Telefunken Alchemy Series User manual

Alchemy Series
Microphone Product Manual
TF11 • TF29 •TF39 •TF47 •TF51

2TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik 3Alchemy Series
What’s In The Box
For a complete list of additional accessories and replacement parts for Alchemy Microphone Series
products, please visit www.t-funk.com.
Quick Start Guide - TF29, TF39, TF47, & TF51
1. Attach either included mount onto a microphone stand.
2. Thread the microphone into the mount until hand tight.
3. Plug the included 7-pin microphone cable into the microphone then into the power supply.
4. Make sure the power supply is set to the correct mains voltage (115V or 230V). Plug the included power
cable into the power supply, then into mains power.
5. Connect a standard 3-pin microphone cable to the power supply and then to your microphone
preamplier input.
6. Turn on the power supply. Let the system warm up for 10 minutes before use.
Safety Warning: Vacuum tube microphones, their associated power supplies, and their cables carry
potentially harmful voltages. Make sure all connections are made before powering on your microphone
system. Do not open your microphone or power supply while it’s connected to mains power and powered on.
If your microphone stops working, turn it o and visit www.t-funk.com/repairs for information on repairing
your product.
System TF11 TF29 TF39 TF47 TF51
M 903 Multi Pattern Power Supply X X X
M 902 Fixed Pattern Power Supply X
M 803 Tube Microphone Cable X X X X
M 782 Stand Mount X X X X X
M 703 Shock Mount X X X X X
MC11 Microphone Case X
MS01 Microphone Sleeve X X X X X
ZC03 Light Weight Carrying Case X X X X
Quick Start Guide - TF11 FET
1. Attach either included mount onto a microphone stand.
2. Thread the microphone into the mount until hand tight.
3. Plug a standard 3-pin microphone cable (not included) into the microphone then into your microphone
preamplier input.
4. Apply +48V phantom power from your microphone preamplier. Allow the microphone 15 seconds to power
up before use.

Series Overview
Designed, hand-built, and tested to strict quality standards in Connecticut, USA, the Alchemy Microphone Series
is TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik’s next generation of large diaphragm condensers. These microphone models
feature unique sonic proles developed from the ground up. The bold voicings of the Alchemy Microphone
Series are the TF11 FET, TF29 Copperhead, TF39 Copperhead Deluxe, TF47, and TF51.
Benetting from over a decade of in-house microphone design and production, the Alchemy Series is an
evolution and expansion of past TELEFUNKEN models. Numerous sonic and mechanical improvements have
been implemented in the Alchemy Series, as well as new technologies as found in the TF11 FET, TELEFUNKEN’s
rst large diaphragm phantom-powered condenser. Boasting a custom designed headgrille for transparency and
openness, hand-plugged circuit boards, and premium selected components and transformers, no detail has
been left unaddressed. All Alchemy Series microphones ship in sleek, compact protective cases and include two
modern mount options and all necessary accessories.
Like all TELEFUNKEN microphones, the Alchemy Series is assembled in the same American facility as the
legendary Diamond Series by a small, dedicated team of engineers and technicians. Each microphone is
individually tested and listened to. All critical components are quality controlled in-house before assembly,
including capsule frequency sweeps, vacuum tube burn-in and noise grading, and transistor biasing for lowest
possible distortion. These high standards lead to extremely tight tolerances from microphone to microphone.
The Alchemy Series combines timeless sound quality with TELEFUNKEN reliability in an aordable package.
Whether it’s the home studio or a commercial facility, the Alchemy Microphone Series is suited for any recording
environment.
All Alchemy Series microphones are available in Stereo Sets, which include two precision gain and frequency
matched microphones and two of each accessory in a premium carrying case. All critical components, including
the capsules, tubes, transistors and transformers, are hand-selected and tested for matched gain and frequency
response. The vacuum tube-based models include a dual American-made power supply, capable of powering
both microphones at one time. These sets oer the user the knowledge and comfort that the tools they are using
will give identical responses for the most critical stereo recording.
Stereo Sets
4TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik 5Alchemy Series
Stereo System TF11 TF29 TF39 TF47 TF51
M 960S Stereo Fixed Pattern Power Supply X
M 901S Stereo Multi Pattern Power Supply X X X
M 803 Tube Microphone Cable 2X 2X 2X 2X
M 782 Stand Mount 2X 2X 2X 2X 2X
M 703 Shock Mount 2X 2X 2X 2X 2X
FC03S Stereo Flight Case X X X X
ZC11S Light Weight Carrying Case X
MS01 Microphone Sleeve 2X 2X 2X 2X 2X

