Telefunken ELA M 251E
Large-Diaphragm Tube Condenser Microphone
- Faithful replica of the classic ELA M 251
- One inch double-diaphragm capsule CK 12, gold-plated on both sides
- Polar pattern: Cardioid, omnidirectional and figure-of-eight
- Frequency range: 20 - 20 kHz (+/-3 dB)
- Tube type: dual triode JAN-GE 6072a
- Haufe T14/1 output transformer
- THD: less than 0.2% at 1 kHz and 1 Pa
- Sensitivity: 17 mV/Pa (+/- 1dB)
- Impedance: 200 Ohm
- Max SPL 1 % THD: 130 dB
- S/N Ratio: 85 dBA
- Contents of delivery: power supply, microphone cable, shock-mount, wooden microphone box, flight case
- Dimensions (H x D): 216 x 50 mm
- Weight (microphone): 0.59 kg
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Available since October 2023
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Item number 577466
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Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
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Tube Yes
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Switchable Polar Pattern Yes
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Omnidirectional Yes
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Cardioid Yes
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Figure-8 Yes
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Low Cut No
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Pad No
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shockmount included Yes
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USB Microphone No
A faithful recreation of a classic
The Telefunken ELA M 251 was and remains one of the most sought-after recording microphones in the world, having earned a near-legendary reputation since its creation over half a century ago. The original ELA M 251 was developed in Vienna by AKG on behalf of Telefunken in the late 1950s, and is still regarded as one of the most desirable valve microphones ever made. Inspired by this classic, which continues to be heard on countless hit records and landmark recordings, Telefunken Elektroakustik has now brought this large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone back as a meticulously crafted reissue. The recreation is so faithful to the original that many components are even interchangeable with those found in the historic vintage models. One of the true icons of the golden age of valve microphones is back.
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Take a moment
As with any tube microphone, the Telefunken ELA M 251E benefits from a brief warm-up period before use. Certainly, it doesn't take long to hear just how faithfully this reissue captures the character of the original. The microphone combines a rich, three-dimensional warmth with open, silky highs and a remarkably lifelike reproduction of voices and instruments. At the heart of the design are a Telefunken Elektroakustik CK12 capsule, a 6072A valve, and a Haufe T14/1 output transformer. A sensitivity rating of 17mV/Pa allows for strong signal levels without demanding excessive gain from the preamp, while total harmonic distortion of less than 0.2% ensures exceptionally clean reproductions. At the same time, the microphone can handle sound pressure levels of up to 130dB, making it equally comfortable in front of very loud sources.
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Purely professional
The price of the Telefunken ELA M 251E immediately places it in a category that remains exceptional even within the professional studio world. That being said, well-preserved originals frequently change hands for considerably more – it's not uncommon for prices to reach double that of this reissue. What the original and the recreation share is not only their distinctive sonic character, but also their remarkable versatility. Three switchable polar patterns make the ELA M 251E an exceptionally flexible tool for a wide range of recording situations. Cardioid is often the preferred choice for solo performers, while figure-8 is particularly useful for duets. Omni, meanwhile, lends itself beautifully to natural room recordings and ensemble work. Especially on vocals and acoustic instruments, the ELA M 251E delivers a full, dynamic sound while maintaining impressive clarity and articulation.
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About Telefunken
Telefunken Elektroakustik, headquartered in South Windsor, Connecticut, USA, was established with the goal of producing replacement parts for some of the world’s most valuable tube microphones, thereby preserving their legacy. Under the motto "Legends Never Die," the company now manufactures replicas of the most sought-after microphones ever made. The new production model 251 debuted at the Audio Engineering Society conference in 2002, astonishing the audio world with its remarkable authenticity. Every microphone is handcrafted, with most restoration components for vintage models custom-made in the USA. Telefunken continues the tradition of creating high-fidelity recording equipment using modern production techniques and extensive knowledge of classic microphone design and sound.
Continuing an outstanding tradition
Today, Telefunken Elektroakustik operates as an independent company, carrying forward a name that has been closely associated with the development of professional audio technology since the field's earliest days at the beginning of the twentieth century. Rather than merely paying tribute to the past in name, the manufacturer recreates many of the most celebrated microphone classics with extraordinary attention to detail. Tube microphones remain a particular focus, and although advances in technology have pushed them into a rather more specialised role over the years, they are still regarded as some of the finest tools in professional audio. Alongside the ELA M 251E, Telefunken's Diamond Series includes other celebrated models such as the U47, U48 and C12. Modern manufacturing techniques ensure a high degree of consistency and reliability; at the same time, the design, circuitry, and tonal character remain as close as possible to their historic inspirations. In this way, Telefunken unites the artisanal traditions of classic studio technology with the demands of contemporary production environments.
