The M280n Microphone by Telefunken

The Telefunken M280n is a vintage small-diaphragm condenser microphone originally built for Telefunken by Neumann in Germany in the 1960s.
It is essentially the same as a Neumann KM 84 capsule and electronics design, but branded for Telefunken and typically lacks the -10 dB pad found on later KM Detailed sound with open highs and clear midrange.
Similar sonic signature to the Neumann KM 84 transparent and accurate with minimal coloration.
These microphones were made with Tuchel connectors (requiring adapters to XLR) and are prized today for their natural, detailed sound rich yet balanced mids and open top-end response.
Because of that sonic profile, they’re especially well-regarded on acoustic instruments, drum overheads, piano, strings, and other sources where clarity and detail matter.
They are no longer manufactured and are typically found only as vintage pieces through collectors or specialist gear dealers.
Recording acoustic guitar, piano, overheads, percussion, strings, ensembles.
Great choice where clarity and acoustical detail are priorities (studio or precise capture).
Vintage mics often come used/collector condition and include aftermarket mic clips or cases.
Very rare and collectible pairs can command high prices on the vintage market because of their sound and Neumann heritage.

Specs:

• Condenser microphone (small diaphragm, fixed cardioid pattern) similar to the Neumann KM 84 design.
• Cardioid only (fixed) excellent for focused capture of sound sources while rejecting off-axis noise.
• Designed for natural, transparent sound with extended detail and smooth top end ideal for acoustic instruments, overheads, and detailed sources.
• Precise frequency specifications vary with individual vintage units but generally similar to KM 84-style responses (wide and flat).
• Originally Tuchel connector (common on vintage European pro mics). Units typically require a Tuchel-to-XLR adapter cable for modern use.
• Requires standard phantom power (48 V) for operation, like most small-diaphragm condenser mics.
(Typical for KM84-style mics; adapters used convert Tuchel to XLR and phantom supply.)