TF11 FET Technical Specications
Blending an Austrian-inspired voicing similar to the legendary C12 with
modern FET high performance, the phantom-powered TF11 exhibits
a beautifully open and detailed frequency response with exceptionally
fast transient response, high SPL handling, and low self-noise. The
compact, cardioid only TF11 is versatile, portable, and dependable for
all recording environments from home to studio to stage.
Key Features
• Cardioid polar pattern
• Open and detailed tone with fast transient response
• Designed and assembled by hand in the USA
• High SPL handling, low noise phantom-powered FET amplier
• Compact size suitable for all recording environments
• CK12-style capsule and UK-made OEP/Carnhill transformer
Recommended Applications
• Live Sound: Drums, Piano, Acoustic Instruments
• Vocals: Pop, Rock
• Drums: Overheads
• Acoustic Guitar
• Cello, Upright Bass
• Percussion
Specication TF11
Type FET Condenser
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Frequency Range 20 Hz - 20 kHz, ±3 dB
Power Source +48V Phantom Power
Capsule TK51S - Edge Terminated Large
Diaphragm, Single Membrane
Tube n/a
Transformer OEP/Carnhill T218
Specication TF11
Sensitivity 14 mV/Pa, ±1 dB
THD at 1 kHz, 1 Pa (Amplier) < 0.01%
Output Impedance 110 Ω
Maximum SPL (for 1% THD) > 135 dB
S/N Ratio 90 dBA
Self-Noise (Amplier) 4 dBA
Dimensions 175 mm L x 46 mm Dia
Weight 545 g
6TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik 7Alchemy Series

TF29 Copperhead Technical Specications
The Cardioid-only TF29 is known for its natural, non-hyped tonality, and
unparalleled “quality for price”. With a reputation of outstanding sonic
performance and value, the Copperhead is a workhorse microphone
that accurately and honestly captures nearly any source put in front
of it.
TF39 Copperhead Deluxe
The TF39 is an expansion of the “Copperhead” sound with the addition
of 3-pattern selection between Cardioid, Omnidirectional, and Figure-8.
This added feature set gives the TF39 greater exibility.
Key Features
• Designed and hand assembled in the USA
• Balanced, natural midrange and high end
• Extended low frequency response
• Premium Swedish-made Lundahl transformer
Recommended Applications
• Natural Vocals: Folk, Americana
• Electric Guitar Amps
• Drums: Kick Out, Overheads
• Saxophone
TF39
Specication TF29 / TF39
Type Vacuum Tube Condenser
Polar Pattern TF29: Cardioid
TF39: Cardioid, Omnidirectional,
Figure-8
Frequency Range 20 Hz - 20 kHz, ±3 dB
Power Source External Power Supply
Capsule TF29: TK67S - Center Terminated
Large Diaphragm, Single Membrane
TF39: TK67 - Center Terminated Large
Diaphragm
Tube NOS GE 5654W
Specication TF29 / TF39
Transformer Lundahl LL1935
Sensitivity 17 mV/Pa, ± 1 dB
THD at 1 kHz, 1 Pa (Amplier) < 0.3%
Output Impedance < 300 Ω
Maximum SPL (for 1% THD) 130 dB
S/N Ratio 87 dBA
Self-Noise (Amplier) 7 dBA
Dimensions 200 mm L x 46 mm Dia
Weight 650 g
8TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik 9Alchemy Series

TF47 Technical Specications
The TF47 is a new design based on the “German” sound, drawing
inspiration from the historic U47 and M49. With a deep low end
and a forward midrange, the TF47 is excellent for adding depth and
presence to any source. These characteristics make it especially ideal
for recording vocals, guitar amps, and drums.
Key Features
• 3 polar pattern selection
• Designed and hand assembled in the USA
• Full low end and forward midrange, reminiscent of the U47
• Smooth and detailed top end
• Distinct antique nickel nish
• K47-style capsule and BV8 transformer
Recommended Applications
• Vocals: R&B, Rap, Rock, Soul
• Drums: Toms, Kick Out, Room
• Percussion
• Upright Bass
• Cello
• Trombone
Specication TF47
Type Vacuum Tube Condenser
Polar Pattern Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8
Frequency Range 20 Hz - 20 kHz, ±3 dB
Power Source External Power Supply
Capsule TK47 - Center Terminated Large
Diaphragm
Tube NOS Philips/Raytheon 5840W
Transformer TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik BV8
Specication TF47
Sensitivity 22 mV/Pa, ±1 dB
THD at 1 kHz, 1 Pa (Amplier) < 0.3%
Output Impedance < 300 Ω
Maximum SPL (for 1% THD) 125 dB
S/N Ratio 84 dBA
Self-Noise (Amplier) 10 dBA
Dimensions 200 mm L x 46 mm Dia
Weight 710 g
10 TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik 11Alchemy Series

