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OmnidirectionalCardioidPearlman Microphones TM 1

Multi-Pattern Tube Condenser Microphone

The TM-1 is a multipattern tube condenser hand-built by Dave Pearlman in California.

Dave describes the TM-1 as having “similar characteristics” to a the Neumann U47, and reviews from publications and users tend to agree. The similarity in sound comes from the similarity in key components: a K47-style capsule and a CineMag output transformer modeled after those used in the original U47.

The K47-style capsule uses imported backplates. Diaphragms are installed and tensioned by Pearlman Microphones.

A switch on the mic body enables the polar pattern to be changed from Cardioid to Omnidirectional.

The TM-1 is entirely hand-built, and comes stock with a NOS European tube, though a German or American tube can be substituted on request. While the microphone itself comes with a lifetime warranty, the tubes and capsules are covered for one year only.

Dave Pearlman

The European tube that I’m using in the TM-1 is the EF80 (6BX6 or 6BW7). It is a pentode wired in the mic as a triode just like the EF14. It is a replacement for the metal EF14 and sounds so similar that sometimes I can’t tell the difference. It has more of a high-mid-forward sound that made the EF14 so desirable. A great sounding mic.

The American tube replacement for the EF14 is the 6AC7. I have a few thousand of these and again, it sounds so close to the original that it is hard to tell the difference. It might be in some circumstances a bit softer sounding than the EF80. One can also use as a replacement without any change in this socket the 6SJ7 and 5693, both of which are readily available and in massive supply. There are Russian military spec versions of all three of these tubes that are amazing as well. These are great sounding mics, too.

Just to add to the confusion I have also made the mic with the EF86 (used in the U67) and EF804 (V72 tube). Both these models are a bit more “boutique” but really have very similar sounds to the other versions. These tubes are not easily found and can tend to be expensive at times ( not over $50 usually).

Reviews of the TM-1 are all positive, and marvel at “old school” production style combined with a relatively affordable price point.

The TM-1 comes with a power supply, cable (Mogami with Neutrik connectors), shockmount, and an aluminum storage case.

The Pearlman Microphones TM 1 is also known as: TM1, TM-1.

The mic was released in 2005.

Specifications

Pickup Patterns Pads & Filters
Omnidirectional (n/a mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Cardioid (n/a mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Capsule Dimensions Impedance SPL/Noise
Capsule diameter: 34mm
Diaphragm gauge: 6 microns
200 Ohms (Low)
Weight Length Max Diameter Interface(s)
n/a n/a n/a
  • 3-pin XLR male (1)
Power Specifications
  • Includes tube power supply

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