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MXL Tempo Review | 76 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£70
  • Avg. price in US: ~$70
  • Connection type: USB
  • Transducer type: electret condenser
  • Max SPL: 134 dB SPL
  • Supported sample rates: 44.1, 48 kHz
  • Output connector type: USB-C

MXL Tempo review. Compare 76 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among microphones and if it is worth buying.

6.7

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the microphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best microphones on the market.

Score components:

75.0%

6.6

Technical Score

25.0%

7.1

User score

Good
6.6

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

8.7

Audio Performance

20.0%

6.6

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

3.9

Controls & Features

10.0%

10

Power

7.0%

10

Compatibility

5.0%

6.6

Connectivity

3.0%

7.3

Design

3.0%

4.8

Accessories

Good
7.1

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

8.1

User reviews

30.0%

4.8

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(133)
amazon
4.2
(21)
amazon
4.2
(17)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(160)
Amazon_logo.png
4.1
(21)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Very good
  • 4.9
    Gaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    25.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    4.0

    Mute function

    20.0%

    1.0

    Volume control levels

    10.0%

    4.0

    RGB lighting

  • 5.7
    Podcasting

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

    20.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    1.0

    Audio interface bit depth

    15.0%

    1.0

    Audio interface sample rate

  • 8.4
    Vocal recording

    Score components:

    40.0%

    9.6

    Max SPL

    20.0%

    6.4

    Highest frequency

    20.0%

    6.4

    Lowest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

  • 5.1
    Streaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    4.0

    Loopback support

    25.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    15.0%

    4.0

    Mute function

    15.0%

    1.0

    Volume control levels

  • 6.7
    Camera use

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.9

    Weight

    25.0%

    4.0

    Windscreen included

    25.0%

    4.0

    Shock mount included

    10.0%

    7.1

    Height

    10.0%

    10

    Width

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The MXL Tempo is a side-addressed USB condenser microphone designed for portable vocal and instrumental recording, featuring a cardioid polar pattern and a 40 Hz to 18 kHz frequency response. It captures 16-bit audio at sampling rates of 44.1 or 48 kHz through an onboard Delta Sigma A/D converter and offers simple plug-and-play compatibility with Mac and PC. Main pros include its lightweight yet durable 280g metal chassis, a built-in 3.5mm high-fidelity headphone jack for monitoring, and a compact design that fits mobile setups. However, available cons highlight that it lacks onboard volume or mute controls, uses somewhat dated USB 1.1/2.0 technology, and the headphone monitoring may exhibit latency depending on the computer's interface.

Technical Specifications of MXL Tempo

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

8.7

Audio Performance

20.0%

6.6

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

3.9

Controls & Features

10.0%

10

Power

7.0%

10

Compatibility

5.0%

6.6

Connectivity

3.0%

7.3

Design

3.0%

4.8

Accessories

6.6
MXL Tempo has a technical score of 6.57 points, which is lower than 62.3% of microphones.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

8.1

User reviews

30.0%

4.8

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(133)
amazon
4.2
(21)
amazon
4.2
(17)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(160)
Amazon_logo.png
4.1
(21)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

7.1
MXL Tempo has a user score of 7.09 points, which is lower than 90% of microphones.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the microphone.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
4.8
MXL Tempo has a popularity of 4.8 points, which is higher than 50.3% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the microphone's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a microphone with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.7

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

7.7
MXL Tempo has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.7 points, which is lower than 64.8% of products in this category.
Microphone type
What it is: The overall microphone class intended for uses such as studio work, lavalier recording, handheld speech, or instrument capture.
When it matters: When you are choosing the right microphone style for studio work, interviews, streaming, or instruments.

Importance: LOW

studio
Transducer type
What it is: The transducer technology used to convert sound into an electrical signal.
When it matters: When you are choosing between condenser, dynamic, or ribbon behavior for your room and voice.

Importance: LOW

electret condenser
Diaphragm size
What it is: The diameter of the microphone diaphragm that reacts to incoming sound pressure.
When it matters: When you compare small and large diaphragm microphones for vocal detail, room tone, or transient response.

Importance: LOW

?
Capsule type
What it is: The capsule construction used inside the microphone to capture sound.
When it matters: When you compare different capsule designs for tone, detail, or recording style.

Importance: LOW

single
Sensitivity
What it is: The output level produced by the microphone for a given sound pressure reference.
When it matters: When you need enough output level without driving your preamp too hard.

