Coles 4040

From the Coles website, 2007

"The 4040 is the newest addition to the Coles line of ribbon microphones. With a bold look, greater output, and a wider frequency response, the Coles 4040 is sure to complement any studio microphone cabinet.

This is the first ribbon microphone that Coles have developed using the very latest magnet technology. The frequency response of the 4038 is exceptionally flat from 30 to 15,000 c/s but where the 4038 starts to drop off, the 4040 carries on past 20,000 c/s and throughout this range, like the 4038, 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 smooth sonic quality textured response to sound signal being picked up. There is also no discernible stray magnetic field, making it very easy to mount head to head in a "Blumlein" (crossed figure-of-eights) stereo configuration.

The 4040 has some unique features, for a start it is gold plated, but more importantly the ribbon/magnet assembly has its own in built shock mounts separating it from the main body of the microphone that can be secured for transit. Each microphone comes in a foam lined rigid plastic carrying case with an adjustable universal stand mount and a soft cloth protective bag, for safe keeping."

MoMics note: According to The Internet Archive, the 4040 was still pictured on the Coles website in 2022 but was no longer present in July 2023. Although Cole's 2007 description says that the microphone is gold plated but we have seen examples painted in a lightly textured (hammertone) grey finish.

• Frequency response: 30Hz to 20,000Hz

• Sensitivity: -65dB w.r.t. 1V/Pa
• Impedance: 300ohm
• Distortion less than 1% at 125dB SPL

MoMics note: The ribbon dimensions are similar to those of the classic 4038 model. Perforated plates are positioned on both sides of the ribbon - this simulates the effect of the 4038 grills.

The Coles 4040 specification sheet.