Coles / STC 4038

Classic bidirectional ribbon mic. Designed to be a general-purpose high quality mic for use by the BBC, this mic is the gold standard of this type. Versatile, it can be used on guitar cabinets, horns, brass, drum overheads (takes additive HF EQ very well) and bowed strings. We have a shitload of these, some made by Coles Electroacoustics, some by Standard Telephones and Cables (STC). Be aware that different versions have different output impedances (30, 150, 200, 300 ohms) marked on the medallion on the body. This can affect the level and tonal balance of mics used as pairs. If you hear a 4038 distorting when used on a guitar amp, move it farther away from the speaker. If it still distorts, then it's the wrong mic for that guitar. You have to give up every now and again.

Similar to: Royer R121, Royer R122, RCA 77DX, RCA 44DX, RCA BK11