The new one-of-a-kind Samar MF08 Hybrid Ribbon Microphone is here!

The new one-of-a-kind Samar MF08 Hybrid Ribbon Microphone is here and we’re excited to share that it is now available at Front End Audio. If you know about Samar then you know this isn't just another everyday ribbon microphone release. The MF08 is a genuinely unique design from Samar Audio, combining a figure-8 ribbon element with a small-diaphragm true pressure omnidirectional condenser capsule in one transformer-coupled microphone. Samar describes it as the world’s first hybrid microphone of its kind, and it brings a fresh level of flexibility to engineers who want more control over tone, pattern, and source capture.

One of the most interesting things about the MF08 is the story behind it. The first prototype was announced back in early 2004, and Samar founder Dr. Mark Fouxman spent more than 20 years refining the design before bringing it to market. That long development process shows in the details: continuously variable polar patterns, a center-detented cardioid position for easy recall, a Class A push-pull circuit, in-house Samar transformers, and a design focused on low distortion, wide bandwidth, and strong phase integrity.

Sonically, the MF08 is designed to bring together the smoothness and natural weight of a ribbon microphone with the openness, precision, and extended response of a small-diaphragm condenser. Its 10 Hz to 30 kHz frequency response and 140 dB max SPL rating make it a serious tool for demanding recording applications, from drum overheads and acoustic instruments to classical ensembles and critical studio work. Samar also placed the condenser capsule extremely close to the ribbon motor to help reduce phase-related issues across the audible range.

It's not the only thing that is special, however, as the build itself is just as thoughtful as the circuit. The MF08 features a resonance-free carbon fiber body, metal accents, a post-free headbasket design intended to reduce acoustic reflections, and handcrafted USA construction from Samar’s Salt Lake City facility. For engineers, producers, and studios looking for something truly different, the Samar MF08 offers a rare combination of innovation, musicality, and control. Take a first look at the microphone with our new out of the box video linked below.

Check out the brand new Samar MF08 Hybrid Ribbon Microphone, now available in all its glory from Front End Audio.