Rode K2 Condenser Valve Microphone Instruction Manual

Rode K2 Condenser Valve Microphone

Introduction

• We at RØDE would like to thank you and congratulate you on purchasing the K2.
• This valve microphone represents the fi nest studio microphone technology currently available.
• The K2 is a valve condenser design in the tradition of the classic studio microphones. The character of the K2 sound will become immediately obvious the first time you record with it.
• While we have captured the subtlety of the legendary valve microphones, we have also made sure the noise specification and reliability are equal to current professional recording standards.
• Please take the time to visit www.rodemic.com and register your microphone for a full ten-year warranty.
• While there you can view studio tips and techniques, as well as browse the comprehensive range of accessories for microphones.

Peter Freedman RØDE Microphones Sydney, Australia

Specifications

• Acoustic Principle: Pressure, Pressure gradient
• Active Electronics: Valve/tube impedance converter with bipolar output Buffer
• Directional Pattern: Multi Pattern (see graph)
• Frequency Range: 20Hz ~ 20,000Hz (see graph)
• Output Impedance: 200Ω
• Sensitivity:
  • -36dB re 1V/Pa @ 1kHz
  • 16mV/Pa @ 94dB SPL
  • ±2dB @ 1kHz
• Equivalent Noise: 10dBA SPL (per IEC651, IEC268-15)
• Maximum Output: +30dBu (@ 1kHz, 1% THD into 1kΩ)
• Dynamic Range: 150dB (per IEC651)
• Maximum SPL: 162dB (@ 1kHz, 1% THD into 1kΩ)
• Signal/Noise: 81dB SPL (@ 1kHz, rel 1Pa per IEC651)
• Power Requirement: Dedicated power supply (100-120V / 200-240V AC 50/60Hz)
• Net Weight: 815g
• Dimensions: 208 x 55 x 55mm

Frequency Response

Features

• Large capsule (1”) with gold-plated diaphragm
• Class “A” valve circuitry
• Hand-selected and graded 6922 twin-triode valve
• Dedicated power supply
• Ultra-low noise
• Wide dynamic range
• Continuously variable polar patterns controlled at the power supply.
• High level of RF rejection
• Designed & manufactured in Australia
• Full 10 year guarantee*

Accessories

• Power supply
• K2 cable
• Power cable
• Stand mount (SM2)

Online product registration is required.

Before using the K2

• Ensure that your K2 has been set to the correct voltage, as used in your country. The K2 can be used with mains supply voltages of between either 110-120V 50/60Hz or 220-240V 50/60Hz.
  • To select for 110-120V use, set the voltage selector to 115V.
  • To select for 220-240V use, set the voltage selector to 230V.
• On either voltage selection, the mains fuse (inside the mains socket) is always to be a T500mA slow blow fuse.
• The back panel of the K2 power supply has a microphone output socket, a ground (earth) lift, a microphone input socket, a voltage selector, and a mains power socket which also incorporates a fuse.
• The front panel of the K2 power supply has the mains power on/off switch, the Polar Pattern dial, and a blue LED to indicate power status.

Connecting the K2

• Having ensured that the power supply is set to the correct voltage you can begin to connect the K2 to the power supply. Do not connect the power to the mains before connecting the microphone.
• Connect the male 7-pin plug of the K2 cable to the 7-pin input socket on the rear of the power supply.
• Connect the female 7-pin plug of the K2 cable to the microphone. Ensure that both plugs are correctly aligned and pushed firmly into their respective sockets.
• Now connect an XLR microphone cable to the output socket on the rear of the power supply, taking that output to your mixer/pre-amplifier.
• We suggest the use of a high-quality cable, preferably with gold-plated contacts. Use as short a cable as possible, as long cables can adversely affect sound quality.
• Ensure that the K2 is fixed securely using the supplied SM2 shock mount to a stable microphone stand. The K2 condenser microphone is a precision instrument and should be treated with care.
• Now you can connect the power supply to the mains supply and begin using the K2 microphone. It is recommended to allow a minute or two to allow the microphone to stabilize.

