Many audio environments call for a microphone that is unobtrusive, hands-free, and allows the user wide freedom of movement. In response to that need, a variety of headset microphones have been developed over the years. One of the latest, just introduced in 2012, is the Mogan Elite Earset Microphone.
Mogan Microphones is a new brand, launched by Hosa Technology—a premier supplier of audio cable and interconnect products. The Elite is created for professional audio applications requiring full-frequency vocal reproduction, including broadcast, live theatre, and houses of worship. This well-conceived microphone, weighing in at less than half an ounce, proves to be a worthy contender.
FEATURES AND CONNECTIONS
The microphone consists of a C-shaped ear cushion with a flexible boom ending in a 2.5 mm, moisture-resistant, subminiature omni condenser mic. The earpiece contains an internal stainless steel adjustment mechanism, covered with a soft, molded hypoallergenic material—providing comfortable stability and positioning for the mic boom. The thin boom is easily adjusted to the desired curvature, and maintains its position near the corner of the user's mouth. The Elite works equally well on the left or right ear, as well, and the microphone and cables are available in beige or black.
The base of the earpiece features a threaded, gold-plated miniature two-conductor female connector, which mates with a selection of interchangeable cables to connect the mic with a wireless transmitter or via a standard XLR to the console. Included in the review sample were a four-foot cable ending in a TA4-F connector for wireless use, an eight-foot cable with male threaded mini-connectors on both ends, and a male XLR barrel connector with a female threaded mini-connector for the cable. The flexible, Kevlar-reinforced cables are less than 1/16 of an inch thick, and the connectors are hardwired and appear to be durable.
Listening to the Mogan Elite Earset Mic in a live sound reinforcement environment, the natural voice quality is apparent. The speaking voice was distinct; sibilance was present but with the higher frequencies of the letter “s” somewhat less apparent than when speaking directly into a good condenser mic mounted directly in front of the mouth. This is to be expected based on the positioning of the element. “P”-sound plosives were well controlled, even when I took the mic off my ear and spoke directly into it.
The Elite is quite serviceable for singing vocals as well as spoken word, though that is not the primary design application for the mic. Its capability as a vocal mic will serve to broaden its applicability in worship and live theatre settings. A bit of low-end boost from the console might be appropriate when used for singing.
FINAL THOUGHTS
In all, the Mogan Elite Earset Microphone seems to have met its stated goals as a professional hands-free mic offering a wide, natural frequency response with a stable, flexible positioning and cabling system. From its construction, I expect that it will be a durable and reliable audio tool for professional voice reinforcement. And the comfort it offers during use means that those who wear it will be happy to put it on for the next presentation.
The Elite earset is currently available, with an MSRP of $400. For those on a tighter budget, Mogan also offers a Standard model with the same basic form factor, featuring a non-moisture-resistant three-mm condenser element on a slightly longer boom, a similar frequency response but with a 12-dB higher noise floor, and a more rigid earpiece at an MSRP of $200.
