MXL Condenser Mics

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anycolouryoulike
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2007/06/17 19:37:35 (permalink)

MXL Condenser Mics

Are they any good?
#1

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    mewsician2
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/17 20:03:30 (permalink)
    Not bad for the price, I have 3, and seem to find uses for them, none are great for vocals though.
    I have the 992, the 991 and a V63M, http://www.mxlmics.com/condenser_mic/condenser_index.html

    Stephen

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    #2
    frankjcc
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/17 20:36:27 (permalink)
    I own the V69 and I must say that it is a great mic even for vocals, I seem to never have to add any eq when I use this mic for vocals, I might have to roll the top end off a little.
    #3
    Tombo
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/17 21:23:30 (permalink)
    Actually, I owned the MXL 992 for a while, and it was pretty good for the money. One of my early songs, "Susan in the Fall", which is spoken word and acoustic guitar, was recorded entirely with that mic, and I didn't know anything back then (still don't, but then I knew even less). Now I use RODE and Peluso mics. Both punch way above their weight. If you can afford or save for a K2, I highly recommend it...probably my favorite mic right now. Read this: http://www.rodemic.com/downloads/Rode_K2_Audio_Tech_3pp.pd

    Best,

    Mark
    post edited by Tombo - 2007/06/17 21:29:00

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    #4
    eratu
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/17 21:48:48 (permalink)
    The MXL V69 Mogami Edition is supposed to be quite a bargain and sound wonderful. I haven't used it myself but people I trust swear it's one of the best mic deals on the market.


    #5
    DavidB
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/17 22:22:31 (permalink)
    I own a 2001, 1" capsule that I purchased a few years ago. I used it for vocals a few times and thought it did quite nice. Didn't like it on acoustic guitar though.


    Guitar Tracks, Drum Tracks, Bass Tracks
    #6
    losguy
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/17 22:36:56 (permalink)
    ORIGINAL: anycolouryoulike
    Are they any good?

    Good for what? It really depends on the application. But if you mean generally as a product line, then yes, I think they are great for the price.

    I picked up the MXL2003/2001 recording set. It's a nice combination of large-diaphragm and small-diaphragm condensers. The 2003 is the LDC, and it picks up vocals very nicely, both male and female (but particularly female). Of course, I run vocals through a channel strip... I use Voxformer mostly. Every voice is different, but I do find that I need a lot less "beefing up" with EQ on this mic.

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    #7
    Dan DAmico
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/17 23:12:14 (permalink)
    I can confirm that the V69 Mogami Edition tube mic is an excellent mic. Replace the tube with a NOS Mullard and you have a very smooth sounding mic for around $300.
    #8
    frankjcc
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/17 23:40:33 (permalink)
    ORIGINAL: Dan DAmico

    I can confirm that the V69 Mogami Edition tube mic is an excellent mic. Replace the tube with a NOS Mullard and you have a very smooth sounding mic for around $300.


    I heard that some people replace the tubes in these mics, I'd liked to know what the difference is from the original, I'm not used to using tube gear so I'm curious, What part of the spectrum does changing the tube affect? It's nice to have options, but could changing the tube make things worse for some vocals? Lastly can you, or anyone that knows, post a link to the exact tube that is supposed to make this mike sound it's best? Thank you
    #9
    Dan DAmico
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/17 23:48:14 (permalink)
    The most noticeable change was in the upper part of the spectrum. It just seems a bit smoother. The stock tube sounded good, too, but the Mullard tube sounds a bit more refined. I can't remember the exact number (size) of the tube without opening up the mic, but I found one on eBay a couple of years ago for about $25.
    #10
    jweldinger
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/17 23:54:35 (permalink)
    I own a pair of MXL 770s, which are also Mogami wired. As I've stated before in this forum they are my go-to mics for everything except percussion. I purchased mine through AUDIOMIDIMALL.COM, and got MXL's Pop Fiter free for each of them. I intend to purchase at least two more in the near future.

    Regards,
    Joe
    #11
    frankjcc
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/17 23:58:56 (permalink)
    Thanks Dan

    If I find a need a smoother sound then I know what to do, Thanks again
    #12
    Hawky
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/18 01:49:50 (permalink)


    I have the MXL V77 I have used for vocals. I like it a lot. Very good sound for the price.


    Hawky
    #13
    sscannon
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/18 04:08:22 (permalink)
    V67G is good on vocals. Not harsh and bright. Smooth mic for $99. No rollof or pattern select, just cardioid and flat.
    #14
    DonM
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/18 08:58:09 (permalink)
    The best $200 You'll ever spend on Mics
    MXL 603s Mogami Mics - This mod works as well on the new verison, the 604 that is dual cap with a pad
    Small Cap / Shock Mounts / 'Matched' Stereo Pair / Aluminum Case

    http://www.mxlmics.com/

    Then go to Radio Shack - get a soldering iron and do this:

    Thanks to Tim Harbin for helping - Gus Smalley for the mod makes the mics sound much more open, and in fact quite brilliant.