Setting the Polar Pattern

• Your K2 can be adjusted to any Polar Pattern from omni, through cardioid to figure of eight. This flexibility allows the recording of most instruments and/or voices with absolute control.
• Select the preferred Polar Pattern. This is done with the circular dial (knob) on the front of the K2 Power Supply. (The most commonly used pattern for vocal recording is Cardioid – at the 12 o’clock position).
• When the cardioid position is selected, the microphone picks up sound from in front of the microphone and rejects sound from the rear.
• When in the omni position (fully anti-clockwise), the microphone picks up sound from all around the microphone and there is less proximity effect than in cardioid mode. (Proximity Effect is an increase in lower (bass) frequencies when the sound source is ‘close’ to the microphone). The Omni pattern is commonly used for the room (ambient) micing or to record a more natural sound when close mining instruments.
• When in the Figure 8 position (fully clockwise), the microphone picks up sound from in front and behind and rejects sound from the other two sides. This pattern is commonly used for interviews (2 people with the microphone between them) or in conjunction with a cardioid microphone to use the MS (mid-side) stereo recording technique.
• You are able to select any position between these three main settings. For example, if you choose a setting about halfway between the omni and cardioid positions, you will notice ‘some’ sound being picked up from the rear of the microphone, instead of being almost completely rejected (in cardioid). This can be particularly useful when you do in fact wish for ‘some’ sound from the rear, but not so much as when in omni mode.
• Experiment with the K2. Listen to the various patterns, and decide what suits your current application best.

Using the K2

• The gold dot on the face of the K2 indicates the front of the microphone and the pick-up area of the cardioid pattern. Please be sure to have the side with the dot facing the sound source you wish to record.
• Microphone technique, or how to get the sound you want, requires experimentation. We suggest that you start with the channel EQ set to ‘OFF’ or ‘FLAT’ (no boost or cut). Try to get the sound you want by placing either reflective or absorbent panels at various angles adjacent to the source being recorded.
• Changing the acoustic properties of the space around the microphone is our recommended initial approach for obtaining the best sound quality. Remember you cannot change a room’s acoustic properties with EQ. When the preferred sound has been achieved (as above) then EQ and effects such as reverb or indeed any signal processing can be used for enhancement, but should be used sparingly.
• It is worth mentioning that sometimes ‘cutting’ a particular frequency (sound) may be preferable to ‘boosting’ another. Of course ‘boosting’ can increase noise level and so should be done minimally. As with many other aspects of the recording process, finding the preferred ‘sound’ is a matter of experimentation.
• We strongly recommend the use of a pop shield or filter for all vocal recordings. These aid in minimizing plosive sounds (hard ‘P’, ‘B’, ‘T’, and ‘K’ sounds) that produce a sudden jet of air which can cause the capsule to overload and produce a ‘popping’ sound.
• Any moisture on the microphone capsule can cause problems for condenser microphones, however, the use of a pop shield or windshield (optional accessory WS2) will reduce the risk of this occurring.
• Placement of the microphone and pop shield relative to the vocalist may vary on several factors including room acoustics, the vocal performance, and whether the vocalist has a high or deep voice.
• An ideal reference is to begin with the pop shield directly in front of the vocalist, and approximately 15cm (6”) away from the microphone. This will assist in keeping the performer at a constant minimum distance from the microphone and helps to maintain reasonable recording levels.
• Experimentation should be made with the angle from which the microphone is addressed, as different results can be achieved when the vocalist is ‘off-axis’ to the microphone (and the gold dot).
• If an earth loop is present (a mains frequency hum) there is a ground lift switch on the rear panel of the power supply, which should be raised to the ‘lift’ position. This earth loop can appear when two devices that are both earthed are connected together.

Storage

• After use the K2 should be removed from its mount, wiped with a dry, soft cloth, and placed in its protective case.
• Be sure to place the moisture-absorbent crystals (supplied) at the head of the microphone, so as to absorb any moisture present. Eventually, this pack of crystals will need to be dried. This is indicated by the crystals turning pink in color. They can easily be re-used by placing them in an oven at 100 – 150 degrees Celsius for approximately ten minutes. The crystals will operate effectively again once they have turned blue.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

• DO NOT DISCONNECT THE MICROPHONE CABLE WHILE THE SYSTEM IS POWERED AS THIS MAY RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE MICROPHONE
• NEVER REMOVE THE MAIN EARTH DOING SO CAN HAVE LETHAL CONSEQUENCES

NOTE: There are no user-serviceable parts inside the K2 supply, but there ARE potentially lethal voltages. If the supply does not work correctly, you should consult either the dealer you purchased the microphone from or a qualified electronic technician. DO NOT under any circumstance open the unit yourself!