Importance: LOW

-47 dBV/Pa
Show more
Connection type
What it is: The connection standard used to link the microphone with recorders, mixers, phones, or computers.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to plug directly into the device you actually record with.

Importance: LOW

USB
Output connector type
What it is: The type of output connector used by the microphone for sending its audio signal.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to connect to a specific kind of input on your gear.

Importance: LOW

USB-C
Headphone output
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a headphone output for direct monitoring.
When it matters: When you want to hear your own voice directly while recording or streaming.

Importance: LOW

yes
MXL Tempo includes a headphone output. 62.9% of microphones include this output.
3.5 mm audio jack
What it is: Indicates whether a 3.5 mm audio jack is available for monitoring or direct connection.
When it matters: When you want to plug headphones or a cable directly into a standard 3.5 mm socket.

Importance: LOW

yes
MXL Tempo includes a 3.5 mm jack. 62.8% of microphones include this connector.
6.35 mm audio jack connector
What it is: Indicates whether a 6.35 mm audio jack connector is present on the microphone or included interface.
When it matters: When your headphones, mixer, or instrument chain relies on a 6.35 mm jack connection.

Importance: LOW

no
MXL Tempo does not include a 6.35 mm jack. 2% of microphones include this connector.
Show more
Supported sample rates
What it is: The digital sample rates supported by the microphone for recording or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to support the sample rates used in your recording workflow.

Importance: LOW

44.1, 48 kHz
Supported bit depths
What it is: The digital bit depth values supported by the microphone for audio capture.
When it matters: When you want more digital recording resolution for editing or processing later.

Importance: LOW

16 bit
Audio interface sample rate
What it is: The audio interface sample rates supported by the microphone for digital capture or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone interface to support the sample rate used by your recording or streaming setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

48 kHz
MXL Tempo supports an interface sample rate of 48 kHz which is higher than that of 2.4% of microphones and equal to that of 55.3% of microphones.
Audio interface bit depth
What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.
When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.

Importance: LOW

16 bit
MXL Tempo supports an interface bit depth of 16 bit which is lower than that of 58.8% of microphones and equal to that of 41.2% of microphones.
Signal-to-noise ratio (DAC)
What it is: The signal to noise ratio of the integrated DAC or headphone interface stage.
When it matters: When you monitor through the microphone headphone output and want that digital path to stay quiet.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Show more
N. of polar patterns
What it is: The number of selectable pickup patterns available for different recording situations.
When it matters: When one microphone has to cover solo voice, room sound, and interview style setups.

Importance: MEDIUM

1
The number of selectable polar patterns offered by MXL Tempo is 1, which is equal to that of 75.4% of microphones.
Cardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a cardioid pickup pattern for front focused capture.
When it matters: When you want to isolate one speaker in front of the microphone for podcasts, calls, or streaming.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
MXL Tempo supports a cardioid pickup pattern. 91% of microphones support this pattern.
Omnidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern for 360 degree capture.
When it matters: When you want to capture everyone around the microphone instead of one voice from the front.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
MXL Tempo does not support an omnidirectional pickup pattern. 26.1% of microphones support this pattern.
Hypercardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a hypercardioid pickup pattern with narrower front focus.
When it matters: When you want stronger rejection of sounds coming from the sides in a noisy room.

Importance: LOW

no
MXL Tempo does not support a hypercardioid pickup pattern. 1.5% of microphones support this pattern.
Bidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a bidirectional pickup pattern for front and rear capture.
When it matters: When you record two people facing each other with one microphone between them.

Importance: LOW

no
MXL Tempo does not support a bidirectional pickup pattern. 17.1% of microphones support this pattern.
Mute function
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.
When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
MXL Tempo does not include a mute function. 68.3% of microphones include this control.
Onboard gain control
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
MXL Tempo does not include onboard gain control. 51.5% of microphones include this control.
Volume control levels
What it is: The available volume level or volume adjustment provided directly on the microphone or its interface.
When it matters: When you want direct volume adjustment on the microphone or its built in interface.

Importance: LOW

0
MXL Tempo offers volume output of 0 which is lower than that of 65.1% of microphones and equal to that of 34.9% of microphones.
Flat DSP mode
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a flat DSP mode without tonal processing.
When it matters: When you want a neutral sound profile before adding your own EQ or processing.

