MAX9814 Microphone AGC Amplifier Module – CMA-4544PF-W

Take your audio projects to the next level with the MAX9814 Microphone AGC Amplifier Module (CMA-4544PF-W). Built around the Maxim MAX9814 chip, this compact amplifier module features an Automatic Gain Control (AGC) circuit that continuously adjusts the microphone gain — keeping your audio signal clean, consistent, and free from clipping or distortion whether the input is a whisper or a loud voice.

Whether you're building a voice-activated system, a sound sensor for a microcontroller project, a recording pre-amp, or an IoT audio device, this module delivers reliable, low-noise amplification in a small, breadboard-friendly form factor.

Key Features

MAX9814 IC: High-performance microphone amplifier with on-board AGC for automatic level adjustment
CMA-4544PF-W Electret Mic: High-sensitivity omnidirectional electret condenser microphone element included on-board
Automatic Gain Control (AGC): Keeps output levels stable across a wide range of input volumes — no manual adjustments needed
Low Noise, Low Distortion: Delivers clean audio output suitable for microcontrollers, ADCs, and audio processing boards
Wide Supply Voltage: Operates from a single 2.7V to 5.5V supply — compatible with 3.3V and 5V systems (Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP32, STM32, and more)
Selectable Gain: Three gain settings available (40dB, 50dB, 60dB) via the GAIN pin — tailor sensitivity to your application
Compact Module: Small PCB footprint, easy to integrate into breadboards or custom PCBs
Breakout Pin Headers: Pre-soldered or standard header-compatible pins for quick connections (VDD, GND, OUT, GAIN, AR)

Technical Specifications

IC: Maxim MAX9814
Microphone Element: CMA-4544PF-W Electret Condenser
Operating Voltage: 2.7V – 5.5V (single supply)
Gain Options: 40dB / 50dB / 60dB (selectable)
AGC: Built-in, automatic
Output: Analog audio signal
Interface: Analog (compatible with ADC inputs)

Ideal Applications

Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and STM32 audio input projects
Voice recognition and voice-activated control systems
Sound level detection and monitoring circuits
DIY recording pre-amplifier stages
IoT devices requiring microphone input
Educational electronics and prototyping

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the MAX9814 AGC Amplifier Module used for?

A: The MAX9814 AGC Amplifier Module is a microphone pre-amplifier designed for electronics projects that require a reliable analog audio input. It is widely used with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP32, and similar microcontrollers for voice detection, sound monitoring, speech recognition interfaces, and other audio-capture applications.

Q: What does AGC (Automatic Gain Control) do in this module?

A: AGC automatically adjusts the amplifier's gain based on the incoming sound level. This means soft sounds are amplified more while louder sounds are pulled back — resulting in a consistent, stable output signal without manual tuning or the risk of clipping loud audio inputs.

Q: Is this module compatible with 3.3V systems like the ESP32 or Raspberry Pi?

A: Yes. The MAX9814 module operates from 2.7V to 5.5V, making it fully compatible with both 3.3V systems (ESP32, Raspberry Pi, STM32) and 5V systems (Arduino Uno, Nano, Mega). Connect VDD to your system's supply voltage, GND to ground, and OUT to an analog input pin.

Q: How do I select the gain level on this module?

A: The GAIN pin controls the amplification level. Leave it unconnected for 60dB gain, connect it to VDD for 50dB, or connect it to GND for 40dB. Choose the level that best matches the sensitivity requirements of your project.

Q: What microphone element is used on this module?

A: This module uses the CMA-4544PF-W omnidirectional electret condenser microphone element, which provides high sensitivity and a wide frequency response — well suited for capturing voice and ambient sound in a variety of project environments.

Production & Packaging Notice

To maintain high stock availability and fast shipping times, our items are sourced from multiple verified manufacturing facilities. While the core quality, materials, and product specifications remain identical, you may notice slight variations in the packaging design, manufacturing origin, or the wording of the printed instructions.