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Description

Step back in time with the Telefunken M15a, a quintessential choice for analog enthusiasts and professional recording studios alike. This multitrack recorder delivers a warm, vintage sound that digital devices often strive to emulate. Known for its robust build and exceptional tape handling, the M15a is a testament to Telefunken's commitment to quality and precision. Its modular design makes it a versatile addition to any studio setup, allowing you to capture complex musical compositions with ease.

Whether you're recording a full band or layering tracks for a solo project, the M15a's reliable performance ensures that every nuance of your sound is captured with clarity and depth. Musicians and sound engineers appreciate its intuitive controls, providing a seamless recording experience without the steep learning curve. Embrace the classic analog sound that has defined countless hit records, all while enjoying the reliability and craftsmanship that Telefunken is renowned for.

Key Features:

  • Multitrack analog recorder with exceptional tape handling
  • Modular design for versatile studio integration
  • Intuitive controls for user-friendly operation
  • Renowned for its robust build and reliable performance
  • Delivers a warm, vintage sound ideal for professional recordings
Andre Nehmzow

Andre Nehmzow

Telefunken M15A

Video thumbnail for Telefunken M15A by Andre Nehmzow

Telefunken M15A

Andre Nehmzow

Andre Nehmzow

Video thumbnail for AEG Telefunken M15A by Andre Nehmzow

AEG Telefunken M15A

Andre Nehmzow

Andre Nehmzow

Video thumbnail for Telefunken M15A for sale 3600eur. Fully renovated repainted and calibrated. by sigitask k

Telefunken M15A for sale 3600eur. Fully renovated repainted and calibrated.

sigitask k

sigitask k

Video thumbnail for An introduction to the Telefunken M15a Master Recorder by Ralph Lauwaert

An introduction to the Telefunken M15a Master Recorder

Ralph Lauwaert

Ralph Lauwaert

Video thumbnail for Telefunken M15a Master Recorder Demo by Ralph Lauwaert

Telefunken M15a Master Recorder Demo

Ralph Lauwaert

Ralph Lauwaert

Video thumbnail for Telefunken M15A playing B B King by Fox Bat

Telefunken M15A playing B B King

Fox Bat

Fox Bat

Video thumbnail for Telefunken M15a by Konstantin Kos

Telefunken M15a

Konstantin Kos

Konstantin Kos

Video thumbnail for Studer A80 vs. Telefunken M15A - Can you do it over the Net? by Fox Bat

Studer A80 vs. Telefunken M15A - Can you do it over the Net?

Fox Bat

Fox Bat

Video thumbnail for Tonbandmaschinen Zuschauer Setup, Telefunken M15A, @Valeuraudio by Frank—Tastisch

Tonbandmaschinen Zuschauer Setup, Telefunken M15A, @Valeuraudio

Frank—Tastisch

Frank—Tastisch

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Telefunken M15a.

Setup and maintenance

  • Calibration requires an MRL tape set to 250 nWb or G320 for SM911, an oscilloscope, and a non-frequency-dependent VU meter.

    Source
  • Demagnetization of the tape path is crucial to prevent damage to expensive calibration tapes.

    Source
  • Calibration involves aligning playback channels using trimmers for 0VU at 100Hz, 1KHz, and 10KHz.

    Source
  • Record test tones on SM911 tape and adjust record trimmers to maintain 0VU playback, requiring bias trimmer adjustments for uniform frequency response.

    Source

Build quality

  • Telefunken M15a machines are extremely robust, built for heavy use, and weigh around 60kgs, making them significantly sturdier than consumer decks.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The M15a is equipped with 'butterfly heads,' enhancing sound quality and reliability, ideal for professional studio applications.

    Source

Comparisons

  • In contrast to the Otari MX-5050, the M15a is highlighted for its build quality and ease of repair, often used extensively in German and Dutch studios.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners praise the M15a for its pristine sound quality, describing it as professional-grade and reliable for broadcast and music studio use.

    Source

Critic Reviews

The Giants of Tape, Part Seven: The Telefunken M15A, Part One – PS Audio

psaudio.com

The Telefunken M15A is celebrated for its superior tape transport and minimalistic design, making it one of the finest tape machines of its era. Praised for its inaudible wow and flutter, it features robust construction and improved electronics over its predecessors, offering transparent sound and exceptional headroom. However, its complicated German engineering and lack of built-in metering might not suit everyone. Overall, the M15A is lauded as a timeless piece of audio engineering that stands out for its remarkable performance and build quality.

positive

The Giants of Tape, Part Nine: The Telefunken M15A, Part Three – PS Audio

psaudio.com

The Telefunken M15A is a heavyweight champion in the analog tape machine world, both literally and figuratively. With its minimalist design and Bauhaus aesthetic, it stands out as a reliable workhorse delivering unmatched sound quality. While its bulk and lack of modern features may deter some, its rugged build and longevity make it a favorite for purists. The machine's unusual wind control is a quirky yet useful feature, and its sound performance, especially with aftermarket components, is unparalleled. However, its rarity outside Germany and scarce parts availability can be a challenge for potential buyers.

positive

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Orgue Electronique uses Telefunken M15a

Orgue Electronique

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

Telefunken M15a is installed in this video, at the left. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EpE3DaObI4

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 M15a, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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