Shoot Tools — MXL

Professional audio division of Marshall Electronics. Price: $179.95

Capturing the sound of an instrument via a standard mike can be tricky, so turn to specialized gear if you want to guarantee the best approach. MXL makes a relatively inexpensive solution — the MXL 604 dual-capsule instrument miking system — for most common music miking situations. A cardioid condenser pressure gradient microphone with an interchangeable omnidirectional capsule, the MXL 604 features a -10dB attenuation switch that enables the microphone to better handle high sound pressure levels. There's also a selectable low frequency roll-off capability, which helps compensate for proximity effects or eliminate wind noise during outdoor recording.

El Segundo, Calif. • (800) 800-6608 • www.mxlmics.com