Telefunken CU-29 Cardioid Tube Condenser Microphone

Developed around the stellar NOS (New Old Stock) TELEFUNKEN 6AK5W vacuum tube, the CU-29 “Copperhead” was created to provide a versatile and sonically balanced tube microphone. Coupled with a Lundahl output transformer, the CU-29 is a large diaphragm fixed cardioid workhorse, accurately recreating practically any sound source with supreme fidelity.

The R-F-T CU-29 “Copperhead” offers a warm, well-rounded low end accented by a delicate and intimate air in the high end. The clarity and detail are unsurpassed by any other microphones near its surprisingly low price range.

TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik is well known for the historic recreation microphones found in the Diamond Series, which are meticulously made to historic detail with no expense spared. As such, these microphones become rather expensive for the average small studio or home enthusiast. With this in mind, the R-F-T Series of microphones was created.

The R-F-T Series of tube condenser microphones utilizes American designed electronics in conjunction with New Old Stock (NOS) vacuum tubes and standardized parts from overseas manufacturers. Just like the Diamond Series, all R-F-T Series microphones are hand-built in E2TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik’s South Windsor, Connecticut facility. With this line, TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik is able to provide a lower cost alternative to more expensive microphone systems, without sacrificing the qualities that would be expected from a TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik microphone.

The CU-29 "Copperhead" was developed from the ground up in our South Windsor, Connecticut facility by TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik’s in-house design team, along with the aid of some of the industry's most knowledgeable and respected consultants. Specific attention was given to circuit board layout, with countless revisions done to optimize current flow and directness of traces. Each component was experimented with and individually selected for the best sonic and electronic qualities. Extra consideration was put on keeping high impedance lines as short as possible to maximize efficiency and minimize unwanted noise. Lastly, a wide array of output transformers was experimented with to provide the most open and sonically pleasing response.

This fine-tuned amplifier design found in the CU-29 "Copperhead" features a NOS TELEFUNKEN 6AK5W vacuum tube and a Lundahl LL1935 output transformer. Being a cardioid only microphone, the R-F-T CU-29 "Copperhead" employs a single-membrane version of the TK67 large diaphragm capsule used in the AK-47 MkII microphone, which undergoes rigorous testing in our laboratory prior to installation.

Sonically, the CU-29 "Copperhead" is a remarkably hi-fidelity microphone that provides a warm, clear low end complemented by a smooth, detailed high end. The CU-29 “Copperhead” is an excellent multi-purpose microphone that sounds great on drums, electric guitar, vocals, bass, piano and a countless number of other applications.

Includes:

• M900 Power Supply
• M800 25 ft. Tube Microphone Cable
• M700 Elastic Shock Mount
• Wooden Microphone Box

TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik CU-29 Specifications:

• Type: Condenser Pressure Gradient
• Capsule: TK-67S
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Sensitivity: 19.5 mV/pa +/- 1 dB
• THD @ 1 kHz at 1Pa: < 0.3%
• Output Impedance: < 100 ohms
• Maximum SPL: 130dB
• S/N Ratio: 87dBA
• Self Noise: 7dBA
• Tube Type: TELEFUNKEN NOS EF-95
• Power Type: Dedicated Power Supply
• Dimensions: 8" (203.2) Length x 1 3/4"(44.45mm) Diameter
• Weight: 24.7oz (690g)
• Supply Current: < 1mA (120V) 155mA (6V)
• Connected Via: XLR-7 (F), XLR-3 (M) output
• Supplied Accessories:
  • Power Supply
  • Wooden Mic Box
  • Shock Mount
  • 25' 7-pin Cable
  • Cardboard Case
• Optional Accessories: FC01 R-F-T Series Flight Case