Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Amazon
5.0 (11)
$548.90
Reverb
$549.00 1 available New
B&H
4.5 (3)
$499.00
Thomann
4.9 (9)
$549.00

Average Price: $513

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Earthworks M23". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into the world of pristine audio capture with the Earthworks M23, a beacon of clarity for studio engineers and recording aficionados alike. Renowned for its omnidirectional pickup pattern, this condenser microphone stands out in the crowded market of studio gear, promising an uncolored, transparent sound reproduction that stays true to the source. Whether you're measuring room acoustics, capturing the delicate timbres of classical instruments, or laying down the final vocal tracks, the M23 offers unmatched fidelity across an impressively wide frequency range.

At the heart of the M23's exceptional performance is its discrete Class-A amplifier, ensuring a sound that's both pure and powerful. Coupled with a robust 140 dB max SPL, this microphone can handle everything from the subtle whisper of a violin to the full force of a drum kit without breaking a sweat. And with the need for 48V phantom power, it seamlessly integrates into any professional recording setup, ensuring that you're always ready to capture the perfect take.

Key Features:

  • Directional characteristic: omnidirectional
  • Frequency range: 3 Hz to 23 kHz ±1/-3 dB, capturing a broad spectrum of sounds
  • Sensitivity: 30 mV/Pa, offering precise sound reproduction
  • Amplifier type: Discrete Class-A, for clear, powerful audio output
  • Max. SPL: 140 dB, allowing recording of loud sources without distortion
  • Requires 48 V phantom power, ensuring compatibility with professional gear
  • Includes a microphone clamp and adapter from 5/8" to 3/8", providing flexibility in mounting options

Owner's manual

Earthworks M23 User Manual

Product specs

Microphone Type Condenser
Polar Pattern Omnidirectional
Frequency Response 3Hz-23kHz
Max SPL 140dB SPL
Output Impedance 65 ohms
Self Noise 20dB (A weighted)
Sensitivity 34mV/Pa (-29dB)
Connector XLR
Power Source 24-48V phantom power
Weight 0.35 lbs.

FAQs

What is the primary use of the Earthworks M23 microphone?

The Earthworks M23 is primarily used for measurement applications, such as testing and calibrating audio systems, due to its flat frequency response and omnidirectional pattern.

Can the Earthworks M23 be used for recording music?

While the Earthworks M23 is designed for measurement, its precise and flat response can be useful for capturing accurate room acoustics in studio environments.

Does the Earthworks M23 require phantom power?

Yes, the Earthworks M23 requires 24-48V phantom power for operation.

How does the omnidirectional pattern of the Earthworks M23 affect its performance?

The omnidirectional pattern of the Earthworks M23 captures sound equally from all directions, making it ideal for measuring room acoustics and system calibration.

What is the frequency response range of the Earthworks M23 microphone?

The Earthworks M23 has a frequency response range of 3Hz to 23kHz, ensuring accurate and detailed sound measurements.

Audio University

Audio University

FREE Acoustical Measurement Software: Room EQ Wizard (REW)

Video thumbnail for FREE Acoustical Measurement Software: Room EQ Wizard (REW) by Audio University

FREE Acoustical Measurement Software: Room EQ Wizard (REW)

Audio University

Audio University

Video thumbnail for Why I HATE USB Measurement Microphones by Audio Judgement

Why I HATE USB Measurement Microphones

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Audio Judgement

Video thumbnail for Sonarworks Reference 4 Review - THE 2 BIGGEST MYTHS! by Audio University

Sonarworks Reference 4 Review - THE 2 BIGGEST MYTHS!

Audio University

Audio University

Video thumbnail for Tuning Arenas with the Earthworks M23 (ft. FOH for Russ, Joe Hellow) by Earthworks Audio

Tuning Arenas with the Earthworks M23 (ft. FOH for Russ, Joe Hellow)

Earthworks Audio

Earthworks Audio

Reviews

PROS

  • Trusted for stressful live situations

  • High-quality, heavy construction

  • Provides precise room correction measurement

  • Comes with individual frequency response chart

  • Includes Class-A microphone preamplifier

CONS

  • Lack of response from service personnel mentioned

  • Potential compatibility check required for correction file format

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Earthworks M23.

Use cases and applications

  • The Earthworks M23 can work well as a crowd mic for live bands, particularly in smaller venues with controlled stage volume.

    Source
  • It has been used as an overhead mic for intimate acts, but the omni polar pattern may pick up too much noise in louder settings.

    Source
  • The Earthworks M23 was used to record the Sardaukar chant vocals for the Dune film, showcasing its capability for unique vocal recordings.

    Source
  • When used with acoustic guitars, combining the M23 with a K&K pickup yields excellent results, especially for dry-sounding mic applications.

    Source
  • Some users employ the Earthworks M23 creatively in drum setups, positioning it above the kick drum and between rack toms for unique sound capture.

    Source
  • The Earthworks M23 is considered a higher-end option for precise measurements, starting at $300-400 without interface and preamp.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • As an omni microphone, the M23 requires a decent-sounding room for optimal performance, especially when used for spot micing cymbals or as overheads.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Behringer ECM8000, priced around $30, measures similarly to the Earthworks M23 but requires an audio interface.

    Source
  • The miniDSP UMIK-1 is suitable for beginners but lacks the accuracy of the Earthworks M23 in detailed measurement tasks.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The Dayton EMM-6, a cheaper alternative, requires a phantom power supply and may produce minor hissing without an audio interface.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners note that using an XLR mic like the Earthworks M23 with a soundcard allows for correct impulse response windowing through loopback timing, unlike USB mics.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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