TELEFUNKEN Alchemy Series Microphone User Manual

Alchemy Series Microphone

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Specifications:

• Microphone Types: TF11, TF17, TF29, TF39, TF47, TF51

• Power Supplies: System M 903, M 902, M 960S, M 901S

• Accessories: Various mounts, shock mounts, cases, and
  cables

• Country of Manufacture: USA

Product Usage Instructions:

Quick Start Guide – TF11 FET & TF17 FET:

1. Attach the mount to a microphone stand.

2. Thread the microphone into the mount until hand tight.

3. Plug a standard 3-pin microphone cable into the microphone and
   then into your microphone preamplifier input.

4. Apply +48V phantom power from your microphone preamplifier.
   Allow 15 seconds for the microphone to power up before use.

Quick Start Guide – TF29, TF39, TF47, & TF51:

1. Attach the mount to a microphone stand.

2. Thread the microphone into the mount until hand tight.

3. Plug the included 7-pin microphone cable into the microphone
   and then into the power supply.

4. Ensure the power supply is set to the correct mains voltage
   (115V or 230V). Plug in the power supply and connect it to mains
   power.

5. Connect a standard 3-pin microphone cable to the power supply
   and then to your microphone preamplifier input.

6. Turn on the power supply and allow the system to warm up for 10
   minutes before use.

Safety Warning: Vacuum tube microphones and
their components carry potentially harmful voltages. Ensure all
connections are made before powering on. Do not open the microphone
or power supply while connected to mains power. Visit
www.t-funk.com/repairs for repair information if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: Where are the Alchemy Microphone Series products

manufactured?

A: The Alchemy Microphone Series is designed, hand-built, and
tested in Connecticut, USA.

Q: How do I know if my microphone is receiving power?

A: Make sure to apply the correct phantom power as specified in
the Quick Start Guide for each microphone model. Allow a few
moments for the microphone to power up before use.

Q: Can I use these microphones in a live performance

setting?

A: Yes, the TF11 FET model is versatile and dependable for
various recording environments, including live performances.

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Alchemy Series
Microphone Product Manual
TF11 · TF17 · TF29 · TF39 · TF47 · TF51

What’s In The Box
System M 903 Multi Pattern Power Supply M 902 Fixed Pattern Power Supply M 803 Tube Microphone Cable M 782 Stand Mount M 703 Shock Mount MC11 Microphone Case MS01 Microphone Sleeve ZC03 Light Weight Carrying Case

TF11
X X X X

TF17
X X X X

TF29
X X X X
X X

TF39 X
X X X
X X

TF47 X
X X X
X X

TF51 X
X X X
X X

For a complete list of additional accessories and replacement parts for Alchemy Microphone Series products, please visit www.t-funk.com.
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Quick Start Guide – TF11 FET & TF17 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 preamplifier input. 4. Apply +48V phantom power from your microphone preamplifier. Allow the microphone 15 seconds to power up before use.
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
preamplifier 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 off and visit www.t-funk.com/repairs for information on repairing your product.
Alchemy Series 3

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 profiles developed from the ground up. The bold voicings of the Alchemy Microphone Series are the TF11, TF17, TF29, TF39, TF47, and TF51.
Benefitting 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 and TF17, TELEFUNKEN’s large diaphragm phantom-powered condensers. 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 affordable package. Whether it’s the home studio or a commercial facility, the Alchemy Microphone Series is suited for any recording environment.
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Stereo Sets
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 offer the user the knowledge and comfort that the tools they are using will give identical responses for the most critical stereo recording.

Stereo System M 960S Stereo Fixed Pattern Power Supply M 901S Stereo Multi Pattern Power Supply M 803 Tube Microphone Cable M 782 Stand Mount M 703 Shock Mount FC03S Stereo Flight Case ZC11S Light Weight Carrying Case MS01 Microphone Sleeve

TF11
2X 2X X 2X

TF17
2X 2X X 2X

TF29 X
2X 2X 2X X
2X

TF39
X 2X 2X 2X X
2X

TF47
X 2X 2X 2X X
2X

TF51
X 2X 2X 2X X
2X

Alchemy Series 5

TF11 FET

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 selfnoise. The compact, fixed true cardioid TF11 is versatile, portable, and dependable for all recording environments from home to studio to stage.

Recommended Applications

· Live Sound: Drums, Piano, Acoustic Instruments · Acoustic Guitar

· Vocals: Pop, Rock

· Cello, Upright Bass

· Drums: Overheads

· Percussion

Key Features
· Fixed true cardioid polar pattern · Open and detailed tone with fast transient response · High SPL handling, low noise phantom-powered FET amplifier · Compact size suitable for all recording environments · CK12-style capsule and UK-made OEP/Carnhill transformer

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Technical Specifications

Specification Type Polar Pattern Frequency Range Power Source Capsule
Tube Transformer

TF11 FET Condenser Cardioid 20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±3 dB +48V Phantom Power TK51S – Edge Terminated Large Diaphragm, Single Membrane
n/a OEP/Carnhill T218

Specification Sensitivity
THD at 1 kHz, 1 Pa (Amplifier) Output Impedance Maximum SPL (for 1% THD) S/N Ratio Self-Noise (Amplifier) Dimensions
Weight

TF11 14 mV/Pa, ±1 dB 0.005% < 200 > 135 dB 90 dBA 4 dBA 175 mm L x 46 mm Dia 545 g

Alchemy Series 7

TF17 FET
Combining an iconic mid-forward “German” voicing with modern FET technology, the TF17 is sonically bold with a punchy transient response, high SPL handling, and very low self-noise. With an extended low frequency response, strong midrange, and a smooth top end, its rich timbre can add weight or a smooth complementary character to harsh or thinner sources.

