Mackie EM-91C Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

The Mackie EM-91C is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for recording vocals, instruments, voice-overs, and room ambience. It provides an XLR-based microphone option for creators who need a dedicated studio-style mic rather than a USB desktop microphone. Its included shock mount and XLR cable help provide a practical starting point for a recording setup.

This microphone is suited to home studios, content creation, live streaming, and recording environments that use an audio interface, mixer, or preamp. It requires 48V phantom power, so it is intended for systems with a compatible XLR microphone input. The EM-91C can be used for vocal takes, stringed instruments, spoken-word work, and ambient capture.

The EM-91C uses a cardioid, unidirectional pickup pattern to focus on sound in front of the microphone while rejecting peripheral noise. This can help reduce unwanted surrounding sound in typical recording spaces. Mackie describes its performance character as capable of capturing warmth and brilliance on vocals along with detail from instruments.

At its core, the EM-91C uses a black electret condenser element with a 20 Hz to 18 kHz frequency response. It has a rated sensitivity of -30 dB and handles up to 134 dB SPL at 1 kHz with 1% THD. The microphone's 150-ohm output impedance and XLR connection support integration with standard phantom-powered recording equipment.

The EM-91C fits naturally into a system built around an interface or mixer with 48V phantom power. Start with the supplied XLR cable and shock mount, then add a suitable stand, boom arm, or pop filter as needed for the recording application. Its compact 6.1-inch body and low 0.46-pound weight make it straightforward to position in a vocal or instrument setup.

Key Features

• Large-Diaphragm Condenser: Captures vocals, instruments, voice-overs, and room ambience.
• Cardioid Pickup Pattern: Focuses on the intended source and rejects peripheral noise.
• 48V Phantom Power: Works with compatible audio interfaces, mixers, and preamps.
• 20 Hz–18 kHz Response: Covers a broad frequency range for recording applications.
• 134 dB Maximum SPL: Supports recording of louder sound sources when properly positioned.
• Included Recording Accessories: Includes a shock mount and XLR cable.

Design & Installation

The EM-91C has a black electret condenser element in a compact black microphone body. Mackie specifies a rugged construction, while the condenser design and large-diaphragm format are intended for detailed recording work. The microphone measures 6.1 inches high by 1.9 inches wide and weighs 0.46 pound.

Mount the microphone in the included shock mount on a compatible microphone stand or boom arm. Connect the included XLR cable to the microphone and to an audio interface, mixer, or preamp that supplies 48V phantom power. Aim the front of the cardioid microphone toward the desired source, and use appropriate placement for vocals, instruments, or room capture.