MXL A-55 Kicker Review

If I were shopping for a kick-focused mic without buying into a bigger drum-mic bundle, the MXL A-55 Kicker is the kind of product I’d put on the shortlist. My read of it is simple: this is a black, metal, corded electric microphone from MXL with a compact 60 x 130mm size and a job-specific identity. It is not trying to be a do-everything studio centerpiece, and I would not treat it that way.

Why I’d consider the MXL A-55 Kicker for a drum-focused rig

The name tells you where MXL is pointing this mic: kick-oriented work. That matters because I would not compare it first against a broad vocal or utility mic. I’d compare it against the decision to add a dedicated piece of hardware for drums or close instrument placement instead of forcing one general-purpose microphone to cover every job.

On paper, the A-55 Kicker makes the most sense for someone building a practical wired setup around rehearsal, stage, or recording spaces where cables and stands are already part of the plan. The black finish is also the right kind of boring for this role. Around a drum kit, I prefer gear that disappears visually and looks like it belongs with the rest of the hardware.

The limitation is just as important. If this would be your only microphone, I’d be cautious. A specialized “Kicker” purchase is not where I’d start for podcasts, vocals, acoustic guitar, and occasional drum duties. For that buyer, I’d look at a more general-purpose mic first and add something like this later if the drum need becomes real.

What the size and metal build tell me before ordering

At 14.1 ounces, the MXL A-55 Kicker is not a tiny throw-in accessory, but it is still a manageable weight for normal stand-based use. The listed size is 60 x 130mm, while the product dimensions are 8 x 8 x 6 inches, so I’d plan a proper place for it in a mic case or gear bag rather than assuming it will vanish into a pocket.

• Material: the metal construction is exactly what I’d want to see on a mic intended for regular setup and teardown.
• Power: corded electric operation means I’d only buy it for a wired rig, not for a battery-powered or wireless-style workflow.
• Color: the black finish is practical and low-key for stage or rehearsal use.
• Identity: this is the MXL A-55 Kicker from MXL, first available October 2, 2001.

I’d consider the MXL A-55 Kicker if I specifically wanted a compact, metal, wired microphone for a kick-centered setup. I’d skip it if I needed wireless freedom, maximum versatility, or one microphone to cover every source in a small studio.