Importance: LOW

no
MXL Tempo does not support a flat DSP mode. 25.5% of microphones offer this processing option.
DSP presets
What it is: The number of built in DSP preset modes available for different sound profiles.
When it matters: When you want quick tone changes for voice, streaming, or different recording scenes.

Importance: LOW

0
MXL Tempo offers 0 DSP presets, which is equal to 83.4% of microphones.
Show more
Phantom power required
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone needs external phantom power to operate normally.
When it matters: When you use the microphone with an interface or mixer that may not provide phantom power.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
MXL Tempo requires phantom power. 90.4% of microphones also require phantom power.
Phantom power voltage
What it is: The phantom power voltage required by the microphone for proper operation.
When it matters: When you must confirm that your power supply matches what the microphone actually expects.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB bus-powered
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
MXL Tempo supports USB bus power. 85.9% of microphones support USB-powered operation.
Battery life
What it is: The expected operating time on battery power during portable or wireless use.
When it matters: When you use the microphone away from wall power for events, field work, or mobile video.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Height
What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.
When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.

Importance: LOW

190 mm
MXL Tempo is 190 mm tall, which is taller than 54.4% of microphones and equal in height to 1.5% of microphones.
Width
What it is: The overall width of the microphone body or its integrated base.
When it matters: When the microphone must fit between monitors, on a narrow desk, or inside a compact rig.

Importance: LOW

47 mm
MXL Tempo is 47 mm wide, which is narrower than 90.3% of microphones and equal in width to 1% of microphones.
Thickness
What it is: The overall depth or front to back thickness of the microphone unit.
When it matters: When front to back depth decides whether the microphone clears your screen or keyboard area.

Importance: LOW

47 mm
MXL Tempo is 47 mm thick, which is thinner than 86.8% of microphones and equal in thickness to 1.1% of microphones.
Weight
What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.
When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.

Importance: LOW

280 g
MXL Tempo weighs 280 g, which is lighter than 83.3% of microphones.
Body material
What it is: The main material used for the microphone body or housing.
When it matters: When you care about how sturdy, premium, or lightweight the microphone body feels over time.

Importance: LOW

metal
Show more
Included accessories
What it is: The accessories supplied in the box with the microphone for mounting, protection, or immediate use.
When it matters: When you want the box to include the accessories needed to set up and use the microphone right away.

Importance: LOW

stand; cable; mount adapter
Shock mount included
What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.
When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

Importance: LOW

no
MXL Tempo does not include a shock mount. 50% of microphones include this accessory.
Pop filter included
What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.
When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.

Importance: LOW

no
MXL Tempo does not include a pop filter. 61.4% of microphones include this accessory.
Windscreen included
What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.
When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.

Importance: LOW

no
MXL Tempo does not include a windscreen. 31.8% of microphones include this accessory.
Cable length
What it is: The length of the included or attached audio cable supplied with the microphone.
When it matters: When the microphone has to reach your desk, camera rig, or interface without extension cables.

Importance: LOW

4.57 m
MXL Tempo has a cable length of 4.57 m which is longer than that of 98.1% of microphones.
Android compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.
When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

Importance: LOW

yes
MXL Tempo is compatible with Android. 65.8% of microphones are compatible with Android.
iOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

Importance: LOW

yes
MXL Tempo is compatible with iOS. 61.3% of microphones are compatible with iOS.
Windows compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Windows computers.
When it matters: When your recording or streaming setup runs on a Windows computer.

Importance: LOW

yes
MXL Tempo is compatible with Windows. 100% of microphones are compatible with Windows.
macOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with macOS computers.
When it matters: When your audio setup depends on a Mac or MacBook as the main recording machine.

Importance: LOW

yes
MXL Tempo is compatible with macOS. 99.5% of microphones are compatible with macOS.
Xbox compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone is explicitly compatible with Xbox consoles or controllers.
When it matters: When you want to connect and use the microphone with an Xbox console or controller.

Importance: LOW

no
MXL Tempo is not compatible with Xbox. 2.3% of microphones are compatible with Xbox.
Reported as not compatible with Xbox.
Show more

MXL Tempo vs the average microphone

  • Includes mix control
    MXL Tempo includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone lets you balance microphone audio and playback audio directly on the device.
    When it matters: When game audio or playback needs to be balanced against your live microphone level.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MXL Tempo includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
  • 12 dB SPL higher limit
    MXL Tempo has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (134 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
    What it is: The highest sound pressure level the microphone can handle before severe distortion occurs.
    When it matters: When the microphone has to survive loud vocals, drums, brass, or close guitar cabinets.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MXL Tempo has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (134 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.134 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL
  • 51.1% lighter
    MXL Tempo is lighter than the average microphone (280 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
    What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.
    When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.

