SAMAR Audio Design MG33 – Small-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone

OVERVIEW

The SAMAR Audio Design MG33 is a handcrafted small-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone that combines exceptional sonic accuracy with the versatility of a compact side-address design. Sharing the same acclaimed capsule and electronics as the highly regarded MG20, the MG33 delivers a remarkably smooth and balanced frequency response, extended low and high frequency reproduction, ultra-low self-noise and exceptionally low distortion. Its innovative acoustic design minimises phase anomalies while providing excellent off-axis response, making it an outstanding choice for professional recording applications where natural, transparent sound is essential.

Designed by SAMAR Audio Design founder Dr. Mark Fouxman and handcrafted in Salt Lake City, Utah, the MG33 features an optimised acoustic lens that minimises standing waves, reflections and wave interference for superior sonic performance. Premium components, including Vishay-Dale resistors and Wima capacitors, further enhance reliability, consistency and long-term durability while preserving every detail of the original performance.

The MG33 excels across a wide variety of recording applications, including acoustic guitar, piano, strings, brass, percussion, drum overheads, orchestras, choirs and room ambience. Its side-address configuration offers additional flexibility for microphone placement in both studio and live environments, while its compact footprint makes it easy to position wherever space is limited without sacrificing audio quality.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Compact Side-Address Design for Flexible Placement

The MG33’s compact side-address configuration allows for versatile microphone positioning, making it ideal for studio recordings, live sound reinforcement and situations where space is limited.

Smooth, Balanced Frequency Response

Designed for natural sound reproduction, the MG33 delivers excellent low-frequency extension, smooth high frequencies and an exceptionally balanced tonal character across a wide variety of sources.

Innovative Acoustic Lens Design

A specially engineered acoustic lens minimises standing waves, reflections and phase distortion while providing excellent off-axis response for highly accurate recordings.

Premium Components for Superior Performance

Featuring high-quality Vishay-Dale resistors and Wima capacitors throughout the signal path, the MG33 delivers low distortion, ultra-low noise and outstanding long-term reliability.

Ideal for Professional Recording Applications

From acoustic instruments and drum overheads to orchestras, choirs and broadcast production, the MG33 provides detailed, transparent audio capture suitable for virtually any professional recording environment.

Handcrafted in the USA

Each MG33 is individually handcrafted in SAMAR Audio Design’s Salt Lake City workshop, ensuring exceptional build quality, consistency and meticulous attention to detail.

FEATURES

• Transformerless condenser design delivers fast transient response, exceptional clarity and extremely low distortion.
• Very low self-noise (15dBA) makes the MG33 ideal for capturing delicate performances and quiet acoustic sources.
• High SPL handling up to 140dB allows accurate recording of loud sound sources such as drums, brass and percussion without unwanted distortion.
• Smooth, balanced frequency response provides natural sound reproduction with extended low-end and refined high-frequency performance.
• Excellent off-axis response thanks to an innovative acoustic lens that minimises reflections, standing waves and phase anomalies.
• Premium electronic components, including Vishay-Dale resistors and Wima capacitors, ensure superior sonic performance and long-term reliability.
• Compact side-address design offers flexible microphone placement for studio, broadcast and live sound applications.
• Handcrafted in the USA using precision manufacturing techniques and rigorous quality control.
• Suitable for professional studios, live sound, broadcast and home recording, delivering consistent, transparent audio across a wide range of applications.
• Backed by a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty for added confidence.
• 15-day satisfaction guarantee, allowing customers to purchase with peace of mind.

TECHNICAL SPECS

General

Type: Small-diaphragm condenser microphone

Address Type: Side-address

Polar Pattern: Cardioid

Design: Transformerless

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, balanced frequency response
• Extended low-frequency response
• Natural, non-harsh high frequencies
• Low distortion
• Excellent off-axis response

Electrical

Power Requirement: 48V Phantom Power

Output Impedance: 47 Ohms

Physical

Dimensions:

• Diameter/Width — 18.8mm (0.740″)
• Height/Length — 85.6mm (3.370″)

Construction: Precision-machined metal body

Country of Origin: USA

Recommended Applications

• Studio recording
• Live sound reinforcement
• Broadcast
• Acoustic guitar
• Piano
• String instruments
• Brass instruments
• Drum overheads
• Percussion
• Room microphones
• Orchestra
• Choir
• Classical music recording
• Content creation
• Home studios

Warranty

Manufacturer’s Warranty: 1 Year

Satisfaction Guarantee: 15 Days