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Greetings mate and Welcome aboard!
Stuart Charles here, HomeStudioBasics.com helping YOU make sound decisions, so…
In this upcoming mega review of the MXL V67G, we’ll cover build, features, versatility, sound output, and more while also comparing the mic to a few others I have here in the studio.
By the time you’re finished reading this review, you’ll know if the V67G is for you and you will also be ready to make an informed buying decision.
The first thing that jumps out at you is the 67G’s aesthetic.
Boasting a teal/turquoise finish with a gold grille, the mic practically yells “I’m a vintage throwback” which is perfectly fine by me.
You’ll likely agree; it’s a beautiful mic and also happens to be rather robust and sturdy at just a shade over a pound (1.3); feeling very substantial in your hand and deterring any doubts you may have about long-term reliability.
Features
The V67G contains Class-A FET circuitry and a transformer-coupled output, in addition to being a side-address mic with a 1″ gold-sputtered large diaphragm.
Side-Address
A side-address microphone such as the 67G is designed to pick up sound from the side of the microphone body rather than the top.
It requires the sound source to be directed perpendicular to the microphone’s diaphragm for optimal performance and is commonly used in studio settings for capturing vocals, instruments, and various audio sources.
FET Preamp
A FET (Field Effect Transistor) preamp, commonly used in audio circuits, employs FETs to amplify weak signals before they enter the main amplifier stage.
Its design allows for high input impedance and low noise, making it suitable for various audio applications, including microphones and musical instruments.
The gold-sputtered diaphragm may look like it’s for show, but it actually refers to a thin membrane used in microphone construction, where gold is applied via sputtering; a process depositing a thin layer of gold onto the diaphragm’s surface.
This technique enhances conductivity, durability, and responsiveness, contributing to the diaphragm’s accuracy in capturing sound vibrations.
Transformer-Coupled Output
Finally, the Transformer-coupled output utilizes a method of connecting an audio device’s output stage to a transformer that transforms the signal’s voltage level.
This technique provides isolation, impedance matching, and often imparts a unique sonic character to the signal before it’s sent out to external devices or systems.
Speaking of unique sonic character, let’s delve into the sound of this classic vintage-inspired mic and see how it compares with a few others.
Sound
The V67G is advertised as a “pure”, “warm”, “mellow” sound and likened to an old-school tube mic; sacrificing transparency and neutrality for a Dummy THICC mid-range that adds body to vocals.
Are these claims true?
Let’s take a listen:
Demos
All of the following takes/recordings employ the Universal Audio Volt 2 with the gain set to 75%, no EQ or post-processing, and no filter/windscreen.
More on that in a sec.
All are raw recordings at the same position and distance away (roughly 6″) and I did my best to use the same cadence, speed, tone, and volume.
DAW used: FL Studio. Audacity is free for those just starting, and Reaper has a 60-Use Free Trial. Both are great!
MXL V67G:
MXL 990:
MXL 770 (Flat):
MXL 770 w/ HPF (Hi-Pass Filter):
Fifine K669:
Pop-Filter
A pop filter is optional but recommended even though I didn’t use one for these tests.
I’ve used both Filters and Windscreens in the past. Here’s a windscreen specifically made for the 770. Here’s a pop filter I used quite a bit in the past.
I find windscreens to be a lot more convenient, but the beauty of a pop filter is that it physically separates you from the mic, ensuring you’re not right up on it.
Most condenser microphones typically prefer you to be around 6″ away for the best and cleanest results, and having a pop filter between you and the mic acts as a sort of barrier; helping to mitigate the issue of getting too close (in the middle of a heated take, for instance) which can result in plosives and the like.
Impressions
As you can probably hear, the MXL 990 and K669 are the brightest/most open sounding out of the lot, while the 770 and V67G have that warm-ish, radio broadcast type of presentation.
As much as I prefer and endorse gear with a clearer and more neutral-sounding profile, I’m still kind of a sucker for that radio sound – and, for around $100, how can you go wrong with a V67G or 770?
Because the trio (770, 990, V67G) are all priced similarly, I would just go with your preference here.
If you enjoy that warmer tone, the 67G or 770 are both great.
If you’re into a more neutral/airy presentation, the 990 is fantastic.
Let’s take it a step further though.
If your preference is warmer, should you buy the 770 or V67G?
Well, the 770 is a bit more versatile and has the -10dB switch and Hi/Pass Filter/Flat switch; the latter of which is very useful as certain users prefer some low-end roll-off while others like that radio-ish sound.
So you’re kind of getting 2 mics in one.
Moreover, the durable carrying case is ideal for individuals on the move, while the provided shock mount adds significant value by ensuring effective isolation from vibrations and handling noise. This contributes to consistently achieving clear recordings.
If you really love the look of the V67G (and who doesn’t?) by all means, go for it. I’m keeping them all to experiment with!
All of that said, I wouldn’t fault you for going with any of these, though, despite it being a solid option in its own right there are some issues with the K669.
In addition to the above points, there’s another small consideration to make here: Are you going to be recording any acoustic guitar?
If so, the MXL990 packaged with the 991 (Small-Diapraghm Pencil Condenser) is an incredible value as you’re basically getting the 991 for only an additional $30 or so.
And while it may feel a little underwhelming in your hand, I can assure you it records the acoustic incredibly well.
Small-Diaphragm mics are typically used to record acoustic guitar, and with the 991, I can get picture-perfect takes that sound fantastic with my 20+-year-old Gibson Epiphone.
Not only that, but it’s easy to get a good take on the first try and you won’t be fiddling around with mic placement like you will with other mics.
Well, that’s about it for today my friend. I hope you enjoyed this MXL 770 Review and came away with some valuable insight.
What are your thoughts on the 770? Which of the mics sounds best? I would love to hear from you…
Questions? Comments? Requests? Did I miss the mark on something? Please let me know down below or Contact me!!
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Stu is determined to help you make sound decisions, and strives to deliver the best and most in depth content on the internet! In his spare time, he likes to fish, paint, play guitar, pray, rap, make beats, take photos, record videos, graphic design, and more. His sense of humour, coupled with a knack for excellence and strict attention to detail are what allow him to stand out in an crowded industry.