Our Story
Mojave Audio was an idea hatched in a Fullerton, California garage, where a young David Royer crafted custom microphones for top studio engineers who didn’t need advertising to know what sounded good. Built to order, David delivered each mic personally, astride his Triumph Bonneville, dressed in cut-off Levi’s, a sleeveless T-shirt, and no helmet. It was a different time.
Today Mojave is an award-winning global brand trusted by professionals who seek out our microphones for their signature warmth, presence, and quality without compromise.
Chosen by generations of innovators, Mojave microphones are built to do more than capture your unique sound. They elevate it.
David Royer
Before becoming one of the most celebrated microphone designers in pro audio, David was an introspective California kid obsessed with motorcycles, obscure Eastern European folk tunes, and the mechanics of sound. Which is to say, excellent preparation for a future in audio engineering.
Then came the Navy, where David didn’t just serve. He listened. As a sonar technician, he spent his time tracing signal paths and untangling the mysteries of electronic theory.
Today David is the unassuming genius behind some of the most beloved mics in modern recording. The name Mojave Audio is his homage to the desert he loves. A place of silence, stars, and storms. Of pie baking and lightning photography. Because the man who designs world-class microphones also chases electricity across the sky for fun.
Dusty Wakeman
As a producer, engineer, and entrepreneur, Dusty is known for bringing great people and great ideas together.
Raised in Texas and pulled west by the siren call of L.A.’s music scene, he founded legendary Mad Dog Studios, shaping Grammy-winning records for artists like Dwight Yoakam, Lucinda Williams, Buck Owens, and more.
In 2005 Dusty co-founded Mojave Audio with partner David Royer. As President he’s transformed a passion project into an award-winning brand that’s earned four NAMM TEC Award nominations and a win for the MA‑37.
When he’s not guiding Mojave, Dusty’s a devoted husband and father, hot yoga enthusiast, and badass bass player still rocking it across Southern California’s studios and stages. With a deep appreciation for musical artistry and the magic of collaboration, Dusty’s vision remains clear: create impeccable tools that let the music shine.