Coles 4038 Studio Ribbon Microphone

Coles 4038 Studio Ribbon Microphone

Few microphones have achieved the legacy of the Coles 4038, a hand-built British classic originally developed by the British Broadcasting Corporation in the 1950s that continues to set the standard for natural, high-fidelity sound. Exhibiting a remarkably flat frequency response from 30 Hz to 15 kHz, exceptionally low nonlinear distortion, and potent hum rejection, the Coles 4038 it one of the most accurate and reliable ribbon mics ever made. The microphone's natural figure-8 (bidirectional) polar pattern delivers consistent sound in both horizontal and vertical orientations, and its excellent transient response captures even the most dynamic sources with precision and clarity. Whether you're using a matched pair as drum overheads, close-mic'ing acoustic guitars and guitar amps, or capturing vocals, brass, and string instruments, the Coles 4038 delivers a natural yet characterful sound that has made it a first-choice studio mic for decades.

CLASSIC BRITISH BROADCASTING DESIGN

Famously used as drum overheads on classic Beatles and Led Zeppelin recordings, the Coles 4038 studio ribbon microphone traces its origins to the BBC, where it was originally designed and patented in the 1950s to deliver high sensitivity and neutral sound in a compact form factor. Originally manufactured by STC, the patents and production were transferred to Coles Electroacoustics in 1972, and every microphone is still hand-built to the original specifications using manufacturing techniques refined over generations. Its unmistakable "waffle iron" profile, heavy-gauge perforated brass construction backed by finely woven Monel mesh, and black enamel finish make it as durable as it is iconic.

EXCEPTIONALLY FLAT FREQUENCY RESPONSE

The Coles 4038 studio ribbon microphone boasts a remarkably flat frequency response from 30 Hz to 15 kHz, delivering true-to-life sound without artificially boosting or rolling off any part of the spectrum. A low-mass damped ribbon prevents transient distortion, allowing the mic to respond quickly and accurately to even the most dynamic sources. Exceptionally low nonlinear distortion and powerful hum rejection are achieved through specialized wiring and magnetic shielding, ensuring 30 to 40 dB of interference reduction. The bi-directional pickup pattern maintains an accurate polar response no matter where you place it, ensuring consistent and natural pickup from the front and rear of the microphone. All units are factory tested in free-field conditions, guaranteeing that each 4038 performs to specification straight out of the box.

INCLUDED ACCESSORIES

The Coles 4038 Studio Ribbon Microphone ships with everything needed to get it into a recording or broadcast setup quickly and securely. Included in the box are a 4069 XLR adapter, a 4038SA stand adapter, a soft cloth protective bag, and a foam-lined plastic case. The stand adapter provides a stable connection to a standard microphone stand, while the foam-lined case ensures the 4038 is properly protected during storage and transport.

COLES 4038 FEATURES:

• Classic studio and broadcast ribbon microphone developed by the BBC
• Low-mass damped ribbon delivers controlled transient response
• Substantially flat frequency response from 30 Hz to 15 kHz
• Extremely low non-linear distortion
• Bi-directional (figure of eight) polar curve shape accurately maintained in both horizontal and vertical planes
• Hum-neutralizing design and magnetic shielding of the toroidal ribbon to line transformer provide superb interference rejection
• Capable of handling high sound pressure levels up to 125 dB SPL without distortion
• All microphones are factory-tested in free-field conditions
• Constructed from heavy-gauge perforated brass with a durable black textured enamel finish Ideal for recording cymbals, guitars, vocals, brass, and strings