Greetings mate and Welcome aboard!
Stuart Charles here, HomeStudioBasics.com helping YOU make sound decisions, so…
The MXL 990, 770, V67G, and AT2020 are all rather similar mics with some subtle sound discrepancies.
What Are They?
All 4 of these mics are XLR condensers, meaning they need 48v Phantom Power from an audio interface, mixer, etc. to reach line level.
In addition to that, they are all built very well.
The MXL990 and 770 come with a solid carrying case, while the V67G and AT2020 include zippered pouches.
The latter option proves quite beneficial, as some users prefer a slight reduction in low-end frequencies while others appreciate that radio-like character.
Effectively, the 770 provides the benefits of two microphones in one.
Additionally, the inclusion of a sturdy carrying case is perfect for those on the go, and the included shock mount significantly adds value by ensuring effective isolation from handling noise and vibrations, thereby contributing to consistently clear recordings.
The AT2020, V67G, and 990 do not have any onboard features, but all 4 are cardioid condenser microphones meaning they pick up sound primarily from the front while rejecting noise from the sides and rear.
Each has a distinct look: The AT2020 is all black, the 990 has a champagne finish, the V67G combines Gold and Teal, and the 770 is black with some gold accents.
Let’s listen to some recordings of each!
Demos
For these tests, I did not use a windscreen/pop filter and was about 6″ away. No gain or EQ was applied either. These are all raw recordings from the same position and distance. Keep in mind the AT2020 was recorded some years ago and I don’t currently own it.
DAW used: FL Studio. For those just starting, Audacity is free and Reaper has a 60-Use Free Trial. Both are great!
AT2020:
MXL 770:
MXL 770: High Pass Filter
MXL 990:
MXL V67G:
Use Cases/Versatility
All of these excel in voiceover applications, podcasting, rap, singing, instruments, etc. and all have similar tonal qualities.
The AT2020 sounds a bit smoothed over in relation to the others, and while the 770 also has a broadcast warmth to it, it’s brighter and slightly essier in the treble – both from a graph standpoint and listening.
It is a bit subtle, and the graph makes it look worse than it actually is, so bear that in mind.
To me, the 990 and V67G are likely tuned the best, being the clearest and having the most air without bordering on sibiliance.
Out of all of them, I’d probably choose a 990 first and V67G second based on frequency response alone, but the allure of the 770’s overall package and thus ultimate value cannot be ignored.
What you will need
I’m using a Univeral Audio Volt 2 + Yamaha HS7 and couldn’t be happier.
You’ll also need an XLR cable to connect from the mic to the front of the interface, and a microphone stand is also required.
I’ve used Boom Stands, Desktop Stands, and Scissor Arms, but settled on a Scissor as it’s incredibly convenient and perfect for most small home studio setups.
With it, you can get perfect heights and angles, and when you’re done, just push it out of the way. It’s a dream come true, really.
Placement And Technique
Speaking of placement, if you’re new to recording, click my Mastering the Mic: Essential Techniques And Placement Strategies guide for some helpful tips on how to get a clean take with minimal effort.
Pop Filter/Windscreen
Lastly, a windscreen (I like this one for the 770) or Pop Filter helps to mitigate plosives and prevents spit/other undesirables from damaging the diaphragm.
In the recordings above, I was far enough away, but if you’re up close I’d highly recommend that barrier, as it also helps with maintaining a consistent proximity from the microphone; allowing for cleaner and more consistent sounding recordings.
Room Treatment
All 4 of these mics do a very good job of blocking out noise and ambiance, but room treatment never hurts.
You don’t have to line every square inch of the walls, but some strategically placed acoustic panels can help mitigate reflections, standing waves, etc., and rectify some common problems in smaller setups.
Sequencer
I currently use FL Studio and sometimes Reaper or Audacity; all great programs and highly recommended. Audacity is free, so if you’re just getting started, go with that until you’re ready for Reaper, FL Studio, or something similar. I’m most comfortable and familiar with FL Studio, so that’s what I use primarily.
Reaper has a free 60-Use trial which is pretty awesome as well. After the 60 uses are up, a one-time payment of $60 is all that’s required.
Closing Thoughts
I could theoretically use any of these mics to record with (and do with the exception of the AT2020) but if I had to recommend one, I’d probably lean toward the 770 given all the value it provides.
Its sturdy build, and inclusive features like the -10dB and High Pass filter switches, along with the added advantage of an included shock mount, make it a standout choice.
Combining these attributes with its ability to consistently deliver clear and detailed sound across diverse recording scenarios, the MXL 770 stands as a reliable and cost-effective option in the realm of studio condenser microphones.
Learn More:
Vocal/Rap Test
Female Vocal Test
All prices and specs below!
Audio Technica AT2020 (XLR version)
Price: Check Amazon! | Check Sweetwater! | Check B&H! | Check eBay!
| Official Review: Here!
