Diamond Series 1

What’s In The Box

M 910 Power Supply FC10 Locking Flight Case
Designed and built in America, the M 910 power supply features the TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik’s microphone flight cases are designed with
traditional stylings of the original Austrian-made AKG units partnered with the delicate capsules, vacuum tubes and electronic components in mind. A unique
improvements of modern component technology and circuit board design. A blend of seven Wisconsin hardwoods is utilized in the construction of the shell,
notable difference is that the modern M 910 has combined the power supply while the outside of the case is wrapped in 1000pt Cordura, the world’s finest
and the pattern selector box into one unit for improved functionality and easier traveling fiber. Dual combination locks and trim in nickel create an understated,
transportation. These units are built well over-spec to ensure reliability and classic look. An embroidered TELEFUNKEN diamond logo on the inside lid, and
safe operation for decades. Each power supply is calibrated to the specific engraved logo plate complete the package.
microphone system it comes with. They are burned in as a full system to ensure
optimum performance and stable operation. WB10 Wooden Microphone Box
Custom-made solid oak box. Vintage styled with classic TELEFUNKEN Diamond
The M 910 is fully regulated to ensure consistent operation regardless of line logo. Made in America.
voltage variations or location. The heater voltage circuit is designed to ramp up
to optimal voltage over 20 seconds, which helps to extend the life of the vacuum For a complete list of additional accessories and replacement parts for Diamond
tube. The M 910 features premium Neutrik connectors. While these connectors Series products, please visit http://t-funk.com/shop
are not historically accurate, they are considered a superior connector when
compared to the original Cannon and 5-pin DIN connectors.

M 810 Cable
The M 810 features a historically accurate swivel stand mount connector on
the microphone end and a premium Neutrik 7-pin XLR connector on the power
supply end. It is designed to mate with original C12 microphones and will power
vintage units that have been converted to self-bias operation. This cable is made
by TELEFUNKEN technicians in the USA using Sommer SC-Octave Tube cable,
which has been custom-designed for the connection of tube microphones.
Manufactured in Germany, SC-Octave Tube cable provides high quality, linear
transmission with high flexibility and 100% interference rejection. 10 meters
(32.8 feet) in length.

M 751 Rycote Shock Mount

The Rycote InVision USM is the best shock mount currently produced, both for
functionality and isolation. Its unique, adjustable universal locking system can be
quickly adjusted to securely fit a wide range of microphones. The USM utilizes
specially designed clips made from robust Hytrel thermoplastic, designed to
never sag or need rethreading. This indestructible, innovative design provides an
additional 12 dB of isolation compared to conventional elastic shock mounts.

2 TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik Shop Webstore Diamond Series 3

Quick Start Guide
1. Thread the included shock mount or stand mount cable connector on Handling
to a sturdy microphone stand. Double check that the stand is stable and Handle your microphone, cable, and power supply with the utmost care.
properly balanced; falls from microphone stands can require costly repairs. It Remember that Diamond Series microphones are reverse engineered from
is recommended to use the shock mount stead of the stand mount to reduce vintage models, so most mechanical parts are custom machined and not
mechanical vibration from transferring to the audio path via the stand. cheaply or easily replaceable. If damage occurs or there is a change in
operation, please contact TELEFUNKEN directly at repairs@t-funk.com.
2. Set the microphone into the shock mount and tighten until hand tight.
Storage
3. Insert the cable into the base of the microphone and begin threading it on. If When not in use, store your microphone in the included wooden box. It is not
you experience resistance, reverse the threading direction and make sure the recommended to leave your microphone on a stand. Not only will dust degrade
connector is inserted correctly. the response of the capsule over time, but this greatly increases the risk of a fall,
which could result in required mechanical repair or cosmetic damage.
4. Plug the other end of the microphone cable into the included power supply.
It is recommended that the power supply be at least 3 meters from the Properly coil your tube microphone cable when storing. Kinks left in the cable
microphone while recording. Make sure the cable is kept close to the stand and will expedite the deterioration of the conductors which will lead to shorts or
ground to avoid tripping or knocking over the microphone. opens in crucial contacts, and ultimately failure.

