Hailing from Slovakia, FLEA Microphones has built a well-deserved reputation in classic vintage mic reproductions for over 20 years. They’ve tackled reinterpretations of iconic tube mics such as the AKG C12, the Neumann U 47, U 49, and M 49, and recently the renowned Telefunken ELA M 251. FLEA has taken an interesting approach by developing both tube and solid-state FET versions of some of these designs, with the intent to preserve the warmth and sonic characteristics of these highly sought-after vintage mics. Given their innovative approach to modernizing these classics, I was excited to try FLEA’s new FLEA M 251 FET solid-state version of their FLEA M 251 tube mic. [Tape Op #157]. The idea of emulating the sound of a vintage tube microphone with FET technology intrigued me for several reasons. While I love the sound of vintage Neumanns and Telefunkens, there are definite benefits that come with solid-state construction, such as reliability (no need to replace tubes after they’ve worn out), lower self-noise, and reduced cost.
It’s not surprising that FLEA chose to pay homage to the Telefunken ELA M 251, as it’s one of the most well-regarded mics in recording history. The original was developed in the late 1950s through a collaboration between Telefunken and AKG. It shared many of the same components with its predecessor, the AKG C12, such as the CK12 capsule, AC701k (and later 6072) tubes, and the T 14/1 transformer, which are all important sonic elements. The original ELA M 251 is known to sound particularly amazing on vocals, which is why it was a common choice for iconic singers such as Joni Mitchell, Sade, Björk, and Dolly Parton. Today, a vintage Telefunken ELA M 251, if you can find one, has a price tag in the five or even six-figure range. Even a Telefunken Elektroakustik reissue will set you back almost $14,000. By designing a FET version, FLEA has created a mic that is more financially accessible than most of the other currently available tube-based clones. That got me really excited, as I’m constantly on the lookout for a mic with a vintage vibe that won’t drain my bank account.
Putting sound aside for a moment, I have to note that FLEA has done a remarkable job with the look and feel of the M 251 FET. Aesthetically, it’s got all the character of the vintage Telefunken, down to the color. The mic comes in a sturdy wooden box with a velvet-padded interior, making it easy for me to transport from studio to studio. Like the original, the M 251 FET has switchable polar patterns (cardioid, figure-eight, and omnidirectional). It features a FLEA CK12 capsule, a true-to-form homage to the original CK12 capsule. The M 251 FET also comes with a swivel stand-mount connector and cable. As it’s a FET condenser, no separate power supply box is required, just use 48V phantom power.