The RØDE NTH-50 professional on-ear headphones are engineered to deliver extraordinary sonic precision and a natural, balanced sound signature, offering a pristine audio experience. Like all sensitive audio equipment, their performance can occasionally be influenced by external factors, such as Radio Frequency (RF) interference.
This article explains what RF interference is and how to ensure the best sound from your NTH-50s.
What is RF Interference?
RF interference is an unwanted audible noise that can sometimes be picked up by audio cables when they are near strong radio signals from devices like mobile phones or Wi-Fi routers. Essentially, the cable can act like a small antenna.
Understanding Cable Interference
It’s common in audio setups for headphone cables to be susceptible to picking up RF signals.
Any noise is usually caused by interference with the audio cable, not a fault with the NTH-50 headphones or the connected audio device.
This is a common trait of audio cables in general, regardless of brand or whether the cable is coiled or straight. Interference is more likely if the cable is very close to, or wrapped around, a strong RF source like a mobile phone.
Tips for Optimal Audio Clarity
To minimise potential RF interference and enjoy the pristine sound of your NTH-50s:
- The simplest solution is to keep your headphone cable, whether coiled or straight, a slight distance away from devices that emit strong radio frequencies, particularly mobile phones. Avoid placing your phone directly on or tangled with the cable.
- A neatly managed cable is less prone to picking up interference.
For most users, especially in professional environments like studios or DJ setups where cable management is standard practice, RF interference is rarely an issue with the NTH-50s.
For more information about the NTH-50, please see our NTH-50 User guide.