    Change ceramic caps C3 and C4 from .22uf ceramic to .22uf Metal Film Panasonic caps

    Digi-Key part # - ECQ-V1H224JL

    Change the capsule/Gate cap C13 (on back of PC board) from a .001uf (1000pf) ceramic to a 1000pf Xicon Styroflex polystyrene cap

    Mouser Part # - 23PW210

    After those 3 simple cap changes the already decent mic becomes wonderful. I will be using thes mics more and more. I did the same mod to a pair of MXL 990s which use the same circuit (dif. layout) and capsule. The 990s do sound different due to the side address capsule mount and screen structure, but also nics (not as nice as the 603s).

    I recommend a decent iron with a clean tinned tip, and desoldering braid for removing the old parts. Apply the braid, then the iron to the braid, and when the braid soaks up the solder (turns silver) the lead is clean. then just use the hot iron to poe the leads through, leaving holes for the new components.

    This mod is very easy and should take about 10-15 minutes.

    Here are some pics of the mic innards before an after. If you like the mod report back here with your findings. For the price everyone should have a pair of these.
    http://www.pbase.com/sbushman/image/39069407.jpg
    http://www.pbase.com/sbushman/image/39069409.jpg
    http://www.pbase.com/sbushman/image/39069413.jpg
    http://www.pbase.com/sbushman/image/39069410.jpg

    Enjoy'

    ____________________________________
    Check out my new Album  iTunes, Amazon, CD Baby and recent Filmwork, and Client Release
     
    #15
    Dave King
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/18 11:44:13 (permalink)
    How would you say the V69 compares to the M-Audio Sputnik?

    Dave King
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    #16
    Noah330
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/18 11:46:04 (permalink)
    The V69 takes a 12AT7
    #17
    Tombo
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/18 12:00:06 (permalink)
    That's cool! Are they quiet???



    ORIGINAL: DonM

    The best $200 You'll ever spend on Mics
    MXL 603s Mogami Mics - This mod works as well on the new verison, the 604 that is dual cap with a pad
    Small Cap / Shock Mounts / 'Matched' Stereo Pair / Aluminum Case

    http://www.mxlmics.com/

    Then go to Radio Shack - get a soldering iron and do this:

    Thanks to Tim Harbin for helping - Gus Smalley for the mod makes the mics sound much more open, and in fact quite brilliant.

    Change ceramic caps C3 and C4 from .22uf ceramic to .22uf Metal Film Panasonic caps

    Digi-Key part # - ECQ-V1H224JL

    Change the capsule/Gate cap C13 (on back of PC board) from a .001uf (1000pf) ceramic to a 1000pf Xicon Styroflex polystyrene cap

    Mouser Part # - 23PW210

    After those 3 simple cap changes the already decent mic becomes wonderful. I will be using thes mics more and more. I did the same mod to a pair of MXL 990s which use the same circuit (dif. layout) and capsule. The 990s do sound different due to the side address capsule mount and screen structure, but also nics (not as nice as the 603s).

    I recommend a decent iron with a clean tinned tip, and desoldering braid for removing the old parts. Apply the braid, then the iron to the braid, and when the braid soaks up the solder (turns silver) the lead is clean. then just use the hot iron to poe the leads through, leaving holes for the new components.

    This mod is very easy and should take about 10-15 minutes.

    Here are some pics of the mic innards before an after. If you like the mod report back here with your findings. For the price everyone should have a pair of these.
    http://www.pbase.com/sbushman/image/39069407.jpg
    http://www.pbase.com/sbushman/image/39069409.jpg
    http://www.pbase.com/sbushman/image/39069413.jpg
    http://www.pbase.com/sbushman/image/39069410.jpg

    Enjoy'


    Broadjam.com*SoundClick

    'It ain't what people don't know that hurts them, it's what they know that ain't so." -Josh Billings
    #18
    Jon Bryson
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/18 13:04:04 (permalink)

    ORIGINAL: DonM

    The best $200 You'll ever spend on Mics
    MXL 603s Mogami Mics - This mod works as well on the new verison, the 604 that is dual cap with a pad
    Small Cap / Shock Mounts / 'Matched' Stereo Pair / Aluminum Case

    http://www.mxlmics.com/

    Then go to Radio Shack - get a soldering iron and do this:

    Thanks to Tim Harbin for helping - Gus Smalley for the mod makes the mics sound much more open, and in fact quite brilliant.

