MXL R144 Studio Ribbon Microphone
The R144 from MXL is a professional-quality ribbon microphone ideal for studio and broadcast use. The mic features a 1.8 micron aluminum ribbon with a Figure-8 pickup pattern, allowing it to capture sounds from either side of the mic body. The mic's high SPL capability makes it ideal for use as a vocal or instrumental mic. The mic comes complete with a shock mount, mic stand adapter, cleaning cloth, and a carrying case.
- Aluminum Ribbon
- The mic has a 1.8 micron aluminum ribbon that delivers a high level of realism to audio recordings
- Figure-8 Pattern
- The Figure-8 pickup pattern allows the mic to capture sounds on either side of the mic body
- High SPL Capability
- The R44's high SPL capability allows it to record loud sound sources without distortion
- Distinctive Design
- The metal body is robust enough to withstand professional use and has a distinctive purple and chrome finish.
- Accessories Included
- The mic comes complete with a shock mount, mic standard adapter, microfiber cleaning cloth, and a carrying case
| Transducer | Ribbon |
| Polar Pattern | Figure-8 |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz - 17kHz |
| Sensitivity | -56dB |
| EIN | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Maximum Sound Pressure Level (SPL) | > 130dB |
| Power Requirements | None |
| Output Impedance | 250 Ohms |
| Output Connectors | 3-Pin XLR Male |
| Pad | No |
| Low Frequency Roll-Off | No |
| Dimensions (LxDiameter) | 6.75 x 1.85" (171 x 47mm) |
| Weight | 0.85 lbs (400g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 13 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Great sound quality (7)
- Easy to use (4)
- Good audio (4)
- Durable (3)
- Simple use (3)
Cons
Best Uses
- Professional (5)
- Home studio (4)
- Professional recording (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Gearhead (4), Professional musician (4)
- Primary use:
- Business (5)
Most Liked Positive Review
Incredible for the money
I'm using it primarily for a drum overhead, but also for acoustic guitar. It has a really nice, sweet sound, and it seems well built (we'll see). I'm still experimenting, but ...Read complete review
I'm using it primarily for a drum overhead, but also for acoustic guitar. It has a really nice, sweet sound, and it seems well built (we'll see). I'm still experimenting, but already, I have been able to get really nice sounds. It has none of the harshness of condensers in the same price range. It does need a lot of gain, as people say, and the pickup pattern is going to take some figuring out. I'm also worried about the fragility inherent in the design, but I think it will be fine (not using it live). The included case and mount are nice too. I like it a lot.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
a warm mic
a completely different sounding mic,not as bright as condensers,but takes more spl,requires a big pre amp boost, will get a matching one when i arrive in new york from australia in october...Read complete review
a completely different sounding mic,not as bright as condensers,but takes more spl,requires a big pre amp boost, will get a matching one when i arrive in new york from australia in october
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 13 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-13
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Home Studio
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about MXL R144 Studio Ribbon Microphone:
I use this for live recordings of trumpet, trumpet ensembles and brass groups. I`ve used it in both live halls and in my home studio. Ribbon is the way to go for horns (and vocals of course). Very warm and complimentary to trumpets and deals very well with high SPLs. I use it with a Zoom H4-N and an M-Audio Audio Buddy. A preamp for some added gain is def needed as well as a GOOD mic cable. Tilt the mic back (or forward depending on acoustic environment) about 30 degs or so at about 8 feet back and 8 feet up in a nice hall or church. You will NOT be disappointed. Ordering a second one soon.
Pros
- Compact
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Studio
- Professional Recording
Comments about MXL R144 Studio Ribbon Microphone:
a completely different sounding mic,not as bright as condensers,but takes more spl,requires a big pre amp boost, will get a matching one when i arrive in new york from australia in october
Pros
- Great Sound Quality
Cons
- Not suited for live use
Best Uses
- Broadcasting
- Recorded audio
Comments about MXL R144 Studio Ribbon Microphone:
This mic has a very natural sound to it. You don't get the proximity effect you do with a conventional dynamic mic. This works best in the studio because you can't get it very loud without feedback. As you face the mic your voice passes over the ribbons and exits the rear grill so there's no good way to isolate it from the monitor in front of you, hence, it is very omnidirectional. But for recording or broadcast use you get none of the off axis coloration and proximity effect so it sounds like the person using the mic is sitting across the table from you.
- Primary use:
- Personal
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
Cons
Best Uses
- Professional
Comments about MXL R144 Studio Ribbon Microphone:
I always wanted a good ribbon mic but with the prices out there i didnt think i would ever have one. i bought this mic at the same time as the 551/550 combo. ihavent gotten away from the condenser mics much (love them) but the R144 does sound good it just requiers a good preamp the get good gain.
