sE Electronics X1 R Passive Ribbon Microphone

The sE Electronics X1 R is a passive ribbon microphone designed for studio recording, broadcast, voice-over, and instrument capture. It brings the naturally smooth character associated with ribbon microphones to applications where a durable, versatile microphone is needed. Its figure-8 pickup pattern captures sound from the front and rear while reducing pickup from the sides.

This microphone is a practical option for recording guitar cabinets, drum overheads, brass, woodwinds, strings, piano, acoustic guitar, and vocals. Its 135 dB maximum SPL rating supports close placement on loud sources when appropriate. The passive design connects through a standard 3-pin XLR microphone connection and does not require phantom power for operation.

The X1 R uses a hand-crafted 2.5 µm aluminum ribbon element positioned between neodymium magnets. sE Electronics combines traditional ribbon construction with mechanical elements derived from its VR1 and VR2 high-frequency extension technology. This design gives the microphone a classic ribbon-style response with a gentle lift in the upper frequencies.

With a 20 Hz to 16 kHz frequency range and 1.8 mV/Pa sensitivity, the X1 R is suited to recording chains with a capable microphone preamp. Its 200-ohm electrical impedance and passive electronics make it a straightforward addition to an XLR-equipped interface, mixer, or standalone preamp. The microphone is phantom-protected, although phantom power is not required.

The X1 R fits well into a microphone collection as a contrasting option to dynamic and condenser models. Use it alone for smooth instrument capture, or pair it with another microphone when recording a guitar cabinet, drum kit, or room sound. A swivel mic clip and stand-thread adapter are included for basic placement on a microphone stand.

Key Features

• Passive Ribbon Design: Delivers the smooth, natural character associated with ribbon microphones without requiring external powering.
• 2.5 µm Aluminum Ribbon: Uses a hand-crafted aluminum ribbon element for detailed sound capture.
• Figure-8 Pattern: Captures sound from the front and rear while reducing side pickup.
• High SPL Handling: Handles up to 135 dB SPL for loud instruments and amplifiers.
• Extended HF Technology: Incorporates VR1 and VR2 design elements for a gentle high-frequency lift.
• Rugged Metal Housing: Provides durable physical construction and helps reject electrical interference.

Design & Installation

The X1 R has an all-metal housing, a hand-crafted ribbon element, neodymium magnets, and a gold-plated XLR connector. Its 510 g microphone weight gives it a substantial feel for stand-mounted studio or location use. The durable construction is intended for regular recording use, including high-volume sources.

Mount the microphone with the included swivel mic clip and mic stand-thread adapter, then connect its 3-pin male XLR output to a compatible microphone input. Position the front or rear lobe toward the intended source, keeping the sides oriented toward sounds you want reduced. It does not require phantom power, though the microphone is phantom-protected.