5. Make sure the power supply is set to the correct mains voltage (115V or Cleaning
230V). Plug the included power cable into the power supply, then into mains To clean fingerprints and light grime from your microphone, wipe with a soft
power. cloth damp with an ammonia-based glass cleaner as soon as possible. We use
microfiber cloths, but any soft, lint-free cloth will do. Spray the cleaner onto the
6. Connect a standard 3-pin microphone cable (not included) to the power cloth first. Never spray any liquid directly onto your microphone.
supply and then to your microphone preamplifier input.
To lubricate your threaded cable collar, apply a small amount of electronics
7. Turn on the power supply. Let the system warm up for 10 minutes before use. cleaner/lubricant (we use DeoxIT Gold) with a cotton swab. Do not spray the
lubricant directly into the cable connector.

Never attempt to clean your microphone capsule. This should only be

performed by a reputable, trusted professional. It is recommended to contact to

Safety Warning TELEFUNKEN to have this service performed.

If you have any questions regarding cleaning your microphone or having these
Vacuum tube microphones, their associated power supplies, and their cables services performed by a TELEFUNKEN technician, please contact repairs@t-
carry potentially harmful voltages. Make sure all connections are made before funk.com.
powering on your microphone system. Do not open your microphone or power
supply while it’s connected to mains power and powered on. If for whatever
reason your Diamond Series microphone stops working, turn it off and contact
an authorized TELEFUNKEN repair center.

4 TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik Diamond Series 5

Diamond Series Overview Vacuum Tube Information
The Diamond Series features three primary microphone models that epitomize TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik Diamond Series microphones feature vacuum
vintage vacuum tube microphone technology, which characterize and color the tubes specially selected to properly mate electronically and sonically with
sounds of popular recorded music from the late 1940’s through today. These each model. All tubes used are burned-in and tested for noise and gain prior
three pillars of the vintage microphone world were selected to preserve their to installation in South Windsor, CT. TELEFUNKEN maintains a large stock
legacy not only because of their extremely high fidelity sonic abilities, but also of vacuum tubes and replacements that have been tested specifically for
because they exemplify the nearly gone culture of high quality manufacturing microphone use are available directly.
and hand-made workmanship. Please visit www.t-funk.com/shop/vacuum-tubes for more information.

The Diamond Series currently comprises of five microphones; three main models
and two variants. They are the C12, ELA M 251E, ELA M 251T, U47 and U48.
TELEFUNKEN 6072A
All of the parts for these microphones were reverse engineered and recreated
exactly to the originals in order to manufacture new models and provide
restoration parts for the vintage versions. The large majority of the parts are
custom tooled and machined in the USA, where TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik is
located.

Every microphone is hand-built and assembled from the ground up and

tested in the TELEFUNKEN facility located in South Windsor, Connecticut.
Each microphone is individually wired point-to-point; no circuit boards to be This new production 6072A is a low-noise, sonically balanced, dual-triode
found here. Every plastic is riveted by hand, and each assembly is tapped vacuum tube recommended for use in vintage and new production ELA M 251E,
and screwed together by hand. Diamond Series microphones are produced in C12, TF51 and similar microphones. Screened TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik,
smaller production runs to achieve the finest attention to detail. this tube is included in new ELA M 251E microphone systems.

The dream of TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik remains to preserve these iconic Fixed-bias vs Self-bias
microphones and their history, and to develop new microphone technology that The original 1950’s C12 amplifier uses a fixed-bias design which requires
draws inspiration from them. TELEFUNKEN continues the tradition of producing applying a separate negative voltage to the grid of the 6072A triode. Varying
high fidelity recording instruments to benefit the recording and performing world, this voltage changes the operating point of the tube, which impacts a number
and to continue to characterize music for generations to come. of characteristics including gain, sensitivity, and frequency response. It has
long been a common modification to disconnect the bias voltage and add a
cathode resistor and capacitor, effectively converting the amplifier to self-bias
configuration. Self-bias is largely seen as an improvement over fixed-bias, as
it’s known to improve both the frequency response and headroom and requires
a less complicated power supply. In self-bias, the cathode voltage is effectively
set by the value of the cathode resistor and the current draw of the tube, while
the negative grid voltage is left to naturally settle based on the specific tube’s
parameters. This configuration is found in vintage and new production ELA M
251E’s and is standard in the TELEFUNKEN C12.

