Telefunken Elektroakustik ELA M 251E Tube Condenser Mic

The ELA M 251E large diaphragm tube microphone is one of the world’s most sought-after recording tools and TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik’s recreation, true to the original in every detail, delivers the same rich sonic response. The microphone of choice for vocals and acoustic instruments, offering a choice of three polar patterns, this reissue delivers classic character without busting your budget.

A FAITHFUL RECREATION OF A CLASSIC MIC

Prime examples of the TELEFUNKEN ELA M 251E large diaphragm tube microphone, which can be heard on some of the greatest recordings of the past 50 years, can cost you tens of thousands of dollars on today’s vintage market. TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik’s recreation of this highly sought-after microphone will not break the bank yet offers all the performance and character of the original by staying true to the heritage of this legendary microphone.

UNPARALLELED PERFORMANCE

The classic ELA M 251E is arguably without equal, offering a sonic character that is smooth while also present and open. TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik’s recreation delivers those same qualities. The low end is extended and focused, its mid-range response is detailed, and it offers a silky top-end, making this new ELA M 251E a go-to mic for vocals and acoustic instruments.

ATTENTION TO DETAIL, INSIDE AND OUT

The ELA M 251E reissue includes an edge terminated, dual-backplate CK12 capsule, which offers selectable cardioid, omnidirectional and bidirectional polar patterns, an Electro Harmonix 6072a vacuum tube and a Haufe T14/1 output transformer — the same transformer used by AKG Acoustics GmbH in the company’s venerable C12 microphone.

TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik’s attention to detail extends to the historically accurate cosmetic finish and structural design. On the exterior, the classic diamond-shaped TELEFUNKEN logo badge is attached to the front of the microphone while the ELA M model name is engraved at the base of the head grille. Inside, a molded plastic enclosure houses the amplifier circuit, including the vacuum tube and output transformer. In the head grille, the capsule is suspended on a moving polar pattern switch.

A VINTAGE REISSUE, TRUE TO SPEC

Original ELA M 251E microphones still in operation generally require costly maintenance and refurbishment to perform at their best. Utilizing modern components, this recreation offers tighter tolerance to the specifications, superior current handling and a lower self-noise than typical vintage examples still in use. In fact, the reissue is so faithful to the original that its parts are interchangeable with those 50-plus-year-old microphones.

Accessories Each ELA M 251E microphone includes:

• M 950E power supply
• M 850E 25-ft. Sommer tube microphone cable (vintage compatible 6-pin female stand mount, 7-pin male XLR)
• M 751 Rycote shock mount
• FC50 locking flight case
• WB50 wooden microphone box
• M 950ES dual power supply
• FC50S stereo flight case
• Electro Harmonix 6072A vacuum tube