Buyer’s Guide: Telefunken M Series Microphones Precision Sound Meets Durability
8th Jan 2026
Telefunken M Series—options for every studio budget:
When you think “professional microphone,” Telefunken is a name that resonates with engineers, musicians, and live sound pros around the world. What many might not know is that Telefunken offers a compelling M Series dynamic range that brings premium performance into pricing brackets often reserved for more basic handhelds making them strong contenders for pro setups without breaking the bank for both live and studio.
The Telefunken M80 stands out compared to a standard live-sound microphone because it combines studio-level clarity and detail with rugged, stage-ready performance. Its neodymium magnet improves sensitivity and output, giving vocals and instruments greater presence and punch in the mix without needing excessive EQ or gain. The frequency response is tailored to enhance intelligibility and reduce muddiness, with controlled highs that resist feedback in loud environments. Additionally, the M80’s solid build and consistent capsule quality deliver reliable performance night after night, making it a step up from generic live mics that often trade accuracy for basic durability.
Telefunken M Series Breakdown:
- Telefunken M80 Handheld Dynamic Microphone $599 NZD
- Telefunken M80‑SH Dynamic Microphone – M80 in a shorter handheld from $599 NZD
- Telefunken M81 Handheld Dynamic Microphone $599 NZD
- Telefunken M81‑SH Dynamic Microphone – M81 in a shorter handheld from $599 NZD
- Telefunken M82 Large Diaphragm Dynamic Microphone – Bigger diaphragm dynamic, great on kick drums & low-end sources — $899 NZD
What Makes the M Series Special Telefunken’s M Series isn’t just “a dynamically shaped handheld mic.” It’s a modern professional toolset designed with meticulous attention to sound quality, durability, and versatility:
1. Condenser-Like Clarity in a Dynamic Package The M80 and variants deliver extended high-end response and clarity that rival hefty condensers, yet offer the ruggedness of a stage mic.
2. Feedback & Proximity Control With supercardioid patterns and intelligent diaphragm design, these mics reject off-axis noise effectively invaluable in live sound and untreated room environments.
3. Midrange Presence That Works in Mixes The M81 often flatter in response than the M80 excels at capturing midrange detail on vocals, brass, guitars, and toms without harshness.
4. Built to Handle Real-World Use Telefunken mics are built tough for touring, yet sensitive enough for studio recording a rare combination at this price tier.
Breakdown of M Series Features:
Here’s how to think about selecting from the lineup:
All-Purpose—M80/M80-SH: A natural choice for live vocals or close mic’ing snares and amps. Punchy, clear, and resilient for rehearsal and stage.
More Midrange Detail & Control—M81 (and M81-SH): Great for instruments (toms, brass, guitars) or vocals that need smoother, less “bright” detail.
Low-End Authority—M82: Larger diaphragm and built-in filters make it ideal for kick drums or sources with heavy low energy that you don’t want to EQ heavily.
Final Thoughts: Quality That Punches Above Its Price
The Telefunken M Series delivers studio quality performance at prices that don’t feel like compromise. Especially if your focus is practical, music-ready sound that doesn't to be Eq'd, whether for vocals, instruments, or dynamic stage use these mics sound incredibly fuller and ready to use verses conventional dynamics, they also don't feedback as easily!
If you want:
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Pro sound in a rugged package: Go for the M80/M81
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Robust low-end capture: Try the M82
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Top-tier gear for broader studio needs: Explore Telefunken’s condenser range too
Telefunken’s lineup gives you choices that are musician-friendly and studio-worthy.
STL Pro Audio is the aurthorised NZ distrubutor and stocks the entire range of Telefunken M Series.



