MXL AC-404 Black USB Connector USB-Powered Microphone

Pros: I use this primarily for use in Mumble/Skype while gaming. It's a bit much for what I use it for, but it's high quality and gets the job done nicely. After throwing away my 3rd "high-quality" headset I decided to get a standalone microphone that emphasized build-quality. Well, this thing is built like a brick. It's bigger than the picture would lead you to believe, but I'm very happy with it. It doesn't slide around and Windows has no issues detecting it. You'll see it labeled generically as a USB audio device. Long, detachable cord and a leather carrying case if that's your thing.

Cons: None.

Overall Review: This thing picks up everything. For my intended purpose (gaming) I should probably exhibited more restraint when buying a microphone intended for conference calls. If you are getting this for home use, be warned that it will pick up everything going on within 2 rooms.

Pros: 1. Sturdy construction, you can probably kill someone with it, if you hit them hard enough 2. Great sound 3. Automatically detected in Windows 7 4. Long USB cord and foam bottom (stays put on the desk) 5. Headphone jack for real-time monitoring 6. Great price

Cons: A little big, but not overly so.

Pros: Do you play online games or make conference calls online? The MXL USB Microphone has been the best microphone I've used for both. The clarity of the mic is unparalleled no matter which way one faces it. With a 180 degree range, people on the communication program Ventrilo was shocked when I told them I wasn't even facing the mic while talking (also tested on google and teamspeak). There are some options under the playback devices (recording section) to customize your microphone (which will need to be done as well for best results). For me, due to it being a few feet away, it required me to lower the level to under 10. Believe me; this MXL is very VERY sensitive to sound if it isn’t setup right and probably will never need to be placed even anywhere near level 50 unless you want to have everyone in your building to be heard on your microphone.

Cons: One doesn’t need to be super computer savvy to use this device but will require at least in the beginning trial and error. I tested each decibel level with a few people on Ventrilo when I first got it to find the best range for me. Fans, computer motors and other device noises will be picked up on this device if the 180 degree range (and sometimes then some) is present. This will factor in where your MXL can be placed as well as how much background noise one can have in the background. I've had many complaints at times on ventrilo when gaming that they heard my fan or music in the background so I had to lower it to quiet and roast a bit... Also if you leave in your microphone into your computer while turning it on and off it doesn’t always pick it back up at least on my Windows 7 Ultimate OS version. The easy fix is though unplugging it and plugging it back in and it works flawless after.

Overall Review: The packaging includes a two sided user "manual" pamphlet which is useful, 6' USB extension cable which is very handy is the placement of this device, headphone/speaker jack which I never used yet actually, but seems useful for traveling purpose, and a leather zipper case which to me was surprisingly made well since most cases I find that come with products such as these are terrible. The construction of this MXL Mic is very well made and doesn’t seem as if it would break for awhile. There’s a red light within the product though that doesn’t seem necessary, but shouldn’t bother anyone either if placed over 3 feet away due to the angle. This microphone is quite a bit of money not on sale, but it seems as if this mic will be the last one I’ll need. If it breaks I will most likely buy this one again. See you next time on Dariusreviews!

Pros: Awesome clarity, picks up low voices, easy install with XP Pro - plug and play. Bought to replace microphone on Logitech 9000 Pro video cam. Was using this to skype video conference. I was having troubles hearing people talk at times with the Logitech 9000. Primarily when more than one person spoke at a time. The Logitech 9000 Pro is good for one person, but we needed to do better - we use it for work. This fit the bill perfectly and I am very satisfied, keep up the great work MXL.

Cons: none except possibly how to install. Its small, about the size of your palm, and it is heavy for its size. I like that, because it feels solid. If you wanted to mount it somewhere it doesn't have provisions for that, its designed to sit on a flat surface. We are a small biz, and don't have dedicated conference room so that was a bit of a problem. However, I was able to wedge it in on top of our phone that is wall mounted, and it is stable there. Now the only problem is when the phone rings during a video conf. Thats all I can hear and it is loud...... :)

Overall Review: I contacted MXL before purchasing, someone emailed me back right away, so they seem to have good support.

Pros: Excellent microphone. We were suffering from cheap webcam microphones for conference calls and I bought 2 of these to supplement the setup. Night and day difference -- you can now hear everyone in the room even with clapping and laughter.

Cons: None.

Pros: The construction and materials used are fantastic. This is a company that specializes in studio quality recording. I use this mic for gaming, conference calls, and even some VoIP relation stuff. Overall I am very happy with this purchase.

Cons: None so far, packaging was a little messy when I got it. However it works just fine.

Overall Review: Worth the money.

Pros: Amazing sensitivity. Even my whispers were audible. I am teacher and I use it to record podcasts. The logitec mic I had made me sound... well... recorded. The sound with this one is so natural. The recordings sound like my voice, with all of the fullness. Doesn't sound like I am in a tin can. And I don't have to think about where the mic is. I don't have to lean towards it or worry about which way I am facing when I speak. It gets everything. I forget it is there.

Cons: Price. I got it when it was on sale, but if you are looking for something to record your voice, this is fabulous. It is worth paying full price. Don't know how it would sound with music or more complex sounds. Haven't tried.

Pros: Heavy, with foam grip on the entire underside surface prevents it from sliding around. Rugged construction with acoustically transparent steel mesh protecting all internal circuitry. Audio jack next to USB to plug in headphones.

Cons: None.

Overall Review: It is worth the MSRP, glad I got it discounted. Do yourself a favor, get rid of your gaming headset with boom mic, and get this and a high quality headphone setup. Check out the manufacturer's website with the recording samples.