JK's MKU47 build thread

mjb, there is a reason why sinsay is who he is, the capsules are HUGE to the sound, everything else is important, but combined don't reach the significance of the capsule alone. 

realgearonline.com/post/53110/thread

I guess it means the original capsule in my mic wasn't too bad then, if after putting the Thiersch in, it sounded like the same mic, only improved a bit all around.

it's not just the capsule, the capsule is the biggest part, but if you put half assed components in a relatively weak circuit(90% of the market) with a great capsule, you still get a mediocre mic IME. My Rode K2=not bad, installing a great capsule=much better, nos tube and serious component upgrades= much better again.

That's a good translation!

While I hate to make generalizations like this, I'd say the Capsule will make the biggest difference "usually", but as MJB pointed out, sometimes that expectation can leave you wanting more. In his case it sounds like he was comparing two capsules that were already very similar. Even two copies of the Thiersch Blueline will have identifying variances, but ultimately provide the same general character and color. As for the circuit, remember some are much more linear than others. A plate follower like the C12 derives a lot of gain from the tube, and IME tone can change drastically based on what tube you have in there. As for transformers, you'd generally think that a 12:1 ratio small core transformer like the T14 would be much more influential than a large core low ratio transformer (BV08 is 6.5:1) but even that can be misleading. Core type, the actual gauge and density of the windings and how hard the circuit drives the transformer can all influence the linearity in circuit. At every stage in the circuit there is the potential for frequency deviation, harmonic distortion, and phase shift that all influence the overall character of the mic. IMO, it's important to start with a premium capsule based on the saying we're all to familiar with, "garbage in, garbage out" but it's almost impossible to simplify things beyond that point. I'll say this, both the C12 and U47 mics (that we've been bantering about so much here) derive a lot of their sound from the circuit (and especially the tube and transformer combination) so it wouldn't surprise me if after changing capsules the general overall character of the mic was somewhat preserved.

Also, remember that not every capsule is suited to every mic. The CK12 and K7/K47 types work well in linear circuits but the K67 requires de-emphasis to perform properly, a fact often overlooked in the dozens of inexpensive mics that bewilderingly make use of (sometimes very decent) copies of this capsule.

Listening, experimentation, and attention to detail will get you farther than generalizations will most times. If I had to generalize myself though, I'd say capsule first, then circuit, then tube/transformer weighted almost equally.

No matter what tubes you put in, you have to re adjust the B+ voltage via the trim pot to get you to 105vdc, then after they are broken in, you adjust it again 8)

Just checked mine again, tonycamphd...105

I haven't used it on a main vocal yet...going to soon, though. I've done a couple of harms with it and it's SUPER natural - except with that beautiful midrange. I'm interested in putting it through the paces and seeing how it works in practical use. Most everything else has been singing clips and the like.

Hi Everybody,

now that the correct screws finally arrived, I'm completing the assembly of the new MK-U47 batch.
Shipping starts tomorrow, and I'm now open for orders. I'll go through my list, but if you inquired about a kit in the past it doesn't hurt to send me another email.
Kit/pricing and contact info: groupdiy.com/index.php?topic=35667.msg437839#msg437839

A quick snapshot during assembly:

Man. Another one WOULD be sweet.

thats awesome! and one of those has my name on it! yaay! 8)