SAMAR Audio Design MF08 – Hybrid Multi-Pattern Ribbon & Omni-8 Condenser Microphone

OVERVIEW

The SAMAR Audio Design MF08 represents one of the most innovative microphone designs ever developed, combining a premium figure-8 ribbon element with a true pressure small-diaphragm omnidirectional condenser capsule in a single handcrafted microphone. After more than two decades of research and development by founder Dr. Mark Fouxman, the MF08 delivers continuously variable polar patterns, including a centre-detented cardioid position for precise and repeatable setup. This unique hybrid design blends the natural warmth and depth of a ribbon microphone with the accuracy, speed and extended bandwidth of a true pressure condenser capsule, creating a remarkably versatile recording tool.

Engineered for uncompromising sonic performance, the MF08 features proprietary transformer-coupled circuitry, custom in-house amorphous-core and high-nickel transformers, and a Class A push-pull output stage for exceptional transparency, low distortion and impressive headroom. The ribbon motor and condenser capsule are positioned in extremely close proximity to maintain outstanding phase integrity well beyond the audible frequency range, resulting in exceptionally coherent imaging and natural off-axis response. A resonance-free carbon fibre body and innovative head basket further minimise reflections and unwanted colouration.

Whether recording orchestras, acoustic instruments, drum overheads, choirs, vocals or ambient room recordings, the MF08 delivers extraordinary clarity, linearity and realism across an exceptionally wide frequency range. Designed and handcrafted entirely in-house at SAMAR Audio Design’s Salt Lake City facility, it is a premium recording microphone built for engineers who demand the highest possible level of sonic accuracy and craftsmanship.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Revolutionary Hybrid Microphone Design

The world’s first hybrid microphone to combine a figure-8 ribbon element with a true pressure omnidirectional condenser capsule, offering a unique combination of warmth, detail and versatility.

Continuously Variable Polar Patterns

Blend between figure-8, cardioid and omnidirectional characteristics with continuously adjustable polar patterns, including a centre-detented cardioid position for quick and repeatable setup.

Outstanding Phase Integrity

The ribbon motor and condenser capsule are positioned with extraordinary precision, virtually eliminating phase anomalies throughout the audible frequency range for exceptional imaging.

Exceptionally Wide Frequency Response

Capture every nuance with an ultra-wide 10Hz–30kHz frequency response, delivering deep low frequencies, detailed midrange and beautifully extended highs.

Custom Transformer-Coupled Electronics

Features custom-designed in-house transformers and a premium Class A push-pull output stage that deliver remarkably low distortion, low noise and outstanding sonic transparency.

Handcrafted Carbon Fibre Construction

Built around a resonance-free carbon fibre body with precision-machined metal components to minimise unwanted resonances while ensuring exceptional durability.

Built for Critical Recording Applications

An ideal microphone for orchestral recording, drum overheads, acoustic instruments, choirs, vocals, broadcast, film scoring and any application where uncompromising audio quality is essential.

FEATURES

• World’s first hybrid microphone combining a figure-8 ribbon element with a true pressure omnidirectional condenser capsule
• Continuously variable multi-pattern operation with centre-detented cardioid position
• Proprietary adjustable tuning ribbon element for exceptional tonal balance
• True pressure 10mm omnidirectional condenser capsule
• Ruler-flat frequency response for highly accurate recordings
• Outstanding phase integrity through extremely close ribbon and capsule positioning
• Custom in-house amorphous-core intermediate toroidal transformer for ultra-low noise and distortion
• Custom high-nickel output transformer designed specifically for the MF08
• Premium Class A push-pull output circuitry for exceptional headroom and sonic transparency
• Multiple internal trimming circuits for consistent output level and sonic performance
• Resonance-free carbon fibre body with precision-machined metal components
• Innovative head basket design minimises acoustic reflections and interference
• Precision CNC-manufactured components built entirely in-house
• Handcrafted in the USA
• 5-year parts warranty
• 2-year ribbon replacement warranty (limited to one service)

TECHNICAL SPECS

General

Type: Hybrid Ribbon & Omni-8 Condenser Microphone

Operating Principle: Figure-8 Ribbon + True Pressure Omnidirectional Condenser

Polar Pattern: Continuously Variable Multi-Pattern with Centre Detent for Cardioid

Electronics: Class A Push-Pull

Transformer Design: Custom Transformer-Coupled

Manufacture: Handcrafted in the USA

Performance

Frequency Response: 10Hz – 30kHz

Maximum SPL: 140dB

Output Impedance: 200 Ohms

Phantom Power: 48V

Transducers

Ribbon Element: Proprietary Adjustable Figure-8 Ribbon

Ribbon Dimensions: 1.5″ × 0.250″ × 1.5 μm

Condenser Capsule: True Pressure Omnidirectional

Capsule Diameter: 10mm

Transformers

In-house custom-designed Amorphous-Core Intermediate Toroidal transformer

In-house custom-designed High-Nickel Output transformer

Physical

Construction: Resonance-Free Carbon Fibre with Precision CNC Machined Metal Components

Dimensions:

• Diameter/Width — 38.1mm (1.5″)
• Height/Length — 196.85mm (7.75″)

Weight: 235g (8.3oz)

Country of Origin: USA

Warranty

Parts Warranty: 5 Years

Ribbon Replacement: 2 Years (limited to one service)