AudioControl CM-20 Review: Specifications, Uses and Comparisons
Quick summary: the buying decision
The CM-20 is AudioControl's everyday measurement microphone: rugged, phantom powered and low enough in cost to keep a spare. The microphone is the part of a measurement set-up that decides how trustworthy your RTA and SPL readings are.
AudioControl CM-20: what it is
The AudioControl CM-20 is an affordable, rugged measurement microphone with a 1/4-inch back-electret condenser capsule and an omnidirectional pickup. It runs on phantom power through a 3-pin XLR connector and suits everyday RTA and SPL measurements.
AudioControl positions the CM-20 as an everyday microphone: rugged and low enough in cost to keep a spare, with a calibration preset built into the DM-RTA.
Key features
1/4-inch back-electret condenser capsule with omnidirectional pickup
20 Hz – 20 kHz (±3 dB) frequency response
Phantom powered (10 – 52 V DC) through a 3-pin XLR connector
Rugged build, and low enough in cost to keep a spare
Calibration preset built into the AudioControl DM-RTA
Specifications explained
Frequency response 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±3 dB), omnidirectional polar pattern.
Capsule 1/4 in, impedance 250 ohm, phantom power 10 – 52 V DC, 3-pin XLR, pin 2 positive connector, tip diameter 10 mm (0.39 in).
Full specifications as published by AudioControl:
Model: CM-20
Type: Measurement microphone (back-electret condenser)
Capsule: 1/4 in
Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±3 dB)
Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
Impedance: 250 ohm
Phantom power: 10 – 52 V DC
Connector: 3-pin XLR, pin 2 positive
Tip diameter: 10 mm (0.39 in)
In the box: CM-20 microphone
Connecting and using it
Plug the CM-20 into a DM-RTA (select its preset) or any measurement interface that supplies phantom power.
For in-car measurements, place the microphone at head height in the listening position, take several readings around the head position rather than one, and keep the doors and windows closed. Equalise broad trends rather than chasing narrow peaks and dips.
How it compares
Measurement microphones and analysers at VA3 Car Studio:
AudioControl C550H: precision measurement microphone (capacitive pressure transducer, prepolarised backplate), ₹93,490
AudioControl SA-4100i: calibrated iOS measurement microphone, ₹50,990
AudioControl SA-4140i: calibrated iOS test and measurement microphone, ₹72,240
AudioControl DM-RTA: real-time analyser, oscilloscope and multi-test tool (analyser only), ₹1,44,490
Price and value in India
At the time of writing (October 2026), VA3 Car Studio lists the CM-20 at ₹18,690, 15% below the MRP of ₹21,990. A calibrated microphone is the foundation of a reliable tune; the right choice depends on how often and how precisely you measure. Prices can change, so the product page always shows the current price.
Verdict: who should shortlist the CM-20
The CM-20 is the practical everyday choice for DM-RTA owners and installers who want a dependable microphone without the cost of a precision unit.
Real-world reviews and limitations
We have not yet published a VA3 installation report for the CM-20. The figures in this review are AudioControl's published specifications, not our own measurements, and real-world results depend on how the measurements are taken and the tune. If you have used one, we would welcome your feedback.
Frequently asked questions
Does the CM-20 need phantom power?
Yes, 10 to 52 V DC through a 3-pin XLR connector.
Does the CM-20 work with the DM-RTA?
Yes. The DM-RTA has a built-in calibration preset for it.
What is the CM-20's frequency response?
20 Hz to 20 kHz (±3 dB), omnidirectional.
What capsule does the CM-20 use?
A 1/4-inch back-electret condenser capsule.
Sources, pricing and related reading
Buy the AudioControl CM-20 Everyday Measurement Microphone at VA3 Car Studio
VA3 guide: Car Audio Explained, Part 8: mic placement, target curves and EQ
VA3 guide: Car Audio Explained, Part 7: tuning process and measurement tools
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