With the growing amount of content creation and diversification in music taste, microphones have become an essential accessory for an influencer today.
When it comes to microphones, MXL is the top brand that comes to mind. Two of their popular microphones are MXL 770 and MXL 990. It will not be an exaggeration if we tell you that many folks have confused one for the other. Let’s find out which of two microphones is better.
Introducing MXL 770 and MXL 990
MXL 770 and MXL 990 are two of the finest microphones produced by the brand. The sound quality and overall performance make them extremely likable amongst the people seeking out good microphones without punching a hole in their pockets.
The MXL 770 is a diaphragm condenser microphone. It is perfect for hard rock and hip-hop vocals. It enhances the recordings of instruments such as strings and pianos. It is an excellent option to consider for both home and professional studio setup. The MXL 770 mic was included as one of the picks in our best condenser microphones under $200 guide.
The MXL 990 is a pressure gradient condenser microphone. It is an excellent device for recording acoustic instruments and vocals alike. It is more favorable in a professional studio because of the voice and pitch quality that it delivers.
MXL 770 Highlights
MXL 770 is a supreme quality condenser microphone. It is outfitted with a low-noise preamp, responsible for generating a balanced audio output. It produces excellent bass and a vibrant range of sounds. The high-notes could get a bit uncomfortable while recording but is an excellent microphone for canceling external disturbances.
When it comes to the price, MXL 770 is extremely budget-friendly and a top choice for investment as part of a home studio. It comes with a bunch of accessories and a manual to help you get started.
Pros
- It produces less noise while recording. It makes it ideal if the recording is taking place in a poor acoustic space or when you are recording close to the speakers.
- The FET preamp allows the microphone to capture a wide frequency range.
- With an affordable price point, the MXL 770 becomes an ideal choice for beginners.
- It performs well with a wide range of musical instruments.
Cons
- It is slightly sensitive and sometimes captures breathing sounds and mic vibrations.
- Despite a dynamic range, it favors the high frequencies more.
MXL 990 Highlights
The MXL 990 is also a condenser microphone. Its FET preamp and shock mount accessory are quite similar to MXL 770. Its build quality is better and has an attractive champagne-colored finish. It is one of the popular professional microphones that can be found. The microphone is compatible with various acoustic instruments and delivers a smooth sound quality.
The MXL 990 is slightly expensive compared to MXL 770, but it is still considered to be at an affordable price point.
Pros
- It has a rich sound tone and responds well to sensitivity.
- The noise cancellation is excellent.
- It is a perfect microphone for recording studios and for vocals too.
- It is quite affordable and delivers versatile performance.
Cons
- It is not ideal for recording drums and amps.
- It cannot handle high sound pressure levels.
FACE TO FACE FEATURES
Here we analyze some unmissable features and technical attributes to see how different both the microphones are from each other.
Design Comparison
Both MXL 770 and 990 have a sleek design and are pretty attractive. Both are extremely light-weight because the majority of construction material being supreme-quality and extremely durable plastic.
MXL 770 has a matte black finish with a golden lining that complements the black color. The MXL logo is present on the front in the golden color. It gives the mic a very modern and quirky look.
MXL 990 has a champagne finish on its body and grille. The lining is black, and there is a black MXL logo present on the front. The overall look gives a vintage feel.
Technical Comparison
| Key Attribute | MXL 770 | MXL 990 |
| SPL | 137 dB for 0.5% THD | 130 dB for 0.5% THD |
| S/N Ratio | 74 dB | 80 dB |
| Attenuation pad & roll-off switch | -10 dB attenuation pad for higher frequencies; 1 roll-off switch to cut off bass if required | Absent |
| Weight | 1 lb | 1.2 lb |
| Dimension | 59 mm x 158 mm | 60 mm x 130 mm |
| Capsule Size | 0.89” | 1.26” |
| Impedance | 150 Ω | 200 Ω |
| Frequency Range | 30 Hz – 20,000 kHz | 30 Hz – 20,000 kHz |
| Sensitivity | 15mV/Pa | 15mV/Pa |
| Current draw | NA | <0.3 mA |
| Power Requirement | 48 V (+/- 4 V) | 48 V (+/- 4 V) |
| High-pass filter | 6 dB/ Octave at 150Hz | Absent |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid | Cardioid |
Performance Comparison
Price is one of the crucial points in making a purchase decision. However, when you are oriented towards performance, the price becomes a secondary point, especially when two products are closely priced.
The MXL 770 microphone performs well with vocals, percussion, and acoustic instruments. It is also suitable for podcasts and other content creation purposes. MXL 990 works the best with vocals.
The MXL 770 gives out a perfect bass undertone. The clarity of sound is more compared to its counterpart. However, sometimes MXL 770 catches on feeble mic vibrations, which can disrupt the recording quality.
The MXL 990 sounds better overall. It has a balanced soundstage, which delivers a richer tone and better bass output.
STANDOUT FEATURES
Although MXL 770 and MXL 990 may seem quite similar, certain features differentiate the two. This section discusses the standout features amongst the two microphones to give you a clearer perspective.
- Frequency response: the MXL 770 is a warmer mic compared to MXL 990 due to its excellent boost in the treble.
- Maximum Sound-Pressure Level: MXL 770’s slightly higher SPL makes it better for recording louder sounds. In the case of low drums and closer proximity to loud sounds, the MXL 990 performs better.
CONCLUSION
Both MXL 770 and MXL 990 are indeed similar in many features. Both have similar polar patterns. Both are incredible at canceling external noises, and their performance is beautiful. However, they still have unique standout features.
You can opt for an MXL 770 if you want:
- A warmer tone in the sound
- To record vocals
- better sound clarity
You can opt for an MXL 990 if you want:
- To record acoustic instruments
- sharper output
- high-pitch recordings
