Telefunken U47

Since its original development in 1946, the Telefunken U 47 has been the microphone of choice for generations of recording professionals. The first condenser microphone to offer selectable polar patterns (cardioid and omni), the original U-47 also featured the famous M7 capsule which had been developed in 1928 by Georg Neumann. To this capsule was added an amplifier built from military surplus VF-14 tubes (they had been used in field and aircraft radios), and BV8 output transformer. The combination of these components created a sonic quality that was absolutely unheard of in the English speaking world of the mid-1940s when darker sounding, less detailed ribbon microphones were the standard. The introduction of the U-47 brought a new level of fidelity to the audio world, and is still considered to be one of the finest microphones ever produced.

Upon first glance of the new U-47 from Telefunken Elektroakustik, it's easy to see the "family resemblance." The large, chrome head grille houses the newly manufactured M7 capsule. Its matte nickel finished body houses a new BV8 output transformer and the new VF-14k vacuum tube; a "plug and play" replacement for the rare VF-14M tubes found in the original. The classic "Telefunken" diamond logo proudly adorns the front of the body tube. All of these accoutrements show that this microphone means business.

Whether you're recording a symphony, a "crooner," or any facet of modern music, you'll find a great tool in the U-47. Its authoritative mid-range and extended low-end response dance from your ears . . . much as a vintage wine dances from the palate. Everything, from vocals to the loudest of guitar sounds, full-on orchestral recording, beautiful backing vocal arrangements, or a chamber ensemble will benefit wildly from the rich and vibrant tone of this stunning microphone.