MXL 990 Review
Condenser Microphone
- High-quality , yet eminently budget-friendly , FET condenser microphone
- Houses MXL's version of a tried-and-true, German-style transformerless circuit
- Gold-sputtered, 6-micron diaphragm with a fixed cardioid polar pattern
- Delivers a predominantly flat response from 30Hz–20kHz
- Gentle 8kHz presence peak ensures articulate, intelligible vocals without harshness
- Great for vocals, voice-overs, and acoustic instruments
- Comes with a custom shockmount, mic stand adapter, and foam-padded case
Introduction
In this article, we delve into a detailed analysis of 37,054 user reviews from various languages worldwide to examine the MXL 990. This analysis is performed by the RR artificial intelligence and updated daily with newly submitted reviews. The RR AI utilizes a complex algorithm to first scrutinize user reviews for credibility, filtering out unreliable ones. It then proceeds to dissect and evaluate the valuable insights within these reviews, providing users with ratings regarding the features of this product. Based on these assessments, users can make informed decisions about whether this product is suitable for them or not.
Ratings Based on Features
These results are a summary of user reviews of the MXL 990. For example, 81% of 8,382 users who have commented on the Sound quality of the MXL 990 have given positive feedback.
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 20 of 114 Reviews
MXL 990 Mic
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by sohaibh on Guitar Center
This is the only condenser mic I own and I dont plan to upgrade anytime soon. It works really well and sounds awesome. I use it with a behringer mic200. It comes with a shock mount. If they only had a pop filter in the box too, that would be a perfect buy. For the price you cant go wrong. If this thing broke, I would definitely buy another one.
Sometimes You Get More Than You Pay For .....
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by Boogie Wonderland on Guitar Center
Iv'e been recording professionally for over 30 years. I have worked with artist like Prince, Michael Jackson, Patti Labelle, Luther Vandross, DJ Quik, TLC, Tyrese, and the list goes on and on and on. Initially I purchased 8 of these mics to use to record a choir. I had a high end board so I figured I couldnt go wrong with them. BTW .. Marshall produces some pretty amazing high quality microphones. Do not be fooled by the price. An experienced engineer can get the best out of any equipment. But Marshall really does produce good microphones for an unbelievable low price. I was amazed at the performance of these little mics. Since then I have used them on everything from vocals, acoustic guitars, guitar amps, overheads for drums. One day a friend came in with his that he did a 3 dollar modification on. He simply changed out 3 capacitors and opened the head basket. We recorded his vocals and I was floored. We did a A/B with my Nuemann 103 running into a pair of Avalon M5s and again I was floored. I modded 4 of the 8 and they have been my go mics for several years now; and we have a mic locker most would kill over. Even with out the Mod you cant go wrong with these. Get a GOOD pre-amp and I guarantee you will NOT be disappointed. Am I saying that these mics are going to compete with a C12, Telefunken, Neumann that cost anywhere from 1500 - 13,000 .... Yes ...... and NO! Just depends on the platform. If using a kick drum or overheads ..NO! Vocals .... yes/no (a tube mic will sound different). But then you have to ask yourself if the difference is worth 10,000 .... If I had one complaint about them is that the mids can be a little harsh with a lower end pre-amp. But even a 10k mic wont sound its best through a terrible pre-amps. ... More
Great Beginners Mic
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by Jeries2003 on Guitar Center
I have owned 3 of these mics. They rock, great quality and sound for the price. Great for the start of the home studio world. Great for demo's and overall applications. MXL mics are very impressive to any musician of any level.
Sir. 5
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by Sir. 5 on Guitar Center
I have owned this mic now for about 3 years. Bought it for a portable studio and proved to be quite worth it. I even drop it a couple months back on the leg of my studio chair and dented the screen...still works fine! I am starting to get a lot more advanced in my skills and am starting to see that even though it made good music for me and friens to listen to, its not the best for pro recording. Price really has nothing to do with the mic since you can find a nice mic without skipping a car payment, but beware that this is really only a temp solution to get you into the door. Down the road if you are still recording, you'll need to upgrade to a more receptive high end mic. (high end as freq, not price) ... More
You get what you pay for
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by C. Lopez on Guitar Center
Well first of all, for the guy who wrote the comment about the phantom power, I hate to break it to you but ALL condenser Mics require phantom power. You shouldn't have bought it if you couldn't supply the phantom power. But Moving on, this mic is not a bad deal at all. I have used it to record vocals, guitars, and some other instuments. If you really want to improve the sound, then get some GOOD pre-amps and you will be pretty impressed at the change in sound quality. However for those who think they might be dissapointed with this mic, just remember that you get what you pay for. You can't purchase an MXL mic and expect it to sound like a AKG or a NEUMANN. Be Logical. ... More
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PRETTY GOOD
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by LA7 on Guitar Center
Good quality microphone for the price.It has nice details in the highs,a fairly flat midrange, & good bass. Sensitivity is excellent.I use this microphone mainly for vocals and acoustic guitars. On vocals use a windscreen about 6-8" away, it's a tad bright, but can be fixed with eq.. It's a condenser microphone and needs phantom power, I use it with an Art tube mp.I think the build quality is excellent, I like this microphone.
