MXL 840 Small Diaphragm Microphone Pair

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Page last updated Jun 10, 2026

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Price

Average Price: $100

Budget/Beginner

$100

$401+

Price Tier

In the Condenser Microphones category, MXL 840 Small Diaphragm Microphone Pair is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

Budget

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High-end

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Description

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The MXL 840 Pair captures every detail of instrument recordings. These twin mics have small diaphragm capsules and cardioid polar patterns for precise directionality. A fast transient response makes the 840 Pair ideal for drum overheads. Acoustic guitars, pianos and strings sound just as rich, and high SPL handling capabilities make these mics perfect for recording horns too. Position each 840 microphone in the perfect spot using the included shock mounts for complete isolation from room vibrations.

Includes shock mounts for perfect placement
Ideal for drum overheads, acoustic guitars, pianos and strings
Cardioid polar pattern to focus in on the sweet spot
Fast transient response for extra accuracy
Small-diaphragm capsule that captures extra detail

Product specs

Brand	MXL
Model	840 Pair
Finish	Blue
Year	2010s
Categories	Microphones
Microphone Type	Condenser
Wired/Wireless	Wired

FAQs

What is the primary use of the MXL 840 Small Diaphragm Microphone Pair?: The MXL 840 Small Diaphragm Microphone Pair is ideal for capturing detailed and accurate recordings of acoustic instruments, drum overheads, and live performances due to its precise sound reproduction.
What is the polar pattern of the MXL 840 microphones?: The MXL 840 microphones feature a cardioid polar pattern, which effectively isolates the sound source while minimizing background noise and feedback.
Are the MXL 840 microphones suitable for recording vocals?: While primarily designed for instruments, the MXL 840 can be used for vocals, though it's generally better suited for capturing the nuances of acoustic instruments and ensembles.
What is the frequency response range of the MXL 840 microphones?: The MXL 840 microphones have a frequency response range of 30Hz to 20kHz, allowing them to capture a wide spectrum of sound with clarity and detail.
Do the MXL 840 microphones require phantom power?: Yes, the MXL 840 microphones require 48V phantom power to operate, which is standard for condenser microphones.

Videos

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Portal Gitarowy

MXL 840 Pair - DEMO, TEST - mikrofony stereo do gitary akustycznej

Portal Gitarowy

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MXL 840 Small Diaphragm Microphone Pair.

Use cases and applications

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MXL 840 mics can be used as overheads in a drum setup, paired with a dynamic kick drum mic and a condenser snare mic for initial recording sessions.
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MXL 840s set at a 90-degree angle, aimed at the 12th fret, capture high-end presence on acoustic guitars.
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Owners recommend using a pair of MXL 840 mics in an X/Y stereo setup for acoustic guitars, with one pointed at the 12th fret and another at the sound hole.
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Recording directly from an acoustic guitar pickup is discouraged due to tone loss, emphasizing the value of mic placement for preserving natural sound quality.
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Comparisons

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MXL 840 mics are mentioned alongside Rode M5 and SE Electronics as affordable condenser options for various recording applications, including drums and acoustic instruments.
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The MXL 990 mic is described as "boomy" and challenging to work with due to excessive low-end, contrasting with more balanced small diaphragm options like the MXL 840.
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User experience

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Owners suggest experimenting with mic placements and trusting personal auditory judgment over standardized setups to optimize recording quality with the MXL 840.
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Owners find satisfaction with the MXL 840s in a tight XY configuration, emphasizing personal preference in sound quality.
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MXL microphones, including the 840s, are favored by budget-conscious users who appreciate their value despite acknowledging limitations compared to higher-end options.
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Software and compatibility

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It's confirmed that USB mics are compatible with GarageBand on Mac for layering recordings, making them suitable for multi-track projects.
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Features and functionality

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Recording with a smartphone is mentioned as a viable option for capturing the natural sound of small acoustic guitars like the Little Martin, given proper placement and a quiet environment.
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