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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 remains one of the most sought-after recording microphones in the world, with a near-legendary reputation built over more than half a century. The original ELA M 251 was developed in Vienna by AKG on behalf of Telefunken in the late 1950s, becoming a defining example of the classic European tube microphone. Inspired by this classic, which can still be heard on countless hit records and landmark recordings, Telefunken Elektroakustik has now brought the large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone back as a reissue. The recreation stays so close to the original that many of its parts are interchangeable with those of the historic vintage models. One of the true icons of the golden age of tube 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. It is then quick to show how closely this reissue follows the character of the original, combining rich, three-dimensional warmth with open, silky highs and lifelike reproduction of voices and instruments. At its heart is a Telefunken Elektroakustik CK12 capsule, a 6072A tube, and a Haufe T14/1 output transformer. A sensitivity of 17mV/Pa allows for strong signal levels without demanding excessive preamp gain, while total harmonic distortion remains below 0.2%. It also handles sound pressure levels of up to 130dB. The microphone is powered by the supplied M 950E external power supply and comes with a 10m cable, M 751 shock mount, flight case, and wooden box.
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A studio thoroughbred
The Telefunken ELA M 251E sits at the very top of the price range, even among professional microphones, though well-preserved originals command considerably higher prices. What the original and the recreation share is not only their distinctive sonic character, but also their versatility. A five-position selector on the body of the microphone provides cardioid, figure-8 (front or back), and omni (front or back) patterns, making it a 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 lends itself to natural room recordings and ensemble work. On vocals and acoustic instruments in particular, the ELA M 251E delivers a full, dynamic sound with 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 the tradition
Today, Telefunken Elektroakustik operates as an independent company dedicated to recreating some of the most celebrated microphones in recording history. Tube microphones remain a particular speciality, with the manufacturer's range including landmark models such as the U47, U48, and C12 alongside the ELA M 251E. Combining modern manufacturing techniques with meticulous attention to the original designs, Telefunken aims to reproduce their circuitry, construction, and unique tonal character while maintaining the consistency expected of contemporary professional equipment.