Not As Cheap As The Price!
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by Jen Tonon on Guitar Center
I bought this to use as a backup condenser for my home studio. Boy was I surprised! I even used it to record a live rock musical, where it got dropped a long way to the floor. It dented the grill a little, but you can't even hear it in the recording! Definitely worth your money!
I love this microphone!
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by D the voice guy on Guitar Center
I do voice-over work, and a little music recording. This mic is a workhorse. Nice crisp highs, substantial bass, without sounding flabby, like some condenser mics I've used. If you're using it for voice/vocals with someone who wants to get right into the mic, this might not be the one for you. You can't crowd it. However, if you're comfortable working 8 inches or a foot away, without blowing your breath right into it, this mic has an incredible sound. I've used a windscreen with it, and it can help with someone who insists on working it too closely. But I find that if I don't crowd it, this mic can put out a sound that's at least as good as something that costs twice the price. This is no Neuman, but for the price, I wasn't expecting a microphone with the quality that I got with this one! I used to use a Sennheuser cartiod mic. No more. I still have one, but I haven't unpacked it in a couple of years. Perfect for a home studio application. I've never tried it live in a club as a p.a. mic. I think that it might be too prone to feedback. ... More
Really nice for the price
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by PatK on Guitar Center
I have used this mic for primarilly vocal recording, though I have recorded sax, accoustic guitar, and a guitar amp with it as well. While it is not the best mic you will ever hear, it is quite good. It is quite warm on vocals. I'm just worried that one day it will slip through the shock mount. The only thing I would ask for is a Bass boost/cut and a 10dB pad, which they introduced with the 990s, I believe.
Great Mic
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by ron smith on Guitar Center
I love this Mic. It's easy to use and really sounds good. The only problem with this "MXL 990 Condenser Microphone" is that it shows you how good or bad you really are. It picks up everything really good so use the shock mount. This Mic is perfect for the home studio and for that acoustic gig. Buy it you can't go wrong with this one.
Phantom Power Explanation
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by Billy on Guitar Center
This is a great little mic for home recording, picks up singing very well and smooth, I am a hardcore vocalist and with two pop filters this thing produces a very nice recorded scream. I saw a review saying do not buy it due to phantom power, To which I say simply do your research. Yes, it does require phantom power, but invest 30 bucks in an ART tube preamp (You should be using a preamp ANYWAY, to get a good heated signal... a preamp will rid you of that cold digital feel you get when recording without one) and you've got your phantom power. The mic is cheap, so just drop a little more for the preamp and wha-la. Buy this mic. It's a steal for the price. ... More
Great for singing, but really bad for louder stuff.
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by MICAH FERNANDEZ on Guitar Center
I like this mic if I'm singing quieter stuff. But if I try to do Bono-esque stuff or even screaming for metal, it peaks out and you get these wonderful little spikes even if you have your levels properly adjusted. You can hear it overdrive the mic. Standing back from the mic works, but in the studio, you can tell the singer is standing back. It kills the quality. It's really crisp and clear and has served me well, but I need an alternate mic to do the loud stuff sadly.
