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Average Price: $119

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Description

Capture the thunderous rumble of your bass drum with the MXL A-55 Kicker Bass Drum Dynamic Mic, designed specifically for the needs of drummers and recording engineers aiming for precision and clarity. This dynamic microphone is engineered to handle the intense low-frequency sounds of bass drums, floor toms, and other low-end instruments, ensuring that every beat resonates with power and punch. Tailored for low-frequency applications, the A-55 Kicker provides a rich and full-bodied sound without distortion, making it an ideal choice for both live performances and studio recordings.

Its rugged construction is built to withstand the rigors of the stage and the studio, ensuring durability without sacrificing audio quality. The cardioid polar pattern of the MXL A-55 helps focus the microphone on the instrument, reducing unwanted ambient noise and feedback. This makes it an excellent tool for capturing the intricate details of your percussion setup while maintaining a clean and isolated sound.

The A-55 Kicker also features a built-in swivel mount, allowing for precise positioning to get the best capture of your instrument’s sound. The mic’s versatility extends beyond the bass drum, as it also works well with other low-frequency instruments, making it a valuable addition to any musician’s gear collection.

Key Features:

  • Specifically engineered for bass drums and low-frequency instruments
  • Cardioid polar pattern for focused sound capture
  • Durable construction suitable for live and studio use
  • Built-in swivel mount for easy positioning
  • Provides clear, distortion-free sound at high sound pressure levels

Product specs

Brand MXL
Model A-55 Kicker Bass Drum Dynamic Mic
Year 2010s
Categories Microphones

FAQs

What is the primary application for the MXL A-55 Kicker Bass Drum Dynamic Mic?

The MXL A-55 Kicker is specifically designed for capturing the low-end punch and depth of bass drums, making it ideal for both live performances and studio recordings.

What type of polar pattern does the MXL A-55 Kicker have?

The MXL A-55 Kicker features a cardioid polar pattern, which helps isolate the bass drum sound by rejecting off-axis noise from other instruments.

Can the MXL A-55 Kicker handle high sound pressure levels?

Yes, the MXL A-55 Kicker is built to handle high sound pressure levels, making it suitable for capturing the powerful sound of bass drums without distortion.

Is the MXL A-55 Kicker suitable for recording other instruments besides bass drums?

While primarily designed for bass drums, the MXL A-55 Kicker can also be used to record other low-frequency instruments like bass guitars and floor toms, providing a deep and punchy sound.

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MXL Microphones Studio Drum Mic Kit for Recording, Overview | Full Compass

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MXL Microphones Studio Drum Mic Kit for Recording, Overview | Full Compass

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Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MXL A-55 Kicker Bass Drum Dynamic Mic.

Use cases and applications

  • MXL A-55 Kicker used in a unique setup, angled at the back right side of a speaker cone, provides depth and crunch in indie rock/metal recordings.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • When blended with an SM58 and MXL R144, the A-55 Kicker captures a mix of high mids, room ambience, and back cone resonances for richer guitar tone.

    Source

User experience

  • The A-55 Kicker, in combination with other mics, allows for dynamic sound capturing, enhancing the overall depth and tonal richness in studio recordings.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Positioned in the back of a cabinet, the A-55 Kicker captures unique tonal qualities, suggesting versatility beyond its intended use as a kick drum mic.

    Source

Critic Reviews

MXL Drum Cube and A-55 Kicker Review

recordinghacks.com

The MXL A-55 Kicker impresses as a unique alternative for kick drum miking. With less top-end aggression and a tighter low end compared to popular counterparts like the Audix D6, it offers a woollier, chestier thump reminiscent of '70s rock and Motown groove. Best placed on the beater for a vintage vibe, it complements other mics well, creating a massive sound when paired with options like the Shure Beta 52. While it might lack the punch some modern engineers crave, its affordability and distinctive sound make it a valuable addition for those seeking variety in their drum mic arsenal.

positive

MXL A-55 Kicker Bass Drum Mic Review | Late Reflections – the Silent Sky Studios Blog

silentsky.net

The MXL A-55 Kicker Bass Drum Mic punches well above its weight with a robust design and rich low-end sound that suits rock, pop, and metal genres. While its cardioid pattern and frequency bumps deliver the desired kick drum punch, its hefty build demands a stable stand. The unique XLR socket design aids placement flexibility, though the small wingnut for angle adjustment could be a minor hassle. Despite this, the A-55 offers exceptional value, rivaling pricier mics and earning high marks as a budget-friendly choice for both studio and live settings.

positive

MXL Drum Microphones review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The MXL A-55 Kicker Bass Drum Dynamic Mic punches above its weight with a versatile design and impressive frequency response. Praised for its robust build and ability to deliver a warm, natural, and clear sound, this mic is well-suited for live environments as well as studio recordings. While the review doesn't highlight any significant drawbacks, it notes the mic's strong signal and ease of integration into the mix. For musicians looking to capture the low-end power of their bass drums, the A-55 Kicker is a worthy contender with no major cons to report.

positive

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