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50
Highlights
35
Differences
5
Reactions
0
Likes
MXL 990
vs
MXL 3000:
50 Highlights & 35 Differences —
So, Which Microphone Actually Works Better
Unpack specs and features for each mic to understand their unique strengths.
What sets MXL 990 and MXL 3000 apart in the music world? We looked at their connection interface, power source, onboard controls & stand/tripod and key features in this microphones showdown.
MXL 990 vs MXL 3000: A Detailed Comparison for Studio Mic Enthusiasts
When choosing a condenser microphone for studio and voice recording applications, the MXL 990 and MXL 3000 stand out as two popular options designed for intermediate to professional users. Both offer classic cardioid polar patterns, XLR connectivity, detachable cables, and phantom power compatibility, making them well-suited for capturing vocals and instruments with clarity. Despite these shared fundamentals, their design approaches and features diverge significantly. The MXL 990 leans toward a compact, side-address style for stationary studio use, including useful accessories like a carrying case. Meanwhile, the MXL 3000 adopts a larger handheld form factor with three selectable polar patterns, onboard switches, and an external power supply option, targeting users seeking versatility and higher performance in dynamic recording environments.
The Compact Strength of the MXL 990
Ideal for those setting up a fixed recording station, the MXL 990 impresses with its sleek, side-address design that measures just 5.11 inches in height and features a focused 0.78-inch capsule diameter. This smaller footprint makes it perfectly suited for desktop setups or home studios where space is at a premium. The mic's exclusive cardioid pickup pattern is optimized for isolating the main sound source while minimizing ambient noise. Without onboard controls to complicate the interface, it offers a straightforward connection via a detachable XLR cable powered by phantom power, catering to users looking for simplicity.
Additionally, the MXL 990 includes a carrying case, adding portability and protection for users who occasionally transport their gear. It also features detachable mounts with swivel and pivot capability, enhancing setup flexibility. While it doesn't specify advanced audio parameters like overload point or distortion levels, its solid reputation stems from an authentic, warm sound that performs admirably for vocals and acoustic instruments at accessible price points; starting around $59.
The Versatile Appeal of the MXL 3000
Stepping up in both size and complexity, the MXL 3000 is designed with a handheld style, measuring 8.5 inches tall and providing a larger 32 mm capsule. This mic's key differentiator is its trio of polar patterns; cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8; which deliver exceptional adaptability in varied recording settings, from solo vocal sessions to capturing full room ambience or classic mid-side stereo techniques.
Audio performance is a stronger point here, with the MXL 3000 boasting an overload point of 130 dB and impressively low total harmonic distortion at 0.03%, ensuring cleaner, distortion-free sound at high input levels. Its onboard switches facilitate quick adjustments on the fly. Plus, compatibility with an external power supply offers further flexibility, particularly useful for users working in professional or live environments.
While the MXL 3000 lacks the included accessories and protective carrying case seen with the MXL 990, it supports detachable mounts and swivel/pivot and also complies with safety and environmental standards, making it a robust choice for serious recording setups. Expect a higher investment of roughly $179 to $250 for this versatility and performance enhancement.
Quick Take
The MXL 990 shines as an economical, user-friendly condenser microphone perfect for stable, small-scale studio setups. Its modest size and included carrying case make it a practical package for everyday recording purposes. In contrast, the MXL 3000 excels with multiple polar patterns, higher sound pressure handling, and on-device controls, ideal for professionals needing flexible options and robust audio fidelity.
Bottom Line
Ultimately, if budget and simplicity are your priorities in a mic primarily used in controlled environments, the MXL 990 offers reliable performance and handy accessories at a friendly price point. However, for those who demand multi-pattern versatility, higher dynamic range, and enhanced customization, the MXL 3000 stands out as the superior tool despite its cost and lack of bundled extras. Your choice depends largely on whether you value portability and versatility over compactness and affordability.
Verdict
Winner: MXL 3000 - Its multi-pattern capabilities, elevated overload threshold, and onboard controls make it the better pick for professional versatility and dynamic recording situations.
Runner-up: MXL 990 - A budget-friendly, straightforward mic with essential features and included accessories, excellent for fixed studio setups.
Side by side. The numbers. The features. No drama.
Want clarity before your next studio or stage buy? We broke down MXL 990 vs MXL 3000 in this microphones comparison — no fluff, just specs and real use insights.
