sE Electronics sE4100 Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

The sE Electronics sE4100 is a large-diaphragm true condenser microphone designed for studio recording and live sound applications. Its fixed cardioid pickup pattern focuses on the intended source while helping reduce pickup from the sides and rear. It is suited to recording vocals, acoustic instruments, piano, brass, guitar cabinets, and drum overheads.

This microphone is for creators, engineers, musicians, and live-sound users who need a versatile XLR condenser microphone without multiple polar-pattern controls. The cardioid-only design keeps operation straightforward while retaining the core recording features needed for close-miking and high-SPL sources. It can be used as a primary vocal microphone or as part of a larger recording setup.

The sE4100 uses a hand-crafted 1-inch gold-sputtered true condenser capsule with a gold-sputtered Mylar diaphragm. Its published response extends from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, with a sensitivity of 25 mV/Pa. The microphone is specified for a smooth sound character and can accommodate both detailed acoustic material and louder amplified instruments.

Switchable low-cut filters at 80 Hz and 160 Hz help manage rumble, footfall noise, and proximity-related bass buildup. Selectable -10 dB and -20 dB attenuation pads increase the microphone's ability to handle loud sources. With the pad settings, maximum SPL handling reaches up to 157 dB SPL at 0.5% THD.

The sE4100 connects through a standard 3-pin male XLR output and requires 48V phantom power. It works with a microphone preamp, audio interface, mixer, or recorder that supplies P48 power and accepts balanced XLR microphone connections. A factory matched-pair version is also available for stereo overhead, room, and instrument-miking applications.

Key Features

• 1-Inch True Condenser Capsule: Hand-crafted gold-sputtered capsule supports detailed capture across a broad range of sources.
• Cardioid Polar Pattern: Focuses pickup toward the source and helps reduce surrounding bleed.
• Switchable Low-Cut Filters: Selectable 80 Hz and 160 Hz filters help control rumble and excess low end.
• Selectable Attenuation Pads: -10 dB and -20 dB pads support recording louder instruments and amplifiers.
• High SPL Capability: Handles up to 157 dB SPL with the 20 dB pad engaged.
• Custom Shockmount Included: Provides suspended mounting and includes a thread adapter for stand setup.

Design & Installation

The sE4100 has a die-cast all-metal housing, metal switches, and a spring-steel wire-mesh grille. Its compact flat, round-edged chassis is designed for practical positioning around instruments, amplifiers, and drum kits. The microphone includes a metal case for storage and transport.

Connect the microphone to a balanced XLR microphone input that provides 48V phantom power according to IEC 61938. Use the included custom shockmount and thread adapter with a compatible microphone stand or boom, then select the low-cut filter and attenuation pad appropriate for the source. For stereo recording, the separately available matched-pair configuration includes two microphones, two shockmounts, a stereo mounting bar, and a metal case.