The R-F-T AR-51 is a high quality tube condenser that draws inspiration from the classic C12 and ELA M 251E microphones. It provides a smooth mid-range, open top end, and solid, well-balanced low frequency translation. TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik is well known for the historic recreation microphones found in the Diamond Series, which are meticulously made to historic detail with no expense spared. As such, these microphones become rather expensive for the average small studio or home enthusiast. With this in mind, the R-F-T Series of microphones was created. The R-F-T Series of tube condenser microphones utilizes American designed electronics in conjunction with New Old Stock (NOS) vacuum tubes and standardized parts from overseas manufacturers. Just like the Diamond Series, all R-F-T Series microphones are hand-built in TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik's South Windsor, Connecticut facility. With this line, TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik is able to provide a lower cost alternative to more expensive microphone systems, without sacrificing the qualities that would be expected from a TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik microphone. The AR-51 features the amplifier electronics of a C12 and ELA M 251E and pairs them with a dual sided large diaphragm TK51D capsule. At the core of the R-F-T AR-51 amplifier is a NOS ECC81 vacuum tube, which is coupled with the same German built Haufe T14/1 output transformer found in the C12 and ELA M 251E.