Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
$9,995.00
Reverb
$11,248.92 1 available New
Thomann
$11,090.00 $10,990.00 $100.00 · All time low
Vintage King
5.0 (1)
$9,995.00

Average Price: $10,557

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

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Price History

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

What polar patterns does the Telefunken C12 offer?

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.

Is the Telefunken C12 suitable for vocal recordings?

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.

What type of tube does the Telefunken C12 use?

The Telefunken C12 utilizes a 6072A tube, which contributes to its classic, warm sound and rich harmonic detail, characteristic of vintage tube microphones.

How does the Telefunken C12 handle high sound pressure levels?

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.

What is the frequency response of the Telefunken C12?

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.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Vintage AKG C12 vs. New Telefunken C12 Mic Comparison

Video thumbnail for Vintage AKG C12 vs. New Telefunken C12 Mic Comparison by Sweetwater

Vintage AKG C12 vs. New Telefunken C12 Mic Comparison

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Telefunken C12 by Sweetwater

Telefunken C12

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Telefunken C12  | KMR Audio by KMR Audio

Telefunken C12 | KMR Audio

KMR Audio

KMR Audio

Video thumbnail for TELEFUNKEN C12 vs Elam 251E   I $20K - Shootout I Shred Shed by Shred Shed Studios

TELEFUNKEN C12 vs Elam 251E I $20K - Shootout I Shred Shed

Shred Shed Studios

Shred Shed Studios

Video thumbnail for TELEFUNKEN C12 microphone Male Vocal SOUL R&B by TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik

TELEFUNKEN C12 microphone Male Vocal SOUL R&B

TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik

TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Telefunken C12.

Comparisons

  • 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.

    Source
  • The U47 is described as enlarging the source like no other, making it ideal for anchoring a record, especially for male vocals.

    Source
  • Modern mics like Lauten Eden and Lewitt 1040 are suggested as alternatives to the C12, offering similar brightness and presence.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • U47 modified with EF12 tube by Andreas Grosser and M7 capsule reskinned by Siegfried Thiersch, noted as top-notch experts in their field.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source

User experience

  • The C12 can be too bright for some, particularly in the 2-4k range, whereas the U47 smooths over harshness better.

    Source
  • The Advanced Audio CM800T is recommended for its affordability and quality, with users noting satisfaction comparable to much more expensive original microphones.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • High-quality vintage U47 clones are expensive, with options like Wunder CM7 suprema and Heiserman 47 starting north of $5k.

    Source
  • The Soyuz 017 Tube is praised for capturing warmth and detail, offering a modern alternative to vintage tube microphones with a similar sonic profile.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • 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.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The EV RE 20 is highlighted for its versatility, performing well on vocals and various instruments, especially drums, due to its ability to handle high sound pressure levels.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Franco Battiato uses Telefunken C12

Franco Battiato

Singer, Composer

...
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In a studio footage image, Franco Battiato is seen using a microphone resembling a Telefunken C12, identifiable by its specific design features.

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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