Warranty

• All microphones are warranted for one year from the date of purchase. You can extend that to a full ten years if you register online at www.rodemic.com.
• The warranty covers parts and labor that may be required to repair the microphone during the warranty period. The warranty excludes defects caused by normal wear and tear, modification, shipping damage, or failure to use the microphone as per the instruction guide.
• If you experience any problem or have any questions regarding your microphone, first contact the dealer who sold it to you. If the microphone requires a factory-authorized service, the return will be organized by that dealer.
• We have an extensive distributor/dealer network, but if you have difficulty getting the advice or assistance you require, do not hesitate to contact us directly.

International (Australia):

• Address: 107 Carnarvon Street, Silverwater NSW 2128, Australia
• Phone: +61 2 9648 5855
• Fax: +61 2 9648 2455

USA:

• Address: P.O. Box 4189, Santa Barbara, CA 93140-4189
• Phone: 805 566 7777
• Fax: 805 566 0071

Technical Support:

• For general information and technical support questions, contact: support@rodemic.com

Technical Support Contact Details:

• In the United States and Puerto Rico, contact: usasupport@rodemic.com or call 805 566 7777
• In Australia, contact: ozsupport@rodemic.com or call (02) 9648 5855
• Anywhere except Australia, the United States, and Puerto Rico, contact: support@rodemic.com or call +61 2 9648 5855

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Rode K2 Condenser Valve Microphone?

The Rode K2 is a high-quality condenser valve microphone designed for professional audio recording and broadcasting applications.

What sets the Rode K2 microphone apart from other condenser microphones?

The Rode K2 microphone stands out for its warm and vintage sound, thanks to its valve (tube) technology, making it a top choice for musicians and audio professionals seeking classic tube microphone characteristics.

What type of condenser microphone is the Rode K2?

The Rode K2 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone with a built-in vacuum tube that adds warmth and character to the sound.

What is the primary use of the Rode K2 microphone?

The Rode K2 is commonly used for studio recording, vocal performances, instrument recording, podcasting, and broadcasting, where a warm and rich sound is desired.

Does the Rode K2 require phantom power?

Yes, the Rode K2 requires 48V phantom power to operate the microphone circuitry. The tube circuitry also needs time to warm up for optimal performance.

What is the included polar pattern of the Rode K2 microphone?

The Rode K2 features a cardioid polar pattern, focusing on sound from the front while minimizing sound from the sides and rear, reducing background noise.

Are shock mounts and pop filters included with the Rode K2 microphone?

The Rode K2 package typically includes a shock mount, which helps isolate the microphone from vibrations. A pop filter may be included or purchased separately for reducing plosive sounds.

What accessories are included with the Rode K2 microphone?

The Rode K2 microphone package typically includes a shock mount, an external power supply, a dedicated power cable, and a microphonic cable. A pop filter may be included or purchased separately.

Is the Rode K2 compatible with standard microphone stands and boom arms?

Yes, the Rode K2 features a standard microphone mount, making it compatible with most microphone stands and boom arms.

What is the warranty period for the Rode K2 microphone?

The warranty period for the Rode K2 microphone varies by region and retailer but is typically covered for 1 to 10 years.

Can I use the Rode K2 with recording software on my computer?

Yes, the Rode K2 is compatible with most recording software and digital audio workstations (DAWs) when connected to an audio interface or preamp with XLR inputs.

Is the Rode K2 suitable for live performances?

While the Rode K2 is primarily designed for studio use, some users may use it for live performances when connected to a suitable audio setup, although it's less common due to its sensitivity and tube technology.

Are there any known compatibility issues with specific recording software or operating systems?

The Rode K2 is generally compatible with popular recording software and works with both Windows and Mac operating systems. Compatibility may also depend on the audio interface or preamp used.

How should I care for and maintain the Rode K2 microphone?

Proper care includes allowing the tube to warm up before use, using the included shock mount to minimize vibrations, and storing it in a safe place when not in use. Detailed maintenance instructions can be found in the user manual.

Where can I purchase the Rode K2 Condenser Valve Microphone?

You can typically purchase the Rode K2 Condenser Valve Microphone from authorized Rode dealers, professional audio equipment retailers, music stores, or reputable online marketplaces to ensure you receive an authentic product.

Is the Rode K2 microphone compatible with mobile devices?

The Rode K2 is primarily designed for studio and professional use, and it typically does not have direct compatibility with mobile devices. It is best used with audio interfaces or preamps for high-quality recording.

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