MXL 990 Blizzard Condenser Microphone

MXL 990 Blizzard Condenser Microphone — image 1
85%
91%
Sound Quality
89%
Ease of Use
85%
Background Noise Rejection
82%
Build Quality
78%
LED Lighting Appeal
86%
Versatility
90%
Setup and Installation
92%
Value for Money
88%
Compatibility with Audio Interfaces
80%
Customer Support and Warranty
84%
Portability and Size
75%
Noise Isolation in Noisy Environments
More

Overview

The MXL 990 Blizzard Condenser Microphone offers clear and detailed sound with its cardioid condenser design, making it a strong contender for anyone looking for an affordable yet high-quality mic. Powered by +48V phantom power via an XLR connection, this microphone is ideal for studio use, whether for podcasts, streaming, or home recording. The large diaphragm ensures that it captures a wide range of frequencies, delivering natural-sounding audio. Great sound quality and easy setup make it a versatile option for both novice and seasoned audio creators.

Features & Benefits

This condenser microphone shines with its cardioid polar pattern, which helps eliminate unwanted background noise from the sides and rear, focusing on your voice or instruments. The large diaphragm enhances sound detail, offering clear highs, deep lows, and smooth mids. Another standout feature is the blue LED lighting that activates when phantom power is applied, adding a sleek look to your setup. Additionally, the MXL 990 Blizzard is highly versatile, perfect for vocal recordings, voice-overs, and even instruments like guitars and drums.

Best For

The MXL 990 Blizzard is best suited for podcasters, gamers, and streamers who demand professional audio quality without breaking the bank. Its clear, detailed sound makes it a perfect fit for voice-based content, while its large diaphragm and cardioid pattern allow for versatility in various recording environments. Whether you're recording vocals, instruments, or narrations, this microphone can handle it all. It's also great for anyone with a compatible audio interface that provides phantom power, ensuring easy setup and reliable performance.

User Feedback

User reviews for this microphone highlight its excellent value for the price, especially considering the audio clarity it delivers. Many users appreciate the blue LED lighting, which adds a visually appealing element to their streaming setups. The microphone's ease of use and adaptability to different recording conditions also receives positive feedback. However, some users mention that in noisy environments, additional soundproofing may be required to achieve optimal performance. Overall, it’s praised for being a great entry-level choice for home studios.

#Multipurpose
#Condenser Microphones
#Microphones
#Microphones & Accessories
#Musical Instruments

Pros

  • The cardioid polar pattern effectively reduces background noise, ensuring clear recordings even in noisy environments.
  • Blue LED lighting adds a nice visual touch when phantom power is applied, especially for streamers.
  • The large diaphragm captures a wide range of frequencies, delivering rich and detailed sound quality.
  • It's easy to use and set up, making it ideal for beginners and those looking for hassle-free performance.
  • This microphone is highly versatile, suitable for vocals, voice-overs, and instrument recording.
  • At its price point, the sound quality outperforms many other microphones in the same range, offering great value.

Cons

  • The microphone requires +48V phantom power, which may limit compatibility with some devices or setups.
  • Some users report that it struggles with background noise in particularly loud or untreated rooms.
  • The build quality feels lightweight, and it may not withstand heavy handling or travel well.
  • The microphone may not capture the full spectrum of sound in very dynamic recordings, such as live band performances.
  • There are occasional complaints about the need for additional soundproofing to achieve optimal performance in noisy environments.
  • For users looking for a more portable microphone, this model’s size and design may feel bulky.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide, including various languages and platforms, we found that the MXL 990 Blizzard Condenser Microphone consistently impresses for its performance and value. Authentic, high-quality feedback was carefully considered, with spam, incentivized, or off-topic reviews filtered out. Both strengths and areas for improvement have been reflected in the aggregated ratings, providing a well-rounded perspective for potential buyers.