    Importance: LOW

    MXL Tempo is lighter than the average microphone (280 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.280 g vs 573 g
  • 2.57 m longer cable length
    MXL Tempo has a longer cable than the average microphone (4.6 m vs 2 m). The average microphone has a cable length of 2 m.
    What it is: The length of the included or attached audio cable supplied with the microphone.
    When it matters: When the microphone has to reach your desk, camera rig, or interface without extension cables.

    Importance: LOW

    MXL Tempo has a longer cable than the average microphone (4.6 m vs 2 m). The average microphone has a cable length of 2 m.4.57 m vs 2 m
  • 9 mm thinner body
    MXL Tempo is thinner than the average microphone (47 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.
    What it is: The overall depth or front to back thickness of the microphone unit.
    When it matters: When front to back depth decides whether the microphone clears your screen or keyboard area.

    Importance: LOW

    MXL Tempo is thinner than the average microphone (47 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.47 mm vs 56 mm
  • 12 dB SPL higher limit
    MXL Tempo has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (134 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
  • Includes mix control
    MXL Tempo includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
  • 51.1% lighter
    MXL Tempo is lighter than the average microphone (280 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
  • 9 mm thinner body
    MXL Tempo is thinner than the average microphone (47 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.
  • 2.57 m longer cable length
    MXL Tempo has a longer cable than the average microphone (4.6 m vs 2 m). The average microphone has a cable length of 2 m.

Total
Audio Performance
Recording
Design
Accessories
  • 20 Hz higher low-frequency limit
    MXL Tempo has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (40 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
  • 2,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
    MXL Tempo has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (18,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.
  • 8 bit lower interface bit depth
    MXL Tempo supports a lower audio interface bit depth than the average microphone (16 bit vs 24 bit). The average microphone audio interface supports 24 bit.
  • No gain control
    MXL Tempo does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
  • No on-device controls
    MXL Tempo does not place key controls on the device, the average microphone does. 79.5% of microphones place key controls on the device.
  • No mute function
    MXL Tempo does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
  • 9 older release date
    MXL Tempo is older than the average microphone (2,011 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
    December 2011.
  • No pop filter
    MXL Tempo does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
  • No gain control
    MXL Tempo does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
    When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MXL Tempo does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
  • 8 bit lower interface bit depth
    MXL Tempo supports a lower audio interface bit depth than the average microphone (16 bit vs 24 bit). The average microphone audio interface supports 24 bit.
    What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.
    When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.

    Importance: LOW

    MXL Tempo supports a lower audio interface bit depth than the average microphone (16 bit vs 24 bit). The average microphone audio interface supports 24 bit.16 bit vs 24 bit
  • No on-device controls
    MXL Tempo does not place key controls on the device, the average microphone does. 79.5% of microphones place key controls on the device.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has its control panel or main buttons placed on the device body.
    When it matters: When you prefer the main controls to be reachable directly on the microphone body during use.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MXL Tempo does not place key controls on the device, the average microphone does. 79.5% of microphones place key controls on the device.
  • No mute function
    MXL Tempo does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.
    When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MXL Tempo does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
  • 20 Hz higher low-frequency limit
    MXL Tempo has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (40 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
    What it is: The lowest sound frequency the microphone can capture.
    When it matters: When you want the microphone to capture more low end from deep voices or instruments.

    Importance: LOW

    MXL Tempo has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (40 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.40 Hz vs 20 Hz
  • 2,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
    MXL Tempo has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (18,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.
    What it is: The highest sound frequency the microphone can capture.
    When it matters: When you need extra top end detail from breath, cymbals, or bright room ambience.

    Importance: LOW

    MXL Tempo has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (18,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.18000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
  • No pop filter
    MXL Tempo does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.
    When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.

    Importance: LOW

    MXL Tempo does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
  • 9 older release date
    MXL Tempo is older than the average microphone (2,011 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
    December 2011.
    What it is: The period when the microphone model was officially introduced to the market.
    When it matters: When you want a newer microphone platform with current connectivity or software support.