Both MXL 990 and MXL 3000 are suited for Studio, Voice Recording, and Instrument use, with MXL 990 listing them in the order Studio, Voice Recording, Instrument, and MXL 3000 listing Studio, Instrument, Voice Recording. Both are flexible for similar intended uses.
Describes the primary application area.
In the battle of Intended Use,
MXL 990 ◉ is
same as
MXL 3000 ◉
.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Intended Use on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
The Polar Pattern Type for MXL 990 is Cardioid, while MXL 3000 offers more versatility with Cardioid, Omnidirectional, and Figure-8 patterns. This makes the MXL 3000 more suitable for various recording environments and applications.
Identifies the default pickup pattern.
In the battle of Polar Pattern Type,
MXL 990 ◉ is
better than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
19 score
measurement.
Based on community votes for Polar Pattern Type,
MXL 990 ◉ earned
0 votes,
less than
MXL 3000 ◉,
which got 1 votes.
The polar pattern options for the MXL 3000 are pretty cool since it has cardioid omnidirectional and figure-8 patterns unlike the MXL 990 which is just cardioid.
User Skill Level for both MXL 990 and MXL 3000 targets Intermediate and Professional users, making them suitable for semi-pro to pro level recording and sound capture without beginner focus.
Recommended audience expertise level.
In the battle of User Skill Level,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
1 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
User Skill Level on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
MXL 990 has a Side-Address form factor, whereas MXL 3000 is Handheld. For users seeking handheld usage, MXL 3000 is more convenient, while MXL 990 suits setups requiring side-address style microphones.
Describes the physical style of the microphone.
In the battle of Form Factor,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
1 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Form Factor on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Limited Edition status is unavailable for MXL 990, while MXL 3000 is clearly marked as not a limited edition. Neither microphone is limited, so this doesn't strongly affect choice between them.
Whether the model is a limited or special release.
In the battle of Limited Edition,
MXL 990 ◉ is
same as
MXL 3000 ◉
.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Limited Edition on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Age Group
What is the age group?
75
MXL 990
0Votes
Adult, Professional
61
MXL 3000
0Votes
Adult, Professional
MXL 990
The target age group for this microphone is Adult, Professional users, aligning with its sophisticated features and applications.
MXL 3000
The microphone is appropriate for both adults and professionals, making it a great option for serious recording artists and audio engineers.
The intended user age bracket.
In the battle of Age Group,
MXL 990 ◉ is
better than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
14 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Age Group on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Product Type
What is the product type?
45
MXL 990
0Votes
Condenser
66
MXL 3000
0Votes
Condenser
MXL 990
This product is a Condenser microphone, distinguished by its high sensitivity and wide frequency response, making it suitable for capturing nuances in sound.
Defines the basic category of the microphone.
In the battle of Product Type,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
21 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Product Type on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Model Name
What is the model name?
52
MXL 990
0Votes
MXL 990
54
MXL 3000
0Votes
MXL 3000
MXL 990
The model name of this microphone is MXL 990.
The specific product identifier from the manufacturer.
In the battle of Model Name,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
2 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Model Name on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Compatibility
Which devices or platforms are compatible?
35
MXL 990
0Votes
Mixer, Audio Interface
34
MXL 3000
0Votes
Mixer, Audio Interface
MXL 990
The microphone is compatible with standard audio equipment like a Mixer, Audio Interface, facilitating integration into various recording setups.
Lists supported platforms and devices.
In the battle of Compatibility,
MXL 990 ◉ is
better than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
1 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Compatibility on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Connectivity Type
What is the connectivity type?
35
MXL 990
0Votes
Wired, XLR
56
MXL 3000
0Votes
XLR
MXL 3000
Being equipped with an XLR connection type, this microphone is standard for professional audio use, providing reliable connectivity.
Defines how the microphone connects to devices.
In the battle of Connectivity Type,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
21 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Connectivity Type on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Mounting Type
What is the mounting type?
58
MXL 990
0Votes
Shock Mount, Stand, Boom Arm
59
MXL 3000
0Votes
Stand, Boom Arm, Shock Mount
MXL 990
It supports multiple mounting types, including a Shock Mount, Stand, and Boom Arm, providing flexible placement options for studio or live applications.
The typical mounting or support style.
In the battle of Mounting Type,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
1 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Mounting Type on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Launch Region
Where is it available?
