MXL R77 Ribbon Microphone

MXL R77 Ribbon Microphone — image 1
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86%
92%
Sound Quality
88%
Build Quality
80%
Ease of Use
84%
Value for Money
77%
Durability
85%
Design & Aesthetics
90%
Connectivity (XLR)
91%
Microphone Sensitivity
89%
Side Rejection Performance
82%
Noise Handling
90%
Versatility for Different Instruments
86%
Overall User Satisfaction
More

Overview

The MXL R77 Ribbon Microphone is a high-performance microphone designed for serious recording environments. This ribbon microphone offers a classic design with a striking gold and chrome finish, making it an attractive addition to any studio setup. With its bidirectional polar pattern, it ensures precise side rejection, which is ideal for capturing clear, direct sound while minimizing unwanted noise. Whether used for vocals or instruments, this microphone delivers a smooth, authentic sound that stands out in professional settings. The MXL R77 is a solid choice for those looking for vintage warmth in their recordings.

Features & Benefits

This ribbon microphone excels in handling high SPL, making it perfect for electric guitar, horns, and percussion. Its smooth transient response ensures that even the most intricate sounds are captured with remarkable clarity and realism. The microphone’s XLR connection guarantees a professional-grade audio signal, ensuring that the sound quality remains pristine throughout your recording process. Ideal for both seasoned audio engineers and hobbyists, the MXL R77 provides versatility, whether in the studio or during live sessions. Its elegant yet rugged build further enhances its appeal in demanding environments.

Best For

The MXL R77 Ribbon Microphone is best suited for professional studio setups and musicians seeking top-notch sound quality. It is particularly well-suited for sound engineers recording instruments like electric guitars, horns, and other acoustic instruments. This microphone’s bidirectional polar pattern also makes it a great fit for vocalists who need precise side rejection and high clarity. With its ability to capture both the warmth of vintage sounds and modern dynamics, this microphone fits perfectly into any high-end recording setup, adding depth and realism to your music.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the MXL R77 for its clarity and depth, especially when used for acoustic or electric recordings. It is often commended for capturing rich, warm tones that are perfect for musicians seeking that vintage sound. However, some users note that the ribbon construction can be a bit delicate, requiring careful handling. Despite this, the microphone’s performance in both studio and live settings is highly valued. It’s considered a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality microphone that delivers exceptional detail and clarity in their recordings.

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Pros

  • Delivers excellent clarity and depth in both acoustic and electric recordings.
  • Bidirectional polar pattern ensures precise side rejection, making it ideal for studio settings.
  • Handles high SPL, making it a great choice for loud instruments like electric guitars and horns.
  • Ribbon design produces a warm, vintage tone that appeals to users seeking a classic sound.
  • XLR connectivity ensures professional-grade audio quality in any setup.
  • Lightweight design makes it easy to position and adjust during studio sessions.

Cons

  • Ribbon construction makes the microphone more fragile and vulnerable to damage if mishandled.
  • Not the best choice for environments with high ambient noise unless proper soundproofing is used.
  • Some users find it more delicate than other types of microphones, requiring careful handling.
  • Not suited for quick, live setups due to its more fragile nature and specialized use.
  • The price may be prohibitive for users on a tight budget or beginners just starting in audio recording.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback from various platforms and languages, including reviews from professionals and enthusiasts worldwide, the ratings for this microphone reflect a comprehensive look at its performance and reliability. Only genuine, high-quality reviews were considered, ensuring that both the strengths and potential pain points of this microphone are accurately reflected in the scores. Feedback spans diverse uses, from studio recordings to live performances, showcasing its versatile appeal in different musical contexts.

