TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik is proud to announce its partnership with Purdue University Fort Wayne and the establishment of the TELEFUNKEN Mic Locker at the newly opened Surack–Sweetwater Music Industry Building.
Officially opened on September 1, 2026, the new facility provides students with an environment designed to develop practical skills in recording, music production, and the broader audio industry. Through TELEFUNKEN’s support of the facility, students will have access to a collection of professional recording microphones, providing hands-on opportunities to explore the art and science of microphone selection and recording.
The TELEFUNKEN Mic Locker features the following microphones:
This collection gives students access to a range of microphone designs and tonal characteristics, from small-diaphragm stereo recording applications to large-diaphragm tube and FET condenser microphones. The microphones will serve as valuable tools for developing recording techniques, experimenting with microphone placement, and understanding the role of microphone selection in professional audio production.
The TELEFUNKEN Mic Locker will carry its name from 2026 through 2036, subject to the terms of the partnership agreement. Purdue Fort Wayne intends to incorporate TELEFUNKEN branding and color schemes into the space, creating a lasting presence for the company within the university’s music-industry education environment.
As part of the partnership, TELEFUNKEN will collaborate with Purdue Fort Wayne on a planned “history of classic microphones” exhibit. The exhibit is intended to explore the development and legacy of classic recording microphones, connecting the history of microphone technology with the hands-on education taking place inside the new facility.
TELEFUNKEN’s heritage in classic microphone design provides a natural connection to this educational initiative, offering students an opportunity to learn about the microphones and recording technologies that have helped shape the history of recorded music.
“TELEFUNKEN has always been committed to preserving the legacy of classic recording microphones while supporting the future of audio,” said Alan Venitosh, Operations Director of TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik. “The TELEFUNKEN Mic Locker at Purdue Fort Wayne brings those two commitments together. We are excited to provide students with access to professional microphones and to collaborate with the University on sharing the history and craft behind these important recording tools.”
The Surack–Sweetwater Music Industry Building represents a significant investment in music-industry education at Purdue Fort Wayne. The facility includes recording studios and control rooms, edit suites, rehearsal spaces, and other resources designed to provide students with practical experience in the music and audio industries.
Through the TELEFUNKEN Mic Locker, students will have access to professional recording tools as they develop their skills and prepare for careers in music production, recording engineering, and the wider audio industry.
TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik looks forward to its continued collaboration with Purdue University Fort Wayne and to supporting the University’s mission to prepare students for careers in the music and audio industries.