    Importance: LOW

    MXL Tempo is older than the average microphone (2,011 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.2011 vs 2020
Total
Overall
Audio Performance
Recording
Controls & Features
Design
Accessories

Graphic comparison of MXL Tempo and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
133 Reviews
amazon
4.2
21 Reviews
amazon
4.2
17 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
160 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.1
21 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about MXL Tempo?

  • Plug-and-play simplicity with Mac and PC without needing additional drivers
  • Highly portable and lightweight design, making it suitable for travel or mobile recording
  • Affordable entry-level price point, often cited as a good budget buy for beginners
  • Sturdy metal body and grille construction
  • Stylish aesthetic with various color options like Krypton Red and White
  • Effective at isolating keyboard sounds due to its cardioid pickup pattern

What customers dislike about MXL Tempo?

  • Headphone jack is not true zero-latency, causing frustrating feedback delays during monitoring
  • Included desktop tripod stand is considered too short for comfortable use
  • Sound signature is midrange-heavy and lacks high-end presence/detail
  • Lacks essential on-board features like a mute button or volume control
  • Sensitive to room noise, which can be problematic in untreated or noisy environments
  • Users need to stay very close (approx. 4 inches) for optimal vocal clarity

Expert reviews

T
thinkcomputers.org
17/07/2019
MXL Tempo Microphone Review

The ThinkComputers review identifies the MXL Tempo as a budget-friendly, durable USB condenser microphone featuring a solid metal build and a cardioid pattern that effectively reduces background noise, making it ideal for streaming and vocal recording. Pros include simple plug-and-play installation on Windows and Mac, along with a travel-friendly package that includes a long USB...Read more

H
hightechtexan.com
14/10/2012
Review – MXL Tempo USB MicrophoneGo to product viewer dialogue for this item.

In his review of the ⁠MXL Tempo USB Microphone on The High-Tech Texan, Michael Garfield highlights the device as an all-purpose tool for recording vocals, instruments, podcasts, and voice-overs directly on a PC or Mac without requiring additional equipment. Priced at $79.95, it serves as an alternative for a home office facsimile setup. The review specifically praises its audio...Read more

P
podcastage.com
14/06/2016
MXL Tempo USB Mic Review / Test

The MXL Tempo USB condenser microphone review highlights it as a highly portable, beginner-friendly entry-level microphone retailing between $70 and $80. It features an all-metal chassis with a durable metal mesh grille and a distinct color aesthetic, making it a reliable and visually striking option for on-the-go content creators. Prominent pros include its simple plug-and-play USB...Read more

G
gpfault.com
05/07/2013
Sounds AND Looks: MXL Tempo USBGo to product viewer dialog for this item. - General Protection Fault

The MXL Tempo USB condenser microphone review by General Protection Fault highlights it as a great, budget-friendly alternative to low-quality headsets for activities like Skype, gaming, and podcasting. Retailing at an average price of $79.95, the microphone stands out primarily for its vibrant red aesthetics, which offer a visual upgrade over standard matte black options. Built as...Read more

F
fanappic.com
24/09/2012
MXL Tempo USB Condenser Microphone - FanAppic Review

The MXL Tempo USB Condenser Microphone review from FanAppic.com highlights this $79.95 hardware accessory as a professional-grade desktop microphone solution optimized for PC, Mac, and iOS platforms. It features a lightweight yet sturdy build accompanied by a portable tripod stand, a hard mount mic stand adapter, and a USB connection cable for immediate plug-and-play functionality....Read more

E
equipboard.com
25/04/2026
MXL Tempo USB Condenser Microphone - Critic Reviews & Summary Podcastage

The MXL Tempo USB Condenser Microphone, as reviewed on Equipboard, is highlighted as a stylish, portable option featuring a unique bi-color, durable metal construction that is suitable for casual, plug-and-play use. Its cardioid pattern effectively isolates vocals while offering a warm, vintage audio profile. However, the microphone suffers from limited high-end detail, a lack of...Read more

I
igorslab.de
02/10/2023
MXL AC-404 Review – How a Flat Boundary Microphone Frees Up Your Desktop and Simplifies More Than Just Streaming

This review evaluates the MXL AC-404 USB, a high-quality condenser boundary microphone priced at 77 Euros, which features three internal capsules and a wide 180-degree pickup range. The reviewer purchased the device to tackle severe audio echo and room reverberation issues in a poorly acoustic office space where standard webcams, large-diaphragm condenser microphones, and tall...Read more

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