Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Rode NTH-50
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Spec Sheet
- Closed back
- Supra-aural
- Dynamic
- Single-cable routing (left or right connection option)
- 3.5 mm TRRS jacks with bayonet lock
- Memory foam ear pads covered with artificial leather
- Frequency response: 5 – 35,000 Hz
- Impdeance: 32 ohm
- Maximum sound pressure: 124 dB SPL
- THD: <0.03% (500 Hz), <0.2% (100 Hz)
- Weight: 220 g
- Can be retrofitted to the headset (with optional NTH-MIC headband microphone)
- Includes 1.7 m special cable (coiled and straight) with 3.5 mm TRS plug, 3.5 mm to 6.35 mm screw adapter, coloured identification rings and carrying bag
Studio Log
| Available since | May 2025 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 618359 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | On-Ear |
| System | Closed Back |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 5 Hz – 35000 Hz |
| Adaptor | Yes |
| Replaceable Cable | Yes |
| Colour | Black |
| Max. SPL | 124 dB |
| Sensitivity | 124 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Jack, mini-jack |
| Adapter | Yes |
| Weight | 220 g |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
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Customer Review Summary
[SUBTITLE]In-depth review of the Rode NTH-50 closed-back headphones by Rode
Introduction
Released in May 2025, the Rode NTH-50 is a closed-back, on-ear headphone designed to meet the needs of DJs, studio engineers and music enthusiasts on a budget. At £85, it offers features like a replaceable cable, memory foam ear pads and a wide frequency response. This test examines the build quality, sound signature and practical use of the NTH-50, assessing its suitability in professional and casual environments.
Build and Design
The NTH-50 weighs 220 grams, striking a balance between sturdiness and lightweight comfort. Its supra-aural ear pads are made from memory foam covered with artificial leather, providing a secure fit and effective noise isolation through the closed-back design. The single-cable routing allows connection on either left or right ear with 3.5 mm TRRS jacks featuring bayonet locks, enhancing durability and ease of replacement. Accessories include both coiled and straight 1.7 metre cables, a 3.5 mm to 6.35 mm screw adapter, colour identification rings and a carrying pouch.
Comfort and Fit
The ear cups press snugly against the ears rather than fully enclosing them, which some users find slightly tight during extended sessions, particularly for those wearing glasses. While the firm clamping provides excellent sound isolation, it may limit comfort for long mixing or monitoring periods. However, many appreciate the secure fit and noise reduction that keep external distractions to a minimum.
Sound Performance
With an impedance of 32 Ohms and a frequency range spanning from 5 Hz to 35,000 Hz, the NTH-50 covers an expansive audio spectrum. The maximum sound pressure level clocks at 124 dB, maintaining low distortion throughout, even at high volumes. Distortion remains under 0.03% at 500 Hz and below 0.2% at 100 Hz, ensuring clarity in critical audio details.
Frequency Response and Tonal Balance
- Bass: The headphones deliver tight and punchy bass, suitable for beatmaking and electronic music, where low-end presence is essential.
- Mids: Neutral and linear midrange reproduction contributes to well-defined vocals and instrumentals, enabling accurate monitoring.
- Highs: Balanced treble adds clarity without harshness, although the stereo image is narrower than over-ear counterparts, which some users may notice during mixing.
Practical Use in Studio and DJ Environments
Users confirm that the NTH-50 performs well for vocal recording due to its closed design and balanced mids. The headphones offer sufficient volume and resist distortion, even at extreme levels, an advantage for DJ sessions and dynamic studio work. However, certain users reported challenges when performing beatmatching and equalisation because bass emphasis can mask high-frequency details like hi-hats, complicating precise sound differentiation.
Durability and Accessories
Rode’s choice of materials results in a robust feel, with the replaceable cabling system enhancing longevity. The included cables and adapter cover professional requirements, although some raised concerns about the connection between the 3.5 mm jack and the 6.35 mm adapter, highlighting a potential weak point if not handled carefully. The headphones can be upgraded via an optional headband microphone, adding versatility for gaming or communication tasks.
Conclusion
The Rode NTH-50 stands out as a thoughtfully designed, affordable option for users seeking solid sound quality, especially in bass and midrange frequencies. Its closed-back, on-ear form factor offers dependable noise isolation and portability, suitable for DJs, mobile musicians and casual listeners. Comfort may be subjective, particularly for longer use or wearers of glasses, but the build quality and replaceable components support lasting use.
While it may present some limitations for highly detailed mixing tasks requiring extensive frequency discrimination, its versatility and price-performance ratio are compelling. Those prioritising a wider stereo image or over-ear comfort might consider stepping up to higher-end models, but the NTH-50 remains a capable and well-rounded headphone in its category.
