
MXL 603S
Street: $100 / MSRP: $130 Detachable-Capsule Pencil Condenser Microphone
Description
The MXL 603 is a small-diaphragm pencil condenser mic that is well regarded on the pro-audio forums for use in typical SDC applications such as drum overheads and acoustic guitar. It is also a common platform for mods; see the sidebar links for more info.
The diaphragm measures 16.75mm in diameter, and is mounted in a 20.5mm capsule. The Mylar membrane is 6 microns thick and plated with gold. It is a copy of the Neumann KM-84 capsule, and is generally regarded as an excellent performer for the cost.
Although the 603S ships with only a cardioid capsule, it is compatible with the omni capsule sold with the MXL 604. The 603S capsule can be detached.
Mounted to the 603S, the Cardioid capsule is somewhat less sensitive (10 mV/Pa) than when on the 604 (15 mV/Pa).
The transformerless preamp circuit uses a 2SK170BL FET and is based on the Schoeps CM4 design. Internal wiring uses Mogami cables.
The mic body has a satin silver finish. It ships with a mic clip.
Harvey Gerst
Marshall MXL-603 … This was a flat-out winner, folks. Almost identical to the MC012 in sound.
MojoPie
Initially, I was surprised and impressed at how much MX603 indeed does sound like an Oktava MC012. After a lot of use, I got over this first impression. In a nutshell, you’re not going to get a lot of bass out of these mics. It is slightly brighter than most small diaphragm condensers on the market including the MC012…
The 603 has been reported by various parties to have been manufactured by Alctron, Feilo, and most recently at MXL’s own facility in China.
The MXL 603S is also known as: 603.
The mic was released in 2000.
Specifications
| Compatible Capsules | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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| Pads & Filters | Impedance | SPL/Noise |
|---|---|---|
| n/a | 150 Ohms (Low) | Max SPL: 137 dB Self-noise: 18.0 dB(A) |
| Weight | Length | Max Diameter | Interface(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 136g (4.80oz) | 133mm (5.24'') | 22mm (0.87'') |
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| Power Specifications |
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