sE Electronics NEOM USB Cardioid USB Condenser Microphone

The sE Electronics NEOM USB is a plug-and-play USB condenser microphone for recording, streaming, podcasting, voice chat, and mobile content creation. Its integrated USB audio interface connects directly to compatible computers and mobile devices without requiring a separate microphone preamp or audio interface. It is designed for creators who want a compact desktop recording solution with direct headphone monitoring.

A 16 mm back-electret condenser capsule and cardioid pickup pattern focus capture toward the front of the microphone while reducing sound arriving from the sides and rear. This makes the NEOM USB suited to close-miked speech, vocals, acoustic instruments, and other single-source recording tasks. The microphone is side-addressed, so the speaker or performer addresses the front surface above the controls rather than the top.

The integrated converter supports 24-bit recording and sample rates up to 192 kHz. Lower supported rates are also available for typical recording and streaming workflows, including 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz. For most applications, sE recommends using 48 kHz at 24-bit resolution.

Front-panel controls make it possible to set microphone gain and create a personal headphone balance without changing the signal heard by an audience. Separate Mic Level and Playback Level controls adjust the direct microphone signal and computer playback in the headphone mix. A rear 1/8-inch headphone output provides direct monitoring, while the illuminated sE logo functions as a mute button.

The NEOM USB includes a metal desktop stand, microphone clip, thread adapter, and USB-C to USB-A cable for a ready-to-use desktop setup. The clip can be removed for use with a full-size microphone stand, making the microphone adaptable to a desk, boom arm, or studio stand. For mobile and USB-C host devices, the appropriate USB-C, Lightning, or micro-USB cable or adapter may be needed.

Key Features

• 16 mm Cardioid Capsule: Captures a focused front-facing source while reducing pickup from the sides and rear.
• 24-Bit / 192 kHz Audio: Supports high-resolution digital recording through its built-in USB audio interface.
• Direct Headphone Monitoring: The 1/8-inch headphone output lets users monitor from the microphone rather than computer audio.
• Independent Monitor Mix: Mic Level and Playback Level controls adjust the headphone blend independently.
• USB-C Connectivity: Connects to compatible Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices with suitable cables or adapters.
• Integrated Shock Isolation: The internally mounted capsule helps reduce rumble and handling-related vibration.

Design & Installation

The NEOM USB combines a 16 mm back-electret condenser capsule with an internal shock-mount system in a compact side-address microphone body. Its included desktop stand is metal and uses rubber feet to help minimize vibration transfer from the desk. The microphone also provides an LED gain indication and a logo-mounted mute control for clear operational feedback.

Connect the microphone to a compatible USB-equipped computer or mobile device, then select it as the input and output device in the recording or streaming software as needed. Use the included USB-C to USB-A cable for USB-A hosts; USB-C, Lightning, or micro-USB devices require the appropriate cable or adapter. Position the front of the microphone about 6 inches from the speaker or singer, set gain so the LED does not flash red, and use a pop filter when recording vocals if desired.