Here's my setup:
Behringer Xenyx 802 Mixer
Behringer FCA202
Behringer C1, AT2020, Shure SM57 and SM58
The C1 came with the package that I purchased in my beginning days of recording, and as a first mic I think that it is FAR better than the MXL990. Sure, it has that high-end sparkle that most Chinese mics have, but with some EQ'ing and figuring out what works no one would ever guess that it's a <$50 mic. The 990 is muddy, and to get a decent sound out of it takes far more time for a beginner than the C1 IMHO.
I will say, now that I've "moved up" to the AT2020, I rarely use the C1 anymore. I believe that is a great mic to get you started, but once you get the hang of it you will find the need to upgrade...
Of the two options, the C1 is definitely the better choice.