65
MXL 990
0Votes
Global
96
MXL 3000
0Votes
Global
MXL 3000
As a globally designed product, it ensures compatibility across various regions.
Where the product is primarily available.
In the battle of Launch Region,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
31 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Launch Region on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Series/Line
What series/line does it belong to?
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 990
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 3000
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
Identifies the product line or collection the microphone belongs to.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Series/Line on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Year of Release
What year was it released?
35
MXL 990
0Votes
2005
44
MXL 3000
0Votes
2000
Indicates when the microphone was launched.
In the battle of Year of Release,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
9 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Year of Release on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Country of Origin
What is the country of origin?
90
MXL 990
0Votes
United States
71
MXL 3000
0Votes
China
Manufacturing or design origin.
In the battle of Country of Origin,
MXL 990 ◉ is
better than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
19 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Country of Origin on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Color Options
What are the color options?
59
MXL 990
0Votes
Champagne, White
79
MXL 3000
0Votes
Gold
Available product colors.
In the battle of Color Options,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
20 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Color Options on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Gender Target
What is the gender target?
95
MXL 990
0Votes
Unisex
96
MXL 3000
0Votes
Unisex
The marketing target by gender (if specified).
In the battle of Gender Target,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
1 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Gender Target on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Recording Application Category
What recording applications is it best for?
83
MXL 990
0Votes
Studio, Podcast
66
MXL 3000
0Votes
Studio
Specific contexts where the mic is best suited.
In the battle of Recording Application Category,
MXL 990 ◉ is
better than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
17 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Recording Application Category on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
MXL 990 has a height of 5.11 inches, shorter than MXL 3000's 8.5 inches. The smaller height of MXL 990 may benefit compact setups, while MXL 3000's larger size suits handheld use.
The microphone’s overall height.
In the battle of Height,
MXL 990 ◉ is
better than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
3.4 inch
measurement.
Based on community votes for Height,
MXL 990 ◉ earned
1 votes,
more than
MXL 3000 ◉,
which got 0 votes.
I like the smaller height of the MXL 990 since it fits nicely on a desktop setup whereas the 3000 is quite tall at 8.5 inches and more suited for handheld use.
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 990
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
10
inch
0Votes
vs
Package Width
Package Width is unavailable for MXL 990, but MXL 3000 measures 10 inches wide in its packaging. This suggests MXL 3000 requires more space for storage or transport, important to note for users with limited space.
The shipping package’s width.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Package Width on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 990
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
4
inch
0Votes
vs
Package Depth
Package Depth data is missing for MXL 990, while MXL 3000 is 4 inches deep. Users considering shipping or storage dimensions will find MXL 3000's packaging depth relevant, whereas MXL 990's is unknown.
The shipping package’s depth.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Package Depth on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Capsule Diameter is 0.78 inches for MXL 990 and significantly larger at 32 inches for MXL 3000. This large difference may impact sound characteristics and handling, with MXL 990 favoring studio use and MXL 3000 handheld.
The diameter of the microphone capsule.
In the battle of Capsule Diameter,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
31.2 inch
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Capsule Diameter on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 990
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
1.25
inch
0Votes
vs
Capsule Length
Capsule Length is unspecified for MXL 990 but is 1.25 inches for MXL 3000. This indicates a potentially larger capsule in the MXL 3000, possibly affecting sound capture characteristics and user preference.
The length of the microphone capsule.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Capsule Length on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Weight
What is the weight?
1.2
lbs
0Votes
1.15
lbs
0Votes
MXL 990
Weighing in at 1.2 lbs (0.54 kg), this microphone is relatively lightweight, making it easy to position on a stand.
The microphone’s physical weight.
In the battle of Weight,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
0.1 lbs
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Weight on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Mounting Thread Size
What is the mounting thread size?
95
MXL 990
0Votes
5/8"
76
MXL 3000
0Votes
5/8"
MXL 990
It features a 5/8" mounting thread size, which is the standard for most microphone stands and shock mounts.
The thread size for mounting compatibility.
In the battle of Mounting Thread Size,
MXL 990 ◉ is
better than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
19 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Mounting Thread Size on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Width
What is the width?
2.36
inch
0Votes
1.8
inch
0Votes
The microphone’s overall width.
In the battle of Width,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
0.6 inch
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Width on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Depth
What is the depth?