Recommended Applications
· Vocals: R&B, Rap, Rock, Soul · Drums: Toms, Kick Out, Room · Electric Guitar & Bass

· Piano · Brass

Key Features
· Fixed true cardioid polar pattern with K47-style capsule · Bold and forward tonality with punchy transient response · UK-made OEP/Carnhill transformer with high grade nickel-iron core · High SPL handling, ultra-low noise phantom- powered FET amplifier · Compact size suitable for all recording environments

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Technical Specifications

Specification Type Polar Pattern Frequency Range Power Source Capsule
Tube Transformer

TF17 FET Condenser Cardioid 20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±3 dB +48V Phantom Power TK47S ­ Center Terminated Large Diaphragm, Single Membrane
n/a OEP/Carnhill T217

Specification Sensitivity
THD at 1 kHz, 1 Pa (Amplifier) Output Impedance Maximum SPL (for 1% THD) S/N Ratio Self-Noise (Amplifier) Dimensions
Weight

TF17 12 mV/Pa, ±1 dB 0.01% < 200 > 135 dB 91 dBA 3 dBA 175 mm L x 46 mm Dia 545 g

Alchemy Series 9

TF29 Copperhead
The fixed true cardioid 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 flexibility.
Recommended Applications
· Natural Vocals: Folk, Americana · Electric Guitar Amps · Drums: Kick Out, Overheads · Saxophone
Key Features
· Balanced, natural midrange and high end · Extended low frequency response · Premium Swedish-made Lundahl transformer
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TF39

Technical Specifications

Specification Type Polar Pattern
Frequency Range Power Source Capsule
Tube

TF29 / TF39 Vacuum Tube Condenser TF29: Cardioid TF39: Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8 20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±3 dB External Power Supply TF29: TK67S – Center Terminated Large Diaphragm, Single Membrane TF39: TK67 – Center Terminated Large Diaphragm
NOS GE 5654W

Specification Transformer Sensitivity THD at 1 kHz, 1 Pa (Amplifier) Output Impedance Maximum SPL (for 1% THD) S/N Ratio Self-Noise (Amplifier) Dimensions
Weight

TF29 / TF39 Lundahl LL1935 17 mV/Pa, ± 1 dB < 0.3% < 300 130 dB 87 dBA 7 dBA 200 mm L x 46 mm Dia
650 g

Alchemy Series 11

TF47
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.

Recommended Applications
· Vocals: R&B, Rap, Rock, Soul · Drums: Toms, Kick Out, Room · Percussion

· Upright Bass · Cello · Trombone

Key Features
· 3 polar pattern selection · Full low end and forward midrange, reminiscent of the U47 · Smooth and detailed top end · Distinct antique nickel finish · K47-style capsule and BV8 transformer

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Technical Specifications

Specification Type Polar Pattern Frequency Range Power Source Capsule
Tube Transformer

TF47 Vacuum Tube Condenser Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8 20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±3 dB External Power Supply TK47 – Center Terminated Large Diaphragm
NOS Philips/Raytheon 5840W TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik BV8

Specification Sensitivity
THD at 1 kHz, 1 Pa (Amplifier) Output Impedance Maximum SPL (for 1% THD) S/N Ratio Self-Noise (Amplifier) Dimensions
Weight

TF47 22 mV/Pa, ±1 dB < 0.3% < 300 125 dB 84 dBA 10 dBA 200 mm L x 46 mm Dia 710 g

Alchemy Series 13

TF51
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 first choice for stand out vocals, acoustic instruments, and percussion.

Recommended Applications
· Vocals: Pop, Rock · Acoustic Guitar · Drum Overheads

· Grand Piano · Violin · Mandolin

Key Features
· 3 polar pattern selection · 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

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Technical Specifications

Specification Type Polar Pattern Frequency Range Power Source Capsule
Tube Transformer

TF51 Vacuum Tube Condenser Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8 20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±3 dB External Power Supply TK51 – Edge Terminated Large Diaphragm
TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik 6072A Haufe T31

Specification Sensitivity
THD at 1 kHz, 1 Pa (Amplifier) Output Impedance Maximum SPL (for 1% THD) S/N Ratio Self-Noise (Amplifier) Dimensions
Weight

TF51 19 mV/Pa, ±1 dB < 0.4% < 300 128 dB 86 dBA 8 dBA 200 mm L x 46 mm Dia 615 g

Alchemy Series 15

Warranty
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 affects it, or used in violation of instructions furnished by us. This limited warranty shall be void and of no further force or effect whatsoever if the microphone is repaired or modified 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 modified by persons other than TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik personnel.

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
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RoHS

Product Registration
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 specified 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 amplifier 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 amplifier and power supply. To register your warranty, please head to www.t-funk.com/warranty to fill 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.
Alchemy Series 17

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Alchemy Series 19

References

• Home - Telefunken Elektroakustik
• Microphone Repairs - Telefunken Elektroakustik
• Warranty Registration - Telefunken Elektroakustik

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