Sound Quality
91%
Many users praise the clear, detailed sound this microphone delivers, particularly for vocals and streaming. The large diaphragm offers a rich tonal balance, capturing both high and low frequencies with impressive clarity. For the price, this performance is highly regarded by most buyers.
A few users have noted that while the sound is clear, it can sometimes pick up unwanted noise from the environment, especially in untreated rooms. Some feel the microphone’s sensitivity requires additional soundproofing to get the best results in noisy spaces.
Ease of Use
89%
The MXL 990 Blizzard is widely appreciated for its user-friendly setup. Connecting it via XLR to an audio interface with phantom power is straightforward, making it a good choice for both beginners and seasoned audio professionals. The mic’s plug-and-play nature ensures quick usability.
Some users mentioned that the microphone could be slightly more intuitive for those new to audio gear. A few found the initial setup process confusing when pairing with certain audio interfaces, especially for users unfamiliar with phantom power requirements.
Background Noise Rejection
85%
The cardioid polar pattern works effectively to reject sound from the sides and back, which many users find beneficial for minimizing background noise in podcasts, streaming, or voiceovers. This feature helps maintain a clean recording even in moderately noisy environments.
While the noise rejection is good, it’s not perfect in extremely noisy or echoey rooms. Some users reported picking up unwanted sounds from nearby sources, suggesting that additional soundproofing or mic placement adjustments might be necessary.
Build Quality
82%
18%
The build quality is solid for the price, with the microphone feeling sturdy and durable in hand. It holds up well during regular use and provides a professional look with its matte finish. The metal housing ensures it can withstand typical handling and transport.
A few users felt that the mic could be more robust, especially considering its price point. There were some mentions of the mic feeling a bit too lightweight and fragile for heavy-duty use, which could be a concern for users needing something more rugged.
LED Lighting Appeal
78%
22%
The blue LED lighting is a distinctive feature that many users find visually appealing, especially in streaming setups. It adds a touch of personality to the microphone and enhances the aesthetic of a recording space. For streamers, this light creates a nice visual effect.
Not all users find the LED lighting useful, with some feeling it’s more of a gimmick than a practical feature. A few mentioned that it can be distracting, especially when using the microphone in darker environments or for professional setups where aesthetics are less important.
Versatility
86%
This microphone is versatile enough for a range of applications, from recording vocals and voice-overs to capturing instruments. Its broad frequency response and high sensitivity make it a solid choice for various home studio setups. Many users appreciate its adaptability for different recording tasks.
Some users noted that while versatile, the microphone performs best for certain use cases, like vocals, and may not be ideal for every type of instrument recording. A few have mentioned that it can pick up too much ambient noise when used in less controlled environments.
Setup and Installation
90%
The microphone is incredibly easy to set up with any compatible audio interface that provides phantom power. Many users report that it’s ready to go right out of the box with minimal adjustments required, making it an excellent option for those who don’t want a complicated setup process.
While most users find the setup simple, some reported compatibility issues with specific audio interfaces or found that additional configurations were needed to get optimal performance. However, these cases seem to be less common and often related to specific equipment mismatches.
Value for Money
92%
At its price point, the MXL 990 Blizzard offers impressive value. Users regularly mention that the microphone delivers high-end features and solid performance at a budget-friendly price. For those seeking an affordable solution for podcasting or home recording, it’s an excellent option.
Some users mentioned that while it’s a good deal for the price, it may not match up to more expensive microphones in terms of sound fidelity and build quality. A few felt that the low price might indicate some compromises, although the overall value was still appreciated.
Compatibility with Audio Interfaces
88%
Many users have reported seamless compatibility with various audio interfaces that supply phantom power. Whether used with high-end studio setups or basic entry-level interfaces, the microphone adapts well, making it versatile for different users across multiple price ranges.
A small number of users had issues when pairing it with some older or budget interfaces. They noted that phantom power wasn’t always delivered as expected, requiring additional troubleshooting or interface adjustments.
Customer Support and Warranty
80%
20%
The customer support team for this brand is generally responsive and helpful, providing support for installation or troubleshooting. The warranty offers peace of mind for buyers, ensuring they can rely on assistance if needed.
Some users reported delays in receiving assistance or unhelpful responses from customer service when issues arose. A few have noted that the warranty could be more comprehensive for peace of mind during long-term use.
Portability and Size
84%
With its lightweight build, the microphone is easy to transport, making it a good option for users who need to move it between recording spaces. The size is compact enough to fit into most setups without taking up too much space on the desk.
A few users felt that the microphone could be more compact for even greater portability. While not excessively large, its size might still be cumbersome for those looking for an ultra-portable solution for travel or on-the-go recording.
Noise Isolation in Noisy Environments
75%
25%
The cardioid pattern helps minimize noise from the sides and rear, making it suitable for relatively quiet environments. Users who record in controlled spaces find it effective at reducing unwanted sounds.
In noisy environments, the microphone struggles to completely isolate background noise. Several users have pointed out that additional soundproofing is needed in louder rooms, which can be a challenge for those with less-than-ideal recording conditions.

Suitable for:

The MXL 990 Blizzard Condenser Microphone is ideal for podcasters, streamers, and gamers who are seeking a budget-friendly yet reliable microphone for clear, professional audio. Its cardioid pattern and large diaphragm make it a great option for those needing high-quality vocal recordings without picking up too much background noise. It’s also well-suited for home studio musicians and voice-over artists who require versatility in capturing different instruments or vocals. With its easy setup and compatibility with most audio interfaces, this mic is particularly advantageous for beginners and intermediate users who want solid performance without spending a fortune on high-end gear.

