Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $225

Standard/Professional

$100

$401+

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High-end

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Description

The MXL Genesis is where vintage warmth meets modern precision, making it a standout choice for vocalists and instrumentalists seeking studio-grade recordings. At its heart, the hand-selected Mullard 12AT7 tube infuses your sound with a classic, rich character, reminiscent of the golden age of recording. This large diaphragm condenser microphone is engineered with a K67-type capsule that captures every nuance of your performance with stunning clarity.

Its fixed cardioid pattern ensures focused sound capture, minimizing unwanted room noise and delivering an intimate audio experience. Whether you're recording a delicate acoustic guitar or powerful vocals, the Genesis provides a natural sound with a touch of harmonic warmth. The transformerless output stage further enhances the microphone's ability to deliver a wide dynamic range and a detailed frequency response, ensuring that every recording is as vibrant and lifelike as the moment it was performed.

Crafted for professionals and enthusiasts alike, the MXL Genesis combines vintage-inspired design with cutting-edge technology, offering a remarkable balance of quality and affordability. Its robust build ensures durability, making it a reliable companion for countless recording sessions.

Key Features:

  • Large diaphragm tube condenser microphone
  • Hand-selected Mullard 12AT7 tube for classic warmth
  • K67-type capsule with fixed cardioid pattern
  • Transformerless output stage for enhanced clarity
  • Wide dynamic range and detailed frequency response

Product specs

Brand MXL
Model Genesis Large Diaphragm Mullard Tube Condenser Mic
Finish Red/Gold
Year 2010s
Categories Microphones

FAQs

What type of tube is used in the MXL Genesis microphone?

The MXL Genesis microphone features a Mullard tube, which is known for delivering warm and rich sound characteristics, ideal for capturing vocals and instruments with clarity and depth.

Is the MXL Genesis suitable for recording vocals?

Yes, the MXL Genesis is designed for vocal recording, offering a full frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, which captures the nuances of a vocal performance with warmth and detail.

What is the polar pattern of the MXL Genesis microphone?

The MXL Genesis has a cardioid polar pattern, which effectively isolates the main sound source while minimizing background noise, making it ideal for studio recordings.

Does the MXL Genesis require phantom power?

The MXL Genesis is a tube condenser microphone and does not require phantom power. Instead, it comes with its own power supply unit to power the tube circuitry.

How does the MXL Genesis handle high sound pressure levels?

The MXL Genesis can handle sound pressure levels up to 130 dB, allowing it to capture loud sound sources without distortion, making it versatile for various recording applications.

MXL Microphones

MXL Microphones

MXL - Male Vocal Genesis Tube Mic 1080.mov

Video thumbnail for MXL - Male Vocal Genesis Tube Mic 1080.mov by MXL Microphones

MXL - Male Vocal Genesis Tube Mic 1080.mov

MXL Microphones

MXL Microphones

Video thumbnail for MXL Genesis - Acoustic Guitar Demo 1080.mov by MXL Microphones

MXL Genesis - Acoustic Guitar Demo 1080.mov

MXL Microphones

MXL Microphones

Video thumbnail for MXL Genesis - Room Mic Demo 1080.mov by MXL Microphones

MXL Genesis - Room Mic Demo 1080.mov

MXL Microphones

MXL Microphones

Video thumbnail for MXL Genesis Tube Mic - Guitar Demo 1080.mov by MXL Microphones

MXL Genesis Tube Mic - Guitar Demo 1080.mov

MXL Microphones

MXL Microphones

Video thumbnail for MXL Genesis Studio Tube Condenser Microphone Overview | Full Compass by Full Compass

MXL Genesis Studio Tube Condenser Microphone Overview | Full Compass

Full Compass

Full Compass

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Comparisons

  • The MXL Genesis is described as bright and may require manual EQ adjustments, unlike the more neutral Lauten Audio La 320.

    Source
  • The MXL Genesis was compared to the MXL V6, which uses parallel FETs for a similar sound without needing an external power supply, enhancing portability.

    Source
  • The Blue Spark is considered a versatile large diaphragm condenser, suitable for rap and singing, and is regarded as a better all-around vocal mic than the AT2020.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The MXL Genesis, despite being transformerless, is noted for its high-quality tube, which is surprising as the brand is not generally favored by some users.

    Source
  • Despite being a tube mic, the Genesis includes an external power supply, which is a feature typically found in high-end tube microphones.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The MXL Genesis is preferred for vocals due to its brightness, but some users with deep voices find it too sibilant for their style.

    Source
  • The Genesis is appreciated for its warm low end and airy upper mids, making it suitable for a range of instruments beyond vocals.

    Source
  • The Shure SM7B is highlighted for its suitability in voice-over, rap, and metal vocals, requiring no phantom power but needing significant clean gain.

    Source
  • The Aston Origin is noted as a serious contender for vocals at $250, with positive feedback from local studio experiences.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Considering its price, users suggest A/B testing the Genesis with the MXL V6 for potential savings and similar audio quality.

    Source
  • Owners recommend considering the SM7B for its durability and long-lasting value, suggesting checking for used versions to stay within budget.

    Source

User experience

  • The Shure SM7B is praised for its legendary build quality, with users noting its durability akin to the SM-58, yet optimized for studio applications.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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untuchable_jay

Got a killer deal on it.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Chris Maltman uses MXL Genesis

Chris Maltman

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via SoundCloud

Chris Maltman uses the MXL Genesis as his primary microphone for recording live guitars, appreciating its tube design for delivering a warm sizzle. This insight is shared by Maltman on his SoundCloud page.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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