. I've been down there so much now that I've gotten used to it though :D
You have interesting thoughts about the mics, I appreciate you took the time to write them down!
The NT1A is a little darker, a little warmer. I've been using one for years and it definitely softens any harsh or crisp upper frequencies. I actually have two, and I use them both all the time. If you want a more mellow, less bright vocal, the NT1A is a brilliant mic for the price. I wish the Aston was able to make me part with some $$ but I just don't hear anything I need in this comparison.
Hi, do you recommend NT1 or Aston Origin for home studio?
@@rizzoprod_ I use both in my home studio. I've had a pair of NT1s for years and they're my go-to mics for guitar and vocals. But I'd recommend the Aston as well. Both good mics.
They aren't a million miles apart, but i think where you really notice the differences of sounds is when you treat them and stick them in a mix, like i bought a new fender p bass, didn't sound crazily;ly different to my other bass, but once in a mix it seemed to respond to plugins a lot nicer and popped out of the mix more, i wonder if it is the same for mics? Might be something to look into. Anyways great video, I'm very tempted to get the origin, both sounded great, though I did notice a weird resonance in your voice, may be worth doing some subtractive eq as it was across both mics. CANT WAIT FOR MORE VIDEOS DUDE xxx
Cheers! Yes, one of them sits WAY nicer in the mix so I really agree with what you are saying. Yes, my voice seem to resonate extremely around 3.8-4khz, you probably have great ears since you noticed ;)
If you guys looking for the mic to do everything from vocal to guitar or anything I recommend you guys buy aston spirit,sound is amaaaazing
Which is better Road NT1 or Aston?
Aston Cam Warranty
OK, Jake, I don't do studio vocal recording so I don't give a damn about the mics. LOL But, wow, I appreciate your voice even more now. Dude, seriously. Hearing your voice "naked" was wonderful. Particularly the nuances - like in the word "guarantee" in the Gershwin; loved that. When I commented on We Are Onto Something, I commented that I liked your vocal control. Holy cow, make that X 10! I'm just a old music nerd, not even close to a pro, but if I may be so bold, I would have liked to hear just a little more articulation of the consonants - just a bit. I noted the same on We Are Onto Something. Maybe that's the style of the day; or your style. Maybe it's a Swedish/English thing, however your speaking english is great. (Just to be clear - so is your singing english - this is merely a picky point.) It's probably just my "old school" ear. Just thought I'd mention it and I sure hope you're not annoyed. I'm a definite fan and a subscriber, who comments on YT videos.
Thank you! Very kind of of you, I still hear a lot of mistakes though! Thank you also for your feedback, I will try to articulate a bit more. I really like it when singers do that, so thank you for pointing it out!!
Thought the Aston was clearer and had a small amount of more volume. Liked both but your demo sold me on the Origin
Interesting you heard it that way! I can assure you that the balance of volume was more or less the exact same. Spent a lot of time just making sure that volume was precisely the same. Hope you'll find the mic that you are looking for! All the best!
@@JakeBorg Well I am listening on a smaller pairer of speakers. Its subjective for sure, and in my earrs the I was hoping to find a difference, where if I hadn't been so critical, I may never have noticed. The Orgin seemed more accurate, by that I mean the Rode sounded darker (that may be good) but it seemed like it had been brioken down and reassembled into bits and bites that ddn't tell as accurate story. Overthink much? thank you for your response and of course the help in my buying decicion.
Great job thx
The idea of capturing a recoding is to get a crisp clear recording, in my opinion its not the rode nt1a raw sounds funky and flat #2 definitely allows you to capture his vocals smooth the mixing and mastering will be able to do so much with a vocal thats clearer that warmer when it come to specific things, but there both definitely great mics but Aston definitely takes the cake
Writing as I hear: first song Aston is mic 2; song 2 Aston is mic 1; third song Aston is mic 2 (last was hardest to tell, if right).
Post answer given: my mistake as I thought the mics might be switched between songs. Just shows that the low-tone range makes for a clearer distinction.
I could tell the Rode was the first because the Aston adds a false raspy tone and which is why I wouldn't use it for vocals (rapping).
I have both mics and I prefer the Aston for almost all instruments and vocals over the Rode.
Your's finding are best.
It’s down to personal taste I guess but the Rode seemed to shine in the first song as there were lower frequencies going on but then the next 2 songs seemed to benefit from an more pronounced music and top from the Aston. It seemed to have a more “airy” feel to it which I liked. I’ve now bought an Aston Origin. 👍🏻
Both are v v v good it is all done to preference and which you edit better with
No doubt to me it was 2 that sounded the best in all
Thank you for demo. So, I own an NT1a, doesn't suit my voice, struggle with it, though I appreciate a trained voice will sound better, yours sounded good on both. I assume while I listen mic 2 is the nt1 as I notice the air on it creeping in. Not so noticeable now, but one you add some compression and eq, makes my voice very thin. Lets see what the results are.... okay wow, that shocked me, I preferred tone on mic 1, which probably means Aston is not suited to me either. Great demo though. Keep up the good work man.
Looking to get a decent mic in this price range. The Rode is cheaper, I'd go with that based on these clips. The Aston sounds a little more forward and brighter. The Rode a little smoother and more balanced. I think I'm going to go with the Rode for sure. Looking for an affordable microphone to compliment my darker sounding AT4047.
Good luck mate!
Aston on all three songs. The difference is very slight to my ear though, and I'm not sure I would hear the difference in the mix.
Overall great demo, btw. Your singing is extremely good.
Yes, they are way more similar than you'd expect in my ears too! Thank you for the kind words!
@@JakeBorg thank you for a reply. I think about buying an Aston, and your comparison helped a lot. Probably one small question: do you find the built-in pop-filter satifactory, or does it still require an external pop-filter? Thanks!
@@MrScattterbrain The built-in popfilter is not by any means satisfactory on the Aston, you need an external one!
@@JakeBorg many thanks!
Anytime@@MrScattterbrain
Great video, thx
I think you mostly use the Aston in most of your recordings? Is it your favorite?
but looks like there’s more brilliance in the highs with the aston
Very nice video. Try making a second video a week later where you communicate your preference.
Thank you for the idea!