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MXL 4000 Review: Features, Pros, and Cons
The MXL 4000 is a large diaphragm, multi-pattern condenser microphone originally made for specific retailers like Guitar Center, which is part of why it is less commonly seen compared to other MXL models. We tested the MXL 4000 to see how it performs for instrumentals, hip hop, and studio recording at an affordable price point.
This review covers the MXL 4000’s features, technical specs, performance, pros, cons, and whether it is a good fit for your setup.
Table of Contents
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What Is the MXL 4000?
The MXL 4000 is a large diaphragm, multi-pattern condenser microphone and part of MXL’s 900 series lineup. It was originally made for specific retailers, which is why it can be harder to find compared to more widely distributed MXL microphones.
It has built a reputation for hip hop recordings, acoustics, and rap vocals, largely due to its versatility from multiple polar patterns and additional sound-shaping controls. With the right settings and setup, it also works for instrumentals, voiceovers, and podcasting.
It connects using a standard XLR microphone cable and requires 48V phantom power to operate.
Features
Design
The MXL 4000 has a vintage, distinctive look with a decorative grille style that stands out. It uses an all-metal body with a nickel finish on the top mesh grille, giving it an old-school appearance suited to a studio setup.
Switches
The microphone includes three switches, one on the front and two on the back, controlling the pad, bass roll-off, and polar pattern. These extra controls let you adjust how the microphone responds in different recording situations.
Three Polar Patterns
The MXL 4000 offers three polar patterns:
- Cardioid: records sound mainly from the front of the microphone, which helps avoid pickup loss from other directions
- Omnidirectional: records sound from all directions, picking up more ambient noise but useful for group recordings
- Figure-8: records sound from the front and back, commonly used for duo recordings, podcasting, or interviews
-10dB Pad Switch
A switchable -10dB pad on the back of the microphone is useful when recording very loud sources, particularly instrumentals.
Bass Roll-Off Switch
A switchable bass roll-off control on the back lets you reduce extreme low-end frequencies for added clarity, helping block unwanted low-end noise.
Easy Setup
The microphone is straightforward to set up, even for non-technical users. No additional software or driver installation is needed.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Pressure gradient multi-pattern condenser microphone |
| Diaphragm | 6-micron gold-sputtered, 25mm large diaphragm |
| Frequency response | 20Hz to 20kHz |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid, Figure-8, Omnidirectional |
| Sensitivity | 15 mV/Pa |
| Impedance | 200 ohms |
| High pass filter | 6dB/octave at 150Hz |
| Equivalent noise | 20dB |
| Signal to noise ratio | 74dB |
| Maximum SPL | 130dB |
| Power requirements | 48V phantom power |
| Weight | 725 grams |
| Color | Blue/Nickel |
Performance
In our testing, the 25mm large diaphragm capsule delivered warmth and richness with good clarity. The three polar patterns add real versatility, letting the microphone adapt to different recording setups with some adjustment.
The overall sound has a slight boost that suits hip hop, rapping, and instrumentals particularly well.
We would not recommend this microphone as a primary choice for singing vocals. If vocals are your main focus, this is not the best pick. That said, pairing it with a good preamp to boost the low end can add natural warmth and thickness that works reasonably well for vocals.
For piano, guitar, and bass guitar recording, the sound output performed smoothly, with a pleasant character on instrumental performances.
Overall, the sound has a touch of extra warmth and boost that works well for hip hop, pop, rap, interviews, and podcasting. The 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response is solid for a condenser microphone, and the three polar patterns add extra flexibility. The maximum SPL of 130dB is sufficient for handling most instrumentals without distortion.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Strong build quality
- Three polar patterns for versatility
- Stand mount that isolates the microphone from vibrations
- Easy to set up with minimal adjustment
- Versatile across recording types
Cons
- Quite sensitive for vocal recording
- Requires a preamp and additional adjustments to sound natural on vocals
What’s in the Box
The MXL 4000 comes with:
- The microphone itself
- A wooden case with blue velvet cushioning
- A “High Isolation” MXL-60 shock mount
- A foam windscreen
A pop filter is not included. We recommend picking one up separately to help reduce unwanted noise, especially if you plan to use this microphone for vocals or voiceovers. For more on what a pop filter does, see our guide on what does a pop filter do.
FAQ
Does the MXL 4000 need phantom power?
Yes. The MXL 4000 requires a 48V phantom power supply to operate.
What is the frequency response of the MXL 4000?
The MXL 4000 has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz.
Does the MXL 4000 come with a shock mount?
Yes. The MXL 4000 includes a “High Isolation” MXL-60 shock mount in the box.
Final Verdict
The MXL 4000 was originally made for specific retailers, which is part of why it offers a strong feature set at an affordable price. It performs well in terms of sound, features, and overall versatility, with a rich, clear output.
This microphone is not the best choice if singing vocals or acoustic work is your primary focus. However, if you want extra features at an affordable price for a studio setup focused on rap, hip hop, instrumentals, voiceovers, or podcasting, the MXL 4000 is worth considering.
Before buying, check the latest price and availability, since pricing and product availability can change over time. If you are also considering other budget condenser options, our review of the MXL V67G covers another affordable alternative.
