SAMAR Audio Design MG20 – Small-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone

OVERVIEW

The SAMAR Audio Design MG20 is a handcrafted small-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone that combines classic transformer-coupled circuitry with modern acoustic engineering to deliver exceptionally natural, detailed recordings. Designed by Dr. Mark Fouxman, the MG20 features a premium small-diaphragm capsule paired with a custom in-house transformer, creating a signal path inspired by the legendary KM84 while incorporating carefully refined modern improvements. The result is a microphone with remarkably low noise, excellent transient response, extended low-frequency performance and smooth, sibilance-free high frequencies.

At the heart of the MG20 is a custom transformer wound specifically for this microphone using chambered construction and high-grade 80% nickel core laminations to achieve exceptionally low capacitance and outstanding high-frequency performance. An innovative acoustic body design acts as a precision acoustic lens, reducing reflections, minimising phase distortion and delivering superb off-axis response for highly transparent recordings. Premium internal components and meticulous hand assembly ensure exceptional reliability and long-term performance.

The MG20’s balanced, neutral tonal character makes it an outstanding choice for vocals, voice-over, podcasts, acoustic guitar, violins, brass instruments, drum overheads, percussion, room microphones, orchestras, choirs and countless other studio and broadcast applications. Handcrafted in Salt Lake City, Utah, it offers professional engineers, musicians and content creators a versatile microphone capable of delivering world-class results across an extensive range of recording scenarios.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Transformer-Coupled Analogue Design

The MG20 combines a premium small diaphragm capsule with a custom transformer-coupled circuit to deliver the warmth, depth and musicality associated with classic condenser microphone designs.

Custom In-House Transformer

Designed by Dr. Mark Fouxman specifically for the MG20, the custom chambered transformer uses 80% nickel core laminations to provide excellent high-frequency response, low capacitance and outstanding sonic transparency.

Optimised Acoustic Body Design

The precision-engineered microphone body functions as an acoustic lens, minimising reflections, reducing phase distortion and delivering excellent off-axis performance for highly accurate recordings.

Smooth, Natural Frequency Response

With extended low-frequency performance, detailed midrange and smooth, sibilance-free high frequencies, the MG20 captures vocals and instruments with exceptional realism and clarity.

Built for Professional Recording

From studio vocals and voice-over work to acoustic instruments, orchestras and broadcast production, the MG20 provides the versatility and performance demanded by professional engineers and musicians.

Handcrafted in the USA

Each MG20 is individually handcrafted in SAMAR Audio Design’s Salt Lake City workshop, ensuring exceptional build quality, precision assembly and dependable long-term performance.

FEATURES

• Transformer-coupled condenser design delivers classic analogue character with outstanding detail, warmth and transparency.
• Premium small-diaphragm cardioid capsule captures fast transients with exceptional accuracy and natural sound reproduction.
• Custom in-house transformer designed specifically for the MG20 using chambered winding construction and 80% nickel core laminations for superior high-frequency performance.
• Very low self-noise (15dBA) makes the MG20 ideal for capturing subtle performances and detailed acoustic recordings.
• High SPL handling up to 140dB allows clean recording of loud instruments including drums, brass and percussion.
• Optimised acoustic body design functions as an acoustic lens to reduce reflections, minimise phase distortion and improve off-axis response.
• Smooth, neutral frequency response with extended low-end performance and natural, non-harsh high frequencies.
• Excellent for vocals, voice-over and podcast production, thanks to its balanced sound and excellent sibilance control.
• Equally suited to acoustic instruments, drum overheads, orchestras, choirs, broadcast and studio recording.
• Handcrafted in the USA using premium components and meticulous assembly techniques.
• Backed by a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty for added peace of mind.
• 15-day satisfaction guarantee allows customers to purchase with confidence.

TECHNICAL SPECS

General

Type: Small-diaphragm condenser microphone

Address Type: End-address

Polar Pattern: Cardioid

Design: Transformer-coupled

Manufacture: Handcrafted in the USA

Capsule

Capsule Type: Small-diaphragm condenser

Pickup Area: 12.7mm (0.500″)

Performance

Sensitivity: -41dB (8.91mV/Pa)

Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 80dB

Equivalent Noise Level: 15dBA

Maximum SPL: 140dB

Frequency Characteristics:

• Smooth, natural frequency response
• Extended low-frequency response
• Neutral tonal balance
• Low distortion
• Excellent transient response
• Outstanding off-axis performance
• Smooth, sibilance-free high frequencies

Electrical

Power Requirement: 48V Phantom Power

Output Impedance: 200 Ohms

Circuit Topology: Single JFET with custom transformer-coupled output

Transformer

Type: Custom in-house transformer

Construction: Chambered winding design

Core Material: 80% nickel laminations

Design Inspiration: Classic KM84-style circuit with modern performance enhancements

Physical

Dimensions:

• Diameter/Width — 25.4mm (1″)
• Height/Length — 145mm (5.7″)

Weight: 153g (5.4oz)

Construction: Precision-machined metal body with acoustically optimised design

Country of Origin: USA

Recommended Applications

• Studio recording
• Broadcast
• Voice-over
• Podcasting
• Lead vocals
• Backing vocals
• Acoustic guitar
• Electric guitar
• Violin
• Mandolin
• Brass instruments
• Drum overheads
• Percussion
• Room microphones
• Orchestra
• Choir
• Classical music recording
• Content creation

Warranty

Manufacturer’s Warranty: 2 Years

Satisfaction Guarantee: 15 Days