matched pair??

[jerryC]

Sorry if this is an incredible stupid question but... What is "factory matched pairs"? I was looking at RODE NT5 and they come in matched pairs... What does that mean? If I buy one now and one later when I can afford it, will that result in them "not working as good together" as they would if they where factory matched?

I was thinking on OH and ac.guitar..

[drumist69]

Matched pairs are analyzed at the factory for frequency response. Two mics are matched which have (nearly) identical response. If you buy one later, it may have a slightly different response, such as highs being slightly more exaggerated, or whatever. I'll leave it to more experienced folks here to explain what problems would occur from not using matched pairs for stereo micing such as acoustic guitar or overheads.