MXL 990
Large Diaphragm Microphones
$100€89Check ↗
Brand profile · USA, est. 1990s
MXL
MXL Microphones, originally a division of RadioShack, has carved a niche in the microphone market by offering surprisingly capable and affordable options across a range of formats. While often associated with budget-conscious recording, MXL has consistently strived to deliver a decent performance-to-price ratio, appealing to both beginners and seasoned professionals needing versatile tools. Their focus has been on accessibility without completely sacrificing quality.
V87 large-diaphragm condenserUSB microphone series for podcastingRibbon microphone technology at accessible price pointsConsistent value propositionWide range of microphone types
1990sfounded
USAcountry
13products in stock
$84–$595price range
MXL in the charts
Every chart where MXL has five or more models — ranked by the AudioFu Index inside each.
All 13 MXL products
Sorted by AudioFu Index — the strongest models of every category first.
MXL 2003a
Large Diaphragm Microphones
$179€159Check ↗
MXL R144
Ribbon Microphones
$156€139Check ↗
MXL AC-404
USB / Podcast Microphones
$84€75Check ↗
MXL V67i
Large Diaphragm Microphones
$201€179Check ↗
MXL V67G
Large Diaphragm Microphones
$134€119Check ↗
MXL 770
Large Diaphragm Microphones
$111€99Check ↗
MXL Revelation II
Large Diaphragm Microphones
$595€529Check ↗
MXL CR77
Dynamic Allround Microphones
$190€169Check ↗
MXL R77
Ribbon Microphones
$314€279Check ↗
MXL V87
Large Diaphragm Microphones
$201€179Check ↗
MXL V69M
Large Diaphragm Microphones
$258€229Check ↗
MXL 990/991 Set
Large Diaphragm Microphones
$141€125Check ↗
MXL, honestly
What MXL does well
- Excellent value for money
- Broad selection of microphone types
- User-friendly, easy to set up
- Good for beginners and home recording
- Decent sound quality for the price
What to watch for
- Build quality can feel somewhat plasticky
- May lack the refinement of premium brands
- Can be noisy in quieter recording environments
- Some models exhibit a slightly colored sound
Questions about MXL
Where are MXL instruments made?
MXL microphones are primarily manufactured in China, but the company maintains design and engineering operations within the United States.
Are MXL microphones suitable for professional studio use?
While not typically considered top-tier studio mics, MXL models can be useful for certain applications, especially for vocal tracking or instrument miking on a budget.
What's the difference between MXL's condenser and ribbon microphones?
Condenser mics are generally more sensitive and capture more detail, while ribbon mics offer a warmer, more vintage-style tone, often favored for vocals and instruments.