The TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik R-F-T AK-47 MkII is one of those microphones that immediately feels familiar—in the best possible way.

There’s a definite nod to the classic U47 and M49 lineage here, but it never comes across like a sterile recreation or nostalgia piece. Instead, the AK-47 MkII captures a lot of what engineers love about those vintage microphones: depth, authority, and an unmistakably “finished” sound that sits naturally in a mix.

What really stands out is the balance. The low end is full and rich without getting bloated, and the top end has detail and air without the exaggerated brightness that a lot of modern tube microphones lean into. There’s a smoothness to the midrange that makes vocals feel intimate and present, while still retaining clarity and dimension.

The BV8-style transformer and NOS EF732 tube are a big part of that sound. Together, they give the microphone a velvety, harmonically rich character that feels substantial without being overly colored. It has weight and polish, but it still lets the source speak for itself.

In practice, the AK-47 MkII is incredibly versatile. Vocals are the obvious application, but it’s equally impressive on bass cabinet, acoustic instruments, piano, horns, and room duties. The multiple polar patterns make it easy to adapt to different rooms and recording situations, which adds a lot of flexibility in real-world sessions.

What we appreciate most is that it doesn’t sound hyped or trendy. It sounds expensive, musical, and confident in a way that makes tracking easier. You put it up, and sources tend to already feel like records.

For engineers looking for a high-end tube microphone with vintage-inspired depth, modern reliability, and a beautifully balanced tone, the AK-47 MkII remains one of the most compelling microphones TELEFUNKEN has ever made.

TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik microphones are known for their beautifully detailed acoustic reproduction. As they're made in a 'no holds barred' manner, that also makes them rather expensive for the average small studio or home enthusiast. With this in mind, the R-F-T series of microphones was created.

The R-F-T line of tube condenser microphones utilizes American designed electronics in conjunction with New Old Stock tubes and standardized parts from overseas manufacturers. While we have not "cut any corners," we have been able to provide a lower cost alternative to more expensive microphone systems, without sacrificing the qualities that you would expect from a TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik microphone.

The amplifier found in the R-F-T AK-47 MkII features a new proprietary circuit designed around a NOS TELEFUNKEN EF-732 tube and a custom output transformer that is for all intents and purposes an EXACT replica of the historic BV8 transformer found in our (and historic) U-47 and U-48 microphones. The dual sided large diaphragm capsule undergoes rigorous testing in our laboratory prior to installation in the R-F-T AK-47 MkII, and again during final testing and burn-in of the microphone.

The TELEFUNKEN EF-732 tube is very similar to the AC-701 tube in that is provides a "velvety" character to the overall tone of the microphone. When this tube is coupled with our historically accurate recreation of the BV8 transformer some of the magic begins, but we didn't stop there. The layout of the circuit board features broader traces for superior current on demand capability (which enhances the low frequency and transient response capability of the amplifier) as well as a layout, which minimizes noise and cross talk between components.

Sonically, the R-F-T AK-47 MkII is a remarkably hi-fidelity microphone with a "present" but not "harsh" character, which in many ways is reminiscent of a cross between the historic M-49 and U-47/48 microphones of yesteryear. The result is a microphone with superior high frequency detail, a rich and thunderous low end, without the upper mid-range frequency bump (what we call "guitar store brightness") often found in microphones in this price range. Instead, it has a delicate and intimate "air" that is usually found only in microphones three times the price.

The AK-47 MkII delivers top shelf TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik quality at a price that even mere mortals can afford. 

Warranty

This item is sold without the Sound Pure 3-year warranty (used / B-stock / dealer-exempt). Coverage terms for items in this category live in Terms & Conditions, Section 27.

Returns

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