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Telefunken began producing microphones in 2001 after acquiring the rights to use the Telefunken name for their products. The original name, which we might associate with what are now quite rare (and very valuable) microphones and preamps, dates back to pre-World War One Berlin
These are serious microphones that come with price tags to match, towards the very top end of the new microphone market. The company have, however, long been keen to introduce some more accessible options to the modern engineer and until recently had a range of more affordable options that went under the umbrella of the RFT series. These are now discontinued, however, and have been replaced by a range of four new microphones, collectively known as the Alchemy series. By not being tied to having to exactly replicate classic designs, Telefunken have been free to strike a balance between cost and performance that brings the price of this new series more into range for us mere mortals, who might wish to add a high-quality tube microphone to their collection.
Alchemy Series
Designed, hand-built, and tested to strict quality standards in Connecticut, USA, the Alchemy Series is TELEFUNKEN’s next generation of large diaphragm tube condensers. These new models feature unique sonic profiles developed from the ground up and will begin shipping this spring. The voicings of the new Alchemy Series are the TF29, TF39, TF47, and TF51.
Professional Designs
TELEFUNKEN has implemented numerous improvements sonically and mechanically to the Alchemy Series, tailored all the way down to the accessories. Boasting newly designed custom headgrilles for transparency and openness, hand-plugged circuit boards, and selected American and European vacuum tubes and transformers, no detail was left unaddressed. All systems ship in a sleek, compact, protective case for easy transport and storage. Included are two modern mount options, microphone dust cover, high-flex 7-meter cable, and an American-assembled power supply.
Trusted Quality
Like all TELEFUNKEN microphones, the Alchemy Series is assembled in the same American facility as the legendary Diamond Series (ELA M 251E, C12 and U47) by a small, dedicated team of engineers and technicians. Each microphone is individually tested and listened to. All critical components are quality controlled in-house before assembly, including capsule frequency sweeps, vacuum tube burn-in and noise grading. These high standards lead to extremely tight tolerances from microphone to microphone – something few in the industry can claim.
The Alchemy Series combines timeless sound quality with TELEFUNKEN reliability in an affordable package. Whether it’s the home studio or a commercial facility, the Alchemy Series is suited for any recording environment.
TF29
The TF29 Copperhead is an evolution of the CU-29 Copperhead, an original TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik design that garnered fans for its natural and non-hyped tonality and unparalleled “quality for price”. The TF29 continues this reputation of outstanding sonic performance and value. It’s a workhorse microphone, accurately and honestly capturing vocals, acoustic and electric guitar, drums, and nearly any source put in front of it. The TF29 features a new old stock American-made 5654W vacuum tube, all-brass K67-style capsule, and a premium Swedish-made Lundahl output transformer. These components create a balanced frequency response and natural tonality, making the TF29 a trusty go-to choice.
TF39
The TF39 Copperhead Deluxe is an expansion of the “Copperhead” sound with the addition of a dual membrane K67-style capsule, allowing for 3-pattern selection between cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8. This added feature set gives the TF39 greater flexibility and options in the studio. Sonically and component-wise, the two microphones are otherwise the same.
TF47
The TF47 is a new design based on the “German” sound, drawing inspiration from the historic U47 and M49. With a deep low end and a forward midrange, the TF47 is excellent for adding depth and presence to any source. These characteristics make it especially ideal for recording vocals, guitar amps, and drums. At the heart of the TF47 is an all-brass K47-style capsule, new old stock 5840W vacuum tube, and custom-made historically accurate BV8 transformer (as found in the U47). These components deliver a warm and punchy sound reminiscent of the U47 with a pleasant top end articulation that sits perfect in a mix.
TF51
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. 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.
TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik strives for absolute perfection. By offering historic recreations of classic microphones alongside their own proprietary designs based around the distinctive tube mic sound, TELEFUNKEN has established a product line that expertly combines vintage style and sound with the reliability of a modern-day microphone design. TELEFUNKEN’s commitment to both the sonic excellence and quality of all of their products is rivaled only by their dedication to provide the best possible service to their customers.
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