Mxl 992

[shAkEz_gk]

Never seen this before, anyone know about this mic?

 

[Dot]

That's a new mic MXL makes exclusively for MF. It just came out and you might have gray hair before someone who actually knows what they're talking about reviews it.

If the MXL 990 is any indication, it's probably worth passing on.

Dan Richards
Digital Pro Sound
The Listening Sessions

 

[Innovations]

Not a review but...

I happened to notice that the mic now has its own page on the MXL site

http://www.mxlmics.com/condencer_mic/condenser_index.html

so we at least have some specs. and a response chart.

Low noise, high output, Proprietary FET design
Large Capsule, Gold Sputtered Diaphragm
Wide, 20Hz-20kHz frequency range
10dB switchable attenuation
Internally wired with Mogami cable
10 dB low frequency cut switch
Weight, 2 lbs. Length 9" "vintage cosmetics"
Comes with hi-isolation shockmount and Deluxe silver carrying case

The MXL 992 has a large diaphragm Gold capsule combining the best of large diaphragm performance and the latest in transformer-less FET circuitry. The 992 delivers the dynamic range required in the most demanding applications. It has an airy open sound with low self-noise essential for accurate, digital recording. With a 20Hz-20kHz frequency range; 10dB switchable attenuation; selectable -10dB low-frequency roll-off; and large brass enclosure; the MXL 992 is one of the most versatile microphones available. Includes Deluxe carrying case and shock-mount.

Type: Six micron condenser pressure gradient gold capsule
Frequency Range: 20-20 KHz
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Sensitivity: 15mV/Pa
Output Impedance: 200W
Max SPL: 130 dB , 140 dB w/-10dB cut
S/N Ratio: 80dB (Ref. 1 PA, A weighted)
Equivalent Noise Level: 10dB (A weighted IEC 268-4)
High Pass Filter: 6dB/octave, 80Hz. (switchable)
Preattenuation Switch: 0/-10dB
Weight: 2 lbs
Metal Finish: Champagne
Power Requirements: 48V phantom power (+- 4V)

For comparison here is the specs for their previously most expensive non-tube mic, the 2003.

27mm (1.06”) Large Capsule Condenser
Gold-sputtered, 3 micron density diaphragm
Balanced transformless output
3 position switch: bass cut, -10dB pad
Durable brass enclosure
MXL-57 high isolation shock mount included

The MXL 2003 is intended for the most critical recording applications, such as acoustic guitar, where tremendous clarity, presence, and detail is required. A three position switch provides Bass cut and a -10dB pad for additional recording options. A transformerless FET preamp offers the engineer a smooth, even response. Its 3-micron gold-sputtered diaphragm reveals incredible transparency and warmth, until now, found only in the world's most expensive mics. The MXL2003 comes complete with a high isolation shock mount (MXL-56) that allows precision recording without the interference of outside vibrations.

Type: Condenser pressure gradient mic with large 27mm diaphragm capsule
Frequency Range: 20Hz-23kHz
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Preattenuation Switch: 0/-10dB
Bass Cut Switch: 6dB/octave @ 150Hz
Sensitivity: 16mV/Pa
Impedance: 150W
S/N Ratio: 77dB (Ref. 1Pa A-weighted)
Equivalent Noise Level: 18dB(A weighted IEC 268-4)
Max SPL for 0.5% THD: 130dB
Max SPL with -10dB cut: 140dB
Power Requirements: Phantom Power 48V ±5V
Current Consumption: <2.5mA
Size: 55mm × 195mm
Weight: 530g
Metal Finish: Black

The specs seem to back up the idea that the 992 is a quiet microphone.

Also at 2 pounds better have a stable stand!

Looking at the frequency response graphs, the 2003 is very flat but the 992 has a very noticable presence peak beginning at 4Khz and topping at 9Khz before dipping below the line at about 14khz. So, with that limited information it might be a great mic for some female vocals.