SE X1-S STUDIO CONDENSER MIC
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SE X1-S STUDIO CONDENSER MIC 48v
The new gold standard in affordable large-diaphragm condensers.
With a hand-crafted and individually tuned custom 1″ capsule, high-performance electronics, an all-metal chassis, -10dB and -20dB pads and two low-cut filters, the X1 S has the sound and features you’d expect from a serious high-end studio mic, at only a fraction of the cost.
(King Crimson, Terry Bozzio, Steve Morse, Ulver)
Meet the X1 S, the new gold standard in affordable condensers.
The X1 S is a refined version of sE’s best-selling X1, tuned for advanced performance in every way imaginable.
When sE introduced the X1 in 2010, it redefined the potential of an affordable hand-crafted condenser microphone.
With the highest dynamic range and SPL handling capabilities in its class, along with expanded features that dramatically increase its flexibility, the X1 S has been improved in every way – yet is even more affordable than the original.
CUSTOM-DESIGNED, HAND-CRAFTED CAPSULE
Just like its predecessor, the X1 S utilizes a hand-made condenser capsule, meticulously constructed and tuned in sE’s capsule room by technicians with decades of experience.
This results in a capsule built like the world’s finest musical instruments – and a capsule truly up to the challenge of recording them.
HIGH-PERFORMANCE ELECTRONICS
Where the original X1 was powerful, the redesigned electronics of the X1 S take its performance to a whole new level, giving it the highest dynamic range in its class.
Its internal redesign also allows for improved sensitivity, dramatically increased SPL handling (up to 160dB!), and a huge reduction in self-noise.
TWO SWITCHABLE ATTENUATION LEVELS
The -10 dB and -20 dB pad switches provide extended dynamic range, enabling a wide range of applications and close-mic techniques for even the loudest instruments…think super-heavy electric guitars, fortissimo brass instruments, and heavy-footed kick drums
TWO SWITCHABLE LOW-CUT FILTERS
Selectable at either 80Hz or 160Hz, these two filters help eliminate low-frequency rumble or footfall noise, as well as help compensate for excessive bass (proximity effect) with close-mic techniques.
ALL-METAL HOUSING AND PREMIUM FINISH
Unlike the cheaply constructed bodies of some other “entry-level” microphones, the X1 S’s all-metal chassis provides efficient rejection of any electrical interference and noise – and the high-quality finish ensures a great look for years to come.
GOLD-PLATED XLR CONNECTOR
Ensures loss-free, reliable signal connection for years and years and years and…
The X1 S also comes standard with a mic clip that will securely attach it to any mic stand, but if you’re interested in additional mounting and accessory options, you can read about the X1 S bundles below.
Capsule Type: Hand-Crafted 1″ True Condenser
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency range: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
Sensitivity: 30 mV/Pa (-30.5 dBV)
Max SPL: 140 / 150 / 160 dB (0/10/20 dB pad) (0.5% THD @ 1kHz)
Equivalent noise level: 9 dB(A)
Dynamic range: 131 / 141 / 151 dB (0/10/20 dB Attentuation pad)
Signal to Noise Ratio: 85 dB
Low-cut filter: 80 / 160 Hz, 6 dB/Oct, switchable
Attenuation Pad: 10 / 20dB, switchable
Powering: 48 Volts according to IEC 61938
Electrical Impedance: 125 Ohms
Recommended load impedance: >1k Ohms
Current consumption: 6 mA
Connectivity: 3-pin male XLR connector
Dimensions: Diameter: 58mm (2.28 in), Length 169mm (6.65 in)
Weight: 445 g (15.70 oz.)
“I got the new X1 S and within 24 hours I was using it on a production for a major artist.”
– Ronan Chris Murphy, Producer / Engineer (King Crimson, Terry Bozzio, Ulver) – sE Artist
“We’d even say the mic outdoes other vocal mics costing far more.”
“…it’s no-brainer of a buy, especially if you’re just starting out.”
– MusicTech Magazine, July 2017 (full review)
“A complete, affordable setup specifically designed for the home studio, with a handmade microphone that lets you make clean & clear recordings in any kind of space…everything feels and sounds very professional for a very reasonable price.”
– DJ Mag / DJMAJ.nl
“This model is a new and improved version of the classic X1 that takes performance to a whole new level.”
”Now for the real deal: I was especially impressed by how well this model does when it comes to reducing unwanted reflections.”
“…sE has worked hard to develop new materials that are both lightweight and are designed to withstand tough environments. You’ll also be pleased to know that the mic does not contain any plastic parts so you don’t have to worry about it breaking easy.”
“I don’t know about most folks but I love a good mic that also LOOKS great. That’s exactly what you get with this stunning model.”
– Victor Bailey, March 2019 (full review)
“Excellent value for the price given the sonic capability and build-quality.”
“I enjoyed using the X1 S; it was stress-free and easy to use. I was surprised at how good the recorded files sounded for a mic in this price range.”
“…the X1 S is made for [our] busy world. It’s instant. Put it on a stand and you’re good to go. It doesn’t warrant any fuss; it just does it’s thing – and it does that thing very well, sounding smooth and expensive. It’ll possibly save a little studio time.”
“…there’s a trickle-down of manufacturing techniques and expertise from the more expensive sE mics to the X range.”
“sE Electronics have created a well-designed, well-engineered and stylish mic, hand-made from good quality components…a capable and classy sound. It sounds more expensive than the cost.”
– Gearslutz, August 2017, Arthur Stone (full review)
“Together with a brisk, dry transient reproduction, a clear, clean and completely detailed picture results in every case.”
“Cheap condenser microphones often suffer from biting, edgy, and scrabbling highs. The X1 S also shows class here by being remarkably round, balanced and almost warm. Together with the uncolored and distortion-free character, the suitability as an all-rounder is again shown.”
“If you want to buy a large-diaphragm condenser microphone with fixed cardioid characteristics, which fulfills many tasks without problems…if you want to have a high budget [sound] for a small budget…the X1 S is a ‘must-hear’.”
– Bonedo.de (full review – German)
“At this price point for the quality of sound you get…it’s a sleeper mic!”
“Well after using now on 3 podcast episodes, I LOVE this mic!”
– Assorted Sweetwater users (more reviews at Sweetwater.com)
“The sE X1 has a more open quality, seems less colored and has a top end that you would normally associate with microphones about 5 times the price.”
– Russ Hughes, Pro Tools Expert
“For the money, and for the sound, this only comes along once in a while. Go for it.”
– Steven Gurgevich (full review via Sweetwater Sound)
“It is no small secret that I am generally not a fan of low cost condenser mics, but the X1 has been an exception to that rule. It is the only low cost condenser that is a regular part of my production work.”
“It also goes up in every vocal mic shoot out we do for artists. On some artists the sE X1 beats out mics costing more than 10 times as much.”
– Ronan Chris Murphy, Producer / Engineer (King Crimson, Terry Bozzio, Ulver) – sE Artist
“I like sE’s X1 mic for its lively, in‑your‑face character, which still manages to avoid sounding strident. This is also a good all‑rounder for the kind of acoustic instruments that you find in a typical home studio.”
– Paul White, Sound On Sound (full review)
“I really like this mic and it’s now my main LDC. Considering the price, everyone should have one.”
– Gearslutz.com user Riku (full review)
“The build quality, facilities and overall feel of this microphone are certainly beyond what you would expect considering the street price…perhaps it’s the fact that sE have a dedicated factory over in Shanghai producing this stuff, but I wouldn’t have been surprised if you told me it was twice the price if not more.”
– Mike Watkinson, AskAudioMag (full review)
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