Mojave Audio MA-37

Boutique microphone manufacturer Mojave Audio have announced the latest addition to their family of best-in-class handmade microphones: the MA-37. A modern take on the classic Sony C-37a – a workhorse from the Golden Age of Hollywood recording favoured by The Wrecking Crew, Leonard Bernstein, and Mel Blanc — the MA-37 is a high headroom large-diaphragm tube condenser that updates the original design with modern components and workmanship for a rich, natural sound that imparts a smooth musicality on any instrument or voice. As with all Mojave Audio microphones, the MA-37 is hand-built and is available now for $3499 MAP.

“The MA-37 is an updated take on a classic sound that is the perfect addition to any recording studio,” said Mojave Audio President Dusty Wakeman. “It excels with loud sound sources and smoothing out brittle high-end frequencies, bringing the natural sound of any instrument or voice forward and minimising the need for excessive EQ-ing or post-processing.”

The heart of the MA-37 is based around a special capsule design that sets it apart from other vintage-inspired microphones. Like the original C-37a, the MA-37 takes a unique mechanical approach to the choice between cardioid and omnidirectional polar pattens with an adjustable tuned acoustic chamber. In keeping with Mojave Audio Founder David Royer’s approach to microphone design which emphasises simplicity, the circuit is based around a single-stage tube amplifier powered by an EF806 tube and utilising a Lundahl transformer. The MA-37 has hi-pass filter controls located on the power supply and offering three options: flat (M), 100Hz (V1) and 200Hz (V2) for complete control of its smooth, signature sound.

“I’ve admired the original for decades, it is incredibly unique and has been a ‘secret weapon’ for those in the know for a long time,” Royer said. “We’re thrilled to offer an updated take on a classic with the build quality and performance that we bring to all Mojave microphones.”

Specifications:

• Frequency response: 30 to 18,000 Hz. +- 3dB. (“M” setting)
• Bass cut: M flat
• V1 -3dB at 100 Hz.
• V2 -3dB at 200 Hz.
• Sensitivity: -46 dBv referred to 1 volt per pa.
• Distortion: Not to exceed .5 percent at 134 dB.
• Noise: Better than 18 dB.
• Polar pattern: Choice of cardioid or omni; via mechanical shutter.
• Impedance: 170 ohms, floating. Recommended load 1500 ohms or higher.
• Power required: 115 or 230 VAC, 50 or 60 hertz; 5 watts.
• 6 volts DC at 200 mA.
• 140 volts DC at 1.5 mA. from dedicated power supply.