sE Electronics sE7sF SideFire Condenser Microphone

The sE Electronics sE7sF sE7 sideFire is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone with a 90-degree side-address capsule. It is designed for close-miking instruments where conventional end-address pencil microphones can be difficult to position. The sideways capsule orientation helps fit the microphone into compact drum, piano, guitar, and acoustic-instrument setups.

This cardioid microphone is suited to studio recording and live sound applications requiring focused pickup and practical placement flexibility. Its 1/2-inch back-electret condenser capsule is engineered for a natural, balanced response across its 20 Hz to 20 kHz operating range. The ultra-thin diaphragm supports quick transient response for detailed percussion, strings, acoustic guitar, and cymbal capture.

The sE7 sideFire uses discrete Class-A electronics and a transformerless output design. This combination supports a clear signal path with a specified equivalent noise level of 16 dB(A). With 19 mV/Pa sensitivity and a 78 dB signal-to-noise ratio, it is built for detailed instrument recording with standard microphone preamps and audio interfaces.

A switchable 20 dB pad expands the microphone's use on high-volume sound sources. Maximum SPL handling is rated at 136 dB without the pad and 156 dB with the pad engaged, both measured at 0.5% THD. A switchable 80 Hz low-cut filter helps reduce footfall noise, rumble, wind noise, and excess bass from close placement.

The sE7sF connects through a gold-plated 3-pin male XLR output and requires 48 V phantom power. Its compact all-metal body is appropriate for regular studio and stage use, while the included mic clip, thread adapter, and windscreen help get it mounted quickly. It can be used as a single close microphone or paired with another sE7 sideFire for stereo and ambient recording applications.

Key Features

• 90-Degree SideFire Capsule: Side-address pickup simplifies placement in confined instrument setups.
• Cardioid Polar Pattern: Focuses pickup toward the source while reducing off-axis sound.
• Switchable 20 dB Pad: Accommodates louder instruments and close-miking positions.
• 80 Hz Low-Cut Filter: Reduces rumble, footfall noise, and close-miking bass buildup.
• Transformerless Class-A Circuitry: Supports a short, clean signal path.
• 48 V Phantom Operation: Works with compatible microphone preamps, mixers, and interfaces.

Design & Installation

The sE7 sideFire has an all-metal chassis with a high-quality finish and a gold-plated 3-pin male XLR connector. Its body measures 23 mm in diameter and 130 mm long, with a weight of 163 g. The capsule is rotated 90 degrees from the microphone body for side-address positioning in tight or unconventional locations.

Connect the microphone to a balanced XLR microphone input that supplies 48 V phantom power according to IEC 61938. Use the included mic clip and thread adapter to mount it on a standard microphone stand, then aim the side-address capsule toward the sound source. Engage the 20 dB pad for high-SPL sources and use the 80 Hz low-cut filter when rumble, wind noise, or excessive proximity-effect bass is present.