Mojave MA-200
Summary
Abstract
The Mojave MA-200 is a tube large diaphragm condenser from Mojave Microphones, designed by David Royer. It is one of the more frequently recommended sub-$1K LDCs, though community opinion is divided. One engineer bought it years ago and finds it “rather bright” in a way that is “not easy to remove in the mix,” while others list it among recommended alternatives to the Neumann U87. The brightness is its defining characteristic — it either works for you or it does not.
Key Characteristics
- Type: Large diaphragm tube condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Notable Features: David Royer design, nano-size tube (difficult to replace), sub-$1K tube LDC option
Use Cases
The MA-200 is positioned as a sub-$1K vocal microphone alternative to more expensive options. It appears on recommended lists alongside the Gefell M930, Shure KSM44, Audio-Technica AT4050, and Austrian Audio OC18. One engineer has it in their mic locker alongside a U87, Aston Spirit, and AT4050 but reports not doing much tracking anymore. It is described as a mic that is “an excellent version of itself rather than a cut-rate version of a 47.”
Comparable Alternatives
| Unit | How It Compares |
|---|---|
| Telefunken TF-51 | ”A million times better” according to one MA-200 owner; used price may be in budget |
| Gefell M930 | Competing sub-$1K recommendation; different tonal character |
| Shure KSM44 | Both in the sub-$1K workhorse category |
| Audio-Technica AT4050 | Multi-pattern alternative at similar price |
| Austrian Audio OC18 | Modern competitor in the same range |
Common Mistakes
- Not accounting for the persistent brightness that is difficult to EQ out of the mix
- Tube replacement is inconvenient due to the nano-size tubes used
See Also
Source Discussions
Quote
Channels: recording, gear-talk, microphones Date Range: July 2022 — January 2025 Key Contributors: Jonathan Jetter, Will Trotman, cian riordan Total Mentions: 8 across 4 threads