MXL 550-551R Diaphragm Microphone Ensemble User Manual

: June 13, 2024
: MXL

Table of Contents

MXL 550-551R Diaphragm Microphone Ensemble
Introduction
Specifications
What’s in the Box
General Characteristics
How to Use
Power Requirements
Troubleshooting
Warranty
FAQs
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

MXL 550-551R Diaphragm Microphone Ensemble

MXL-550-551R-Diaphragm-Microphone-Ensemble-product

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of the MXL 550/551 Recording Ensemble. With proper care, these microphones will provide many years of satisfaction. For the best results, please take a few moments to review this literature. The MXL 550-551R Diaphragm Microphone Ensemble is a versatile recording solution designed for musicians, podcasters, and content creators seeking high-quality audio capture. This ensemble includes two microphones, the MXL 550 for vocals and instruments, and the MXL 551 for percussion and acoustic instruments, offering a comprehensive recording solution for a wide range of applications. In this guide, we will explore the specifications, what’s included in the package, key features, how to use the microphones, safety considerations, maintenance tips, and troubleshooting techniques.

Specifications

MXL 550 (Large Diaphragm Microphone):

Type: Condenser Microphone
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 30Hz – 20kHz
Sensitivity: -35 dB re 1 V/Pa
Max SPL for 0.5% THD: 130dB
Equivalent Noise Level: 20dB (A-weighted)
Output Impedance: 200 ohms
Power Requirements: Phantom Power 48V

MXL 551 (Small Diaphragm Microphone):

Type: Condenser Microphone
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 30Hz – 20kHz
Sensitivity: -35 dB re 1 V/Pa
Max SPL for 0.5% THD: 137dB
Equivalent Noise Level: 18dB (A-weighted)
Output Impedance: 110 ohms
Power Requirements: Phantom Power 48V

What’s in the Box

1 x MXL 550 Large Diaphragm Microphone
1 x MXL 551 Small Diaphragm Microphone
2 x Microphone Mounts (Shock Mounts)
2 x Microphone Stand Adapters
1 x Carrying Case

General Characteristics

These microphones have gold-sputtered diaphragms and a fixed cardioid pickup pattern. Condenser microphones are very sensitive, readily revealing very subtle sonic details. They also tend to pick up sounds outside the pattern more than some designs, which can lead to powerful feedback if you are not careful. We strongly advise experimentation with placement and isolation requirements with the gain initially set low to avoid equipment (and ear) damage. It is strongly advised to use a mesh pop-filter to avoid moisture from damaging the capsule.

How to Use

Microphone Placement: Choose the appropriate MXL 550 or MXL 551 microphone for your sound source. Position the microphone on a shock mount and attach it to a microphone stand or boom arm.
Connectivity: Use an XLR cable to connect the microphone to an audio interface or mixer with +48V phantom power.
Phantom Power: Ensure that phantom power is enabled on your audio interface or mixer before use.
Polar Pattern: The cardioid polar pattern minimizes off-axis noise, so aim the front of the microphone at the sound source for the best results.
Monitoring: Use headphones or studio monitors to monitor the audio output from your recording.

Power Requirements

IMPORTANT – These units require phantom power at 48 volts, +/- 4 volts. Each unit has been thoroughly checked before shipping, so if you do not hear sound, check that the phantom power on your mixer or separate power supply is switched on!

Microphone Cables
The microphone cable can have a profound effect on the sound of any microphone. Even the finest microphones will sound poor if the interconnect cable allows noise to enter, or causes distortion and loss of information. Use only the best microphone cable your budget will allow. We highly recommend using Mogami® brand cable.

Care

Dust and foreign material can degrade the performance of a microphone over time so always store the unit in its case.
Due to the delicate nature of condenser microphones, never use water or any other liquid for cleaning purposes.

Troubleshooting

Problem 1: No Sound or Low Sound Output

Solution:

1. Check the microphone connections: Ensure that the microphones are properly connected to your audio interface or mixer using the appropriate cables.
2. Verify that the microphones are receiving phantom power if required (typically +48V). If you are using the MXL 550 condenser microphone, it may require phantom power.
3. Confirm that the microphone gain or input levels on your audio interface or mixer are set correctly. Gradually increase the gain until you achieve the desired audio level, being cautious not to introduce distortion.
4. Test the microphones on different channels or inputs of your audio interface or mixer to rule out issues with specific channels or cables.
5. Inspect the microphone cables for damage or loose connections. Replace any faulty cables.

Problem 2: Excessive Noise or Hissing

Solution:

1. Make sure that the microphones are properly grounded and not picking up interference from nearby electronic devices or power sources. Keep them away from sources of electromagnetic interference.
2. Check the microphone gain settings on your audio interface or mixer. High gain settings can amplify background noise. Adjust the gain as needed.
3. If using the MXL 550 condenser microphone, ensure that it has a stable and consistent power source, and that phantom power is activated.
4. Use a pop filter or windscreen to reduce plosive sounds and wind noise, especially when recording vocals.

Problem 3: Microphones Produce Distorted Audio

Solution:

1. Verify that the microphones are not overloaded by excessively loud sound sources. Reduce the input gain if necessary to prevent distortion.
2. Ensure that the microphones are not too close to the sound source, which can lead to overload and distortion. Maintain an appropriate distance between the microphones and the sound source.
3. Check the microphone capsules for any physical damage or debris that may obstruct sound. Gently clean the microphone capsules if needed.
4. If distortion persists, test the microphones with a different audio interface or mixer to rule out issues with the original recording equipment.

Problem 4: Uneven Volume or Imbalanced Sound

Solution:

1. Adjust the microphone positioning and angles to ensure they are capturing sound evenly. Experiment with microphone placement to achieve the desired balance.
2. If recording in stereo with both microphones, ensure that they are correctly positioned and oriented to capture the intended stereo image.
3. Use the microphone level controls on your audio interface or mixer to fine-tune the balance between the two microphones.

Problem 5: Microphones Produce Feedback

Solution:

1. Check for sound reflections and the proximity of speakers or monitors to the microphones. Adjust the positioning of the microphones and speakers to minimize feedback.
2. Use directional microphones, if possible, to reduce the chance of feedback by minimizing pickup from behind the microphone.
3. Reduce the volume of your speakers or monitors, or use headphones for monitoring during recording to prevent feedback loops.

Warranty

Marshall microphones are guaranteed against defects in material and workmanship for one year from date of purchase. Should you encounter any problem with this unit, promptly contact the company you purchased it from for assistance. The original dated sales receipt will be necessary for any warranty claim. Do not send any unit directly to us without prior authorization from our service department! Warranty coverage is limited to repair or replacement (at our option) of the microphone, and does not cover incidental damages due to use of this unit, nor damage caused by accidental misuse of this product.