A modern take on the classic Sony C-37a – a workhorse microphone from the Golden Age of Hollywood recording favoured by The Wrecking Crew, Leonard Bernstein and Mel Blanc – the MA-37 from boutique mic manufacturer, Mojave Audio.
The MA-37 is a high headroom large-diaphragm tube/valve condenser that updates the original design with modern components supported by hand craftsmanship for a rich, natural sound that imparts a smooth musicality on any instrument or voice.
‘The MA-37 is an updated take on a classic sound that is the perfect addition to any recording studio,’ says 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 or post-processing.’
The heart of the MA-37 is based around a special capsule design that Mojave reckons 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 that emphasises elegant simplicity, the circuit is based around a single-stage tube amplifier powered by an EF806 tube and using 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 says. ‘We’re thrilled to offer an updated take on a classic with the build quality and performance that we bring to all Mojave microphones.’
Key specifications:
- Frequency response: 30Hz to 18kHz ±3dB (M setting).
- Bass cut: M flat: V1 -3dB at 100Hz/V2 -3dB at 200Hz.
- Sensitivity: -46dBv referenced to 1V/pa.
- Distortion: Not to exceed 0.5% at 134dB.
- Noise: Better than 18dB.
- Polar pattern: Choice of cardioid or omni; via mechanical shutter.
- Impedance: 170Ω, floating. Recommended 1.5kΩ or higher.
- Power: 115/230V AC, 50/60Hz; 5W.
- 6V DC at 200mA.
- 140V DC at 1.5mA. from dedicated power supply.
The MA-37 is available now for US$3499 MAP.
More: www.mojaveaudio.com
