Today, I try out the very nice TelefunkenUSA AK47 from their RFT series. The RFT series represents an affordable entrance to the product line.

The microphone characteristics are very different than most other large-diaphram condensers I have used. The sound is very pleasant to the ears. …extremely warm without an overly aggressive high-end

I was surprised just how easy this micrphone worked with the Aphex 230’s gate. Most large diaphram condensers are so hot that it takes a lot of tweaking and the 20db input pad to tame them. The AK47 adjusted nicely the first time; with or without the pad as long as I set the levels properly. Perhaps this is a compliment to its amplifiers linearity?

As we know, microphones are a very personal thing and I find most large-diaphram condensers (and even Heils large-diaphram dynamic) to have a warmness and smooth bottom-end that seems to fit my voice well.

Physically, the tube body is long and narrow, topped with a nicely finished capsule and comes in a nice wooden, lined box. Included is a 10-meter Telefunken Cable, shock mount and power supply. The power supply includes a vintage looking knob that allows you to choose any of 9 pickup patterns, although I stuck with a simple cardioid. The amplification stage is powered by an NOS (new-old-stock) EF 732 sub-miniature tube.

You may want to take a look at this microphone and decide for yourself. I would be quite happy putting the AK47 to work for voiceovers or studio work. This retro looking mic is hand crafted in the USA

The TelefunkenUSA RFT, Platinum and Professional lines are available direct or from any of their dealers. See the TelefunkenUSA web site for details.

MSRP for the AK47 is: $1599

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