sE Electronics GEMINI II Dual-Tube Condenser Microphone

The sE Electronics GEMINI II is a large-diaphragm, cardioid tube condenser microphone designed for professional recording of vocals and instruments. It provides a dedicated studio microphone option for users who want tube-based character while retaining clear high-frequency detail. Its cardioid pickup pattern helps focus on the intended source and reduce pickup from the rear.

The GEMINI II is suited to vocal recording, acoustic instruments, electric guitar cabinets, drum rooms, piano, brass, woodwinds, strings, and orchestral work. Its switchable pad supports close placement and high-SPL sources, while its low-cut filter helps manage rumble, plosives, and proximity-effect buildup. This makes it adaptable for both detailed close-miking and broader room applications.

Its sound design combines a 12AX7/ECC83 input tube with a 12AU7/ECC82 output-stage tube. The second tube performs the output-stage role typically handled by a transformer, supporting the microphone's extended high-frequency response. The result is a tube condenser design intended to balance weight and warmth with articulation.

A handcrafted 1.4-inch true condenser capsule and gold-sputtered Mylar diaphragm form the core of the GEMINI II's capture system. The microphone has a 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency range, 40 mV/Pa sensitivity, and an equivalent noise level of 13 dB(A). Its 200-ohm electrical impedance is designed for connection to microphone preamps or audio interfaces with an input load above 1 k ohm.

The GEMINI II is a complete tube microphone system rather than a standalone XLR microphone. It uses the included floor-box power supply and 8-pin microphone cable, with the floor box connecting to a preamp, mixer, or audio interface through XLR. It is a practical upgrade path for recording setups that need a dedicated large-diaphragm tube microphone with its own external power system.

Key Features

• Dual-Tube Circuit: Uses 12AX7 and 12AU7 tubes for tube-based input and output stages.
• 1.4-Inch True Condenser Capsule: Handcrafted large-diaphragm capsule captures detailed studio recordings.
• Cardioid Polar Pattern: Focuses pickup toward the source while reducing rear pickup.
• Switchable -10 dB Pad: Helps accommodate close-miked and high-SPL sound sources.
• 150 Hz Low-Cut Filter: Reduces rumble, plosives, footfall noise, and proximity-effect buildup.
• Included External Power Supply: Powers the tube microphone without interface phantom power.

Design & Installation

The GEMINI II uses a hand-made all-metal housing, gold-sputtered Mylar diaphragm, and gold-plated XLR connector. The microphone measures 80 mm in diameter and 220 mm long, with a weight of 1,180 g. A custom shock mount, wooden presentation box, and flight case are included to support placement, storage, and transport.

Mount the microphone securely with the included custom shock mount and connect it to the included floor box using the supplied 8-pin cable. Connect the floor box to a microphone preamp, mixer, or audio interface with an XLR cable, then connect the IEC power cable before switching on the power supply. Do not use external +48V phantom power, and allow approximately 15 minutes of warm-up time before recording for stable tube operation.