MXL 604 problems

  • Thread starter Thread starter Sean Eric
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Sean Eric

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I have a pair of 604s that have a problem. I record classical guitar with a Zoom H4. The Zoom works great, but when I plug in these external mics, I will eventually hear a faint electronic noise that resembles a distant squeal. This squeal always starts low in frequency and then rises, falls, and may even disappear before reappearing altogether again.

Are these mics shot? I haven't used them in well over a year and don't recall the problem before. I've stored them safely away all this time.

Thank you,

a microphone doofus
 
If you have the older version of the zoom it may well be that.:(:mad::(

The older H4 model has some issues where as the newer model H4n addresses all those problems plus a lot of new added features and made the zoom H4n a great recorder.:D
 
Is the issue consistent whether running on A/C or battery?
Does it still exist with other external mics?
Is it both mics, or just one? If just one, is it the same one if you swap them while keeping everything else the same?

It may not be the mics. Various ways to troubleshoot depending on what's the actual source of the issue. It could still be the mics, but it's best to isolate / verify that before running out and replacing them if it's NOT the mics.
 
604s

I've not run the Zoom on batteries; I just plug it in when I'm ready to record. Tell me more about the issues with the Zoom H4. I may have to pack the 604s off to school and let my brother-in-law test them out as he's the music teacher there and has access to the sound system where a test could happen. The noise does affect both mics; in fact, the noise usually starts very low in one mic, rises and eventually falls again. During this time, it can spread over to the other mic or may disappear and pop up again in the other mike. I haven't done any troubleshooting with the mikes - I've simply assumed something was up with them.

Also, is there any chance the XLR cables I bought may be bringing this on?
 
Mxl 604

I dunno about the phantom power. I've set the unit to provide 48V; perhaps I should try another microphone in the unit to see if the distant howl happens or not?
 
Are you using cheap mic cables? That would be my first guess.
 
I have the SAME problem with my 604's. I got them from musicians friend for their stupid deal.

I sent one back because of the electronic noise you're talking about. They gave me another pair that had the same problem ... I decided to just deal with it. If you find the solution, please let me know but I really dont think it's something that is outside of the microphone causing it.

Maybe someone like mshilarious would have an idea since it's likely due to a component inside the mic.
 
gehauser said:
Are you using cheap mic cables? That would be my first guess.
Click to expand...

Cheap mic cables also cause phantom power problems by lowering the voltage and causing noise with bad connections.

I have experienced this in the past.

Cheers

alan.
 
a solution

I found a bit of a solution by going into the effect menu and changing the preamp effect. Now, the howling happens only every now and then.

What cables would you recommend?
 
If you make your own you'll know the quality will be good.
 
xlr cables

Is there a site or instructions or an experienced person here who knows how to make their own?
 
Yo Sean! I can't tell you what the problem is with the mics, but I'm guessing it's not the H4. I can tell you what the major issues are with the H4, though. The 3 biggies are:

1. Cheap buttons/switches. That won't cause the problem you are describing. They just die.

2. Some Nimrod put the limiter after the preamp in the signal chain, so if the preamps are being overloaded by a loud source, and you engage the limiter, you get quieter clipping. Very helpful. That doesn't sound like your problem.

3. internal computer/processor freezing/losing or failing to save data- again due to cheap components. Not your problem.

One possible issue- condensation on the diaphragms can cause the problem you are describing. Try placing the mics 8-12" (no closer) over a 60 watt old fashioned light bulb (no bigger) for about 16 hours, and see if anything changes. If you live in Arizona, that's probably not your problem, but if you live anywhere prone to high humidity, it could be.

Lastly, if you're not in the mood for soldering Mogami cable and Neutrik connectors, my favorite commercially made mic cable is B.L.U.E. Kiwi quad cable. I was lucky to pick up a bunch of them from a used bin at Guitar Center for $10 each. I've been using them for about 6 years with no failures under even the most demanding of applications. When you run one over with an F150, check the truck for damage. Best of luck.-Richie
 
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