New Mic is Different. I Like it.

Have you noticed a lot of Voiceover folks like the same mics that are popular in broadcast radio stations? Why is that? Is it because a lot of us came from that background and it’s just what we are comfortable with? Is it because the most popular are dynamic mics that are easier to set up and maintain? Or could it be that sound? You know what I’m talking about. Clean, clear, bright, easy to understand and easy to equalize to match the station’s over-the-air processing.

For most of the rest of us, the Large Diaphragm Condenser is the usual weapon of choice. It picks up every nuance of the spoken voice and is easier to “work” with intricate and subtle variations in vocal delivery. Do you know what I’m talking about?

Now we have found a new mic that sort of combines the best of both of those worlds—the MXL V88. Right off the bat I’m recommending you do whatever you can to try this mic. It’s different. It’s bright, clean and clear. Yet picks up the nuances you expect in an LDC. It’s also In Your Face present—right up front. It has a full dynamic range that should be easy to equalize if needed. But I’m betting you will like the full sound of the V88.

My recommendation—if you need mics for a radio station, TV sound booth, or if you do spots for any broadcast, you should try this mic. It’s priced a little less than the Shure SM7b and the Electrovoice RE20 and RE27 and is around the same price as another one of my favorites--the Heil PR40. The V88 has more range, sensitivity and lots more presence than those old standards. It will need phantom power.

I will do a TV spot and post it on the VO Mic Test site soon. We can all hear it in action. Or go listen to the “out of the box” test now.