Economical Quality
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by Stephen Buntrock on Guitar Center
I bought the MXL 990 in a set with an instrument mic and had to buy the shockmounts separately, a great combo for voice and acoustic guitar/banjo. It was my choice for price after comparing several mics and their graphics. I started using them for ambient recording of live music in clubs and received raves from the musicians recorded, so much so that I've been busy producing live CD's for demos, venue sales, etc. As a result I bought the MXL 990 w/ included shockmount for the second R/L channel and have 3-mic live surround with great results. I gave it 4 stars because you can buy a better mic - you just can't get anywhere near the price for that negligible quality increase. ... More
Best mic I've ever used
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by Julio J on Guitar Center
Sure, you can find more expensive mics, but I don't think the quality will be that much higher. This mics put out crystal clear sound, just make sure your system doesn't produce noise, but you don't have to worry about this mics. They are also very sensitive, using pop filters is a must. Good for use in a studio. I lent them to someone who makes proffessinal music and videos for low key artists, and he liked them. You could use this in combination with a USB lightsnake and a portable phantom converter and use the mics without the need of a mixer, on any computer (although I have yet to try that). You will also definetely need a mic stand, but it's awesome that the mic has it's own shock mount, and it works well, but if the bands start to come off often, just use pliers to bend the hooks a little to ensure they stay put. ... More
Great Budget Mic
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by Gene Marks on Guitar Center
Our Studio was build for around 10k. After a mixing board and pro tools LE setup and Mics we didn't have much left for construction. But we managed to pull it off. We used to use a Sennhieser E835(great stage mic) but this has a glassier feel to it. Buy a pop filter! It mixes well with Sure sm57's and 58's but then again what doesn't? Use it with a Presonus TubePre for best results and don't be timid to use the pad feature, this mic pics up my neighbors lawnmower from underground. You get what you pay for, but its surprising more mic for the money than most think. Most reviews I read that were bad I think they just didn't take the time to learn how to use the mic right. Marshall put some time engineering it for budget people like me. I use the sennhieser for backup vocals and this for lead. I yell a lot into it and its withstood what I've tossed at it, but not at first when the levels were off. As far as voiceover its got a nice range, lows are a little lacking it seemed to me but I'm a tenor. Its clear as a bell for money. If you don't have a lot of money, this mic will do an album or at least an EP no problem IF you dial it in for your vocalist. Thats half the battle ... More
Just another mic... Outstanding price!
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by QualityGuy on Guitar Center
I used the MXL 990 Condenser one time to record some vocals. It was just allright... It just gave a dead sound. For the price though, it is a great buy. The quality is definitely as good as something of that price will get. What I really like though, is that normally when buying a mic, you have to get the shockmount and/or case separately which can be a pain and cost more money. This packages contains both of these things with an incredibly low price. This mic is definitely worth it if you just want a mic sitting in your studio for practicing if you don't want to use your good mics to do so. It can also serve very well as a multi-purpose mic. Good for adding quick vocals or even to mic drums if you just need a simple guide track to lay down. Not a serius choice, ok quality, but for the price, it's the best you'll get... Also, a shockmount would normally cost another 20 bucks, and a case would be another 10 bucks at least. All included. The MXL 990 gets a huge thumbs up for the price. It isn't a great mic though, by any standards, it's not even close. ... More
Amazing Value!
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by Nick Sentowski on Guitar Center
The MXL 990 Condenser Microphone is built like a TANK! Heavy construction ensures that the 3/4' gold-sputtered diaphragm will not be harmed in any way whatsoever. This mic is phantom powered, and can be a bit muddy at times, but when using with my Behringer Eurorack UB802 Mixer, a slight adjustment to the EQ perks everything back up. At this price, it can't be beat!
For beginners
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by Jerry Hurley on Guitar Center
This mic is fabulous. As a beginner recorder and musician at the age of fourteen, this made my dreams come true. This mic blew me away for the price. After looking at a few reviews, I felt like a lot of people are oblivious to the fact that all condenser mics require phantom power. If your that dedicated to your hobby then you must buy a decent PA system. I own a Yamaha EMX 660, which comes with a phantom power switch, which ran to my computer, strait into fruity loops with ease. Also make sure you get a pop filter (I recommend the Musician gear double pop filter, a little more pricey than the single but has a much higher quality) with out a pop filter, it does not sound as good, but over all I am thoroughly impressed with this "bang for buck" mic. A mic stand is the icing on the cake, that brings it all together. Get this mic to my specs and you will not be sorry. ... More
MXL 990 Delivers!
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by jay206 on Guitar Center
I love this mic! The MXL 990 condenser mic produces a clear, quality sound and comes in a package worth every penny. I use the MXL 990 mic with the Mbox 2 and together they are a match made in heaven. Using the mic to record not only vocals but acoustic guitar makes this mic even more versatile. The sound is amazing and it picks up the crisp tone of my Washburn acoustic guitar when I hear it on playback. Along with the mic, the shockmount is also a plus making sure tonality is stable. The mic is very sturdy. I must have dropped it twice and no dinks or scratches have come as a result. Overall, getting the MXL 990 condenser mic is an easy choice to make for you and me! It produces great sound, awesome package, and an even more sensible price! What are you waiting for?! ... More
Bang For The Buck
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone With Shockmount
Reviewed by Golden Ear on Guitar Center
This mic has done me nothing but good. I know what you pay for is what you get, but I think this was a bit of a steel. I've owned the MXL 990 for a little over 2 years now and the vocal product of this mic is much richer than 69 bucks. When positioned at a reasonable distant from the vocalist's mouth at the right angle, the MXL 990 performs like a champ. Though there is much higher quality microphones out there, for the price of with the proper placement this mic can turn water into wine.