6 TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik Shop Tubes Diamond Series 7

C12 History
The C12 was introduced by AKG, or Akustische und Kino-Gerate (Acoustic and The 251 and C12 both feature the CK12, but the capsules are polarized
Film Equipment), in 1953. It was designed by AKG engineer Konrad Wolf to very differently in the two models. In the C12, the front membrane is always
compete with the already-popular U47. While both microphones feature a large grounded, and the back membrane varies from 0 to 120 volts, whereas in the
diaphragm capsule, vacuum tube, and output transformer, little else is similar. 251, both the front and back membranes vary between -60 and +60 volts.
Unlike the U47, the C12 features nine remotely switchable polar patterns from Though the overall range is identical, the difference in approach does account
an external switching box connected to the microphone’s power supply. Initially for a discrepancy in how the capsule transfers sound energy into an electrical
intended for capturing classical performances and broadcast applications, it signal. The polarizing network itself was also moved inside the microphone
quickly found its way into the recording field. AKG’s edge terminated CK12 in the 251, with the switch now found on the front of the microphone. It is
capsule produced a more open and detailed sound compared to the U47’s mid- speculated that this was done to imitate the look of the U47. The number of
forward and present center-terminated M7 capsule. polar patterns was also reduced to three: Cardioid, Omnidirectional and Figure
8. There are also obvious differences in the mechanical assembly, body tube
The CK12 capsule is probably the most famous microphone capsule ever diameter and headgrille size and construction between the two microphones.
produced and was a major breakthrough in design at the time. Though many The sonic differences between the 251 and the C12 can largely be attributed to
changes were made during the original production years, all true CK12’s feature the headgrille design, change in polarizing network, and change in tube bias,
dual-backplates with edge-terminated diaphragms. Those changes include since they share the same capsule, tube, and output transformer.
diaphragm materials and weights, as well as changes to the size of the chamber
between the backplates. There were also changes to the output transformer It is generally estimated that approximately 2,000 C12’s were made during
used over the production run. Early versions have the V2148 transformer, while AKG’s 10-year production run from 1953 until 1963. In 1962, AKG released the
the later have the more famous Haufe T14/1 transformer, which in itself varied C12A, which also featured a CK12 capsule but with a different tube, circuit, and
over the years. There have also been some minor cosmetic and mechanical transformer. The later version of the famed CK12 capsule is also found in early
changes to the microphone, including the shape and height of the headgrille, versions of the C 414 which was initially released in 1971. The modern “VR”
and variations in hardware, cable assembly, and power supply design. version was released in 1994 as a replica of the original C12, but aside from
the 6072A tube, it has little in common with the capsule, sound, or circuit of the
When Telefunken stopped distributing the U47 in 1958, AKG was contracted to original C12. A stereo version, the C24, was introduced in 1959 and stayed in
develop a new flagship condenser microphone. AKG’s design was the ELA M production years after the C12 was discontinued.
251, essentially a modification of the C12. The C12, basically unchanged, was
also re-branded as the Siemens SM203 and SM204. Though the 251 is based The TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik replica C12 features a historically accurate
on the C12, there were many modifications made to the original design that CK12 capsule, made by hand in South Windsor, CT, a 6072A vacuum tube in
account for the functional and sonic differences between the two models. A self-bias configuration, and a T14/1 output transformer made by the original
major change found in the 251 is the self-biasing of the vacuum tube, compared European manufacturer, Haufe. The polar pattern box has been combined
to the fixed-bias configuration found in the C12. With self-bias there is no with the power supply into one unit. This does not affect the sound in any way,
calibration necessary when changing tubes and it is generally thought of as but greatly improves the functionality by limiting the number of interconnects,
sounding more open and natural. It is a very common modification to convert cabling, and equipment needed for operation. Mechanically, most parts found
AKG C12’s to self-bias. The TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik C12 is self-biased. in the replica are compatible with vintage units though fit cannot be guaranteed
Another difference is that the tube socket is inverted in the 251, making the high due to subtle changes in the original design. While the original units feature a
impedance line from capsule to tube grid significantly shorter. plated body with an engraved AKG logo, the TELEFUNKEN replica features a
gray powder coated body and classic TELEFUNKEN Diamond badge.