Not suitable for:

However, the MXL 990 Blizzard might not be the best choice for users in extremely noisy environments or those seeking perfect isolation. While the cardioid polar pattern helps with background noise rejection, some users have found it insufficient for very loud settings, requiring additional soundproofing for optimal results. Additionally, those looking for a microphone with rugged build quality or ultra-portability may be disappointed. The mic’s lightweight design may not hold up well under rough handling, and its size could be cumbersome for users who prioritize portability or need something more compact for frequent travel.

Specifications

  • Microphone Type: This is a cardioid condenser microphone designed for precise sound capture and noise rejection.
  • Polar Pattern: The microphone features a cardioid polar pattern, focusing sound capture from the front while rejecting noise from the sides and rear.
  • Power Requirement: It requires +48V phantom power to operate, provided via an XLR connection.
  • Frequency Response: The microphone offers a frequency response range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring full-spectrum sound capture.
  • Sensitivity: The microphone has a sensitivity of 15 mV/Pa, providing a balanced capture of both quiet and loud sounds.
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: With a signal-to-noise ratio of 80 dB, this microphone delivers clear audio with minimal interference from background noise.
  • Maximum SPL: It can handle a maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 130 dB, allowing it to capture louder sound sources without distortion.
  • LED Lights: A blue LED indicator lights up when phantom power is applied, adding a visual touch to the microphone.
  • Diaphragm Size: This microphone features a large diaphragm that enhances the detail and richness of the audio captured.
  • Connector Type: The microphone uses an XLR connector, which is common for professional-grade audio equipment and ensures reliable signal transmission.
  • Dimensions: The microphone has dimensions of 9.75 x 4.25 x 3.8 inches, making it compact enough for desk setups and studio environments.
  • Weight: The microphone weighs 1.05 lbs, offering a solid, durable build without being too heavy for regular use.
  • Build Material: Constructed with a durable metal body, this microphone is built to withstand the rigors of regular studio use.
  • Intended Use: Ideal for podcasts, streaming, gaming, and studio recording, making it versatile for various applications.
  • Versatility: Suitable for recording vocals, voice-overs, and musical instruments, offering flexibility for different content creators.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with any audio interface or mixer that provides +48V phantom power, making it versatile for different setups.
  • Ease of Use: Its plug-and-play setup is straightforward, requiring minimal technical knowledge for operation.
  • Price Range: This microphone offers a good balance between affordability and professional-grade performance, making it a cost-effective option.

FAQ

The MXL 990 Blizzard is ideal for podcasts and streaming due to its cardioid polar pattern, which helps isolate your voice from background noise. Its large diaphragm captures detailed sound with clear highs, tight lows, and smooth mids, making it perfect for voice clarity in these settings.

To set up the MXL 990 Blizzard, you'll need an audio interface or mixer that provides +48V phantom power, as the microphone requires this to operate. Connect the microphone to the interface using an XLR cable, and make sure the phantom power is activated on the interface for proper functionality.

The MXL 990 Blizzard requires an XLR connection, meaning it is not directly compatible with USB-only interfaces. You will need an audio interface with phantom power and an XLR input for optimal performance.

The MXL 990 Blizzard does not come with a pop filter or microphone stand in the box. You may want to purchase these separately for optimal recording quality, as a pop filter can help reduce plosive sounds and a sturdy stand provides stable support.

Yes, the MXL 990 Blizzard is highly versatile and can be used to record a wide range of instruments, including acoustic guitars, pianos, and vocals. Its large diaphragm captures rich, detailed sound, making it suitable for studio recordings of both vocals and instruments.

The MXL 990 Blizzard features a blue LED light that turns on when phantom power is supplied via the XLR connection. This is a cosmetic feature, adding a stylish touch to the microphone, especially in streaming setups where visual aesthetics are important.

The MXL 990 Blizzard's cardioid polar pattern helps reduce noise from the sides and rear, but it may still pick up sounds from the front if the room is very noisy. For the best results in challenging environments, additional soundproofing may be necessary to minimize unwanted noise.

The MXL 990 Blizzard has a maximum SPL of 130 dB, meaning it can handle loud sound sources without distortion. This makes it suitable for recording louder instruments, such as drums or electric guitars, without compromising the clarity of the sound.

The MXL 990 Blizzard is lightweight and designed for studio use, but its build quality might not be robust enough for frequent travel. If you plan on taking it on the go regularly, consider investing in a padded carrying case for added protection.

Some users report that the microphone can be sensitive to background noise, requiring additional soundproofing in noisy rooms. Additionally, while its performance is excellent for the price, it may not offer the same durability as higher-end models, especially when subjected to heavy handling or travel.