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Average Price: $10,244
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$100
$401+
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Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Telefunken C12". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Telefunken C12: Studio Superiority in a Tube Condenser Microphone
Renowned in the music industry, the Telefunken C12 tube condenser microphone is a masterpiece of sound engineering. Designed for precision, it's the perfect choice for capturing vocals, drum overheads, and acoustic instruments. The C12's multiple polar patterns are its standout feature, offering you enhanced recording flexibility. Choose between omni, cardioid, and figure-8 patterns and find the perfect setting for any acoustic environment.
The C12 doesn't just excel in versatility, it's also a beast when it comes to delivering warm, authentic sound. The 6072a tube design was specially selected to deliver that classic tube warmth, resulting in an incredibly detailed and realistic sound reproduction.
Built to replicate the original C12 microphones, the Telefunken C12 employs the same technical specifications, down to the transformer, which is made by the original manufacturer. It's not just a microphone, it's a testament to the golden era of music production.
Key Features:
- A faithful reproduction of the classic C12 microphone
- Delivers smooth top-end and warm sound, exclusive to tube microphones
- Multiple selectable polar patterns: omni, cardioid, figure-8, and 6 intermediate stages
- Built with a custom transformer that adheres to original specifications
- Features a 6072a microphone grade tube for stellar sound and performance
- Offers incredibly realistic and detailed sound reproduction
- Comes with a dedicated power supply, flight case, and wooden storage box.
Product specs
| Microphone Type | Tube Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Omni, Figure 8 |
| Diaphragm Size | 1" (25.4mm) |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Max SPL | 138dB |
| Output Impedance | 200 ohms (50 ohms Switchable) |
| Self Noise | 16dB (A weighted) |
| Tube | 6072A |
| Power Source | External power supply |
| Connector | XLR |
| Weight | 1.3 lbs. |
FAQs
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What polar patterns does the Telefunken C12 offer?
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The Telefunken C12 features omni and figure-8 polar patterns, allowing it to capture sound from different directions, making it versatile for various recording scenarios.
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Is the Telefunken C12 suitable for vocal recordings?
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Yes, the Telefunken C12 is highly regarded for vocal recordings due to its warm and detailed sound, capturing the nuances of the human voice with exceptional clarity.
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What type of tube does the Telefunken C12 use?
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The Telefunken C12 utilizes a 6072A tube, which contributes to its classic, warm sound and rich harmonic detail, characteristic of vintage tube microphones.
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How does the Telefunken C12 handle high sound pressure levels?
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The Telefunken C12 can handle up to 138dB SPL, making it suitable for recording loud sound sources without distortion, such as drums or amplified instruments.
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What is the frequency response of the Telefunken C12?
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The Telefunken C12 offers a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, providing a balanced and full-range sound capture ideal for both vocals and instruments.
Videos
Sweetwater
Vintage AKG C12 vs. New Telefunken C12 Mic Comparison
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Telefunken C12.
Comparisons
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C12 is likened to a brighter, more present version of a 251, with emphasis on upper mids, potentially better for making dark sources more present.
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The U47 is described as enlarging the source like no other, making it ideal for anchoring a record, especially for male vocals.
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Modern mics like Lauten Eden and Lewitt 1040 are suggested as alternatives to the C12, offering similar brightness and presence.
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The C12 is described as sounding amazing on female vocals and more laid-back male vocals but considered harsh for shouty male vocals, especially with sibilant sounds.
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Features and functionality
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U47 modified with EF12 tube by Andreas Grosser and M7 capsule reskinned by Siegfried Thiersch, noted as top-notch experts in their field.
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The Sony C100 is noted for its "Noise Elimination Construction," similar to the C800, providing clarity without a tube preamp, especially when paired with a Neve 88Rlb.
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User experience
Value and pricing
Mods and upgrades
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The Warm Audio WA8000 can be modified to sound closer to a C800G by changing the tube and removing the heat sink, costing around $200 for modifications.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artistAriana posted a picture on Instagram of her at the studio singing to a Telefunken C-12 microphone.
MJ had a Telefunken (AKG) C12 Mic in his Neverland Home Studio - Bruce also owns a Pair & these C12 Mic's & was used from time to time on MJs Vocals - Most Famous on Michael's Lead part & also on every singer of the Group of 'We Are The World'
Avril posted a video on her Instagram Stories while on the studio, in which we can see a Telefunken C12 Microphone on the background.
'“I’ve put it in front of acoustic guitars a lot and I’ve been really happy. It’s also a great mic for my voice, which is a little irregular and inconsistent, and I like it as a drum overhead, as well.”'
Demi can be seen recording with a Telefunken C-12 on the Trailer of her upcoming documentary "Dancing With The Devil"
In this photo from Getty Images, George Clinton can be seen using a Telefunken C12 microphone.
Used for McGraw's performance of "I'm Not Gonna Miss You" for the 87th Academy Awards.
When performing with Chick Corea, on the "Duo"project, we can appreciate those mics on both pianos. Good old fashioned C12m with the old multipin conector and cable output on the side. In their video (Hiromi Uehara & Chick Corea) "Concierto de Aranjuez", this setup could be appreciated.
In the Vevo video "We Are The World 25 for Haiti," starting at 2:55, Enrique Iglesias is seen using a Telefunken C12 microphone while singing his part. This microphone is a staple in his recording setup.
Album Usage
The Telefunken C12 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Telefunken C12, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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