    Change ceramic caps C3 and C4 from .22uf ceramic to .22uf Metal Film Panasonic caps

    Digi-Key part # - ECQ-V1H224JL

    Change the capsule/Gate cap C13 (on back of PC board) from a .001uf (1000pf) ceramic to a 1000pf Xicon Styroflex polystyrene cap

    Mouser Part # - 23PW210

    After those 3 simple cap changes the already decent mic becomes wonderful. I will be using thes mics more and more. I did the same mod to a pair of MXL 990s which use the same circuit (dif. layout) and capsule. The 990s do sound different due to the side address capsule mount and screen structure, but also nics (not as nice as the 603s).

    I recommend a decent iron with a clean tinned tip, and desoldering braid for removing the old parts. Apply the braid, then the iron to the braid, and when the braid soaks up the solder (turns silver) the lead is clean. then just use the hot iron to poe the leads through, leaving holes for the new components.

    This mod is very easy and should take about 10-15 minutes.

    Here are some pics of the mic innards before an after. If you like the mod report back here with your findings. For the price everyone should have a pair of these.
    http://www.pbase.com/sbushman/image/39069407.jpg
    http://www.pbase.com/sbushman/image/39069409.jpg
    http://www.pbase.com/sbushman/image/39069413.jpg
    http://www.pbase.com/sbushman/image/39069410.jpg

    Enjoy'


    Wow, thanks for that! I have a pair of 603's that I've been happy with but I'll have to give this a shot.

    In reply to the original poster, I have used my 603's very successfully on acoustic guitar and as drum overheads. One caveat is that they have a very wide cardioid pattern so if you are recording a group you will get a lot of bleed from other instruments.

    Can't wait to try the mod though!

    Jon
    #19
    DonM
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/18 13:43:42 (permalink)
    ORIGINAL: Tombo

    That's cool! Are they quiet???


    Here is a track from an album I engineered back in 2003. Blues legend DC Fitzgerald and Bob Beach.



    The 1902(?) banjo and 1930's Gibson Guitar were both mic'ed with a 603s (unmodified at the time) vocals and Harp were a CAD E-200

    ...edit... it turns out this sample only appears to be a few seconds in length - sorry - to your question the Pre makes some difference regarding the mic's noise - the pre in this recording was a Yamaha O1X. Noise was low enough for me. YMMV

    DC Fitzgerald and Bob Beach

    post edited by DonM - 2007/08/12 09:21:59

    ____________________________________
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    #20
    anycolouryoulike
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/18 14:02:24 (permalink)
    Here is a small list of mics that I was looking at in my price range. I know they are really cheap but I am a n00b.

    CAD GXL3000

    Digital Reference DR-REC Recording Cardioid Condenser Mic

    M-Audio MXL 990/991

    Nady SCM 960 Studio Condenser Microphone
    #21
    Dr. Mac
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/18 14:20:38 (permalink)
    Owned a 2001 and a 990/991 a few years back. Not that bad... not that great. You get what you pay for with mics.


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    #22
    opaque slogan
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/18 18:53:39 (permalink)

    ORIGINAL: anycolouryoulike

    Are they any good?


    Yes.

    Mario kart SC, Nintendo Gameboy advance SP, Screen magnifier.

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    #23
    Tube
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/19 14:12:25 (permalink)
    How does the 991 compare to the 603? I see a lot of good stuff for the 603 but nothing very positive for the 991.

    The same question applies for the 990 and other mics in its price range like the 2001.

    I ask because I got the 990/991 kit when I started. They've been great for starter mics. I always assumed the 603, 2001, etc. aren't any better because they cost just about the same. If they really are a lot better I'd really like to know. My mics are fine for what I do now, but if I could upgrade for very little cost I'd love do it.

    Thanks.
    #24
    losguy
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/19 14:32:14 (permalink)
    My guess is that they are close to the same quality, like you said, but perhaps just different flavors of it. That 603 mod looks interesting. It might give mine a whole new lease on life!

    Psalm 30:12
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    #25
    Dan DAmico
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/19 18:59:45 (permalink)
    To the originator of this post: Perhaps instead of asking about MXL as a brand, you should tell us what you are recording, and what your sonic needs are. It may then be easier to suggest a mic in your price range.
    #26
    Psychobillybob
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/20 01:28:10 (permalink)
    Sorta...

    If you want a really nice suprise get the MXL 9000 tube mic, runs about $200.00 and it will knock your socks off for the price.

    I'm using SOnar Platinium on a 6 core Lynx Audio machine and a ton of vintage pre-amps/eq's/comps I build for fun and sometimes money, REDD.47/API/Neve I also use the UAD stuff, and also use a Macbook Logic 9 through Apogee...
    #27
    jsaras
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    RE: MXL Condenser Mics 2007/06/20 09:56:59 (permalink)
    The ADK Hamburg is in that general price range and it is a fabulous microphone.

    http://www.audiorecordingandservices.com ("one minute free" mastering)

    http://tinyurl.com/3n6kj (free Sonar mixing template and Ozone mastering preset)
    #28
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