Earthworks M23 Gen 2 - Omni Measurement Microphone

The Earthworks M23 Gen 2 is a precision omnidirectional measurement microphone featuring a pre-polarised condenser capsule, a flat frequency response from 5 Hz to 23 kHz (±1 dB), 140 dB SPL handling and individually calibrated performance for professional acoustic analysis, sound system tuning and loudspeaker measurement.

Precision Acoustic Measurement and Reference Accuracy

The Earthworks M23 Gen 2 delivers accurate, consistent acoustic measurements across an extended frequency range, making it ideal for sound system optimisation, room acoustics, loudspeaker development and sound pressure level monitoring.

Its 6 mm pre-polarised condenser capsule features an omnidirectional polar pattern that captures sound from all directions. The microphone maintains a flat frequency response within ±1 dB from 5 Hz to 23 kHz, with a low-frequency cutoff of 3 Hz or lower and a high-frequency cutoff of 30 kHz or higher at the -3 dB points.

Each M23 Gen 2 includes an individual calibration chart detailing its frequency response curve alongside sensitivity measurements at 1 kHz and 250 Hz. This documentation supports accurate reference measurements and consistent results across professional acoustic applications.

Improved Sensitivity and High SPL Handling

The second-generation M23 introduces a reduced sensitivity of -40 dBV/Pa (10 mV/Pa) at 1 kHz, improving compatibility with audio interfaces that struggle with higher microphone output levels.

This adjustment provides greater flexibility when measuring high sound pressure levels, particularly in live sound environments and SPL monitoring applications.

With 48 V phantom power, the microphone handles up to 140 dB SPL at 3% THD. It also supports 12 V phantom power, with a maximum SPL capability of 133 dB. These specifications make the M23 Gen 2 suitable for measuring powerful sound reinforcement systems without exceeding the microphone's specified SPL limits.

Reduced Phantom Power Consumption

The Earthworks M23 Gen 2 reduces its 48 V phantom power consumption from the original M23's 10 mA to just 7.2 mA.

This improvement helps extend battery runtime when using compatible wireless microphone transmitters and reduces the power demands on audio interfaces and microphone preamplifiers.

The microphone also draws 4.8 mA when operating from 12 V phantom power, providing additional flexibility across compatible measurement systems.

Compact Stainless Steel Construction

The M23 Gen 2 retains the original M23's distinctive tapered microphone tip while introducing a shorter, lighter body.

Its machined stainless steel construction provides durability for regular use in studios, installation environments and live sound applications. The updated design measures 138.6 mm in length and 21.8 mm in width, with a weight of approximately 130 g.

An IP54 rating provides protection against limited dust ingress and water splashes, making the microphone suitable for demanding professional measurement environments.

Low Noise Performance and Professional Connectivity

The M23 Gen 2 combines an A-weighted self-noise specification of 23 dBA with its extended frequency response to support detailed acoustic analysis across a wide range of measurement applications.

Its balanced XLR output integrates with compatible microphone preamplifiers, audio interfaces and acoustic measurement systems. A minimum load impedance requirement of 1 kΩ helps ensure appropriate electrical compatibility.

Calibration Accessories and Protective Storage

Earthworks supplies the M23 Gen 2 with an individual calibration chart, protective carrying case, MC1 microphone clip, ADP1 half-inch calibrator adaptor and OMW2 windscreen.

The calibrator adaptor supports integration with compatible acoustic calibrators, while the windscreen helps reduce unwanted wind interference during measurements. The protective case provides secure storage and transport between measurement locations.

Why Choose the Earthworks M23 Gen 2?

• Trust the measurements: Individually documented calibration data supports repeatable acoustic analysis and reliable system optimisation.

• Measure powerful sound systems: High SPL handling makes the microphone suitable for live sound tuning and monitoring.

• Improve interface compatibility: Reduced sensitivity helps prevent excessive input levels when measuring loud sources.

• Reduce power demands: Lower phantom power consumption benefits compatible wireless and multi-microphone measurement systems.

• Work across different environments: Compact stainless steel construction and IP54 protection support regular professional use.

• Simplify measurement setup: Included calibration accessories, mounting hardware and protective storage provide a practical measurement package.

• Precision omnidirectional measurement microphone for professional acoustic analysis, sound system tuning and loudspeaker testing.
• 6 mm pre-polarised condenser capsule with an omnidirectional polar pattern.
• Flat frequency response from 5 Hz to 23 kHz (±1 dB) for accurate reference measurements.
• Extended -3 dB frequency limits of 3 Hz or lower and 30 kHz or higher.
• Individually calibrated with a frequency response chart and sensitivity measurements at 1 kHz and 250 Hz.
• Reduced 1 kHz sensitivity of -40 dBV/Pa (10 mV/Pa) for improved audio interface compatibility.
• Maximum SPL handling of 140 dB with 48 V phantom power and 133 dB with 12 V phantom power, both at 3% THD.
• Reduced 48 V phantom power consumption of 7.2 mA for improved efficiency.
• Supports 12 V phantom power operation with 4.8 mA current consumption.
• 23 dBA A-weighted self-noise specification.
• Balanced XLR output for integration with professional measurement equipment.
• Minimum load impedance of 1 kΩ.
• Durable machined stainless steel housing with an IP54 protection rating.
• Compact second-generation body retains the original tapered tip design.
• Dimensions of 138.6 x 21.8 mm and weight of approximately 130 g.
• Includes protective carrying case, MC1 microphone clip, ADP1 half-inch calibrator adaptor, OMW2 windscreen and individual calibration chart.

This item, like everything we supply, comes with the complete support of our expert team. Our excellent technicians have been specifying, building and supporting studios for over twenty years. If you have any problems with installation, setup or everyday use, they’re never more than a click away, and always happy to help.

You can contact them here.