MXL 990

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Large-diaphragm condenser microphone

Directional characteristic: cardioid
Frequency range: 30 Hz - 20 kHz
Max. SPL (sound pressure level): 130 dB
Requires 48 V phantom power
Dimensions: 60 x 130 mm
Weight: 544
Incl. shock mount and microphone clamp with 5/8" thread and carrying case (3/8" adapter available under Article Nr 383050 (not included, must be ordered separately))

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3-Year Thomann Warranty

Available since June 2005
Item number 182730
Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
Tube No
Switchable Polar Pattern No
Omnidirectional No
Cardioid Yes
Figure-8 No
Low Cut No
Pad No
shockmount included Yes
USB Microphone No

£78

All prices incl. VAT

171

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in Large Diaphragm Microphones

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4.6 / 5

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156 Reviews

Do you hear me crystal clear.?

Berthmark 08.11.2017

Before i had bought this product, I had read a few reviews and they all came back reasonably positive, But after receiving the product, I was amazed by its sound and build, this mic really is a cut above the rest for its price. It is really powerful on vocals, and on acoustic guitars it really brings out the tone, without even using any Eq, I will most certainly be investing in another two or three of these, They are amazing period.

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Excellent sound for the price — but mechanical quality needs improvement

P. Tosetti 30.11.2025

I bought the MXL 990 for studio recording as an entry-level condenser, and in terms of sound it is genuinely impressive for the price: the self-noise is remarkably low, the frequency response behaves as advertised, and male vocals in particular are captured with pleasing presence and a natural top-end airiness.

And that’s exactly why I’m disappointed — because the mic could have a much stronger reputation… but it’s held back by very real mechanical issues.

On the very first use, the proprietary shock-mount failed: the tightening screw of the angle joint snapped internally under completely normal load. This is not an isolated incident: there are multiple videos on YouTube showing the exact same failure, which suggests a known design weakness that has not yet been addressed by the manufacturer.
Additionally, the grille arrived already slightly dented right out of the case.

In summary:

Sound: 4–5 stars (excellent for the price)

Features: 4 stars

Build quality: 2 stars

Overall rating: 3 stars

This could truly be a best-buy microphone if MXL invested a bit more in the robustness of the mount and the mechanical tolerances. Until then, buyers should know that the mic itself is very capable — but the included shock-mount needs to be handled like fine crystal, or replaced by a sturdier third-party alternative.

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A very good buy

d03 14.11.2015

This is an excellent microphone for its price.

This is currently used in a radio studio for recording voice tracks. When connected up to compressor etc it does sound much better.

The mic does give a very warm sound, which works very well with vocals and spoken word.

For the rather cheap price, it comes with a decent shock mount and a solid mount. The shock mount makes a world of difference, and allows us to move the mic around on its boom without the listeners hearing anything.

If you're looking for a good microphone that comes with good accessories, then this is the one for you.

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I love this thing.

JorgeHH 08.03.2022

In my opinion this is one of the very best microphones I've encountered in my life so far. I used to work at a recording studio too, and it never failed to deliver amazing, natural, raw recordings. The closer to reality your recordings are, the better.

so, pros:
- good size, although i don't think that's very important.
- pretty looking, although, also, not very important.
- natural, raw, realistic, excellent quality sound.
-comes with a very sturdy and resistant looking (haven't tested how resistant it is and hope i never find out, haha) case to transport it or keep it safe and sound at home.

cons:
-mmm, i don't think i can think of anything.

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MXL 990

Large-diaphragm condenser microphone

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259 Customer ratings

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156 Reviews

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