The M51 is a high performance low voltage electret condenser microphone. This microphone has wide application for general purpose acoustic measurements, including the measurement of transducers, loudspeaker systems, and room response. The M51 conforms to the external dimensions of industry standard 1/2 inch measurement microphones. This microphone features low cost, low distortion, 150dB SPL capability, wide frequency response, and low voltage power supply requirements.

The M51 incorporates a special element / preamp design which enables performance and capabilities far superior to that of typical electret type microphones, and allows for operation from a single 9 Volt DC supply. A separate detachable cable is provided which converts the TB3M connector of the M51, to a standard 3 pin male XLR.

LinearX has provided microphones for arrays consisting of dozens or even hundreds of units each. Phased arrays provide for the ability of beam forming and source localization. The microphones are generally located on a circular or elliptical pattern, as shown here in the drawing.

This example shows an array of M51 microphones embedded in a wind tunnel surface. The array pattern consists of a number of concentric circles. The numbers of microphones per circle are chosen such that the microphone spacing in the circumferential direction is approximately the same as in the radial direction. There is a gradual increase of microphone density toward the center.