Telefunken TF51 Large-diaphragm Tube Condenser Microphone

A Modern Take on the Legendary Austrian Sound

Developed, handcrafted, and tested to fastidious quality standards in Telefunken's Connecticut facility, the Alchemy Series is the company’s next-generation large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone. Inspired by classic mics — but far from slavish re-creations — these mics are designed and voiced from the ground up with unique sonic profiles. The Telefunken TF51 large-diaphragm tube condenser mic is a fresh take on the classic "Austrian" sound associated with vintage Telefunken ELA M 251E and C12 microphones. The TF51 continues the 251 legacy, delivering smooth midrange and airy highs while capturing every nuance of the source in gorgeous detail.

Sumptuous results on vocals, acoustic instruments, and percussion

The original ELA M 251E, introduced in 1960, is reverentially considered to be one of the most beautiful-sounding mics ever made. With rare working-condition vintage 251s going for big money, the TF51 is a no-brainer if you're after that uniquely smooth, present, and open sound you've heard on countless hits. Simply put, the Telefunken TF51 delivers sumptuous results on vocals, acoustic instruments, and percussion.

Top-drawer components

The TF51's astonishingly lifelike fidelity is a product, not only of design, but of top-drawer components inspired by those found in the vintage classics. The 6072A vacuum tube (also deployed in Telefunken's ELA M 251E and C12) is matched to an edge-terminated capsule inspired by the historic CK12. The TF51 also employs a custom German-made Haufe transformer, again, similar to the C12 and 251E. This meticulous attention to detail gives the TF51 its wonderfully and creamy sonic profile.

Explore the sonic possibilities

The TF51's three polar patterns — cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8 — give you immense flexibility when it comes to exploring the sonic possibilities offered by different recording techniques. With two of these superb microphones, you can implement stereo techniques such as Spaced Pair (A/B), X-Y (including Blumlein), ORTF array, and mid-side (M-S). You could even mic an entire symphony orchestra with nothing but three judiciously placed TF51s set to omni.

The next-generation 251

Sweetwater tip: Every serious studio should have at least one pair of high-quality large-diaphragm tube condenser mics — and the Telefunken TF51 is inspired by a legendary one. You can use the TF51 on just about anything — with world-class results. It's simply stunning on vocals, acoustic guitars, double bass, electric guitar and bass cabs, drums and percussion, strings, brass, and woodwinds. And you haven't lived until you've heard a grand piano spring to life when miked with a pair of TF51s. Considering its unique sonic virtues, impressive performance, and outstanding value, it would be wise to have two of them in your mic locker for recording tracks in stereo!

Telefunken TF51 Large-diaphragm Tube Condenser Mic Features:

• A fresh take on the classic "Austrian" sound
• Cardioid, omni, figure-8 polar patterns
• Open and detailed frequency response
• Smooth, airy top end reminiscent of the ELA M 251E
• Balanced low end and natural midrange
• CK12-style edge-terminated capsule and custom Haufe transformer, similar to the C12 and 251E
• Telefunken Elektroakustik 6072A vacuum tube
• Hand assembled in the USA