MXL REVELATION II Microphone Price, Specs, Reviews & Discussions

About the MXL REVELATION II mic

The MXL Revelation II is a large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone released in 2020 as the follow-up to MXL’s original Revelation from 2010. It uses a dual gold-sputtered 6-micron diaphragm capsule paired with an EF86 pentode tube, a design intended to provide the tonal qualities associated with classic tube microphones. As with its predecessor, the Revelation II is built as a variable-pattern microphone, with the polar pattern adjustable continuously between cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8 using a control knob on the external power supply. This flexibility allows the mic to be adapted to a wide range of recording setups, from isolated vocals to room ambience.

Unlike most MXL mics which are budget friendly, this is NOT a cheap mic. It'll cost you about $500, but this price is not unheard of for a tube condenser packed with features.

In terms of technical performance, the Revelation II offers a frequency response of 20Hz–20kHz and a maximum SPL handling of 138dB for 0.5% total harmonic distortion. Its sensitivity is rated at -40 dB re 1V/Pa, with an output impedance of 140 ohms. The microphone’s self-noise level is measured at 18 dBA (A-weighted IEC 651), and it provides a signal-to-noise ratio of 76 dB. A built-in -10dB attenuation pad helps manage louder sources, while a high-pass filter at 125Hz (12dB per octave) reduces unwanted low-frequency rumble or proximity effect. Together, these features allow the microphone to accommodate both delicate acoustic instruments and higher-volume applications such as drums or amplified sources.

The external power supply is central to the Revelation II’s operation and includes several functional controls. In addition to the continuously variable polar pattern knob, it provides a bass roll-off switch, a phase invert toggle, and a ground lift option. The supply unit connects to the microphone using a dedicated 7-pin Mogami cable, while a standard 3-pin XLR carries the output signal to a preamp or audio interface. This setup ensures the tube is powered and the signal is transmitted with minimal interference or loss.

Physically, the microphone is constructed with a dark violet and black chrome finish and weighs about 2 lbs (907g). Its body measures 190mm in length and 63.5mm in diameter, making it slightly larger than many standard studio condensers. The package includes a heavy-duty shock mount, a flight case for transport and storage, and both the 7-pin and 3-pin Mogami cables. MXL also provides a certificate indicating that each unit has been tested by their engineers prior to shipping.

Compared to the original Revelation, the Revelation II was redesigned with modernized internal components after certain parts from the earlier model were discontinued. MXL has stated that the changes were intended to preserve the overall design and sonic character of the first-generation microphone while making the new version more affordable and accessible. At a list price around $499, the Revelation II costs roughly half of what the original Revelation did at launch, while retaining the EF86 tube and dual-diaphragm design that defined the earlier model.

In practice, the Revelation II is positioned as a multi-purpose studio microphone suited for vocals, acoustic instruments, percussion, and room capture. Its tonal balance reflects the qualities of a traditional tube microphone, with extended control over polar pickup and additional onboard tools like the pad and high-pass filter for source management. With its combination of tube circuitry, variable polar patterns, and dedicated external power supply, it represents MXL’s current flagship model in their condenser microphone lineup.

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Technical Specs

MXL REVELATION II Mic user manual

MXL REVELATION II Prices*

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Amazon USA

499.95 USD

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