TF51 Technical Specications
The TF51 is a fresh take on the “Austrian” microphone sound
associated with the TELEFUNKEN ELA M 251E and C12. The TF51
continues this legacy, exhibiting a smooth midrange and airy top end,
capturing every nuance in pleasant detail. This is a reliable rst choice
for stand out vocals, acoustic instruments, and percussion.
Key Features
• 3 polar pattern selection
• Designed and hand assembled in the USA
• Airy and open top end, reminiscent of the ELA M 251E
• Balanced low end and natural midrange
• Edge terminated capsule similar to CK12
• Custom German-made Haufe transformer
Recommended Applications
• Vocals: Pop, Rock
• Acoustic Guitar
• Drum Overheads
• Grand Piano
• Violin
• Mandolin
Specication TF51
Type Vacuum Tube Condenser
Polar Pattern Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8
Frequency Range 20 Hz - 20 kHz, ±3 dB
Power Source External Power Supply
Capsule TK51 - Edge Terminated Large
Diaphragm
Tube TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik 6072A
Transformer Haufe T31
Specication TF51
Sensitivity 19 mV/Pa, ±1 dB
THD at 1 kHz, 1 Pa (Amplier) < 0.4%
Output Impedance < 300 Ω
Maximum SPL (for 1% THD) 128 dB
S/N Ratio 86 dBA
Self-Noise (Amplier) 8 dBA
Dimensions 200 mm L x 46 mm Dia
Weight 615 g
12 TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik 13Alchemy Series

Warranty Product Registration
TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik warrants that any capsules and tubes used in their microphones are free from
defects in material and workmanship for the period of ninety (90) days from the original date of purchase, and
agree to replace any capsule or tube which, under normal installation and use, disclose such defect. This is
provided that the complete microphone is delivered to TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik intact for examination and
provided that such examination discloses, in the judgment of TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik, that the tube or
capsule is indeed defective. Upon replacement, TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik will provide an additional 90-day
limited warranty on the new capsule or tube.
This warranty does not extend to any capsule or tube which appears to have been misused, altered, neglected,
damaged, or stored in any manner that adversely aects it, or used in violation of instructions furnished by us.
This limited warranty shall be void and of no further force or eect whatsoever if the microphone is repaired or
modied by any person other than an authorized representative of TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik. This warranty
shall not apply to any defect, failure, or damage caused in whole or in part from attempts by personnel other
than TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik’s to open, repair, or service the microphone; nor to damage to a unit which
has been modied by persons other than TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik personnel.
All TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik customers are encouraged to register recently purchased NEW or USED
products. All warranties on Diamond, Alchemy, and SDC Series products are fully transferable
between owners for the length specied for each series starting from the date the microphone was
purchased as new.
Microphones come with a 90-day warranty for capsule and tube. A one-year warranty covers parts and labor on
the amplier as well as the power supply. Upon registering your new products, the warranty will be increased to
one year parts and labor for the capsule and tube, and four years for the amplier and power supply.
To register your warranty, please head to www.t-funk.com/warranty to ll out the Product & Warranty
Registration form.
Repairs & Service
Repairs on new TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik microphones are covered under a limited warranty plan and
repair costs will be determined based upon the date of purchase and the date in which the warranty was
registered. Repairs & Service covered under the warranty plan are done at no charge for labor, parts and
service.
Please visit www.t-funk.com/repairs for more information on repairing your TELEFUNKEN microphone.
In compliance with the following requirements:
EMC Directive: 2014/30/EU (EN 55013 applied)
Low Voltage Directive: 2014/35/EU (EN 60065 applied)
RoHS2 Directive: 2011/65/EU RoHS
14 TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik 15Alchemy Series