L251 Vacuum Tube Microphone!

Lawson Inc. continues its tradition of recreating the classic microphones of yesteryear with the L251 vacuum tube microphone that features a faithful reproduction of the one inch capsule used in the ELAM 251, a rare vintage mic renowned and coveted for its sparkling "airy" highs and warm solid lows. These characteristics in large part can be attributed to the broad boost at approximately 10 kHz as seen in the frequency responses. The L251 capsule also exhibits a large proximity effect that provides a warm bottom end.

The L251 utilizes the 6N1P vacuum tube for a smooth, warm, vintage vibe. The 6N1P (6922) offers low distortion and low noise. It is widely available and in current production. This is the same vacuum tube used in the L47MP MKII. Each vacuum tube is stringently tested and individually selected to meet low-noise guidelines. To further insure low noise, an innovative, low-loss tube socket is utilized employing military grade, heavily gold-plated beryllium copper contacts, resulting in unparalleled grip, low contact resistance, and long life.
Like its sister the L47MP MKII, the L251 offers infinitely variable patterns that provide a wide pallet of character and utility. The pattern control (shown right) is located on the power supply and adjusts very smoothly (similar to a volume control) without the limitations of preset switch positions. A blue LED inside the windscreen glows when the multi-pattern mode is selected via the switch in the mic base.
Faithful to the original ELAM 251 design, the L251 also provides a cardioid only position actuated by a switch in the base of the microphone that increases sensitivity by 3 dB and lowers the noise floor of the microphone by the same amount. When the cardioid only position is selected, the multi-pattern control on the power supply is disabled and the blue LED inside the windscreen is off.
The versatility of the L251 is expanded with the 251/+Bass two-position low frequency contour switch. In the "251" position, the L251 provides a faithful reproduction of the original ELAM 251 low frequency characteristics. In the "+Bass" position, the L251 exhibits extended low frequency characteristics and more profound proximity effect. This switch can be changed during a performance without transient clicks or pops.
A 20 dB pad switch located on the power supply lowers capsule sensitivity and raises the sound pressure capability by 10 dB.
Like all microphones in the Lawson family, the L251 features the Lawson Quick Change™ capsule system that is easily removable and may be plugged into all other Lawson mics, including our popular L47MP tube microphone and all FET models. The L47FET is a perfect companion to the L251. With the Quick Change™ system and the ability to swap heads, you have the sound of FOUR Lawson microphones at your fingertips: L251, L47MP MKII, L47FET, and L251FET.
The ELAM 251, manufactured forty years ago in very limited quantities, is still first choice for noted producers and singers. Whereas an ELAM 251 today might fetch upwards of $15,000, the Lawson L251 offers the opportunity to relive the magic of this classic mic without having to mortgage the house or worry about damaging a cherished museum piece.