If there were ever a microphone that was the epitome of classic, hi-fidelity sound, it would be the AKG C-12. The first of the AKG line of selectable pattern condenser mics, the C-12 is revered for its smooth, airy response. Considered by many to be the finest sounding microphone ever produced, original C-12 microphones are still in use in recording studios throughout the world.

TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik is proud to manufacture the C-12 once again. Their new CK12 capsule is built from the original manufacturer's technical specifications, and utilizes a Haufe (manufacturer of the original) output transformer built to match the original, and a microphone grade 6072a tube just like the original system.

The new C-12 is incredibly detailed, capturing all the subtle nuances of a performance and transferring them back to the listener in a manner that is so realistic; you'll think you're listening to the source directly. Its silky smooth top end provides plenty of air without sounding harsh or artificial. Its midrange speaks clearly and articulately, capturing the source with a natural presence. Its low end is tight and focused, perfectly balanced with the rest of the frequency range. These qualities make the C-12 a fantastic choice for all types of instruments, lending itself especially well to drum overheads, acoustic guitar, and vocals.

Coveted by an extensive list of professional recording engineers, the TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik C-12 historic reissue is an exceptional microphone that will be a treasured addition to your microphone collection for many decades to come.

Audio Samples

"To create these examples, I used a TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustic C12 in figure eight, and the Microtech Gefell UM900 also in figure of eight, both into the NPNG preamplifier. The capsule positioning was Blumlein, using player perspective with the C12 facing the neck side, and the UM900 facing the body side. Of course you can download the files and load them into your DAW to flip perceptive to audience, but I feel as though Player Perspective represents the source the best. I am a big fan of this stereo technique for classical style acoustic guitar. This particular guitar was purchased in an antique shop in Newton NJ for $20. The make is a (70's) Garcia, solid cedar top, teak neck, playing well worn Nylon Galli Strings (hard tension). I absolutely adore the sound of these microphones with this application, and patching them into the NPNG is another experience entirely." - A/B

Download the stereo 24b/96k WAV file
Download the stereo 24b/44.1k WAV file
Download the individual files