
( Brand: Mxl ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: MXL990-991BUN1 ), ( Part Type: Microphone Cap ), ( Form Factor: Tbd )
The MXL MXL990-991BUN1 (both MXL 990 and MXL 991 models) is a versatile and high-quality studio condenser microphone, renowned for its exceptional sound quality in both recording and live settings.
The MXL 990 and MXL 991 share many similarities, with the main difference being the frequency response and polar pattern of the MXL 991. Both microphones feature a large-diaphragm design, which allows for a rich, warm, and detailed audio capture. They are equipped with a gold-sputtered 3-micron diaphragm, ensuring a superior response to subtle nuances in vocal and instrumental performances.
The MXL 990 offers a flat frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz, making it an ideal choice for various recording scenarios, including vocals, acoustic instruments, and drum overheads. On the other hand, the MXL 991 boasts a slightly different frequency response, with a boosted high-frequency response (20Hz-20kHz /-3dB 12kHz), making it more suitable for harsh sound sources like cymbals or bright vocals.
Both microphones come with a cardioid polar pattern, which is excellent at rejecting off-axis noise and focusing on the source in front of it. This makes them ideal for solo vocals, instrumental solos, and close-up instrument recording.
The MXL 990 and MXL 991 are equipped with a transformerless FET preamp and a -10dB pad, allowing for a higher SPL handling of up to 140dB. Additionally, they come with a high-pass filter (switchable at 80Hz or 160Hz) to help reduce low-frequency rumble and resonance.
The microphones come with a durable and stylish chrome-plated body, a shock-mounted capsule for reduced mechanical noise, and a custom-designed shock-absorbing yoke mount. The included pop filter further helps to minimize plosive sounds during vocal recordings.
In summary, the MXL MXL990-991BUN1 (MXL 990 and MXL 991) offers a versatile and professional recording solution for various applications, with its large-diaphragm design, transformerless FET preamp, and switchable high-pass filter and pad. Its cardioid polar pattern and durable construction make it an excellent choice for studio use or live performance.
MXL MXL990/991B UNI 990/991/600 Recording Microphone: A Comprehensive Analysis
Overview: The MXL MXL990/991B UNI 990/991/600 is a versatile and high-quality condenser microphone, suitable for a variety of recording applications. It is often praised for its warm, smooth sound and affordable price point. However, like any product, it has its pros and cons.
Pros:1. Affordable: The MXL MXL990/991B UNI 990/991/600 offers excellent value for its price, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious buyers.
2. Versatile: This microphone is suitable for a wide range of applications, including vocals, acoustic instruments, drums, and even some electronic instruments.
3. Warm, smooth sound: Many users appreciate the microphone's rich, full-bodied sound, which is particularly flattering for vocals.
4. Large diaphragm: The large diaphragm design allows for a more natural and detailed sound capture.
5. Multipattern capabilities: The microphone offers multiple polar patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-8), providing flexibility in recording situations.
Cons:1. Requires phantom power: This microphone needs an external power source to operate, which may not be available in some recording environments.
2. Sensitivity to pops and plosives: Without proper protection (e.g., pop filter), the microphone can pick up unwanted popping or plosive sounds.
3. Limited high-frequency response: The microphone may not capture the highest frequencies as accurately as some more expensive models.
4. No pad switch: The lack of a pad switch limits the microphone's ability to handle extremely loud sound sources without distortion.
5. Build quality concerns: Some users have reported issues with the microphone's build quality, such as loose connections and weak housing.
Conclusion: The MXL MXL990/991B UNI 990/991/600 is a solid choice for those seeking a high-quality condenser microphone at an affordable price. Its versatility, warm sound, and multipattern capabilities make it suitable for various recording applications. However, potential buyers should be aware of its sensitivity to pops and plosives, limited high-frequency response, and build quality concerns. It is recommended to invest in a pop filter, a shock mount, and a sturdy stand to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Additionally, considering the need for an external power source, ensure your recording setup can provide phantom power.
Just removing 2 layers of metal mesh makes a pretty big difference. But, I would say, after doing both mods, the head basket mod has a greater effect than ther caps for 990. More clarity from silence, less comb filtering. Now I have Shoppes and Newman so to let these guys go.
I modified each mic to make some moderate improvements their stock performance. All three mics sound pretty different. This trio was my go to fo acoustic guitar for mid side and room mincing. MXL 990 - I removed the inner head backseat to open up sound a bit and virtually eliminates nasty comb filtering that plagues these mics.
I also replaced some capacitors with polyester a modest improvement in frequency response. The 991 and 600 I removed the cap replaced it with a high-end hi-fie-quality polystyrene capacitor. This trio of mics has been in my locker for many years.