Golden Age Project GA-251 Large-Diaphragm Tube Condenser Microphone

Because capturing the essence of legendary sound quality is an art, the Golden Age Premier GA-251 Large-Diaphragm Tube Condenser Microphone stands as a modern homage to the iconic Telefunken ELA M 250/251. This high-quality, professional microphone is meticulously crafted to emulate the revered characteristics of its historical counterpart, offering audio enthusiasts and recording professionals a durable and reliable tool for capturing sound with unparalleled clarity and warmth.

The GA-251 boasts a robust brass body and an iron grille, reminiscent of the original design, which plays a pivotal role in shaping its distinct sound character. The microphone's heart, a 34 mm K251 style capsule, is carefully selected from a large batch to ensure only the finest quality, providing both cardioid and omni polar patterns for versatile recording scenarios.

At the core of the GA-251's exceptional audio fidelity is a NOS Phillip 5480W super low noise pentode tube, operated in triode mode to minimize noise and enhance the balanced sound response. This tube is known for its smooth, warm sound character, making it particularly suitable for capturing the nuances of vocal performances.

The microphone's amplifier circuit is a testament to Golden Age Project's commitment to excellence, with a new proprietary design centered around the vintage NOS 5840W tube. The output transformer is a specially designed 10:1 AMI style dual bobbin transformer, constructed with permalloy steel sheet from the USA and enamelled wire from Germany, delivering high resolution and a harmonious balance across low, mid, and high frequencies.

In the realm of components, the GA-251 spares no expense. The coupling capacitor by Solen features a balanced film design with pure oxygen-free copper connections, ensuring a delicate and balanced sound. The microphone also utilizes NOS Siemens antique grade polystyrene capacitors and ELNA OFC Cerafine high-end Hi-Fi capacitors from Japan, contributing to the microphone's sweet and refined audio character.

The meticulous construction extends to the mic's interior, where point-to-point wiring is employed, using Mundorf Msolder Supreme silver-gold solder for superior conductivity and pure silver wire to minimize loss. This attention to detail ensures that the GA-251's sound quality remains transparent and true to the source.

The accompanying vintage-style power supply unit is designed for low noise and minimal stray field, with dual-stage filtering for the filament voltage and precise filtering and stabilization for the high voltage. The polar pattern switch, located on the power supply, allows for remote switching between cardioid and omni patterns, while a ground lift switch addresses potential noise issues.

Completing the GA-251's package is a custom-made microphone cable, featuring 99.99% pure oxygen-free copper, Teflon insulation, and a high-density braided shield, ensuring an open and smooth sound transfer. The aviation-style plug guarantees solid connections and longevity.

In summary, the Golden Age Premier GA-251 Large-Diaphragm Tube Condenser Microphone is a testament to the fusion of classic inspiration and modern innovation, offering a sound that is both rich and full-bodied. It is the microphone of choice for those who demand the highest quality and reliability in their audio recordings.