MXL Microphones has introduced a new USB mic, the

MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Microphone.

Description:

With electronics based upon the MXL 990—the world’s best selling studio condenser microphone—the MXL 990 features two gold diaphragm capsules in an X/Y stereo configuration and is designed to deliver rich sound with excellent spatial imaging.

The MXL 990 USB is a Universal Serial Bus instrument that connects directly to a computer without the need for external mic preamps. Featuring support for USB 1.1 and 2.0, the microphone includes gain adjustment settings via a built-in three position attenuation switch.

The microphone is optimized for capturing a wide range of musical performances—both vocal and instrumental—and delivers broad spatial imaging, thanks to its 90-degree X/Y stereo pick-up pattern. The mic e also has a maximum SPL (Sound Pressure Level) rating of 137 dB—making it an good choice for capturing loud instruments such as trumpet, saxophone, or electric guitar.

The microphone features twin gold sputtered capsules (20 mm each) and this pressure-gradient stereo condenser microphone features a 20 Hz-20 kHz frequency response. The microphone also provides a 3-position, switchable attenuation pad with settings for Hi (0 dB), Medium (-5 dB), and Lo (-10 dB), making it easy to configure the microphone to virtually any sound source. The digital section of the microphone features a 16-bit Delta Sigma A/D converter with sampling rates of 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz. Protecting the instrument’s capsule is a heavy-duty wire mesh grill with an integrated pop filter, and behind the wire mesh, there is an LED activity light to aid users in properly orienting the microphone toward the sound source.

The MXL 990 ships with a travel case, a mic stand adapter, a shock mount, a 10-foot USB cable, an owner’s manual, and an applications guide.

“For capturing live performances, this microphone is ideal, as its polar pattern enables the microphone to deliver a broad spatial stereo image,” said MXL’s Wayne Freeman. “The ability to actually hear the placement of performers throughout the stereo field is, unquestionably, one of this microphone’s most significant attributes.”

The MXL 990 USB Stereo Condenser Microphone carries an MSRP of $199.95. It is scheduled to ship Q3 of 2007.