C38B
Studio Condenser Microphone

$2,520.00 U.S. List Price

The Sony C-38B is an all-purpose, large diaphragm microphone with a proven track record of reliability in broadcast production, music recording studios, or wherever circumstances demand a combination of powerful performance, versatile operation and simplicity of microphone set up. Ideal for vocal and instrument recording, this microphone is particularly adept at handling loud instruments such as percussion and wind instruments. The condenser element of the C-38B microphone provides dual switchable, omni-directional and uni-directional polar patterns, providing control over the pick up angle for flexibility in any recording senario. A low cut filter switch helps eliminate low frequency noise, and an 8 dB pad switch maximizes gain and reduces distortion noise. With its established performance record, the C-38B microphone continues to be the reliable, affordable choice of recording engineers around the world.

Highlights:

  • Switchable Polar Pattern (Omni and Uni Directional)
  • Broad Dynamic Range
  • Low Cut Filter and Pad Switch
  • FET Output Stage
Features Benefits:
Switchable Polar Patterns The C-38B microphone features switchable omni-directional and uni-directional polar patterns for maximum flexibility and control over pick up angle
Function Select Switch Just below the directivity switch, a function select switch allows quick adjustment of the C-38B microphone through 5 positions: OFF, M (full range response); M1 (slight low frequency attenuation); V1 (low frequency attenuation); V2 (severe low frequency attenuation)
Broad Dynamic Range An improved amplifier gives the C-38B a dynamic range of greater than 116 dB, with flat frequency response and sharp directional characteristics in both uni-directional and omni-directional modes
Phantom Power System In addition to internal battery power, the C-38B microphone is compatible for use with standardized 48V phantom powering
Low-Cut Filter The C-38B microphone's low-cut filter switch helps eliminate low-frequency noise and proximity effect
Pad Switch An -8dB pad switch on the C-38B microphone provides added headroom and minimizes distortion caused by transient peaks
FET Output Stage The FET output stage of the C-38B microphone delivers high signal gain and low noise floor for superb sound quality
Vibration Resistant Construction Designed for peak performance, the C-38B microphone's classic, vibration resistant construction provides excellent shielding against external magnetic fields and helps prevent distortion

General Specifications Detail:
Battery Life 9 V Battery Life: approx. 200 h
Cable Length 19.7 feet
Capsule Type Condenser
Current Drain (Battery) less than or equal to 2 mA
Current Drain (Ext. Power) less than or equal to 5 mA
Dimensions 3 1/8 dia. x 8 1/2 x 1 13/16 inches (78 dia. x 214 x 46 mm)
Directivity Uni-directional/Omi-directional (selectable)
Dynamic Range 116dB or more
Effective Output Level At 1kHz (0 dBm=1 mW/1 Pa) -47.8dBm
External Power 9 V Battery or External Power
Frequency Response 30 Hz - 18 kHz
High Cut 1
Induction Noise from External Magnetic Field 5dB SPL or less
Inherent Noise (0dB=20µPa) 24 dB SPL (uni), 26 dB SPL (omni)
Low Cut M,M1,V1,V2
Max SPL (dB SPL)(0dB=20µP) 140dB SPL
Mic Attenuator -8dB
Microphone Cable 19.7 feet (6 m)
Microphone Connector XLR-3-12C type
Output Impedance at 1kHz (Balanced) (1/2 ± 20%) 250 Ω ±20%
Power Consumption Battery: 2 mA or less External Power: 5 mA or less
Power Requirements Battery: 9V External Power:DC 24 to 48V
S/N Ratio 70dB or more
Sensitivity -48.0dB ±2.0dB
Weight 1 lb 7 oz (650 g)
Wind Noise 44dB SPL

Supplied Accessories

Model: Description: U.S. List Price:
Carrying case (1)
Stand adaptor (NS5/8) (1)
Stand adaptor (W3/8) (1)
Screwdriver (1)
Operation manual (1)

Product Brochure

Description: Release Date: Type/Size:
C-38B Brochure 01/01/2007 pdf / 236K Download now

Technical Chart

Description: Release Date: Type/Size:
C-38B Frequency Response.pdf pdf / 220K Download now