MXL BCD-1 Microphone Price, Specs, Reviews & Discussions

About the MXL BCD-1 mic

The MXL BCD-1 is a dynamic, end-address broadcast microphone designed with podcasters, streamers, and radio voices in mind. Released in 2011, it was MXL’s take on the familiar “broadcast mic” format that’s long been dominated by models like the Electro-Voice RE20 and Shure SM7B. While MXL is often known for its condenser mics, the BCD-1 takes a different path by focusing on durability, controlled pickup, and isolation.

Physically, the mic has a straightforward, all-metal body that feels sturdy and weighs a little over a pound. Instead of using a separate shock mount or clip, the BCD-1 has a built-in swivel mount attached to the body, which makes it easy to set up on a boom arm or desk stand. That design is practical if you’re working in a tight studio space, although it does limit you to the mount style MXL chose. The optional BCD-Stand is available, but most users will just pair it with a standard arm.

Like most broadcast-style dynamics, this mic is end-address, so you talk directly into the front. It also features a “tuned” grill design that reduces internal reflections, which helps keep the sound from becoming boxy or hollow. Inside, there’s an integrated shock mount for the capsule and a built-in pop filter. In practice, the internal filter does soften plosives, but many users still add the included foam windscreen or an external filter for extra insurance.

From a technical standpoint, the BCD-1 has a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response of 40 Hz to 15 kHz. Its sensitivity is rated at -54 dB, and impedance at 600 ohms. What this means in everyday use is that it rejects sound from the sides quite effectively, keeping the focus on the voice in front of it while minimizing room noise and keyboard clatter. The tradeoff is that it requires a good amount of clean gain from your preamp or interface, often in the 60–65 dB range. Pairing it with a gain booster like a Cloudlifter or FetHead is a common solution.

Sound-wise, the BCD-1 has a voice-forward quality, which is what you want for broadcast use. Reviews and user tests often describe it as warm with a noticeable low-end presence. Some people hear that as a “rich” tone, while others find it a bit boomy in the lower mids. The top end can also get a little edgy depending on your voice. If you like the sound of a Shure SM58 but wish it were tailored more for voice recording than live performance, this mic sits in that territory. It’s not as refined as high-end broadcast dynamics, but it can deliver a very usable, professional result with the right EQ and gain staging.

Noise isolation is another strength. Because it is dynamic and directional, it doesn’t pick up as much background detail as a condenser. That makes it especially useful in home podcasting setups where you can’t completely silence fans, AC, or street noise. The internal shock mount reduces handling and stand noise, though some low-end rumble can still sneak through if your desk or arm transmits vibrations.

There are a couple of quirks worth pointing out. First, it ships with an optional MXL BCD-stand accessory in mind, but that’s not included. A boom arm works just fine, but the built-in swivel does make positioning tighter than mics that use a standard shock mount. Second, it doesn’t have onboard features like variable EQ switches or built-in high-pass filters (despite some confusion online). What you hear is largely what you get, so if you want to shape its sound, you’ll be doing that on your mixer or in post.

The package is fairly generous for its price range. Along with the mic, you get a hard case, foam windscreen, cleaning cloth, manual, and even a sticker. The mic is finished in matte black, which also makes it unobtrusive on camera.

In short, the MXL BCD-1 is built for voice-first recording and performs well when given enough gain and some EQ shaping. Its strengths are durability, effective noise rejection, and a sound that emphasizes warmth and presence. The limitations are mainly in how much amplification it needs and the fact that its tone may not flatter every voice without tweaking. If you’re setting up a podcast or streaming rig and want a broadcast-style dynamic without the higher price tag of industry classics, the BCD-1 is a solid option to consider.

Gallery

Previous Next

Technical Specs

MXL BCD-1 Mic user manual

Our Review for MXL BCD-1 Mic

MXL BCD-1 Prices*

*Amazon links are affiliate ads and we get a small kick back from qualified purchases made through them with absolutely no additional costs on you though.

Amazon USA

59.95 USD

Check