sE Electronics sE4400 1" Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone

The sE Electronics sE4400 is a large-diaphragm true condenser microphone built for detailed studio and live recording. Its selectable pickup patterns let one microphone adapt to close-miked sources, room capture, stereo techniques, and situations where off-axis rejection matters. It is suited to recording vocals, acoustic instruments, piano, drums, brass, and guitar cabinets.

This microphone is designed for engineers, musicians, producers, and content creators who need flexible microphone placement without changing the tonal foundation of their setup. The hand-crafted dual-diaphragm, gold-sputtered capsule is individually tuned in-house. Its response is intended to provide a smooth, natural character with clear source detail.

Four selectable polar patterns—cardioid, hypercardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8—support a broad range of recording approaches. Cardioid and hypercardioid modes can help focus on a source, while omnidirectional and figure-8 modes offer options for room sound and two-sided capture. This flexibility makes the sE4400 useful for both single-mic sessions and more involved studio setups.

Switchable 40 Hz and 80 Hz low-cut filters help reduce low-frequency rumble, footfall noise, and excessive proximity effect. Selectable 10 dB and 20 dB attenuation pads increase its ability to accommodate louder sources. With the 20 dB pad engaged, the microphone is rated for up to 157 dB SPL at 0.5% THD.

The sE4400 connects through a standard 3-pin XLR output and requires 48V phantom power from a compatible audio interface, mixer, or microphone preamp. Its included shockmount supports isolated mounting for studio stands and close-miking positions. A matched-pair version is also available for users building a stereo recording setup.

Key Features

• Hand-Crafted Dual-Diaphragm Capsule: A 1-inch gold-sputtered true condenser capsule captures detailed, balanced audio.
• Four Polar Patterns: Select cardioid, hypercardioid, omnidirectional, or figure-8 operation for different miking methods.
• Switchable Low-Cut Filters: Choose 40 Hz or 80 Hz filtering to reduce unwanted low-frequency content.
• 10 dB and 20 dB Pads: Handles louder sound sources with increased headroom.
• High SPL Capability: Supports up to 157 dB SPL with the 20 dB pad engaged.
• Custom Shockmount Included: Helps reduce mechanically transmitted vibration during recording.

Design & Installation

The sE4400 uses a die-cast all-metal housing, metal switches, and a spring-steel wire-mesh grille. Its flat, round-edged chassis is designed to work with the included custom shockmount and to support close placement against sources such as guitar cabinets or drum heads. The microphone measures 146 mm long and weighs 290 g.

Connect the microphone to a compatible mixer, preamp, or audio interface using a balanced 3-pin XLR microphone cable, then enable 48V phantom power. Start in cardioid mode for a focused vocal or instrument capture, and use the low-cut filters or pads only when the source and placement call for them. For stereo recording, use two microphones or the separately available matched-pair configuration with its stereo mounting bar.