Description
This mic mod/rebuild applies to transformer-coupled mics such as the MXL 2001, MXL V67g or M-Audio Nova (and many others). These stock mics typically have K67 style capsules with circuitry that does not properly compensate for the high frequency boost of those capsules. They also tend to have very low quality output transformers with thin low-end. The result is a thin, harsh and sibilant tone.
Your mic’s capsule, electronics and transformer are fully replaced drastically improving the tone and performance. The circuit is replaced with our BFM (Big F’n Microphone) circuit which is modeled after the Neumann KM84 but adapted for a large Capsule. A Boutique quality CineMag or AMI Transformer pairs nicely with this circuit. This is a mic mod well worth doing. An optional internal pattern switch allows switching between Cardioid and Omni. Without the switch, the mic is fixed cardioid.
Your modified microphone will be returned after just a few days in our shop.
This is a rebuild of YOUR transformer-coupled mic. Please contact me before purchasing.
Standard Upgrade
- k47 style Brass Ring or Ck12-style* Capsule in Custom Mounting Cradle
- All-discrete BFM transformer coupled circuit
Transformer Choices
- CineMag (USA) 5722w. This is a very high quality transformer which is still moderately priced. It has a very full, even tone with great harmonic content and transformer crunch. Probably the best choice overall for most applications
- The Tab-Funkenwerk (USA) T12 style. This is a more expensive transformer. It has a massively fat and full low and low-mid response. Although it has great high frequency response, you may perceive the overall tone as slightly dark because of the extra full lows and low-mids.
*CK12 style capsule may not fit in all mics.
Vinnie (verified owner) –
Yes, I could have just purchased a higher quality mic. I already have several in my locker now, my goal was to take one of my first inexpensive mics that I had ever purchased and see what the outcome may be. If you’re at all considering doing the same, do it! Hey it’s no $10k mic now but the performance far exceeds my $600-$1k mics that I currently own. I have been using it for recording a female vocalist currently with amazing results. Very satisfied with the mod, and I highly recommend the upgrade. Thanks Rockscience.
Buddy Woodward –
I didn’t get into music production so I could sound like everybody else, and that attitude has influenced how I have populated my mic cabinet. I could walk into any well stocked retail music store and grab all the mics everyone else has….but what fun is THAT? I’d much rather have Bob build or mod something for me. While I kind of know what I’m getting — because one can pick what capsule you want, and couple it with your choice of transformer, or go TL — it’s still going to be unique, because they’re all hand built by one guy! Do they stand up to familiarly named studio mics costing thousands of dollars? Hell yeah they do…I mean, it’s all in your hands and how you choose to apply them, isn’t it? Right now I’m looking at an MXL 2001 that Bob modded with a C12 capsule and an AMI Tab-Funkenwerk transformer that I’ve so far used on two different album projects, and thinking I need another one just like it. As long as Rockscience keeps modding mics, I’ll keep outfitting my studio with them!
Buddy Woodward –
High quality materials + good workmanship = high quality performance. It’s that simple. I love the concept of transforming these plebeian tools into something wonderful, and Bob has excellent taste. This MXL 2001 now has a C12 capsule and an AMI transformer and has become my current favorite for recording difficult-to-capture acoustic guitars, like rosewood backed D-28’s. It gives a nice sheen to husky voices. Who wants to sound like everyone else? Customizing mics to your specs for your studio is the best way to have your own vibe. I’m excited about our next collaboration!