MXL 9000 Review – The Difference A Vacuum Tube Makes

Design:
Features:
Performance:
Value:

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MXL offers some of the most interesting budget microphones out there. Their MXL 9000 comes across as one of the most unique and best performing condenser microphones you can get for less than $200. However, there is something different about this mic that don't get to see that often anymore.

Design

Design wise, MXL 9000 features a somewhat vintage vibe. You have the simple side address only grille paired with a solid metal body, both finished in a tamed champagne color. Compared to other MXL microphones, there are many similarities in terms of aesthetics. After all, MXL uses a fairly similar template for most of their budget models. Overall, the design is very user friendly and easy to handle on a daily basis. What is more important is build quality. MXL may be known for budget builds, but there is nothing ‘budget’ about their build quality. Their mics are rock solid and ready to endure whatever wear you are capable of dishing out in your studio. It is worth mentioning that the color choice gives MXL 9000 a more refined look. Compared to the sea of all-black condensers out there, it is a breath of fresh air for sure.

Features

We have mentioned that there is something different about MXL 9000 compared to other microphones in its price range. Where as most budget models rely on a transformer design, MXL 9000 uses a good old tube. The valve of choice is a single 12AT7. The implications of this are numerous. For starters, the performance of a tube powered microphone is tangibly different, but that's not the best part. The best part is that you can mod the microphone by simply swapping the tube. As you probably know, same model tube from two different brands can sound very different. That opens up a few opportunities. With a frequency response range of 30Hz to 20kHz, MXL 9000 is right in that median category. However, its max SPL of 122dB brings some limitations which we will address later on. Cable connector is a standard XLR and phantom power is a must.

Performance

To properly describe the performance of MXL 9000, we have to list out its benefits and limitations. For starters, the tube capsule brings a very different type of vocal sound, with plenty of warmth in the mid range and a rather flat set of lows. It adds some color to the voice, but not the kind you want to avoid. It all comes down to embracing that tube flavor. It either works for you, or it doesn't. The main limitation here becomes apparent when we look into recording instruments. Due to its inherently low max SPL and lack of any kind of attenuation, you have to be really careful when recording instruments. Acoustic guitars are going to be fine if you take some time to figure out the best setup. However, anything louder will most likely cause you some headache. In that sense, it is a niche microphone.

Conclusion

MXL's lineup of budget condensers is pretty extensive. Finding a proper tube mic is a welcome sight, especially one that works so well. If you need something a bit more flavorful to record vocals with, MXL 9000's a great choice. In all honesty, the upgrade paths don't really hurt either.

For more info about the MXL 9000, click here.
For more Condenser Microphone Under $200 you might like, click here.