Telefunken TF17 FET Cardioid Condenser Microphone
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The fixed cardioid TF17 features an extended low frequency response, bold midrange and natural top end. Its classic tonality makes it suitable for sources like voice, drums & percussion, bass, electric guitar, brass, and piano. Its high SPL handling widens the scope of possibilities to louder sources not always suitable for condensers. Its rich timbre can add weight or a smooth complementary character to harsh or thin sound sources. On voice, the TF17 provides a mix-ready sound by adding depth and focus without sounding muddy. On midrange-heavy sources like electric guitar and brass, the TF17 can add weight and clarity. On percussive sources, its punchy transient response and deep low end can impart a bold, focused, ultra-realistic sound stage.
The TF17 features a unique combination of circuit elements shared with other TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik designs. The K47-style center terminated capsule is a single membrane version of the capsule featured in the TF47. The amplifier is a unique proprietary take on the classic FET microphone amplifier similar to the M60 and TF11, coupled with a custom UK-made OEP/Carnhill output transformer. Premium through-hole components include UK-made polystyrene film capacitors, Nichicon Fine Gold electrolytic capacitors, and a high-performance, ultra-low-noise JFET.
Finished in a black powder coat with black nickel hardware, the TF17 retains the same form factor as the TF11. This low-profile size combined with the lack of external power supply and proprietary cable of a tube microphone make the TF17 extremely easy to set up, break down, and transport; perfect for home recording and touring alike. The microphone comes with a sleek protective mic case, microphone dust cover, and two mount options. Whether it's bedroom vocals, live grand pianos, or studio guitar amps, the TF17 will deliver consistently excellent results.
Designed, hand-assembled and tested in the USA, all critical components are subject to the same high standards as the rest of TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik's product line. Each critical component is rigorously tested prior to installation, including capsule frequency response and transistor noise and distortion. After assembly, all TF17 amplifiers are hand tuned before additional frequency response and final listening testing.
From the small, dedicated American team that has carried on the legacy of the most sought after recording microphones of all time, the TF17 is both a nod to the past and a step in a new direction with a focus on versatility, affordability, and sound quality. Just like the TF11, the TF17 was developed to bring the Alchemy Series pristine audio quality into a more compact and convenient package, designed for the studio, built for the stage, and priced for everyone.
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
Specifications
Polar Pattern: CardioidFrequency Range: 20 Hz 20 kHz, +3 dB
Capsule: TK47S Center Terminated Large Diaphragm, Single Membrane
Amplifier Type: Transistor (+48V phantom power required)
Transformer: OEP/Carnhill T217
Sensitivity: 12 mV/Pa, +1 dB
THD at 1 kHz at 1 Pa (Amplifier): 0.01%
Output Impedance: 200 Ω
Maximum SPL (for 1% THD): 135 dB
S/N Ratio: 91 dBA
Self-Noise (Amplifier): 3 dBA
Dimensions: 175 mm L x 46 mm Dia
Weight: 545 g
Q & A
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Protect your investment with the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty
A warranty can be a very important factor when making a buying decision. Because repairs can be very expensive in terms of parts and labour costs, manufacturers usually only provide one year limited warranties that generally only cover items that malfunction due to a manufacturer’s defect. With an important purchase such as a musical
instrument or piece of studio gear, however, many people want to have the peace of mind in knowing that their investment will be protected should the product no longer be performing at 100%.
Because of this, Long & McQuade provides our customers with a FREE one-year Performance Warranty on most of our products. The Long & McQuade Performance Warranty supplements the manufacturer’s warranty to ensure that our customers receive complete “no hassle” warranty coverage within their first year.
How does the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty differ from most manufacturers' warranties?
- Performance Guarantee: Normal wear and tear is covered, so your product will be performing as well as the day you purchased it for the entire duration of the coverage. Band and Orchestral Performance Warranty does not include replacing pads or cleaning for woodwind instruments, unless deemed necessary by our repair staff. Ultrasonic cleaning for brass instruments will be provided if deemed necessary by our repair staff, but is not routinely offered under the Performance Warranty.
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Long & McQuade reserves the right to restrict the purchase of additional years of Performance Warranty. Used products come with a 3-month Long & McQuade Performance Warranty. Some products (i.e. computers, software, cymbals and other items) are covered only by the manufacturer‘s warranty. Consumables (i.e. strings, reeds, drum sticks, batteries, tubes, cross faders) are excluded as they are designed to be replaced. Cosmetic Damage, Accidental Damage, or problems caused by Humidity or Temperature Issues are not covered. Speakers damaged by overpowering are generally not covered. Our coverage does not provide compensation for loss of use. As of June 2018 the Performance Warranty is no longer transferable. The warranty is only valid in Canada.
Purchasing additional years of coverage
Some manufacturers provide warranties for longer than 1 year; however, these are usually limited warranties that do not provide the same coverage as the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty. Customers interested in more complete and convenient (but not necessarily longer) coverage are still able to purchase additional years of the Performance Warranty.
If you are interested in receiving this coverage for longer than one year, you have the option of purchasing additional years of the Performance Warranty. The pricing is as follows:
- NEW products: 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. 4% for each additional year.
- USED products: 4% of the current new selling price to increase the warranty from 3 months to 1 year. 4% for each additional year.
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Reserve in Store
| Product | SKU | Qty |
|---|---|---|
| TF17 FET Cardioid Condenser Microphone | 805033 |
