recordinghacks

Search Microphones


Share This Page

Related Microphones

OmnidirectionalCardioidBidirectionalStellar Sounds CM-4

Multi-Pattern Tube Condenser Microphone

The CM-4 was an early multipattern tube microphone from Stellar Sounds. Based on a Chinese bottle-style body, the mic was a three-pattern, large-diaphragm condenser with a transformer-coupled output.

The tube amplifier circuit was based on the 6J1 vacuum tube, described as “specially selected.” The 6J1 is a pentode, manufactured in China, is equivalent to the EF95 and 6AK5.

A switch on the front of the microphone body allowed selection of Cardioid, Omnidirectional, or Figure-8 polar patterns. Two switches on the rear optionally enable a high-pass filter or a -10dB pad.

Photo credit: Sacha Müller

Permalink: Stellar Sounds CM-4

Specifications

Pickup Patterns Pads & Filters
Omnidirectional (14.1 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Cardioid (14.1 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Bidirectional (14.1 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
  • Pad: -10dB (Via Switch)
  • Filter: HPF (Via Switch)
Capsule Dimensions Impedance SPL/Noise
Diaphragm diameter: 27mm
Capsule diameter: 34mm
200 Ohms (Low) Max SPL: 148 dB
Self-noise: 18.0 dB(A)
Weight Length Max Diameter Interface(s)
n/a 233mm (9.17'') 65mm (2.56'')
  • 3-pin XLR male (1)
Power Specifications
  • Includes tube power supply

Did we get anything wrong on this page? Please let us know!