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Quick Hit: MXL DX-2 Review

Need to swap your mic on the fly? Here’s an option designed for guitarists.

Quick Hit: MXL DX-2 Review

It can be easy to overlook one of the most important parts of the signal chain in both live and studio settings: the microphone on your amp’s speaker. MXL’s new DX-2 was designed specifically for those who need more than a one-trick pony. The secret is that there are two mics in the DX-2—a supercardioid and a cardioid. A single knob lets you blend between the two capsules on the fly, which is an incredibly handy feature.

The supercardioid offered a response more typical of the sound of a close-miked cab, with increased response in the low-mids and bass frequencies. With my Fender ML 212, I usually kept the knob turned all the way to the left, which only engages the supercardioid capsule. Naturally, my Tele was on the bright side, so I usually only blended in a hair of the cardioid capsule. As you can hear in the included sound clips, the addition of the cardioid added extra air and brightness. If you have a “set and forget” approach to miking your cab, the DX-2 will offer some much-needed flexibility and an easy way to dial-out any unwanted frequencies.


Test gear: Fender Stratocaster, Gibson Les Paul, Fender Hot Rod Deville ML 212

Ratings

Pros:
Great value. Offers more flexibility than a standard mic.

Cons:
No way to split the signals from the capsules.

Street:
$149

MXL DX-2
mxlmics.com

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