Sound Quality
92%
Many users rave about the natural, crisp sound this microphone captures, particularly with electric guitars and acoustic instruments. Its smooth transient response and clear, detailed reproduction of sound allow musicians to capture every nuance of their performance. It’s especially praised for delivering a rich, vintage tone that enhances the recording quality significantly.
A few users noted that while the microphone excels in certain areas, it might not be ideal for all vocal types. Some felt it didn't capture certain higher frequencies as effectively, especially with softer voices, which may limit its versatility in specific scenarios.
Build Quality
88%
The microphone’s build quality stands out, with a solid, durable aluminum construction and a classic gold and chrome finish that adds to its premium feel. It’s well-regarded for its resilience and aesthetic appeal, making it a favorite in professional setups where both performance and appearance are important.
While the microphone feels sturdy, its ribbon design makes it more delicate compared to dynamic mics. Some users reported concerns about its vulnerability to damage from accidental drops or rough handling, requiring more careful storage and handling.
Ease of Use
80%
20%
This microphone’s straightforward design and XLR connectivity make it easy to integrate into a range of studio and live setups. Most users found it intuitive to set up, especially for experienced sound engineers and musicians who are familiar with professional-grade microphones.
Some users found the setup process a bit more involved for beginners, especially when considering the microphone’s sensitivity. Without proper handling and knowledge, it could be tricky to get the best sound quality, making it less suited for novice users.
Value for Money
84%
Considering its high-quality sound capture and professional-grade performance, many users feel this microphone offers great value for the price. Its versatility, especially in handling both electric and acoustic instruments, makes it a solid choice for musicians and sound engineers alike, delivering excellent performance without breaking the bank.
Though users generally find the value strong, some note that it might be a bit of an investment for those who don't need the ribbon mic's specific characteristics. It may not be the best fit for budget-conscious buyers looking for a more affordable option without compromising too much on sound quality.
Durability
77%
23%
The aluminum body provides decent durability, and for most users, the microphone holds up well under standard studio use. It’s praised for its robust design in a controlled environment where it’s well-protected from physical impact.
Several users have pointed out that the ribbon construction, while contributing to great sound, makes the microphone relatively fragile. It may not withstand harsh environments or rough handling, meaning it requires extra care compared to other more rugged microphones.
Design & Aesthetics
85%
The combination of gold and chrome finish gives the microphone a sleek, professional look that fits seamlessly into high-end studio setups. Users appreciate the classic and timeless design, which makes it as much a visual statement piece as a functional tool.
A few reviewers mentioned that while the aesthetic is pleasing, the larger size and traditional design may not be to everyone’s taste. Some found it a bit bulky compared to more modern, minimalist microphone designs, though this is subjective.
Connectivity (XLR)
90%
The microphone’s XLR connectivity ensures high-quality, reliable audio transmission, especially in professional settings where connection stability is crucial. Many users have praised this feature, particularly in studio recordings and live performances, where every detail of the audio matters.
While XLR is the standard for professional microphones, some users without XLR-compatible gear found it inconvenient, especially in smaller, more casual setups. This might require an adapter or additional equipment, which adds extra cost for some users.
Microphone Sensitivity
91%
This microphone’s sensitivity to both subtle nuances and loud sound pressure levels is highly appreciated. It excels in capturing the intricate details of acoustic performances, while also handling high SPL from electric guitars and percussion with ease. Users have mentioned that it’s great for capturing a full range of dynamic sound.
Although the high sensitivity is generally seen as an asset, some users noted that it can pick up unwanted background noise in less controlled environments. It’s essential to use in spaces that are acoustically treated to fully benefit from its sensitivity.
Side Rejection Performance
89%
The bidirectional polar pattern is highly effective for isolating sounds coming from the front and rear, which makes it ideal for recording specific instruments or vocals in noisy environments. Users find it invaluable for minimizing unwanted interference from side sounds during recordings.
While the side rejection works well in most cases, some users have mentioned that its performance may drop off if the microphone is not perfectly aligned with the sound source. It requires precise placement to fully utilize its bidirectional capabilities.
Noise Handling
82%
18%
Users appreciate that the microphone handles noise interference well, thanks to its ribbon design, which focuses on direct sound capture. It’s seen as a reliable tool for reducing background noise and delivering clear, focused recordings in controlled environments.
However, a few users reported that in environments with a lot of ambient noise, the microphone could pick up more than expected. This sensitivity to noise requires users to be mindful of their recording surroundings and may necessitate additional soundproofing measures.
Versatility for Different Instruments
90%
This microphone is praised for its versatility, able to handle a variety of instruments, including electric guitars, horns, and percussion. Many musicians and sound engineers find it a great all-around tool for capturing a wide range of acoustic and amplified sounds with excellent clarity.
Not all users felt the microphone was the best option for every instrument. Some found it less suitable for certain voice types or specific electronic instruments, where a different microphone design might offer better results.
Overall User Satisfaction
86%
Overall, users are generally satisfied with the microphone’s performance, particularly in terms of sound quality, versatility, and its vintage tone. It’s often recommended for musicians and professionals who want a reliable, high-performing ribbon mic in their arsenal.
Some users feel that the microphone’s delicate construction and relatively high price may limit its appeal for casual or beginner users. Those looking for a more affordable or rugged option might prefer other microphones that can take more wear and tear.

Suitable for:

The MXL R77 Ribbon Microphone is ideal for professional sound engineers, musicians, and vocalists who require precise, high-quality sound capture. It excels in both electric and acoustic settings, making it a great choice for musicians recording guitars, horns, or percussion. This microphone’s bidirectional polar pattern and ribbon design deliver a vintage, warm tone, which is especially valued in studio environments where sound clarity and detail are crucial. It’s also an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable microphone in controlled, acoustically treated spaces. Those aiming to enhance their recordings with realistic sound reproduction will find this device a valuable addition to their setup.

