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  5. Coles 4038 Ribbon Microphone
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SKU

340

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Coles 4038 Ribbon Microphone

Single 4038 including XLR-stand mount adapter and individual plastic case
MFR# 4038
Shop All Coles Microphones
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Product Description

The Coles 4038 Studio Ribbon Microphone is a British Broadcasting (BBC) design for broadcasting and recording applications. It is used where a clear smooth wide range frequency response, absence of transient distortion and relatively high sensitivity is essential.

The 4038 is a proven performer, and is in use around the world by broadcasting networks such as the BBC as well as top engineers and studios on hit recordings.

Frequency response of the 4038 is exceptionally flat from 30 Hz to 15 kHz and throughout this range the shape of the bi-directional (figure of eight) polar response is maintained substantially constant both in the horizontal and vertical planes, giving a natural sonic quality with smooth frequency response.

Features:

  • Pressure gradient transducer ribbon microphone
  • Substantially flat frequency response from 30 to 15,000 c/s
  • Extremely low (non-linear) distortion
  • Exceptionally low hum pick-up
  • Bi-directional (figure of eight) polar curve shape accurately maintained in both horizontal and vertical planes
  • Excellent transient response
  • Natural clear balanced response to sound signal
  • Body shape to enhance acoustic performance
  • Clear natural high fidelity sound reproduction
  • Smooth sonic textured response
  • All microphones factory tested in free field conditions

Specifications:

  • Ribbon: Low mass damped ribbon to control transient response
  • Polar Response: Bi-directional
  • Magnetic Fields: By use of hum neutralizing wiring and magnetic shielding of the toroidal ribbon to line transformer 30 to 40 dB reduction is achieved in response to stray disturbing magnetic fields
  • Frequency Response: 30 Hz to 15 kHz
  • Impedance: 300 Ohms
  • Sensitivity: -65 dB W.R.T. IV/Pa
  • Distortion: Less than 1% at 125 dB SPL
  • Connection: By means of 4069 3 pin jack plug. Pin 1 positive - Pin 2 negative - Pin 3 screen
  • Body Housing: Made of heavy gauge perforated brass backed by finely woven Monel mesh. Rotating hinge connection allows microphone to tilt through 90° and turned in any direction when either suspended or free standing
  • Dimensions: 7¼" (197 mm) x 3¼" (83 mm) x (61 mm).
  • Weight: 2 lb 6 oz. (1.08 kg)
  • Finish: Black stove enamel textured paint

Packaging

Each microphone comes in a foam lined rigid plastic carrying case with 4069 XLR adaptor, and a soft cloth protective bag for safe keeping. Also included is the rigid microphone stand adaptor for mounting on standard 5/8" mic stands.

Accessories:

  • 4069 to XLR adaptor
  • Soft cloth protective bag
  • Foam-lined rigid plastic carrying case
  • Rigid 5/8" mic stand mount

Product Specifications

Condition New
Package Contents Case, mic bag, jack plug, floor stand plug adaptor, mic to stand adaptor w/ XLR
Length 7.25 in
Diameter 3.25 in
Unit Weight 2 lb
Tube or Solid State Solid State
Transducer Type Ribbon
Polar Pattern Bi-Directional / Figure-Eight
Number of Microphones Single Microphone
Phantom Required No
Impedance 300 Ohms
Frequency Range 30 Hz - 15 kHz
Sensitivity -65 dBV/Pa (0.6 mV)
Max. SPL 125 dB

Product Reviews

5 out of 5 stars.
Review Count (5)

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Bill was fantastic and a great help in getting the Coles to me in record time. Loving the mic!

By Riley M on November 1, 2020

Why are you reading the reviews? Just buy them! If you are here then you already know, and if you already know, then there should be no hesitation. Just do it! There will be no regrets.

By Alex on October 23, 2020

My favorite microphone! Warm sound in the mid lows and beautiful color.

By Renato on September 27, 2020

trying to get that perfect mono drum overhead sound, kind a like the al green vibe - starting out with a natuarl sounding slingerland kit tuned real nice, low fat snare, wallet sittin on the head to kill the ring. Put my 4038 right over the drummers head pointing at the snare, as close as I can get without him nailing it with a stick. Sounds rich, full and super lifelike. Im cutting some lo mids and adding a bit of 12k with a 550a running thru a 512c pre. Punchy, big, natural. Blend in some kick, snare and hat to get the perfect balance. Damn nice!

By Chris on May 25, 2017

Super dark, vibey, textural, and fat sounding mic. You can't get that sound any other way! Looks and feels like a heavy duty skillet and you just can't argue that these sound anything less than completely badass on rock records. Drum overheads, guitar cabs, drum room mics are typically where they end up. The only downside is that the mount is a little bit clumsy to navigate, but that's a small price to pay for the sound of this classic mic.

By Steve K on May 4, 2017

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I would like to thank VK for the wonderful sales assistance, service and prices. This was my first purchase with you and it won't be my last. I only wish I'd discovered you years ago!
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Ryan F.
In almost 20 years in Pro audio buying, never did I receive a unit so well packed and exactly as described. Works flawlessly. The whole process has been so smooth. I will never hesitate to do business with you guys in the future and will recommend you to everyone I know.
Martin C.
This was my first experience buying something from Vintage King (although I surf the "used" categories on the website frequently!), and, despite being on the other side of the world, I had absolutely no trouble and everything went very smoothly.
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The speed of delivery exceeded my expectations! I was VERY pleased that my shipment arrived in time for a scheduled vocal tracking session. The packing insured that my order arrived safely. And the sales staff responded quickly to questions regarding the product.
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