MXL 990 USB Stereo User Manual

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Congratulations on your purchase of the MXL 990 USB Stereo mic which uses

two gold diaphragm capsules in an X/Y pattern for stereo recording. MXL micro-

phones are the result of world-class engineering and manufacturing capabilities.

They are designed to provide you with outstanding performance and exceptional

value. While we encourage you to review this entire manual, there are a few key

points about handling this microphone that we want you to familiarize yourself

with right from the start.
The MXL USB mics are a professional quality, condenser microphone designed

specifically for recording. Unlike microphones designed for live performance or

lesser dynamic model microphones, this instrument requires careful handling.

Hence, you should observe the following…

ALWAYS… handle the microphone carefully, avoiding sudden shocks such as

dropping or bumping the microphone into other objects.

ALWAYS… maintain a distance of approximately 4 – 6 inches when speaking

or singing into the microphone. You are encouraged to use a pop

filter for added protection of the sensitive capsule and to shield

the instrument from saliva and sudden bursts of air.

NEVER… tap the microphone to check if it’s working. The RED LED

behind the microphone’s protective grill will tell you it’s on and

that the correct side is facing you.

NEVER… blow into the microphone to check if it’s working. The RED LED

behind the microphone’s protective grill will tell you it’s on.

By following these few basic handling procedures, you can expect a long and

trouble-free relationship with your new microphone. Again, thank you for your

purchase of this outstanding MXL microphone.

A Little Background Information

MXL stereo microphones use what is known as a X/Y pattern, which is two cap-

sules facing 90º apart. Each capsule will send the audio information it receives to

the corrosponding right or left side of a stereo track on the computer. The capsule

behind the “L” is more sensitive to sound waves arriving from the left side of the

microphone as opposed to those arriving from the right side. The capsule behind

the “R” is just the opposite. Unlike other MXL models, this microphone benefits

from being a USB (Universal Serial Bus) device—meaning this is a plug and play

microphone that will interface with Windows and Macintosh computers without

the need for any special drivers. As a USB device, it carries the added benefit of

not requiring an external microphone preamp, as is the case with most condenser

microphones.

We’ve already mentioned the importance of proper handling, but should you find

yourself recording an outdoor performance, you would be well advised to use a

windscreen as protection for your microphone.

7. Then select the Audio/MIDI icon in the top row. From the drop down menu

under Audio Input, select the USB Audio Codec as shown in Figure #13 below.

Figure #13

8. You will then be asked if you really want to change the driver. Select Yes.

The computer will then say it is initializing the audio driver. Wait until this is

done, then close the window.

9. At this point, you should see the meter move when you speak into the micro-

phone. You can now click on the Record button and record your vocals or dialog

using your microphone.

PLEASE NOTE: As long as the microphone is plugged in when Garage Band is

started, the audio input source settings in Garage Band will be saved until you

change them again, even if you close the program or start a new project.

For More Information

For additional information about your MXL USB microphone, how to contact

technical support, as well as information on other products manufactured by

MXL, please visit us online at www.mxl-usb.com.