Upton Microphones 251 Tube Condenser Microphone

Rooted in the DNA of one of the most celebrated studio mics ever made, the Upton Microphones 251 brings the rare character of the Telefunken ELA M 251 to modern recording sessions. Built around a custom CK12-style capsule, a proprietary T14 transformer, and a faithful reproduction of the original circuit design, this large-diaphragm tube mic successfully delivers the warmth, detail, and dimension that made the vintage original legendary. With a full 20 Hz–20 kHz frequency response, a 6072A vacuum tube, and switchable pad and filter options, the Upton 251 is a top-tier option for capturing vocals, acoustic instruments, and any source that demands exceptional clarity and character.

ELA M 251 LEGACY

The legendary ELA M 251 was produced by AKG and sold under the Telefunken brand for only a brief window between approximately 1960 and 1965. Yet, it left a lasting mark on the recording world and is widely considered one of the finest microphones ever manufactured. The Upton 251 is a direct tribute to that legacy, recreating the sonic qualities that earned the original its reputation while offering enhanced reliability and modern build quality. For engineers who want that iconic tube character without the expense of sourcing and maintaining a vintage unit, the Upton 251 offers a practical yet sonically faithful alternative. Its multi-pattern design offers cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8 polar patterns, making it as versatile as the microphone that inspired it.

CUSTOM CK12 CAPSULE

The Upton 251 is built around a custom CK12-style capsule, a key component in recreating the characteristic tone of the original. The CK12 design is known for its extended high-frequency detail, open midrange, and precise transient response: qualities that translate directly to enhanced presence and clarity on vocals and instruments alike. Built to exacting specifications, Upton's CK12 ensures consistency that even the most well-cared-for vintage units simply can't guarantee. Paired with the 6072A vacuum tube, this capsule produces the kind of three-dimensional, harmonically rich sound that has defined countless vintage recordings.

PROPRIETARY T14 TRANSFORMER

The proprietary T14 transformer is a purpose-built component designed specifically for use in the Upton 251 circuit. Transformers play a critical role in shaping the low-end weight, headroom, and overall coloration of a tube microphone, and the T14's proprietary design reflects a deliberate choice to maintain the sonic character of the original 251 rather than substitute an off-the-shelf alternative. The T14 contributes to the microphone's controlled output impedance of 200 Ω and its output sensitivity of 1 mV/Pa, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of preamps and interfaces. The result is a signal that is full, balanced, and musical without the help of EQ.

AUTHENTIC ELA M 251 CIRCUIT DESIGN

Rather than approximating the original circuit design or making unnecessary modifications, the Upton 251 adheres closely to the original schematic. This commitment to the authentic circuit topology is what separates the Upton 251 from generic tube condenser designs. The circuit's interaction with the 6072A–2AY7 tube produces the natural compression, harmonic saturation, and frequency shaping that defined the sound of the original unit. Self-noise measures at 20 dB-A, and the recommended load impedance of 1 kΩ ensures that the circuit operates within its optimal range when paired with a wide range of preamps. Switchable pad and filter options provide additional flexibility for managing level and low-frequency content without compromising the integrity of the circuit's output.

UPTON 251 TUBE CONDENSER MICROPHONE FEATURES:

• Large-diaphragm multi-pattern vacuum tube condenser microphone based on the classic Telefunken/AKG ELA M 251
• Custom CK12-style capsule
• Proprietary T14 transformer
• 6072A, 12AY7 vacuum tubes
• Switchable cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8 polar patterns
• Onboard switchable pad and filter/EQ
• 6-pin connector
• Includes wooden box, power supply, and mic cable with swivel mount