FLEA SM 204/23

FLEA SM 204/23

A legend, faithful recreation of a true classic, reborn with modern craftsmanship.

The FLEA SM 204/23 is a meticulously crafted replica of one of the rarest and most fascinating studio microphones ever produced. The original Siemens SM204/23 became renowned for its natural, detailed, and exceptionally musical sound. Over the years, it has become a highly sought-after collector’s piece and is now virtually impossible to obtain. FLEA’s goal was to preserve its unique sonic character and bring it back in a form that meets the expectations of today’s most demanding recording studios. During the development of the FLEA SM 204/23, meticulous attention has been paid to every detail. The mechanical construction, electronic circuitry, transformer, and capsule were all designed with one objective: to recreate the sonic character of the original as faithfully as possible.

At the heart of the FLEA SM 204/23 is FLEA’s faithful replica of the legendary V2545 output transformer – regarded by many as the holy grail of microphone transformers. Recreated with painstaking attention to the original’s design and materials, it delivers the tone, depth, and harmonic richness that made the V2545 so revered, and it is central to the authenticity of this reissue. A defining feature of the SM204/23 is its self-biasing circuit, which handles high sound pressure levels with exceptional composure and headroom. This gives the microphone a wonderfully forgiving character on loud, dynamic sources – another facet of its unique sonic personality. The result is a microphone that delivers an exceptionally natural sound, rich midrange, smooth high frequencies, and a solid, well-controlled low end. Its dynamic response is equally impressive, capturing subtle nuances and transient detail with remarkable precision. The FLEA SM 204/23 is an ideal choice for vocals, spoken word, acoustic instruments, and any application where authenticity and musicality are essential.

Like every FLEA microphone, the FLEA SM 204/23 is handcrafted in small production batches using only premium-quality components. Each microphone undergoes individual measurement, testing, and final inspection to ensure it meets the uncompromising standards expected from FLEA products. The FLEA SM 204/23 will appeal not only to enthusiasts of classic studio microphones but also to modern producers and recording engineers seeking a truly distinctive sonic character.

Key Features:

• Capsule: FLEA CK12 capsule, an outstanding choice for those seeking the sound of the original CK12.
• Tube: Standard: 6072 tube with multiple options / Upgrade Option: GE6072A at an additional cost.
• Transformer: V2545 replica.
• Polar Patterns: Cardioid, Omnidirectional and Bidirectional options.
• Sound Quality: The FLEA SM 204/23 is one of the "Holy Grail" vocal microphones in recording history.
• Versatility: Exceptional for vocals, acoustic instruments, and ambient miking.

Complete Set:
The FLEA SM 204/23 comes in a set that includes the microphone housed in a wooden box, a power supply with a built-in pattern selector for versatile recording options, and a cable with a swivel mount connector for easy setup and use.