The Rode M5 and AKG P170 are two of the finest pencil microphones widely used for recording quality sound. If you’re stuck deciding between these two popular condenser microphones at a similar price point, this guide breaks down the comparison in detail.
We tested both microphones to compare their features, specs, sound quality, pros, and cons, helping you decide which one fits your setup best.
Rode M5
The Rode M5 is a compact pencil microphone available at a reasonable price for the features it offers. In our testing, the sound came through clearly both in a studio setting and on stage. It’s particularly well suited for drum overheads and recording hi-hats. For other specialized recording setups, our guide on how to connect multiple microphones to a computer is worth a look if you’re miking up a full kit.
Features of the Rode M5
This condenser mic from Rode has a cardioid polar pattern with a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz. It performs well across theatre audio, studio music, and home recording.
The matte black metal body construction looks clean, and the transformerless circuitry helps keep noise low during operation. As a small-diaphragm condenser mic, it handles acoustic instruments, choirs, and drum overheads well.
The M5’s design includes WS5 windshields and RM5 stand mounts, both of which help maintain consistent, high-quality sound capture. If you want to compare this condenser design against a dynamic microphone before deciding, our guide covers the key differences.
Technical Specifications of the Rode M5
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Condenser microphone |
| Acoustic principle | Pressure gradient |
| Active electronics | JFET impedance converter with bipolar output buffer |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid (unidirectional) |
| Frequency range | 20Hz to 20kHz |
| Output impedance | 200 ohms |
| Equivalent noise | 19dBA SPL |
| Maximum output level | +13.5dBu |
| Sensitivity | -34dB re 1V/Pa |
| Dynamic range | 121dB SPL |
| Maximum SPL | 140dB SPL |
| Signal to noise ratio | 75dBA SPL |
| Power requirement | 24V or 48V phantom power |
| Output connection | 3-pin XLR |
| Weight | 80 grams |
Pros and Cons of the Rode M5
Pros
- All-metal body with ceramic coating
- Super lightweight
- Ultra-low noise recording
- State-of-the-art surface-mount electronics
- Includes RM5 stand mount and WS5 windshields
Cons
- Capsule isn’t replaceable
- No plastic storage pouch or box included
- Can sound thin and bright in some situations
- No high-pass switch
AKG P170
The AKG P170 is another pencil mic, a small-diaphragm condenser microphone known for strong quality performance and reliability. It handles everything from drum overheads to acoustic instrument recording, all at a reasonable price.
Features of the AKG P170
With a cardioid polar pattern, this mic includes a 20dB pad that helps capture incredibly clear, accurate sound. The switchable pad allows for distortion-free recording even at higher volumes. It has a frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz and can handle a strong sound pressure level of 155dB with the pad engaged. It uses a lightweight 0.5-inch gold-sputtered diaphragm.
This is also a metal body mic with durable construction, offering good rejection of RF interference. It’s built to resist high temperatures and humidity, making it a strong, usable option in a range of conditions. The rugged body and sturdy front grille help protect it from daily wear and tear. Its pressure-gradient design is similar in principle to how a ribbon microphone operates, though the two differ significantly in build and use case.
Technical Specifications of the AKG P170
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Condenser |
| Mono/Stereo | Mono |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid (unidirectional) |
| Diaphragm size | 0.5 inch (12.7mm) |
| Frequency response | 20Hz to 20kHz |
| Maximum SPL | 135dB (155dB with pad) |
| Output impedance | 200 ohms |
| Signal to noise ratio | 75dB |
| Self-noise | 19dB |
| Sensitivity | 15mV/Pa |
| Pads | -20dB |
| Connector | XLR |
| Weight | 130 grams |
Pros and Cons of the AKG P170
Pros
- Built to resist high temperatures and humidity
- Professional small-diaphragm, cardioid condenser design
- Pressure-gradient design
- Switchable 20dB pad
- Heavy-duty, all-metal construction
- Switchable 20dB pre-attenuation pad
- Sturdy front grille protects against tough handling
Cons
- Some users report the clips feel fragile
Rode M5 vs AKG P170
With the features of both mics laid out, here’s how they compare directly in terms of output and performance.
The Rode M5 is more versatile in terms of power, working with either +24V or +48V phantom power, while the AKG P170 does not offer that flexibility.
Both mics are cardioid, capturing sound from the front while rejecting signals from the sides and rear. This makes both strong options for musical recording, since they resist environmental noise well.
The Rode M5 has a maximum SPL of 140dB, making it a solid choice for handling most instruments and vocals. The AKG P170 has a maximum SPL of 135dB, but its -20dB switchable pre-attenuation pad lets it handle sounds as loud as 155dB. This gives the AKG P170 an edge when you need to capture very loud vocals or instruments.
Both microphones offer very similar sound quality overall, thanks to their matching frequency response range and low self-noise levels. Both capture lows, mids, and highs accurately.
In terms of sensitivity, the Rode M5 is slightly more sensitive than the AKG P170, which also means it’s a bit more prone to picking up unwanted noise. The AKG P170 has lower sensitivity but still performs well, so both mics bring their own strengths to the table.
Conclusion: Rode M5 or AKG P170?
This comparison covered everything from polar pattern and frequency response to sound quality and build for both the Rode M5 and AKG P170. Considering their design and build quality, both pencil microphones are strong choices with relatively few differences between them.
If you want our recommendation, we’d lean toward the Rode M5 for its slightly more versatile power options. That said, both microphones are close enough in performance that you won’t regret choosing either one.
Before buying, check the latest price and availability, since pricing and product availability can change over time. If you’re also comparing other condenser options, our guide to Rode NT1-A vs Audio-Technica AT2035 covers two more strong picks in a similar category, and our best microphone for rappers guide includes other condenser mics worth considering for vocal-focused recording.