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C12
Revered for its smooth and airy frequency response, if there were ever a
Technical Specifications
microphone that was the epitome of classic, hi-fidelity sound, it would be the
Specification C12
C12. While it is a fantastic choice for all types of instruments, the C12 lends
itself especially well to drum overheads, acoustic guitar, and vocals. Its silky Type Vacuum Tube Condenser
top end provides plenty of air without sounding harsh or artificial. Its midrange
speaks clearly and articulately, capturing the source with a natural presence. Polar Pattern 9-Pattern Variable including Cardioid,
Its low end is tight and focused, perfectly balanced with the rest of the Omnidirectional, Figure-8
frequency range. The TELEFUNKEN C12 builds upon the original design with Frequency Range 20 Hz - 20 kHz, ±3 dB
the implementation of cathode self-biasing operation, a configuration which is
Power Source External Power Supply
quieter and more consistent than the original fixed-bias configuration.
Capsule TELEFUNKEN CK12 – Edge Terminated
Large Diaphragm

CK12 Capsule Tube TELEFUNKEN 6072A

Our historically accurate replica CK12 Transformer Haufe T14/1
capsule is made in limited quantity in
the USA. This edge-terminated, dual Sensitivity 10 mV/Pa ± 1 dB
diaphragm design is considered one
THD at 1 kHz, 1 Pa (Amplifier) < 0.25%
of the truly best sounding capsules
ever created. Output Impedance 200 Ω
Maximum SPL (for 1% THD) 130 dB
6072A Vacuum Tube S/N Ratio 85 dBA
This new production, TELEFUNKEN
Elektroakustik-screened 6072A dual Self-Noise (Amplifier) 9 dBA
triode vacuum tube is electronically
and sonically tested and burned-in Dimensions 250 mm L x 42.5 mm Dia
in the USA. They are hand-selected Weight 567 g
for use in the C12 and provide stellar,
vintage-correct performance.

Haufe T14/1 Transformer

This output transformer is made to
vintage specification by the original
European manufacturer, Haufe,
exclusively for us. The T14/1 provides
a sonically pleasing tonality with
excellent low frequency clarity.

10 TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik Diamond Series 11

System Configurations Warranty
TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik warrants that any capsules and tubes used
in their microphones are free from defects in material and workmanship for
System C12 C12 Stereo Set
the period of ninety (90) days from the original date of purchase, and agree to
M 910 Power Supply X
replace any capsule or tube which, under normal installation and use, disclose
M 910S Power Supply X
such defect. This is provided that the complete microphone is delivered to
M 810 Cable X 2X
TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik intact for examination and provided that such
WB10 Wooden Box X 2X
examination discloses, in the judgment of TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik, that
M 751 Shock Mount X 2X the tube or capsule is indeed defective. Upon replacement, TELEFUNKEN
FC10 Flight Case X Elektroakustik will provide an additional 90-day limited warranty on the new
FC10S Flight Case X capsule or tube.

This warranty does not extend to any capsule or tube which appears to have
been misused, altered, neglected, damaged, or stored in any manner that
adversely affects it, or used in violation of instructions furnished by us. This

Stereo Sets
limited warranty shall be void and of no further force or effect whatsoever if
the microphone is repaired or modified by any person other than an authorized
representative of TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik. This warranty shall not apply
Like all TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik tube microphone Stereo Sets, the C12 to any defect, failure, or damage caused in whole or in part from attempts by
Stereo Set includes two meticulously matched microphones and a dual personnel other than TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik’s to open, repair, or service
power supply in a premium flight case. The American-made power supply is the microphone; nor to damage to a unit which has been modified by persons
capable of powering both microphones at the same time and controls the polar other than TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik personnel.
patterns of both microphones. This system is capable of all common stereo
recording techniques including XY, ORTF, Spaced Pair, Blumlein, and Mid-Side. Please visit www.t-funk.com/warranty to register your microphone.
The included carrying case easily holds both sets of microphones, cables,
and accessories. All critical components, including the capsules, tubes and
transformers, are hand-selected and tested for matched gain and frequency
response. These sets offer the user the knowledge and comfort that the tools
they are using will give identical responses for the most critical stereo recording. Warranty Registration

Repairs & Service

Repairs on new TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik microphones are covered under a
limited warranty plan and repair costs will be determined based upon the date of
purchase and the date in which the warranty was registered. Repairs & Service
covered under the warranty plan are done at no charge for labor, parts and
service.

Please visit www.t-funk.com/repairs for microphone repair information.

12 TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik Microphone Repair Form Diamond Series 13

14 TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik