The new Goldlook special edition – Compact multi-channel condenser microphones with Generation 4 capsules

The first partial delivery comprised 18 microphones in gold-plated brass housings, which are being used as part of a major project to renew existing audio systems, including microphone technology, in Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia.

As part of the project realization, the system supplier Stagetec contacted MTG in this matter.

The task included the development of specially designed, compact multi-channel condenser microphones as part of a renewal of the existing audio systems in Mecca and Medina, including the microphone technology.

A particular challenge was to develop a microphone that was able to realize the function of three of the microphones previously used on site in one microphone housing.

Building on years of experience with microphones for parliaments, such as the KEM 975 with eight microphone capsules, which is used worldwide, MTG was able to develop a suitable solution.

The MKM 403 has three independent M 40 capsules/microphone channels of generation 4, each with an MV 400 X microphone preamplifier, optimized for both front and side response.

In contrast to the KEM 975, only one microphone is in operation in the MKM 403, with two more serving as a reserve. In addition, a miniature loudspeaker is integrated, which plays a test tone that is imperceptible to the human ear, which the three built-in microphones pick up and transmit to the audio system. If one microphone path is disturbed, the system switches to the next.

Special climate and temperature requirements also had to be taken into account. For example, smooth operation had to be guaranteed in direct sunlight and at temperatures of over 50° C.

The design meets the customer’s express wishes. The microphones were to be gold-plated on the outside, including the stands.  The protective cages were to be black.

After extensive surface preparation of the housing parts by MTG, the gold plating of the polished parts was realized in cooperation with a renowned regional partner in Greiz, Spalek Oberflachenveredlung GmbH.

The Salzbrenner company supplemented the range with automatically height-adjustable stands with storable positions.