Telefunken C12 Tube Microphone

If there were ever a microphone that was the epitome of classic, hi-fidelity sound, it would be the Austrian-designed C12. Originally developed by AKG Acoustics in 1953, the C12 is revered for its smooth, airy frequency response. The design of the C12 was unique in its remote capsule polarizing technology. The ability to change the capsule’s polar response variably between cardioid, omnidirectional and figure 8 (and six intermediate patterns between) from the power supply instead of with switches on board the microphone made the C12 the one of most versatile large diaphragm tube microphone of its time. Considered by many to be the finest sounding microphone ever produced, original C12 microphones are still in use in recording studios throughout the world.

The large diaphragm vacuum tube-based C12 is a fantastic choice for all types of instruments, lending itself especially well to drum overheads, acoustic guitar, and vocals. Its silky smooth top end provides plenty of air without sounding harsh or artificial. Its midrange speaks clearly and articulately, capturing the source with a natural presence. Its low end is tight and focused, perfectly balanced with the rest of the frequency range.

Every part of the C12 microphone has been reverse engineered and recreated to preserve the impressive point-to-point construction and aesthetic of the original. This elegant and open design cascades beautifully from top to bottom, revealing every detail of what is truly a handmade instrument. Headgrilles, connectors, capsule mounts, plastic decks and more are all compatible with vintage AKG C12s in need of service. Coveted by an extensive list of professional recording engineers, the TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik C12 historic reissue is an exceptional microphone that will be a treasured addition to your microphone collection for many decades to come.

Each C12 microphone comes complete with M 910 power supply, M 810 25’ Sommer tube microphone cable, Rycote shockmount, FC10 locking flight case and WB10 wooden microphone box.

Type: Pressure Gradient Condenser
Capsule: CK12 - 25mm Edge Terminated Diaphragm
Tube Type: 6072a
Transformer: Haufe T14/1
Polar Pattern: 9-Pattern Variable including Omnidirectional, Cardioid and Bidirectional
Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz, ± 3 dB
Sensitivity: 10 mV/Pa ± 1 dB
THD at 1kHZ at 1Pa (Amplifier): < 0.25%
Output Impedance: 250 Ω
Maximum SPL (for 1% THD): 130 dB
S/N Ratio: 85 dBA
Self Noise (Amplifier): 9dBA
Dimensions: 250 mm L x 42.5 mm Dia
Weight: 567 g
Current Draw from Mains: 90 mA
Power Supply: M 910 - 7 Pin Female XLR Input, 3 Pin Male XLR Output, Polar Pattern Selector
Cable: M 810 - 25 ft Sommer Cable, Vintage Compatible 8 Pin Female Stand Mount, 7 Pin Male XLR
Wooden Box: WB10

Flight Case: FC10 - Vintage Style Locking Combination Flight Case, FC10S for Stereo Set

US and EU parcels ship via UPS, ETA 1-7 working days from pickup day zero. That also applies to most locations worldwide.

All shipments are fully insured.

Bigger shipments requiring pallets or custom made crates ship to US, CA, JP, CN, AU and other outside of EU locations via DHL Air Freight, ETA is normally approx. 7-14 working days from pickup day zero.

Big shipments inside EU ship via different freight companies, recently mostly via ACE Logistics. Freight forwarders can use different courier companies for deliveries to final destinations.

Palletising and crating time can vary depending on the size of the shipment and packaging queue. We pack all our shipments with great care.

You are most welcome to pick your order up yourself from our Retrosonic Pro Audio showroom, studio and warehouse in Tallinn, Estonia.

We ship worldwide – contact us for a personal shipping quote or any other questions.

VAT (Value Added Tax) can be deducted if you have a company with a valid EU VAT number or if you're based outside of the EU. Non-EU buyers pay all and any import tax and duty as regulated by their local customs.