Mojave MA-10000 Microphone Review

Mojave MA-1000 Condenser Microphone Review

Mojave has been somewhat of a staple in studios all around the world for quite some time. They make incredible microphones that are also fairly affordable. The MA-1000, however, is a bit different. This microphone is world-class, perfect for the professional vocalist who wants something that is high-end and studio-ready.

Specs

• Microphone Type: Tube Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional / Figure-Eight
• MAX SPL: 120dB
• Pads: -15dB
• Tube: 5840
• Connector: XLR
• Weight: 1.0 lbs.

The Review

The MA-1000 was designed by David Royer, the man behind the famous Royer R-121. Sonically, it sounds a lot like the classic Telefunken ELA M 251, though it utilizes a low-noise multi-pattern tube design that helps to bring it into the modern era of microphones.

The microphone comes complete with a high-quality Sling-Shock shock mount so that you are ready to go right out of the box, as well as a Mogami microphone cable and an internal power supply. Between the power supply and the microphone are Neutrik connectors, supplying you with a clean and sturdy connection.

The MA-1000 weighs only one pound, making it fairly portable for the singer or musician on the go. The Chinese-made capsule is very similar to the CK-12 capsule that was used in the ELA-M 251, giving you a sound that is almost identical.

As for the tube, you get a NOS 5840 tube that was custom-designed and utilizes a Coast Magnetics output performer. These tubes are incredibly special, as they provide clarity in the low frequencies, making the microphone perfect for capturing low, male vocals. For instrumentalists out there, it is a solid microphone for piano or upright bass as well, as it is able to capture necessary low-frequency information with ease.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Vintage texture
• Smooth low-frequency response
• Low noise floor
• Works for a wide range of instruments

Cons

• Maybe a bit pricey for some

Should You Buy It?

To sum it all up, this large-diaphragm condenser is one of the best tube microphones around. It has a detailed vintage sound with a modern twist that allows you to capture both vocals and instruments in high-fidelity.

Make sure to check out the Mojave MA-1000, as well as a long list of Robert Lunte’s favorite gear on his Amazon Store!

Don’t leave without grabbing The Four Pillars of Singing if you haven’t already and make sure to subscribe to our Facebook group to get all of the vocal information you could possibly need!

If you currently use the Mojave MA-1000, let us know what you think in the comments!