Gearank

Rode is well known for the quality of their condenser mics, and this same quality is present in handheld form within the Rode S1.

This mic features Rode's well loved condenser capsule in a handheld vocal microphone with supercardioid polar pattern and an internal pop filter that blocks plosives.

The mesh head is heat treated for improved strength and reliability, matching its all metal construction and satin nickel finish.

Specifications:

• Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
• Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz
• Impedance: 50 ohms
• Sensitivity: -46.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (5.00mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz
• Applications: Live vocals
• Power Requirements: +48V

Pros

Many of the reviewers are former dynamic mic users who after switching to the S1 are surprised to find "day & night" difference in sound quality. Clean and crisp are just two of the many ways users describe its transparent sound, while others appreciate its solid feel. One user sums up market sentiment nicely by simply saying that this mic is very very good.

Cons

There are a few reports of the mic not working with certain cables, but this maybe a different problem entirely, probably a bad cable or wrong phantom power settings on the mixer.

Overall

If you're familiar with the quality of Rode condenser mics, and you want that same quality in a handheld vocal mic, then do check this one out.

Although the S1 does have very good ratings, there are even more highly rated mics which you can see in our guide to The Best Live Vocal Mics.

Rode S1 Frequency Response Chart:

Rode S1 Deluxe Polar Pattern Chart: