sE Electronics sE8 Supercardioid Instrument Condenser Microphone

Handcrafted in sE's own factory with individually tuned gold-sputtered capsules, this small-diaphragm condenser delivers the sonic precision typically found in microphones costing significantly more. The sE8 Supercardioid from sE Electronics combines a 3-micron ultra-thin diaphragm with transformerless Class-A circuitry and zero integrated circuits, ensuring exceptional transient response and one of the lowest self-noise figures in its class. The newly-developed backplate design provides consistent off-axis response and natural linearity across the frequency spectrum, whilst the all-metal chassis rejects electrical interference that plagues cheaper alternatives.

Dynamic range reaches 139 dB without attenuation, extending to 159 dB with the switchable -20 dB pad engaged – crucial headroom for close-miking brass, snare drums, and other high-SPL sources. Two switchable low-cut filters at 80 Hz and 160 Hz eliminate stage rumble and compensate for proximity effect when working up close. The gold-plated XLR connector and robust metal housing ensure reliable signal connection over years of studio and stage use, whilst recessed pad and filter switches prevent accidental changes during setup. Requires 48V phantom power (P48 according to IEC 61938) for operation.

Applications span drum overheads, acoustic guitar, piano, orchestral strings, woodwinds, and percussion, with the supercardioid pattern providing focused pickup and excellent rear rejection. The matched stereo pair configuration includes hand-selected microphones tested against hundreds of units to ensure mic-to-mic consistency for accurate stereo imaging. Each unit ships with a newly-designed mic clip, whilst the stereo pair adds a precision mounting bar, two windscreens, and a metal flight case for transport protection.

Features

• Handcrafted gold-sputtered 3-micron diaphragm tuned individually in sE factory
• Transformerless Class-A circuitry with zero integrated circuits for pristine signal path
• 139 / 149 / 159 dB dynamic range with 0 / -10 / -20 dB switchable pads
• Switchable low-cut filters at 80 Hz and 160 Hz with recessed switches
• Supercardioid polar pattern with consistent off-axis response and rear rejection
• All-metal housing with gold-plated XLR connector for interference rejection and durability
• Matched stereo pairs hand-selected from hundreds of units for precise imaging
• Requires 48V phantom power according to IEC 61938 standard for operation