The MXL R77 puts the sound of classic ribbon mics from the '40s and '50s into an amazing price point, meaning any project studio can afford at least one. As with any great ribbon, the R77 excels on sources that can sound a little too harsh with bright condenser mics like loud amps, brass instruments, drum kits with "zippy"-sounding cymbals, and male or female vocalists who are running into sibilance problems. The R77's smooth sound lures the listener in and wraps them up in a warm sonic blanket.