TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik U47

TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik U47 is a large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone, a faithful recreation of one of the most iconic studio microphones in recording history. Hand-wired point to point in South Windsor, Connecticut, it retains the historical M7 capsule, the BV8 transformer and the VF14K tube rebuilt to the original specifications, giving the engineer the sound that has defined vocals, guitars and orchestras for more than seven decades.

Historical components, modern reliability

Three components defined the character of the original and the same three define this microphone. The M7 capsule with a centre-terminated 25.4 mm diaphragm delivers full, powerful low-end, a natural mid-range transition and a gently rising presence that doesn't sharpen or irritate over long vocal sessions. The VF14K tube — a recreation of the original VF14M in a metal envelope with a new glass element — provides the same harmonic richness and gentle saturation as the original. The BV8 output transformer wound to the historical specification controls phase response and dynamics at high SPL. The entire signal path mirrors the original.

Sound in the session and in the mix

The vocal character of the U47 — authoritative mid-range, extended low-end and open, soft high-end — means tracks recorded with this microphone sit in the mix naturally without the EQ that more analytical condensers demand. Engineers use it on lead vocals, electric guitars (including close-miced amplifiers), chamber strings and choirs. The cardioid pattern gives good rear rejection on stage and in the control room; omnidirectional works for capturing room acoustics and solo instruments that need surrounding air.

KEY FEATURES

• Large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone, recreation of the original
• 25.4 mm M7 capsule with centre-terminated diaphragm
• TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik VF14K tube (VF14M recreation)
• BV8 output transformer wound to the historical specification
• Hand point-to-point wiring, made in USA
• Two polar patterns: cardioid and omnidirectional
• Classic long-body chassis with chrome headgrille and matte nickel-plated body
• Included: M940H power supply, Sommer M840TH 7.5 m cable, M740 shock mount, FC40 locking flight case, WB40 wooden box

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Manufacturer: TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik
• Type: large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone
• Capsule: TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik M7, 25.4 mm, centre-terminated
• Tube: TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik VF14K
• Transformer: TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik BV8
• Polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional
• Frequency range: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±3 dB)
• Sensitivity: 24.5 mV/Pa (±1 dB)
• THD at 1 kHz, 1 Pa: below 0.3%
• Output impedance: 400 Ω
• Max SPL (at 1% THD): 127 dB
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 85 dBA
• Self-noise (amplifier): 9 dBA
• Power: external M940H power supply (6-pin Tuchel)
• Dimensions: 240 mm L x 60 mm dia
• Weight: 620 g
• Made in: South Windsor, Connecticut, USA