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This is a beautiful, fully restored ELA-M 251 E. Includes original CK12 brassring capsule, NOS GE 6072 triple mica black plate tube, original M955 EC power supply, and brand new microphone cable with vintage swivel connector.
The Telefunken ELA M 251 E tube condenser microphone came about when Neumann ended its contract with Telefunken to distribute its microphones. Looking for a replacement for the large-diaphragm U47 in this market, Telefunken contracted with AKG in 1958 to develop the ELA M 251 and ELA M 250 microphones, using the same elements that made the C12 microphone so desirable: a Haufe T-14/1 transformer, a 6072 tube, and a CK12 capsule. The 251 model has three polar patterns, while the 250 model has Omni and Cardioid only. The letter 'E' was added to models marketed for 'Export', which included a socketed 6072 tube (since it was easier to obtain outside Europe).
In most respects, (other than wiring for the different tubes), the 'E' and 'non-E' models are identical. But neither is identical to the C12, which had a remote pattern selector box, whereas the ELA-M 250/251 has the selector switch right on the body of the mic, just like the Neumann U47. Also, the CK12 capsule in the C12 mic was wired differently than the ELA-M mic. On the 251 mics, the two halves of the backplate of the CK12 dual-diaphragm were isolated from each other, allowing the electrical switching between three polar patterns, instead of the two found on the C12 microphone. The additional polar pattern, combined with a different, thicker mesh grill, contributed to the different sonic characteristics of the Telefunken version compared to the original C12.
The 251 introduced a larger head grille with an additional internal mesh, which subtly shaped high-frequency response. The ELA-M was also revolutionary in that the components are designed to be dismantled without the use of tools, with the head assembly easily removed from the body, and the electronics housed in a plastic cylinder inside the microphone body. This design allowed the simple swapping out of components should they require replacement. This modular design made it simple to swap out components if they needed replacement and Neumann would copy this idea for its next flagship microphone, the U 67.
The ELA-M has become a Holy Grail microphone due to its incredible tone and has been used on countless great recordings of the last 50+ years. With its extended top end, open midrange, and unmistakable presence, the ELA M 251 quickly became one of the most sought-after tube condensers ever made. To this day, it remains a gold-standard vocal microphone used on countless hit records. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and the ELA M 251 is one of the most copied microphones in history. Learn more about the history of the Telefunken ELA M 250 and 251 Tube Microphones.
The best gear advice always comes from those who use it the most. That's where you come in! Let the pro audio world hear your voice with a review of the Telefunken ELA-M 251 E Large Diaphragm Tube Condenser Microphone #1184 (Vintage) . Once you submit your review, please check your email and verify your address to have it posted.
