Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Rode NTH-100 W
Technical Analysis of Rode’s Over-Ear Closed-Back Headphones, Model NTH-100 W
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Spec Sheet
- Robust headphones ideal for musicians, sound engineers, podcasters, filmmakers etc.
- Dynamic
- Closed
- Circumaural
- Passive noise cancelling
- 40 mm neodymium drivers selected in pairs
- Robust spring steel headband
- Adjustable ear cups with FitLok locking system
- Memory foam ear and headband cushions covered with Alcantara
- Ear pads with cooling CoolTech gel
- Frequency range: 5 – 35,000 Hz
- Impedance: 32 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 110 dB
- Max sound pressure: 126 dB
- Single-sided cable routing (left or right connection possible)
- 3.5 mm Jacks with bayonet locking mechanism
- Detachable straight 2.4 m connection cable (3.5 mm TRS jack)
- Weight: 344 g
- Colour: White
- Includes jack adapter (3.5 mm to 6.3 mm jack), carrying pouch and cable identification rings (blue, green, orange, pink)
Studio Log
| Available since | October 2023 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 577592 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Closed Back |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 5 Hz – 35000 Hz |
| Adaptor | Yes |
| Replaceable Cable | Yes |
| Colour | White |
| Max. SPL | 126 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Mini Jack |
| Weight | 344 g |
Demo Footage
Field Photography
QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
Introduction
The Rode NTH-100 W, released in October 2023, targets professionals such as musicians, sound engineers, podcasters, and filmmakers who require durable and accurate headphones. Priced at £119, these over-ear, closed-back headphones promise a combination of comfort, build quality, and sound precision.
Build and Design
The headphones feature a robust construction with a spring steel headband and circumaural ear cups designed to fully envelop the ears. The headband and ear cushions utilise memory foam covered in Alcantara, a synthetic suede material known for its durability and comfort. This choice ensures long-term wearability and good fit without compromising softness.
Adjustability is enhanced by the FitLok locking system on the ear cups, allowing users to secure their preferred positioning securely. The overall weight of 344 grams strikes a balance between sturdiness and comfort, avoiding excessive heaviness during extended use.
Cooling and Comfort Features
- Ear pads are embedded with CoolTech gel, which assists in regulating temperature and reduces heat build-up over time.
- The circumaural design, combined with passive noise cancellation inherent in the closed-back system, provides isolation from ambient noise, important in monitoring environments.
Acoustic Performance
The NTH-100 W headphones employ 40 mm neodymium drivers, carefully selected in pairs to maintain sound consistency between units. These dynamic drivers cover a broad frequency range from 5 Hz to 35,000 Hz, extending well beyond the typical human hearing spectrum, which suggests fidelity in reproducing detailed audio across bass, midrange, and treble.
They present an impedance of 32 Ohms, which is suitable for connection to a wide variety of professional and consumer audio devices without requiring additional amplification. Sensitivity is rated at 110 dB, allowing the headphones to deliver ample loudness levels clearly and without distortion, supported by a maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 126 dB.
Connectivity and Cable
- The headphones feature a detachable 2.4-metre straight cable with a 3.5 mm TRS jack, providing flexibility and ease of replacement.
- The single-sided cable routing can be connected to either the left or right ear cup, adapting to user preference.
- A bayonet locking mechanism secures the mini-jack connection, preventing accidental disconnection during use.
- The pack includes a 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm jack adapter to accommodate professional standard inputs, as well as identification rings for cable differentiation.
Additional Considerations
The inclusion of a carrying pouch adds protection and portability, which is particularly useful for users in mobile or studio environments. The white finish distinguishes these headphones visually, though it may require more upkeep to maintain cleanliness compared to darker models.
Conclusion
The Rode NTH-100 W headphones present a technically sound option for professionals needing reliable, comfortable, and precise closed-back headphones. Their robust construction, combined with advanced comfort features such as memory foam and CoolTech gel, caters to prolonged usage scenarios. Acoustic specifications indicate a capacity for clear, detailed, and loud audio reproduction suitable for critical listening tasks.
While consumer impressions remain unavailable, the factual analysis based on technical specifications suggests a well-rounded product that balances durability with sound fidelity. The mid-range price of £119 is competitive, reflecting the quality materials and thoughtful design embedded in the NTH-100 W.
