Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $175
Standard/Professional
$100
$401+
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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "MXL CR89 Condenser Microphone". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unleash your inner sound engineer with the MXL CR89 Condenser Microphone, a versatile powerhouse designed to elevate your studio recordings. This large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone is crafted with FET electronics, providing a warm, rich character that excels in capturing the subtle nuances of acoustic guitars, pianos, and vocals. Its expertly engineered low-noise circuitry and minimal proximity effect make it an ideal choice for up-close recording, ensuring clarity and precision in every take.
The CR89’s wide frequency response, ranging from 20 Hz to 20kHz, coupled with its ability to handle up to 138 dB SPL, ensures that no detail is lost, whether you're recording the delicate tones of a string instrument or the booming depth of ambient room sound. The microphone's body design smartly minimizes resonance while its tuned grille cavity reduces standing waves and harmonic distortion, allowing for a clean and uncolored sound capture.
Whether you’re a seasoned producer or an aspiring musician, the MXL CR89 offers the perfect balance of studio-grade quality and user-friendly performance. Embrace the opportunity to capture your soundscape with unparalleled accuracy and expression.
Key Features:
- Large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone
- Fixed polar pattern with FET electronics
- Low-noise circuitry for clear recordings
- Minimal proximity effect for up-close capturing
- Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20kHz
- Maximum SPL: 138 dB
- Tuned grille cavity to reduce standing waves and harmonic distortion
Product specs
| Brand | MXL |
| Model | CR89 Large Diaphragm Low-Noise Condenser Mic |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Microphones |
FAQs
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What type of polar pattern does the MXL CR89 microphone have?
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The MXL CR89 features a cardioid polar pattern, which is ideal for capturing sound from the front while minimizing noise from the sides and rear, making it excellent for vocal and instrument recordings.
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Is the MXL CR89 suitable for recording acoustic instruments?
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Yes, the MXL CR89 is designed for high-quality recordings of acoustic guitars, strings, and pianos, offering a warm yet accurate sound that captures the nuances of these instruments.
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Does the MXL CR89 have a noticeable proximity effect?
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The MXL CR89 has a very low proximity effect, allowing for closer placement to the sound source without the risk of bass buildup, which is beneficial for clear and natural recordings.
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What accessories are included with the MXL CR89 microphone?
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The MXL CR89 comes with a heavy-duty shockmount to reduce handling noise and a real wood storage box for protection and easy transport.
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How would you describe the sound character of the MXL CR89?
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The MXL CR89 is known for its warm character while remaining faithful to the original sound source, providing a balanced and natural audio capture suitable for various recording applications.
Videos
The OC Recording Company, Inc.
In the Studio with Asaf Fulks: Episode 13 [Sony C-800G vs. MXL CR89]
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MXL CR89 Condenser Microphone.
Comparisons
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The AKG D222E is noted for intimate vocals without proximity effect due to its unique two coaxial pickups design.
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The Electro-Voice RE-20 and Shure SM7B are mentioned as mics with less pronounced proximity effects due to their design, though they are often associated with proximity effect.
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MXL CR89 is considered a step up from the Behringer B1 and V63M for vocal clarity and detail, making it a strong contender for those upgrading from entry-level mics.
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In a blind shootout, MXL 993s were preferred over Neumann KM184 for close room mic on drums, though they experienced durability issues after a year of rough use.
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In a vocal mic shootout, the MXL 3000 ranked last, while the CAD e300s stood out as a top performer among more expensive models.
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Features and functionality
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Electro-Voice RE 50B has excellent pop suppression and zero proximity effect, making it ideal for close vocal recording.
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The AKG D222E employs a high-frequency pickup pointing forward and a low-frequency one pointing backward, reducing proximity effect in dynamic cardioid mics.
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The CR89 is highlighted for its suitability in recording both intimate vocals and general room ambiance, praised for versatility across different vocal styles.
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Use cases and applications
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The Sennheiser e835, while designed for intimate vocals, can be sibilant and may require a strong de-esser like TB Sibilance in the mix.
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Ideal for vocalists similar in style to Sara Bareilles, the CR89 excels in capturing detailed, expressive performances, especially in well-treated rooms.
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MXL R144 ribbon mic, when paired with a Shure SM57 on horns, adds a pleasing roundness to the tone.
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User experience
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Owners of the CR89 report satisfaction with its performance when paired with high-quality preamps, enhancing its ability to capture clean, nuanced sound.
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One owner noted the MXL 992 survived a drop without performance issues, indicating durability in unexpected situations.
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The MXL 440/441 studio pack is praised for its solid build quality and ability to withstand rough handling while maintaining performance.
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Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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