Telefunken Intros The AR-51 Tube Mic, A Budget-Friendly ELA M 251 E
Telefunken Elektroakustik is heading out to Winter NAMM next week where it will introduce the new AR-51 large diaphragm tube condenser microphone. The AR-51 is the latest addition to Telefunken’s affordably priced R-F-T line of tube mics.
Telefunken Elektroakustik's new AR-51 large diaphragm tube mic
The AR-51 has been designed in the tradition of the classic mics of the past, utilizing the same circuit design as the Telefunken ELA M 251E. The AR-51 employs new cost-efficient manufacturing methods to hit a sweet-spot price point (TBA) for customers ranging from major commercial studios to voiceover rooms and home project studios.
According to Telefunken, the new R-F-T AR-51 utilizes only premium components, including a vintage New Old Stock (NOS) tube that has been rigidly tested for noise and microphonics, as in the ELA M 251E. The AR-51 also features a globally-sourced power supply and capsule, both rigorously tested prior to installation.
As with all products in the R-F-T range of microphones, the AR-51’s circuit board has been “designed for superior current handling, permitting the amplifier to have full access to the necessary ‘power on demand’ for handling low frequency and transient information.” Modifications have been made to the amplifier circuit to optimize the performance of the capsule and a signal path that includes the same European manufactured output transformer found in every ELA M 251 E built since 1960.
Audio engineers at the Telefunken studios in South Windsor, CT, have tested a wide range of applications for this new large diaphragm microphone, and found that the AR-51 is especially suitable for recording acoustic and electric guitars, piano, percussion, for drum overheads and close miked drums, as well as for both male and female vocals.
If you’ll be out at NAMM next week, drop by Telefunken’s booth 1868 (Hall E) and hear the new AR-51.