Telefunken TF39 Copperhead Deluxe
Best premium microphone for professional studio recording.
The Telefunken TF39 Copperhead Deluxe is a large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone designed to offer exceptional sonic performance and value. It delivers warm, clear bass, detailed midrange, and airy high frequencies, rivaling microphones that cost significantly more. With selectable cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8 polar patterns, it provides great flexibility for various recording techniques. This American-made microphone features a 5654W NOS tube and a Lundahl output transformer, contributing to its open and pleasing sound. The matched pair set includes everything needed for stereo recording, making it a versatile addition to any mic locker.
$3385.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
203
/ 2337
#203 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+566%
Above average
Microphone Type
Tube Condenser
/ Tube Condenser
Who it's for
- Recording engineers and musicians seeking a versatile, high-quality studio microphone.
- Professional studios and artists prioritizing long-term reliability and sonic integrity.
- Engineers and producers needing adaptable microphone options for diverse recording tasks.
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious home studio owners or aspiring musicians with limited funds.
- Minimalist producers or those seeking simple, plug-and-play recording solutions.
- Engineers preferring solid-state reliability and minimal maintenance for their recording gear.
Performance breakdown
Sonic Versatility
Three selectable polar patterns handle everything from intimate vocals to complex ensembles.
Build Integrity
Hand-assembled in the USA with premium components for long-term studio reliability.
Tonal Character
The NOS tube provides a rich, warm signature with exceptional high-end clarity.
Stereo Imaging
The matched pair set delivers precise, cohesive depth for professional stereo recording.
Noise Floor
Impressively low self-noise ensures clean captures even in quiet acoustic environments.
Component Quality
Lundahl transformer integration elevates the signal path for a professional, open sound.
Key Specs
Microphone Type
Tube Condenser
Mono/Stereo
Stereo Pair
Polar Pattern
Cardioid, Figure-8, Omnidirectional
Diaphragm Size
1" (25.4mm)
Frequency Response
20Hz-20kHz
Max SPL
130dB SPL (1% THD)
Output Impedance
<300 ohms
Signal to Noise Ratio
87dB
Features
- Versatile polar patterns for flexible recording
- Warm, clear bass and detailed midrange
- Silky, unhyped high-end airiness
- Includes matched pair for stereo recording
- Premium components for open sound
- Hand-assembled in the USA
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Telefunken TF39 Copperhead Deluxe for its exceptional sound quality, often highlighting its warm, detailed, and versatile sonic character suitable for various sources. Many reviewers appreciate its robust build and premium components, affirming its professional grade construction. The microphone is frequently lauded for delivering a high end studio experience, making it a standout choice for serious audio professionals seeking top tier performance and reliability.
Know before you buy
The TF39 uses a 5654W NOS tube and a Lundahl output transformer, which provide a natural, harmonic saturation and a warmer, more 'open' sound profile compared to the clinical accuracy of solid-state mics.
Yes, this specific package is a matched pair, meaning the two microphones have been tested to ensure their frequency response and sensitivity are nearly identical, making them ideal for stereo techniques like X/Y or ORTF.
No, this is a tube condenser microphone that requires its own dedicated external M903 power supply to operate. You do not need to engage 48V phantom power on your preamp or interface.
The microphone offers three selectable polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8. This flexibility allows you to switch between isolating a single sound source or capturing the room ambience.
With a maximum SPL of 130dB, the Copperhead Deluxe can handle most studio sound sources comfortably. However, for extremely high-SPL applications like close-miking a loud snare or kick drum, you may want to ensure your gain staging is managed carefully.
The set comes with two microphones, the M 901S dual power supply, two 7-pin cables, two elastic shockmounts, two microphone sleeves, and a locking flight case to keep everything protected.
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