Telefunken U48 Stereo Set – Condenser Microphones (Pair)

OVERVIEW

In keeping with the long-standing tradition, TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik have given a nod back to 1958 when both the U47 and U48 were offered in 3 unique packages. The TELEFUNKEN U47 and U48 were both offered in what was called a “Stereo Set” that featured a sequentially serial numbered pair of TELEFUNKEN U47 or TELEFUNKEN  U48 microphones with a dual [two microphone capable] power supply, and the “Studio Set,” which was a single TELEFUNKEN U47 that was matched to a TELEFUNKEN U48.

TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik is proud to offer matched stereo sets of the U48 microphones. Each system features a custom dual power supply capable of powering both microphones at one time, and a special locking flight case that will carry both sets of microphones, cables, wooden boxes, and the dual power supply.

According to the book Recording The Beatles, the U48 was one of George Martin’s favourite microphones when actually “recording The Beatles”. Utilising the same M7 capsule, BV8 output transformer and VF14K vacuum tube as TELEFUNKEN‘s historic reissue of the U47, the U48 features cardioid and bi-directional capsule capabilities (instead of the cardioid and omni found in the U47). Its authoritative mid-range and extended low-end response have made the TELEFUNKEN U48 an excellent tool for recording vocals and acoustic instruments, both near and far.

Every component in each of the two TELEFUNKEN U48 microphones is hand-selected, allowing as close a match as is possible between each system. Capsules are tuned to each other; transformers and tubes are 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 their most important stereo recording.

Stereo microphone techniques are often used for recording classical music and large signal sources like orchestras, choirs, and large chamber groups. They can also effectively be used on drum overheads, acoustic guitars, piano, and percussion. The TELEFUNKEN U48 Stereo Set will allow versed recording engineers a variety of stereo recording techniques, including X/Y coincidental pairs when utilising the mics in their cardioid patterns, or A/B spaced pairs. The option of a Blumlein pair is also available with both microphones set to figure of 8, as well as the traditional M/S (mid / side) technique when using one mic in cardioid and the other in figure of 8.

Each U48 STEREO SET comes complete with a dual M940S power supply, 2x M840 25′ dual-shielded ACX-7 tube microphone cable, 2x WB40 wooden microphone boxes and a FC10 locking flight case.

TECHNICAL SPECS:

Type	Condenser Pressure Gradient
Capsule	M7
Tube Type	VF-14K
Polar Pattern	Cardioid and Figure 8
Frequency Range	20Hz / 20kHz
Sensitivity	24.5 mV/pa +/- 1 dB
THD at 1kHz at 1Pa (Amplifier)	<0.3%
Output Impedance	<400 ohms
Maximum SPL (for 1% THD)	127dB
S/N Ratio	85dBA
Self Noise (Amplifier)	9.5dBa +/- 1dB
Dimensions / Size	9 3/4″ (248mm) length x 2 1/4″ (57mm) diameter
Weight	22oz (624g)
Power Supply	Dedicated American-made power supply with slow-ramping filament voltage
Cable	Large Tuchel/Historic stand mount swivel, XLR-3 (M) output