I’ve owned the MXL 990 Condenser Microphone with Shockmount for some time now and I would like to add my two cents worth. The MXL 990 Condenser Microphone comes complete with the Shockmount in the box, which adds more value to the package. Shockmounts aren’t cheap. Another bonus which may be irrelevant to some, the black plastic carrying case (included in the deal) is durable and attractive.

First off, let’s get straight to the point. Does this microphone play up to the hype that it is getting? Is this as good as of a mic that the audiophiles say it is? I’m going to sum it up quick for you. The sound quality of the MXL 990 microphone is fabulous. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this mic to anyone and I take my electronic gear seriously.

The MXL 990 has a distinct bassy sound to it, but is not overpowering. I personally prefer a little bass in a microphone because it takes some of the nasally sound out of my voice. This mic is very forgiving. Some have labeled the mic a bit muddy, or a bit (too) bassy for those that haven’t heard the term. I disagree with that label.

Well, I had heard the 990 on YouTube recordings and I became convinced that this was a mic with a lot of body to it, with some extra punch. My intuition proved to be accurate.

If you’re concerned at all about it being muddy, or you have any reservations at all about the mic, then lighten up and keep reading. The MXL 990 Condenser Microphone is one the best values on the market, period. In my humble opinion, this mic matches those studio mics that sell for around $300 or $400. I’m not kidding about this either. I am very impressed with the MXL 990.

Not only do I like the amazing sound quality that flows out of this large diaphragm mic, I like the way it looks and feels. It looks and feels like an expensive mic, honestly. And the shockmount that comes in the box really looks classy, like you are a DJ or something. This is an attractive mic.

Now, getting into some of the technical but important details. It is a condenser mic and the type that needs a source of power, often called phantom power. For this purpose and others as well, I use the Behringer 802 Mixer, another quality piece of sound equipment. The 802 has the phantom power that is needed to do the job.

For the microphone patch cord which is necessary, I recommend XLR male to female cables. This is what you need. I bought one fairly inexpensive and the length was 10 feet. It has played flawlessly, along with the MXL 990 and the Behringer 802 mixer. And if they send you the wrong kind of cord,  just box it up and send it back. The XLR cord can be purchased at a local music shop more than likely.

I have my MXL 990 mounted on a cheap desk microphone stand and something like this would do just fine — On Stage DS7200B Adjustable Desk Microphone Stand, Black.

The MXL 990 easily screws onto the mic stand with no problems whatsover, and everything comes with the mic (except the mic stand obviously), including the shockmount. So, it’s completely hassle-free. I plan on getting something like the Q-Mic QM-50 Pro Mic Arm with 16′ XLR Cable eventually.

This mic is great for voice-overs, podcasts, and broadcasting. I’ve heard it used for vocals, guitar, and other musical instruments. And it sounds marvelous for these purposes also.

Some may question condenser microphones as being too sensitive and this just isn’t true. Yes, they are sensitive, however, they will not pick up a gnat passing gas! Obviously, with any recording there should be no distractions at all. But if you are surrounded by noise constantly, then you should choose a good dynamic microphone. Beware, the nice dynamic mics are expensive and the cheap dynamic mics will not match the MXL 990.

There  may be comparisons with standard condenser mics versus USB microphones, and this is just a personal choice. I prefer the standard condenser type myself. It is more versatile.

In conclusion, if you’re on a budget or just want a great mic at a great bargain, then this is the one for you if you are willing to purchase a device that has phantom power that is.