2.36
inch
0Votes
2
inch
0Votes
The microphone’s overall depth.
In the battle of Depth,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
0.4 inch
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Depth on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Package Height
What is the package height?
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 990
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
13
inch
0Votes
The shipping package’s height.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Package Height on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Cable Length
What is the cable length?
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 990
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 3000
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
Length of the included or integrated cable.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Cable Length on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Stand/Arm Length
What is the stand/arm length?
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 990
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 3000
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
Maximum length of included stand or boom arm.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Stand/Arm Length on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Grill Diameter
What is the grill diameter?
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 990
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
2
inch
0Votes
The diameter of the protective microphone grill.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Grill Diameter on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Base Footprint Diameter
What is the base/stand footprint diameter?
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 990
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 3000
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
Diameter of the microphone base or stand footprint.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Base Footprint Diameter on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 990
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
130
dB
1Votes
vs
Overload Point
Overload Point is unspecified for MXL 990, but MXL 3000 has a high overload point of 130 dB. The MXL 3000 can handle louder sounds without distortion, making it more versatile for dynamic recordings.
The SPL level where overload occurs.
Based on community votes for Overload Point,
MXL 990 ◉ earned
0 votes,
less than
MXL 3000 ◉,
which got 1 votes.
The overload point is a game changer for the MXL 3000 as it handles up to 130 dB which means less distortion on loud sounds compared to the MXL 990 which doesn't specify this.
Both MXL 990 and MXL 3000 share a Minimum Terminating Impedance of 1000 Ω, meaning they are equally compatible with typical preamps and equipment requiring this impedance level.
The minimum load impedance required for optimal microphone performance and to avoid signal distortion.
In the battle of Minimum Terminating Impedance,
MXL 990 ◉ is
same as
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
equal
1,000.00 Ω
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Minimum Terminating Impedance on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 990
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
0.03
%
0Votes
vs
THD
THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) details are missing for MXL 990 but reported as a low 0.03% for MXL 3000. Lower THD typically means cleaner sound, hence MXL 3000 may offer better audio fidelity.
Distortion added at high volumes.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
THD on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Proximity Effect Control is unavailable for MXL 990 but explicitly not present for MXL 3000. Neither microphone offers this feature, suggesting users should consider mic placement carefully during recording.
Whether it has control for bass buildup at close range.
In the battle of Proximity Effect Control,
MXL 990 ◉ is
same as
MXL 3000 ◉
.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Proximity Effect Control on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Output Level
What is the output level?
-36.5
dBV/Pa
0Votes
-37
dBV/Pa
0Votes
MXL 990
With an output level of -36.5 dBV/Pa, this microphone provides a strong signal that is easy to work with in most recording setups.
MXL 3000
With a sensitivity rating of -37 dBV/Pa, the microphone is highly responsive, effectively capturing nuanced audio details.
The output voltage relative to input pressure.
In the battle of Output Level,
MXL 990 ◉ is
better than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
0.5 dBV/Pa
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Output Level on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Internal Preamp Quality
What is the internal preamp quality?
43
MXL 990
0Votes
Standard
86
MXL 3000
0Votes
Studio-Grade
MXL 990
Equipped with a Standard internal preamp, it provides reliable signal boosting before reaching your audio interface.
MXL 3000
This indicates that the internal preamp quality is studio-grade, suggesting excellent sound performance suitable for professional use.
Such quality is vital for achieving the best audio fidelity during recordings.
Describes the built-in preamp’s fidelity.
In the battle of Internal Preamp Quality,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
43 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Internal Preamp Quality on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
What is the SNR?
80
dB
0Votes
77
dB
0Votes
MXL 990
A signal-to-noise ratio of 80 dB indicates a clear audio signal with minimal background hiss, resulting in professional-quality recordings.
The clarity ratio between signal and background noise.
In the battle of Signal-to-Noise Ratio,
MXL 990 ◉ is
better than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
3.0 dB
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Signal-to-Noise Ratio on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Equivalent Noise Level
What is the equivalent noise level?
20
dB
0Votes
14
dB
0Votes
MXL 3000
The equivalent noise level of 14 dB suggests that this microphone has a low self-noise, making it ideal for quiet recording environments.
The self-noise generated by the microphone.
In the battle of Equivalent Noise Level,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
6.0 dB
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Equivalent Noise Level on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Low-Cut Filter
What is the low-cut filter cutoff?
