The Soyuz 023 Bomblet Deluxe is a large-diaphragm FET condenser microphone designed to deliver the signature warmth and character of the Soyuz 023 series in a compact, visually distinctive format. Inspired by the design of vintage Russian microphones, the Bomblet Deluxe combines classic aesthetics with modern engineering to produce a rich, musical sound suitable for a wide variety of recording applications. At the heart of the microphone is Soyuz’s custom S23 large-diaphragm capsule, built in-house using dual 33 mm diaphragms (one gold-sputtered). This capsule design produces a thick, controlled low end, pronounced midrange, and smooth high frequencies, allowing the microphone to capture sources with both clarity and depth. The forgiving top-end response helps tame bright instruments and vocals while preserving transient detail and natural tone. A defining element of the Bomblet Deluxe sound is its proprietary toroidal output transformer, which adds subtle harmonic coloration and dimensional depth to the signal. This transformer stage contributes to the microphone’s full-bodied character, making it particularly effective for vocals, guitar amplifiers, drums, bass instruments, and brass or woodwinds. The microphone features a cardioid polar pattern, providing focused pickup of the intended source while reducing unwanted room reflections and background noise. With a frequency response of 20 Hz to 18 kHz, sensitivity of 24.5 mV/Pa, and the ability to handle sound pressure levels up to 140 dB, the 023 Bomblet Deluxe performs reliably on both delicate acoustic recordings and high-volume sources. Physically, the Bomblet Deluxe retains the distinctive “Bomblet” spherical body design, offering a compact footprint that makes placement easier in tight recording situations while maintaining the robust construction associated with Soyuz microphones. The microphone operates on 48V phantom power and includes a -20 dB pad to increase headroom when recording loud sound sources. Supplied with a wooden microphone box, microphone holder, and -20 dB pad, the Soyuz 023 Bomblet Deluxe reflects Soyuz’s commitment to precision manufacturing, distinctive analog character, and professional studio performance.