A perfect budget XLR condenser.
In The Box
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone (Black)
Stand Mount for 5/8″-27 Threaded Stands
5/8″-27 to 3/8″-16 Threaded Adapter
Protective Pouch
Limited 2-Year Manufacturer Warranty
Specifications
- Microphone Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Diaphragm Size: 0.63″ (16mm)
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Max SPL: 144 dB. What is SPL?
- Output Impedance: 100 Ohms
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 20dB
- Color: Black
- Connector: XLR. What is XLR?
- Weight: 0.76 lbs.
- Included Accessories: Stand Mount, Microphone Pouch
- Manufacturer Part Number: AT2020
MXL 990
Price: Check Amazon! | Check Sweetwater! | Check B&H! | Check eBay!
In The Box
MXL 990 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone (Champagne)
Custom Shockmount
Mic Stand Adapter
Carrying Case
Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
Registration Extension: 1-Year (US Only)
Specifications
- Microphone Type: Small diaphragm condenser. Large diaphragm vs. small diaphragm.
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Diaphragm Size: 0.67″ (17.1mm)
- Frequency Response: 30Hz-20kHz
- Max SPL: 130 dB
- Output Impedance: 200 Ohms
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 80dB
- Color: Beige/Black
- Connector: XLR
- Weight: 1.2 lbs.
- Included Accessories: Shock-mount.
Video Review
Credit to Trevor!
MXL 770
Price: Check Amazon! | Check Sweetwater! | Check eBay!
In The Box
MXL 770 Multipurpose Cardioid Condenser Microphone (Black)
High-Isolation Shockmount
Rugged Carrying Case
Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
Specifications
- Type: Condenser pressure gradient mic with large 22 mm. diaphragm
Frequency Range: 30Hz-20kHz
Polar Pattern: Cardioid. What is a cardioid capsule?
Sensitivity: 10mV/Pa
Impedance: 200 Ohms
S/N Ratio: 80dB (Ref. 1Pa A-weighted)
Equivalent Noise Level: 18dB (A-weighted IEC 268-4)
Maximum SPL for 0.5% THD: 134dB
High Pass Filter: 6dB/octave, 150HZ
Attenuator Switch: 0/-10dB
Power Requirements: Phantom Power 48V +/-4V
Size: 60mm x 154mm
Weight: 420g
Metal Finish: Black/Gold
Well, that’s about it for today my friend! I hope you’ve enjoyed this article on the AT2020 vs. MXL 990 vs. MXL 770 vs. V67G.
Questions? Comments? Requests? Did I miss the mark on something? Please let me know down below or Contact me!!
Are you convinced the 770 provides the best value? I would love to hear from you.
Until next time…
All the best and God bless,
-Stu
Be sure to check out my Reviews and Resources page for more helpful and informative articles!
12 comments
Great site. Valuable and Accurate information. Gary Card C.E.T.
Thanks man! Not sure if this was a duplicate comment but I very much appreciate you stopping by 🙂
I thought the Small Diameter Condensor could handle more SPL (Large diaphragm vs. small diaphragm ) but you write:
Differences
The MXL 990 is considered a small diaphragm condenser, while the AT2020 is a large diaphragm. The AT2020 can handle a higher SPL (Sound pressure level), which explains why it is more versatile in many different applications. The 990 by contrast has a lower SPL, and does much better as strictly a voice-over mic. Is this in Error?
Hey man!
Yeah that was a typo. I meant to say the 990 as the small diaphragm can handle higher SPL. Honest mistake. Thank you so much for pointing that out! I will fix it immediately.
Kalau anda yang memilih, anda suka yang mana ?
Hai lelaki! Saya pasti akan menggunakan AT2020. Mikrofon hebat !!
According to specs, AT2020 has a 144 dB SPL, and 990 has a 130 dB SPL.
Thanks for that! Made a typo at the end there but had the specs right in the beginning lol.
Both have diaphragms smaller than 1″, so they are both small diaphragm condensers (990 is just 1 millimeter larger)
I looked this up out of curiosity and Sweetwater says Medium but it probably doesn’t matter all that much https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/AT2020–audio-technica-at2020-cardioid-condenser-microphone
Hi sir ,
I want to buy one mic for hip hop vocal
between
1-at 2020
2-se x1a
3-lewitt240
4-mxl 990
which one of they to buy?
Hey Jack,
The AT2020 did very well for me with hip-hop vocals, but I just bought an MXL990 and I think that overall it’s better. It has a similar frequency response as the Rode NT1 for dirt cheap. In other words, it’s flat and pretty neutral with some nice treble emphasis that adds a bit of sparkle. I haven’t heard the other 2 you mention, but the 990 is a mic that will be a mainstay in my studio. Let me know if you have any questions.
Cheers,
-Stu