Hand built Elam 251 Clone Multipattern Tube Condenser Microphone with case, NOS parts, modified PSU, cable + shockmount

Built and ready to ship! Dollar for dollar this is the best mic on the net. I build the very best ELA M 251 clones money can buy for a fraction of the price of an original, or even a high end clone. This kit is built and modified using the highest end components, vintage NOS foil capacitors used in the original Elam251 circuit, a custom hand wound Haufe T13/1 cloned transformer (same as used in the Elam251), new RK-12 capsule (also the same capsule used in the C12 and Elam251), genuine Kester leaded solder and new, pure silver wiring, trimmed short and clean for optimal signal to noise ratio. All resistors are high end, low-noise, 1% tolerance, and audio grade.

Currently my clones are being used in some of the nicest facilities in the world including Berkeley College, Moosecat Recording Studios and JML Studios. I’m yet to sell one (even to high end commercial studios) and hear anything less than, “best mic I’ve ever owned.” These mics we’re even recently featured in a Mix Magazine interview & pictures as my client gushed about how good they are. He uses them on everything he does and got rid of all his other high end mics to use the pair he bought from me instead and most recently used them on a series of Absolute Vodka TV ads.

Listing includes the Elam251 mic with brand new, hand selected JJ 12AX7 power tube (can be upgraded with a NOS GE or Telefunken for $100 extra), an unbranded hardshell metal carrying case, unbranded velvet lined wooden mic case, 15’ noise free, shielded 7 pin Cable, IEC Power cable and a modified power supply with selectable patterns. Read on for details and specs:

The mic is essentially brand new. I start by gutting a donor Avantone CV12 down to the actual frame rails as shown in the pics. The thin metal rails are litterally the ONLY internal components I use! No wires, no components, not a shred of the original mic remains. I then populate a ELAM 251 pcb circuit board one capacitor and resistor at a time. I also install a custom internal dip switch mod (in addition to the external -10db pad and bass roll off switches) that allows you to engage a “rumble filter” at 80hz. I will also provide you with a small ziplock that includes instruction and a different capacitor that gives you a more aggressive 180hz filter if you would like to swap out the existing rumble filter for it. I can also ship it was the 180hz filter if you prefer however I suggest leaving the mic as is but you’ll have it If you ever want to experiment or if you do find a 180hz filter more suited for you. Either way, you have the option to have either or and include this mod In the case. I also include extra shockmount elastic bands too.

Next, I modify the power supply with the higher quality components so the mic has a smoother, quieter output.

Next I change the capsule and the saddle. The capsule in the headbasket is now the fabled RK-12, the best pairing available for this mic, as the original AKG C12 and the Elam251 both shared this capsule from conception. This is by far the very best capsule in production today for this mic build. If you’d like I can swap the capsule for a u47 (M7) type capsule if You prefer.

Lastly I professionally paint these mics with either silver or gold hammertone paint, followed by an enameled clear coat which Ibe baked every day for 30 days to properly harden the enamel. It’s a lengthy process but comes out great. I currently have a silver hammertone one in stock that can ship same day but can paint it really any color you like. I like the silver hammertone because it has that vintage look of the old a Neumann UM57 or CMV563’s. Totally up to you though. I can clear coat over literally any color imaginable. Just reach out if you prefer a different color. Anything from black to pink and everything in between, you name it.

Pricing:

Believe it or not, there is very little profit in the sale of this custom mic kit and each one is hand Built by a NYC professional tech who charges $150/hr bench time. After fees and taxes we are lucky to make $200 profit which is barely worth it. We’ll be raising the price in the near future for this reason. The cost of these parts have double in the last 24 months so our price has slightly gone up too just due to costs. You can however save by buying a stereo matched pair, which includes free combine shipping and a $250 overall discount from the total cost. Message me for a custom listing.

Thanks for looking. Open to trades. Pickup in northern NJ, 15 min from Manhattan NYC.

Save this shop for other fun audio treasures and finds! ~ JML