MXL 990s

$69.95 to $97.94 Price Tier: Budget

All time low price

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Page last updated Jun 05, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated June 4, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

4.5 (25)

$89.95

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4.5 (88)

$89.95 $69.95 $20.00 · All time low

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4.6 (2779)

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$97.94 1 available New

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4.0 (722)

$89.95

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5.0 (7)

$79.95

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4.6 (260)

$88.00

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Average Price: $85

Budget/Beginner

$100

$401+

Price Tier

In the Condenser Microphones category, MXL 990s 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

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "MXL 990s". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Step into the realm of professional-grade audio with the MXL 990s, a true gem for home studios and budding musicians. This large-diaphragm condenser microphone seamlessly blends affordability with high-end performance, making it an ideal choice for vocalists, podcasters, and instrumentalists alike. At its core, the MXL 990s boasts a gold-sputtered, 6-micron diaphragm and a German-style transformerless circuit, featuring a FET preamp that ensures high-fidelity sound reproduction.

The microphone's cardioid polar pattern is engineered to focus on the sound source directly in front of it, effectively minimizing ambient noise and capturing every nuance with crystal clarity. Whether it's the rich low end of a voice-over or the intricate details of an acoustic guitar, the MXL 990s delivers a balanced and natural sound profile, with a gentle presence peak around 8kHz to enhance vocal articulation without harshness.

Housed in a vintage-styled, durable metal chassis, the MXL 990s is not just a treat for the ears but also a visual delight. It comes equipped with a custom shockmount, a mic stand adapter, and a protective carrying case, offering everything you need to get started right out of the box. Requiring 48V phantom power, it connects seamlessly via XLR to any compatible audio interface or mixing board, making it a versatile addition to any recording setup.

Key Features:

Large-diaphragm condenser with a 6-micron gold-sputtered diaphragm
FET preamp with a German-style transformerless circuit
Cardioid polar pattern for focused sound capture
Frequency response: 30Hz–20kHz with a gentle presence peak
Max SPL: 130 dB
Requires 48V phantom power
Includes custom shockmount, mic stand adapter, and carrying case

Product specs

Microphone Type	Pressure Gradient Condenser
Polar Pattern	Cardioid
Diaphragm Size	0.78" (20mm)
Frequency Response	30Hz-20kHz
Max SPL	130 dB SPL (0.5% THD)
Output Impedance	200 ohms
Sensitivity	15mV/Pa
Signal to Noise Ratio	80dB (A weighted)
Self Noise	20dB (A weighted)
Connector	XLR
Power Source	48V phantom power (±4V)
Dimensions	5.11" x 2.36"
Weight	1.2 lbs.
Included Accessories	Shockmount, Mic Stand Adapter, Hardshell Case

FAQs

What type of polar pattern does the MXL 990 have?: The MXL 990 features a cardioid polar pattern, which is ideal for capturing sound from the front while minimizing noise from the sides and rear, making it suitable for vocal and instrument recordings.
Is the MXL 990 suitable for recording vocals?: Yes, the MXL 990 is well-suited for recording vocals due to its large-diaphragm condenser design, which provides a smooth, balanced sound with a silky high end and solid low and midrange reproduction.
What power source does the MXL 990 require?: The MXL 990 requires 48V phantom power, which is typically supplied by most audio interfaces and mixers equipped with XLR inputs.
What accessories are included with the MXL 990 microphone?: The MXL 990 comes with a custom shockmount, a mic stand adapter, and a hardshell case for protection and ease of transport.
How would you describe the sound signature of the MXL 990?: The MXL 990 offers a beautifully balanced sound with a silky sweet high end and tight, solid low and midrange reproduction, making it versatile for various recording applications.

Reviews

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PROS

Excellent sound quality for vocals, acoustic guitar, and voiceovers
Captures a wide audio spectrum, enhancing tone for various instruments
Warm and natural sound, suitable for diverse recording needs
Comes with sturdy case and decent shock mount
Great budget option, rivals more expensive microphones
Versatile usage, from quiet vocals to loud band recordings
Reliable and durable build, suitable for home studios

CONS

Shock mount hardware is fragile and may need replacement
Picks up room acoustics, unsuitable for noisy environments
Off-axis rejection may lead to cymbal bleed in heavier music
Slightly higher noise level compared to some competitors

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MXL 990s.

Comparisons

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Owners note that MXL 992s have outperformed Neumann 184s in blind tests, highlighting the brand's quality.
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The MXL 990 is often compared to the Audio-Technica AT2020, with many finding the AT2020 less harsh, but noting the 990's mod potential for improved performance.
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Setup and maintenance

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The MXL 990 requires phantom power, and setups converting XLR to 1/4" may degrade sound quality.
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Features and functionality

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The MXL 990 is favored for its clarity and is considered a significant upgrade from dynamic mics like the Shure PG58.
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Use cases and applications

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Noted for its clarity, the MXL 990 has been used successfully in professional radio stations and income-generating music recordings.
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The MXL 991 excels in capturing rich distortion tones for electric guitar recordings, praised for its sound quality in this specific application.
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Owners have successfully used MXL 990/991 mics for acoustic guitar and piano, with applications in overhead setups and the Glyn Johns method.
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The MXL 990, despite its limitations, has been used effectively for voice-over work, with owners noting the need for careful EQ to mitigate brittleness.
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Value and pricing

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Available new for as low as $50, the MXL 990 offers strong value, especially when paired with an appropriate preamp like the ART tube preamp.
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The MXL 990/991 bundle can be a budget-friendly option at $65 on sale, allowing room for additional mic purchases under a $250 budget.
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The MXL 990 is likened to a "Honda Civic" of microphones—affordable and modifiable, providing a solid starting point for beginners with upgrade potential.
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Mods and upgrades

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DIYRE offers an MXL990 mod kit for $150, transforming it into a favorite among owners with easy soldering work.
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Owners have successfully upgraded the MXL 990 with an RK-47 capsule, significantly improving sound quality and placing it competitively against mics under $3000.
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Build quality

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The MXL 990's construction features a small diaphragm condenser in a large-diaphragm style body, which can be misleading for some users expecting a true large diaphragm.
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