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 990
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
150
Hz
0Votes
MXL 3000
This indicates the low-cut filter at 150 Hz, effective for reducing unwanted low frequency noise.
Removes low-end rumble.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Low-Cut Filter on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Stereo/Mono Mode
What mode is supported?
5
MXL 990
0Votes
Mono
16
MXL 3000
0Votes
Mono
MXL 990
This microphone operates in Mono mode, capturing a single audio channel, which is typical for individual vocal or instrument recordings.
Determines recording mode.
In the battle of Stereo/Mono Mode,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
11 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Stereo/Mono Mode on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Acoustic Principle
What is the acoustic principle?
65
MXL 990
0Votes
Pressure Gradient
66
MXL 3000
0Votes
Pressure Gradient
MXL 990
Operating on the Pressure Gradient acoustic principle, this microphone is sensitive to changes in sound pressure, which is characteristic of condenser microphones.
The underlying sound capture mechanism.
In the battle of Acoustic Principle,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
1 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Acoustic Principle on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Transformer/Transformerless Design
What design does it use?
95
MXL 990
0Votes
Transformerless
76
MXL 3000
0Votes
Transformerless
MXL 990
The microphone features a Transformerless design, which typically results in a flatter frequency response and lower noise floor compared to transformer-coupled designs.
The electrical coupling approach used.
In the battle of Transformer/Transformerless Design,
MXL 990 ◉ is
better than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
19 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Transformer/Transformerless Design on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Microphone Type
What is the microphone type?
85
MXL 990
0Votes
Condenser
76
MXL 3000
0Votes
Condenser
Defines the operating principle of the microphone.
In the battle of Microphone Type,
MXL 990 ◉ is
better than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
9 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Microphone Type on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Capsule Type
What is the capsule type?
73
MXL 990
0Votes
Large Diaphragm
59
MXL 3000
0Votes
Large Diaphragm
Specifies the capsule style that influences sound capture.
In the battle of Capsule Type,
MXL 990 ◉ is
better than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
14 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Capsule Type on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Frequency Response (Min)
What is the minimum frequency response?
30
Hz
0Votes
20
Hz
0Votes
The lowest frequency the mic can capture.
In the battle of Frequency Response (Min),
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
10.0 Hz
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Frequency Response (Min) on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Frequency Response (Max)
What is the maximum frequency response?
20,000
Hz
0Votes
20,000
Hz
0Votes
The highest frequency the mic can capture.
In the battle of Frequency Response (Max),
MXL 990 ◉ is
same as
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
equal
20,000.00 Hz
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Frequency Response (Max) on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Sensitivity
What is the sensitivity?
-36.5
dBV/Pa
0Votes
-37
dBV/Pa
0Votes
Output level relative to sound pressure.
In the battle of Sensitivity,
MXL 990 ◉ is
better than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
higher
0.5 dBV/Pa
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Sensitivity on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Dynamic Range
What is the dynamic range?
118
dB
0Votes
130
dB
0Votes
The range between quietest and loudest sounds captured.
In the battle of Dynamic Range,
MXL 990 ◉ is
worse than
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
lower
12.0 dB
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Dynamic Range on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Max SPL
What is the maximum SPL?
130
dB
0Votes
130
dB
0Votes
The maximum loudness before distortion.
In the battle of Max SPL,
MXL 990 ◉ is
same as
MXL 3000 ◉
, delivering
equal
130.00 dB
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Max SPL on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
External power supply compatibility makes the MXL 3000 a better pick for pro users who might want to use different power sources unlike the MXL 990 which doesn't support this.
Who knows?
0Votes
MXL 990
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
0
MXL 3000
0Votes
Switches
vs
Onboard Controls
Onboard Controls are not available for MXL 990, whereas MXL 3000 has switches for control, offering more immediate manipulation during use, beneficial for live situations.
Types of direct physical controls.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Onboard Controls on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
I kinda prefer the convenience of the MXL 990's included carrying case option since the 3000 doesn't come with one, making the 990 easier to transport and protect.
Indicates if the mic meets pro broadcast standards.
In the battle of Professional Broadcast Certification,
MXL 990 ◉ is
same as
MXL 3000 ◉
.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Professional Broadcast Certification on MXL 990 ◉
vs MXL 3000 ◉ and help others decide!
Supermod
Moderator
Recaptor
0
Cartling