- Primary use:
- Business
Pros
- Great Sound Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Professional
Comments about MXL R144 Studio Ribbon Microphone:
Being an orchestral music composer, sound is everything and when using mics I try to not eq anything but keep the natural instrument and the microphone natural. For under 100 bucks these mics deliver a great sound on toms, vocals and nylon string guitar. That is what i have recorded so far. With this ribbon mic you do need a thick pop filter since the aluminum element is very pop sensitive, but well worth having in the collection. For vocals this mic set up with a Neuman 87 made a great pair, a bit more sizzle on the 87 and warmth and bottom with a clear mid range for the R144. I have two of these mics and will buy a another pair to try out on timpani, electric guitar cabinets, and the grand piano.I would reccomend these mics to anyone who needs a sensitive mic without spending 4k on a ribbon.Michael Schumann Smith - Composer[@]
- Primary use:
- Business
Pros
- Great Sound Quality
- Great value
- Nice looking
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about MXL R144 Studio Ribbon Microphone:
I'm using it primarily for a drum overhead, but also for acoustic guitar. It has a really nice, sweet sound, and it seems well built (we'll see). I'm still experimenting, but already, I have been able to get really nice sounds. It has none of the harshness of condensers in the same price range. It does need a lot of gain, as people say, and the pickup pattern is going to take some figuring out. I'm also worried about the fragility inherent in the design, but I think it will be fine (not using it live). The included case and mount are nice too. I like it a lot.
- Primary use:
- Business
Pros
- Durable
- Full frequency range
- Great Sound Quality
- High resolution
- Lightweight
- Long Lasting
- Low Power
- Simple Use
Cons
Best Uses
- Presentations
- Productivity
- Professional
Comments about MXL R144 Studio Ribbon Microphone:
The frequency range of this mic will blow you away! Use with any mixer and does not need phantom power - XLR link. Audio is crisp and resolution is excellent. Can't find this quality at the price. Highly recommended. 10/10.
- Primary use:
- Business
Pros
- Great Sound Quality
- Simple Use
Cons
- To soon to tell
Best Uses
- Professional
Comments about MXL R144 Studio Ribbon Microphone:
Exactly what I was expecting. I bought it for a quite sibilant singer that I am working with at the moment. Probably there are better ribbon mics in the market but for the price, this thing is unbeatable.
I am using it so far in vocals in tandem with a Neumann TLM-103. When mixing I tend to use more the MXL on the verses and more the TLM-103 on the choruses. The MXL adds a lot of bottom without sounding boxy.
- Primary use:
- Business
Pros
- A bargain for tough times
- Great Sound Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Professional
Comments about MXL R144 Studio Ribbon Microphone:
I have recorded jazz bass drum, trumpets and electric guitar so far with quite good results. No, it's not a Beyer or Royer but can't be beat for the bucks. The sound is quite natural to my ears and closely approximates the way we actually hear. It's my first experience with MXL.
- Primary use:
- Personal
Pros
- Durable
- Great Sound Quality
- Long Lasting
- Simple Use
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about MXL R144 Studio Ribbon Microphone:
Good mic... I need to get a better mixer to use it through and I think it will sound wonderful. Sounds warm.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Price
- Warmth
Cons
Best Uses
- Podcasting
Comments about MXL R144 Studio Ribbon Microphone:
I bought this microphone expecting to return it. What a surprise I got when I mounted and plugged into our digital board and it reproduced my voice in a warm, clean way.
We bought two more and use 3 of them for podcasting. Our EQ'ing is minimal and the sound makes all the difference in the world.
The shock mount is quality and the case is a nice bonus.
I have not tried with an instrument nor used for musical applications.
Enjoy!
Pros
- Affordable
- Clear Sound
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Studio
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about MXL R144 Studio Ribbon Microphone:
I use this mic in my home studio. I have tried other inexpensive ribbons before and they all sound very "cramped". Nice big open sound, warm low end, smooth on the high end. Can't beat the price and it comes WITH the shock mount.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Home Studio
Comments about MXL R144 Studio Ribbon Microphone:
Inexpensive and well crafted, smooth response, great value.
Displaying reviews 1-13
Accessory Packages
- Price: $129.95
Cables
-
- Original: $14.95
- Save: $1.49
- Price: $13.46
Pop Filters
- Price: $24.99
Stands & Support
- Price: $15.99
What's in the Box
- Shock Mount
- Mic Stand Adapter
- Cleaning Cloth
- Carrying Case
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
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