Composer and pianist Leo-Z employed his Telefunken ELA M 260 Stereo Set of small diaphragm condenser microphones to capture the precision sound of Steinway grand pianos for his debut solo album, “Materia Prima.”
“These microphones bring an airiness and transparency to the way we capture sound,” says Leo-Z, “especially for this type of impressionistic, acoustic, intimate type of music.”
Recording engineer Mike Tacci adds, “It’s a tube mic so the dynamic range is very sensitive. They work great with string instruments because they capture a lot of the low end, but also a clear top end. They have an openness and for the price, it’s really hard to match with any other microphone.”
The Stereo Set features two matched ELA M 260 microphones and a custom dual power supply capable of powering both microphones. The 260s were used on all pianos (D model, B model and upright) and also for viola, violin, and woodwinds. Leo-Z’s large-diaphragm Telefunken Copperhead mics were used on the back of the upright piano and on upright bass.
Leo-Z sees his debut album as the first chapter in a series of piano-based concept albums influenced by alchemy, existentialism, Neo-romanticism, supernatural narrative and metaphysical imagery. The music style blends minimalism with impressionism, pop music and late romanticism. References can be found in the works of Ludovico Einaudi, Max Ritcher, and Ryuichi Sakamoto.
“Materia Prima” includes seven compositions for piano, upright bass, bass flute and two violas, featuring some of Hollywood’s most popular musicians, including flutist Gina Giuliani and violist Molly Rogers, both known for their work with Hans Zimmer.
