Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (12)
$119.95
Guitar Center
4.5 (46)
$102.19
Amazon
4.6 (2778)
$99.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (185)
$109.95
Thomann
4.5 (11)
$123.00 $122.00 $1.00 · All time low

Average Price: $111

Standard/Professional

$100

$401+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "MXL 991 Condenser Microphone". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The MXL 991 Condenser Microphone is your go-to solution for capturing the intricate nuances of acoustic instruments and more, without breaking the bank. Perfectly suited for home studios, this small-diaphragm pencil condenser microphone is a staple for any budding musician or seasoned professional looking to elevate their recordings. Its gold-sputtered, 6-micron diaphragm ensures a crystal-clear sound that captures every detail, while the wide cardioid polar pattern makes it versatile for a range of recording scenarios. Whether you're miking up an acoustic guitar, using it as an overhead for drums, or exploring other creative uses, the MXL 991 is designed to deliver a smooth high-frequency response, adding presence to your recordings without any harshness.

Housed in a compact profile, the MXL 991 is tailor-made for close-quarter applications, making it easy to position in tight spaces. With a frequency range that spans from 30Hz to 18kHz, this microphone offers an impressive level of detail, ensuring that your recordings are both rich and vibrant. Its robust build quality and professional-grade components make it a reliable choice for any recording environment.

Key Features:

  • High-quality, small-diaphragm pencil condenser
  • Gold-sputtered, 6-micron diaphragm
  • Wide cardioid polar pattern
  • Frequency range: 30Hz–18kHz
  • Smooth high-frequency response
  • Ideal for acoustic instruments and drum overheads
  • Compact design for easy positioning in tight spaces

Product specs

Brand MXL
Model 991 Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Finish Nickel
Year 2010s
Made In China
Categories Microphones

FAQs

What is the primary use of the MXL 991 Condenser Microphone?

The MXL 991 is primarily designed for recording instruments, particularly acoustic guitars and drum overheads, offering clarity and detail ideal for these applications.

Does the MXL 991 require phantom power?

Yes, the MXL 991 condenser microphone requires phantom power to operate, which is typically supplied by most audio interfaces and mixers.

How would you describe the sound signature of the MXL 991?

The MXL 991 offers a clear and detailed sound with a focus on capturing the nuances of instruments, making it well-suited for studio recordings of acoustic instruments.

Is the MXL 991 suitable for live performances?

While the MXL 991 can be used in live settings, it is primarily designed for studio use, where its sensitivity and clarity can be fully utilized without feedback issues common in live environments.

What polar pattern does the MXL 991 feature?

The MXL 991 uses a cardioid polar pattern, which focuses on capturing sound from the front while reducing noise from the sides and rear, ideal for isolating instruments.

Podcastage

Podcastage

MXL-991 XLR Condenser Mic Review / Test

Video thumbnail for MXL-991 XLR Condenser Mic Review / Test by Podcastage

MXL-991 XLR Condenser Mic Review / Test

Podcastage

Podcastage

Video thumbnail for MXL 991 Condenser Microphone by Rockstar Rant

MXL 991 Condenser Microphone

Rockstar Rant

Rockstar Rant

Video thumbnail for MXL 991 Review and Test by FunnyGuyTimmy

MXL 991 Review and Test

FunnyGuyTimmy

FunnyGuyTimmy

Video thumbnail for MXL 991 vs AT875r - Noise Rejection Test by FunnyGuyTimmy

MXL 991 vs AT875r - Noise Rejection Test

FunnyGuyTimmy

FunnyGuyTimmy

Video thumbnail for MXL 991 - Small Diaphragm Pencil Condenser - Used For Voice....IN THE CANISTER by Obscure Mics

MXL 991 - Small Diaphragm Pencil Condenser - Used For Voice....IN THE CANISTER

Obscure Mics

Obscure Mics

Video thumbnail for MXL 991 - Overview and Specifications - Great Budget Condenser Microphone by Jack Marcin Wisniewski

MXL 991 - Overview and Specifications - Great Budget Condenser Microphone

Jack Marcin Wisniewski

Jack Marcin Wisniewski

Reviews

PROS

  • Captures acoustic guitar with impressive clarity and detail

  • Provides crisp and clear output for a budget microphone

  • Affordable option for those not seeking high-end brands

  • Smooth highs and balanced mids for a well-rounded sound

  • Effective for recording snares, overheads, and acoustic guitars

CONS

  • Prone to failure; multiple users report microphone breakdowns

  • Low headroom; lacks a pad for handling high sound pressure levels

  • Midrange focused; top end can become shrill without careful EQ

  • Better suited for hobbyists than professional-level recording sessions

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MXL 991 Condenser Microphone.

Comparisons

  • Miktek MK300 offers a superior sound quality for $200 compared to the MXL 991, which some users find lacking.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The MXL 991 is praised for capturing rich distortion in electric guitar recordings, despite mixed reviews for acoustic use.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A DIYRE mod for the MXL 990 can significantly enhance its performance, costing around $150 and requiring basic soldering skills.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The MXL 990/991 bundle is considered a bargain at $65, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Desiccant can resolve low rumble noise in MXL 991, indicating possible capsule contamination by humidity and dust.

    Source

User experience

  • Users identify the MXL 991 as noisier and less neutral than Pulsar II, but still usable for its price.

    Source
  • Some MXL 991 units may exhibit sporadic noise issues, which can temporarily resolve on their own.

    Source

Critic Reviews

MXL 991 XLR Condenser Mic Review/Test — Geeks Rising

geeksrising.com

While the MXL 991 Condenser Microphone shines with its impressive sound quality for instruments like electric and acoustic guitars, it falls short in build quality, feeling somewhat flimsy. Its cardioid pattern effectively minimizes background noise, making it a solid choice for recording setups. However, it’s not designed for vocals, and using it as such may lead to unsatisfactory results unless a pop filter is employed. At a budget-friendly price of $90, it’s a decent option for beginners looking to experiment with micing techniques, but those seeking a more robust and versatile mic may want to explore other alternatives.

Mojo Pie: MXL 990 and MXL 991

mojopie.com

The MXL 991 stands out as a solid choice in the budget mic category, particularly excelling on acoustic guitar and drum kits. While its brightness may be excessive for solo performances, it adds a desirable sizzle when layered in mixes. At around $50, it provides a compelling alternative to pricier options, making it a great pick for those wary of losing expensive gear in a session. However, it's not without its limitations—best used in specific contexts rather than as an all-purpose mic. Overall, the MXL 991 delivers impressive performance for its price, earning its place among more costly competitors, albeit with some reservations.

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4.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 5 Ratings

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jimmarchi1

Tolerable.

This is a passable chinese mic. I'm guessing it's knocked off of the km84. It's very cheap. Sometimes you can get it for free with an MXL LDC. For free it's pretty good but I would not pay more than 50 dollars for one. Low headroom, no pad. Very midrange focused but the top end that's there can become shrill. Does not take eq boosts well. Position carefully and apply cut only in mixdown.

You run into these guys at project studios a lot and they're a good reason to bring as many of your own carefully selected affordable mics as possible when traveling to engineer a low budget session. I always try to find out exactly what these places have on hand. Sometimes they'll just say like 3 or 4 SDCs and that could be a mixed bag of stuff... your chances of getting a good sound from unspecified cheapo LDCs is a little better than with SDCs in my opinion. There are just better cheap LDCs out there as the LDC firmat has always been the attention grabber.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

Overheads in a pinch, typically spaced. Acoustic guitar in a pinch... toms maybe. Doorstop.

lucas_conforti

have a stereo pair

nice sounding for the price. smooth hi's and balanced mids.

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