An artificial mastoid for testing bone conduction receivers is described. It consists essentially of a stiff metal bar having a fundamental resonant frequency above the measurement range, with a strain‐sensitive translating element fastened to the under side and a compliant pad on top. The translating element is a slab of activated ceramic, which is essentially invariant to humidity and temperature variations. The compliant pad generally used is Koroseal ♯74, which simulates the flesh over the mastoid prominence reasonably well. Koroseal ♯15 simulates flesh better but is less rugged. Calibration methods are discussed.