MXL V69 ramming (noise)

[Hugo Braule]

Hello. I'm from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I have a MXL V69 tube microphone for about 18 years. Now it's started making a compression noise, but it continues recording still. I bought a new seven-pin XLR cable, but without success. I imagine it's not the tube. The electrolytic capacitors don't seem to be burned out, as they aren't deformed. Does anyone know what it could be? I'm a Jazz Pianist and recording my new Piano Solo Album. I do it all by myself. I have cardioid condenser mikes AKG P17, also, but the valve one helps a lot. Thank you.

 

[TalismanRich]

It's entirely possible that the tube has developed an issue. A 12AT7 isn't very expensive. A friend has had a Rode NTK for years. One afternoon, it simply started acting up. He replaced the tube and all was back to normal.

The capsules in condenser mics can also be sensitive to high humidity. Placing it in a bag with desiccant packs for a time can remove the moisture.

 

[Hugo Braule]

How could I thank you so much? It's shelved in it's case with silica gel. I'll get the valve. Thank you.