Not suitable for:

While the MXL R77 Ribbon Microphone is designed for high-end studio use, it may not be the best fit for casual users or those with limited experience in handling delicate equipment. Its ribbon construction, while providing high-quality sound, makes it more fragile and susceptible to damage, so it’s not recommended for rough environments or users without a careful approach to equipment handling. Additionally, those on a tight budget or in need of a more versatile, rugged microphone for varied, everyday use may find it less practical. This microphone is also less suited for environments with significant background noise unless proper soundproofing is used.

Specifications

  • Microphone Type: The microphone features a ribbon design, known for its smooth, natural sound and vintage warmth.
  • Polar Pattern: This microphone uses a bidirectional polar pattern, capturing sound from the front and rear while rejecting side noise.
  • Connectivity: It connects via an XLR cable, ensuring professional-grade audio transmission to compatible audio equipment.
  • Frequency Response: The microphone offers a frequency response of 20 kHz, allowing it to capture a wide range of sound accurately.
  • Impedance: The impedance of this microphone is 1500 Ohms, making it compatible with most professional audio gear.
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: It boasts a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB, ensuring clear and clean sound reproduction with minimal background noise.
  • Maximum SPL: This microphone can handle high sound pressure levels (SPL), making it suitable for loud instruments like electric guitars and drums.
  • Material: The microphone is constructed with durable aluminum, ensuring strength while maintaining a lightweight design.
  • Color: The microphone features a stylish chrome and gold finish, adding a professional aesthetic to your studio setup.
  • Weight: Weighing 0.86 kg, this microphone strikes a balance between portability and solid build quality.
  • Dimensions: The microphone measures 12 x 12 x 5 inches, making it a compact yet robust addition to your recording setup.
  • Sensitivity: This microphone offers high sensitivity, capturing subtle details in acoustic and electric instrument recordings.
  • Application: Ideal for professional studio recording, this microphone is well-suited for vocals, guitars, horns, and other acoustic instruments.
  • Durability: While providing excellent sound quality, the ribbon design requires careful handling to avoid damage from physical shock.
  • Use Case: Best used in controlled, quiet environments, the microphone excels in capturing vintage-style tones and smooth transients.
  • Acoustic Performance: The ribbon element ensures a smooth transient response, delivering realistic and natural sound reproduction.

FAQ

The MXL R77 Ribbon Microphone is designed for high-quality sound capture with its bidirectional polar pattern, which ensures precise side rejection. Its smooth transient response and ability to handle high SPL make it a versatile choice for both acoustic and electric instruments in professional studio settings.

Setting up the MXL R77 is simple. It features an XLR connection, so all you need is to plug it into a compatible audio interface or mixer. Ensure that your audio system is set to handle the microphone's high SPL and check that it’s properly positioned for optimal sound capture.

This microphone delivers a vintage, warm tone thanks to its ribbon design, which is especially favored for its smooth response in both acoustic and electric recordings. The bidirectional polar pattern helps achieve natural sound capture with excellent depth and clarity.

While the MXL R77 Ribbon Microphone excels in studio environments, its ribbon design makes it more delicate than dynamic microphones, which may pose challenges in live performances. It’s best suited for controlled environments where its unique tonal qualities can be fully appreciated.

Yes, the MXL R77 can handle high SPL, making it ideal for loud instruments like electric guitars, horns, and percussion. Its ability to manage these high-pressure sounds without distortion is one of its key strengths, offering clear and natural sound even in demanding conditions.

To maintain your ribbon microphone, avoid dropping or subjecting it to physical shocks, as the ribbon element is delicate. After use, store it in a padded case to protect it from environmental factors like moisture or dust. Regularly check the XLR connection for wear and tear to ensure consistent performance.

One common concern with the MXL R77 is its fragile nature due to the ribbon design. Users have reported that it requires careful handling to avoid damaging the ribbon. Additionally, it may not be the best choice for high-noise environments unless proper acoustic treatment is used.

The MXL R77 uses an XLR connection, making it compatible with most professional audio interfaces and mixers. However, ensure that your audio system supports condenser microphones and can handle the microphone’s high SPL for optimal results.

The key features of the MXL R77 include its ribbon design for a warm, vintage sound, a bidirectional polar pattern for side rejection, and the ability to handle high SPL. It’s also made from durable aluminum, with a chrome/gold finish, making it not only a functional tool but a visually appealing addition to your setup.

The MXL R77 is ideal for professional studio recording setups, musicians, and sound engineers looking for a high-quality ribbon microphone for instruments like guitars, horns, and percussion. It’s also a good fit for vocalists seeking high clarity and side rejection for acoustic recordings.