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TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik TF51 Demo/Open Box  From TELEFUNKEN

The large diaphragm multi pattern TF51 exhibits a smooth midrange and airy top end similar to the ELA M 251E and C12.

TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik

What We Think

While not changed as much from the AR51 (as compared to the TF47/AK47), the upgraded power supply and internals will really bring the performance of this mic up a step.  Just like the c12 and 251e, the TF51 really benefits from working the proximity effect to your advantage and getting that pushed sound.  With a controlled midrange and a really open and Airy top end, the TF51 really complements the TF47 well. 

The Alchemy Series:

Built side-by-side with "the big boys" (251E, C12, and U47), the Alchemy Series is the next generation of affordable microphones from TELEFUNKEN Elekroakustik. This series directly replaces (and outperforms!) the older and discontinued RFT line. The biggest changes are subtle, but they really add up when talking about overall performance and reliability. Throw in the fact these mics are now shipping with a flight case (previously an add on), and you have a truly exceptional package.

While you can't see it (but you'll hear it!), one of the aspects we are most excited about is that the mics (capsules and electronics), as well as the power supply (internals), are all "stuffed" in-house, in Connecticut. This undoubltely adds a big level of quality control to the microphone set.

Alchemy Microphone Series Comparison

Introducing the Alchemy Microphone Series, TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik's next generation of large diaphragm tube condensers. These microphone models feature unique sonic profiles developed from the ground up at Telefunken's American facility with vintage circuitry, modern fidelity, and superior reliability in mind. In this video we will be comparing the distinct voices of the Alchemy Microphone Series; the "Copperhead" sound of the TF29 and TF39, the "German" voiced TF47, and the "Austrian" voiced TF51. Drum Overhead - 00:45 Electric Bass Amp - 01:34 Acoustic Guitar - 02:30 Electric Guitar Spacey Effects - 03:20 Electric Guitar Driven - 04:26 Piano - 05:03 Male Vocals - 05:55 Female Vocals - 06:52 Every source was recorded in mono with each microphone in cardioid configuration. All three microphones were recorded through our API 1608 console direct in to a Digidesign 192 at 24Bit/48K and captured via Pro Tools HD. NOTE: For the purposes of this comparison, only the TF39 Copperhead Deluxe was used to represent the "Copperhead" sound. The TF29 and TF39 in cardioid exhibit the exact same characteristics.

Manufacturer's Description from TELEFUNKEN

The TF51 is a fresh take on the “Austrian” microphone sound associated with the Telefunken ELA M 251E and C12. The TF51 continues this legacy, exhibiting a smooth midrange and airy top end, capturing every nuance in pleasant detail. This is a reliable first choice for stand out vocals, acoustic instruments, and percussion.

 

Circuit Design

This lifelike fidelity is created with high quality components based off these inspirations. The 6072A vacuum tube (also found in our ELA M 251E and C12) is mated with an edge-terminated style capsule similar to the historic CK12. The output transformer is a custom German-made Haufe transformer, the original manufacturer for TELEFUNKEN. This attention to detail gives the TF51 a beautifully open and smooth sonic profile.

 

Key Features

 ♦ Open and detailed frequency response

 ♦ Airy and smooth top end, reminiscent of the ELA M 251E

 ♦ Balanced low end and natural mid range

 ♦ Hand assembled in the USA

 ♦ CK12-style capsule and Haufe transformer, similar to the C12 and 251E

 

Applications

 • Female vocals, Pop vocals

 • Acoustic guitar

 • Drum overheads

 • Violin

 • Mandolin

 • Grand piano

 

Accessories

Every TF51 microphone system comes with a multi pattern M 903 Power Supply, M 803 Tube Microphone Cable, ZC03 Shell Case, M 703 Shock Mount, M 782 Stand Mount, and Microphone Sleeve.

TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik

About Manufacturer

TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik of South Windsor, CT has been following the tradition of excellence and innovation set forth by the original TELEFUNKEN GmbH of Germany that began over 100 years ago.

TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik's origins began in 2000 when owner Toni Fishman acquired the rights to the name and diamond logo for use in North America. The company began with the reverse engineering of a single microphone part: the ELA M 251 polar pattern selector. Mr. Fishman purchased an original Telefunken ELA M 251 for use in his recording studio, but when he received it he discovered that the polar pattern switch was no longer functional. Realizing that this was a common issue with the original units, the idea to recreate it was born.

The switch was reverse engineered and brought into production for other 251 owners with the same issue. With one part down, the goals were set high to successfully reverse engineer the entire microphone exactly as it was originally manufactured. The next two years were spent developing each and every part of the microphone right down to every detail. Numerous original documents and drafts from TELEFUNKEN and AKG were acquired, and coupled with thorough reverse engineering the ELA M 251 was brought back to life with meticulous accuracy.

As TELEFUNKEN moves forward, one foot is rooted in the rich history of the brand, and the other in new microphone innovations. TELEFUNKEN has evolved exponentially from a single pattern switch to one of the industry leaders in top quality microphones.

Specifications

Tube Type: 6072A

Transformer: Custom Wound Haufe Transformer

Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8

Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz

Sensitivity: 19 mV/Pa

THD @ 1 kHz at 1 Pa (Amplifier): < 0.4%

Output Impedance: < 300 Ω

Maximum SPL (for 1% THD): 128 dB

S/N Ratio: 86 dBA

Self Noise (Amplifier): 8 dBA

Dimensions: 200 mm L x 46 mm Dia

Weight: 615 g

Current Draw from Mains: 50 mA

Power Supply: M 903 PSU - 7 Pin Female XLR Input, 3 Pin Male XLR Output, Polar Pattern Selector

Cable: M 803 - 7 Meter Telefunken Tube Microphone Cable, 7 Pin Male & Female XLRs

Shockmount: M 703 Shock Mount, M 782 Stand Mount

Flight Case: ZC03 Light Weight Carrying Case