sE Electronics X1 S Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

The sE Electronics X1 S is a large-diaphragm, cardioid condenser microphone built for studio recording of vocals and instruments. It provides a balanced XLR microphone option for home studios, project rooms, creators, and musicians who need more control than a basic USB microphone can offer. Its fixed cardioid pickup pattern focuses on the source in front of the microphone while helping reduce unwanted sound from the rear.

A hand-crafted 1-inch true condenser capsule gives the X1 S detailed capture across its 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency range. With 30 mV/Pa sensitivity and a 9 dB equivalent-noise level, it is suited to capturing quieter vocal passages and acoustic instruments as well as more dynamic performances. The microphone's sound controls are integrated into the body, allowing adjustments before the signal reaches the recording interface or preamp.

For louder sound sources, the X1 S includes selectable -10 dB and -20 dB attenuation pads. These settings raise maximum SPL handling from 140 dB to 150 dB or 160 dB, respectively, at 0.5% THD at 1 kHz. This makes the microphone practical for close work on drums, guitar cabinets, brass, and powerful vocals when paired with appropriate gain settings.

Switchable 80 Hz and 160 Hz low-cut filters help reduce low-frequency rumble, footfall noise, wind noise, and excessive bass from close-miking. The filters can also help manage proximity effect when a vocalist or instrument is positioned near the capsule. With the filter switched off, the microphone provides its standard flat-response operating mode.

The X1 S fits into a conventional recording chain using a balanced XLR cable, a microphone preamp or audio interface, and 48V phantom power. Its high output capability, switchable pads, and low-cut options make it a flexible first condenser microphone or an added utility microphone for a multi-mic studio setup. The standard package includes the microphone, a microphone stand clip, and a thread adapter.

Key Features

• 1-Inch True Condenser Capsule: Hand-crafted capsule captures vocals and instruments with detailed response.
• Cardioid Polar Pattern: Focuses pickup toward the intended source for studio recording.
• Dual Attenuation Pads: Selectable -10 dB and -20 dB pads support loud sources.
• Switchable Low-Cut Filters: 80 Hz and 160 Hz settings reduce rumble and proximity buildup.
• High SPL Capability: Handles up to 160 dB SPL with the -20 dB pad.
• Balanced XLR Output: Connects to compatible preamps and interfaces using standard microphone cabling.

Design & Installation

The X1 S uses an all-metal housing designed to help reject electrical interference and noise. It has a 58 mm diameter body, measures 169 mm long, and uses a gold-plated 3-pin male XLR connector. The microphone weighs 445 g according to the current manufacturer product listing.

Mount the microphone in the included stand clip and thread adapter on a stable microphone stand, then connect its XLR output to a compatible balanced microphone input. A preamp or audio interface capable of supplying 48V phantom power is required for operation. Start with the pad and low-cut filter disengaged, then enable the appropriate setting if the source is loud or excessive low-frequency energy is present.