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An introduction to Mojave Audio MA-C, based on information from the maker and distributors: what it does, how to use it and who it may suit. It is not scored.
The Mojave MA-C brings true studio-grade condenser sound to the stage.
— Mojave Audio official site
What is MA-C?
MA-C is a handheld condenser microphone from Mojave Audio, designed by David Royer. It is presented as bringing studio-grade condenser sound to the stage.
It has a precision capsule voiced for vocals, a tight cardioid pattern, built-in pop protection, very low handling noise and high SPL handling.
Mojave says it is designed mainly as a handheld vocal mic, but engineers also use it on drums, percussion, brass, acoustic guitar and guitar cabinets.
The page also calls it a choice for home recording, podcasting and broadcast, especially in untreated rooms, since it is optimized for close placement and rejects room ambience.
Capsule voiced for vocals
The precision capsule is voiced for vocals; Mojave says it keeps intelligibility and musical detail even in loud stage environments.
Tight cardioid
The cardioid pattern is designed to keep response consistent as the performer moves, and the page cites strong feedback resistance.
-15 dB pad and low cut
Unscrewing the capsule reveals a -15 dB pad and bass-cut switch (flat or 200 Hz), usable for loud sources or proximity-effect control.
Transformer-balanced output
The output is transformer balanced at 140 ohms with -45 dB re 1 V/Pa sensitivity, running on 48 V phantom power at about 0.68 mA.
Built-in pop screen, rugged build
A built-in pop screen and low handling noise are described, with tour-ready construction and a listed carrying case size.
Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Frequency response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ±3 dB |
| Self-noise | 14 dB nominal, 16 dB max (A-weighted) |
| Distortion | under 1% at 120 dB SPL (pad off), under 1% at 135 dB SPL (pad on) |
| Impedance | 140 ohm, transformer-balanced |
| Sensitivity | -45 dB re 1 V/Pa |
| Powering | 48 V phantom, 0.68 mA |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid |
| Pad | -15 dB |
| Bass cut | Flat or 200 Hz |
| Dimensions | 8 x 2 in |
| Carrying case with microphone | 10.8 x 7.0 x 3.5 in |
What is included and system requirements
- Microphone
- Carrying case (inferred from the listed dimensions; not formally listed)
How to use it
- Connect the microphone by XLR to a preamp or interface.
- Turn on 48 V phantom power.
- If needed, unscrew the capsule and set the pad and bass cut.
- Hold it close or fix it to a stand.
- Set the gain and record a test.
- If room reflections are a concern, work close to the microphone.
Vocal recording
Voiced for vocals, it may be a candidate for home vocal tracking.
Podcast and broadcast
Mojave lists podcasting and broadcast, so spoken-word work may suit.
Live and instruments
Designed as a handheld, and used on drums and guitar cabinets according to the page.
Who it may suit
- People wanting a condenser that also works live
- Those recording close in untreated rooms
- Users wanting one mic for singing and spoken word
Good to know before you buy
- 48 V phantom power is required.
- The pad and bass cut are set by unscrewing the capsule.
- The page lists neither price nor warranty; check dealers.
Price
Please check the official page for the price.
Sources: mojaveaudio.com (checked 2026-10-27)
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