sE Electronics sE7 Matched Pair Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphones

The sE Electronics sE7 Matched Pair is a professional-grade set of small-diaphragm condenser microphones engineered for high-precision studio and live audio capture. These microphones feature a specialized back-electret capsule with an ultra-thin diaphragm, ensuring exceptional transient response and a natural, balanced sound profile. Designed for versatility, this matched pair provides consistent performance, making it an essential tool for stereo recording applications where phase accuracy and sonic uniformity are critical.

Advantages

The sE7 microphones are built with discrete class-A circuitry and a transformerless output, which significantly reduces self-noise, making them the quietest in their class. The inclusion of a switchable -20dB attenuation pad allows these microphones to handle high sound pressure levels without distorting, while the integrated 80Hz low-cut filter effectively manages low-frequency rumble and proximity effect. The robust all-metal housing not only provides durability for demanding environments but also offers excellent electrical interference rejection, ensuring a clean and reliable signal path through gold-plated XLR connectors.

Suitable for

• Stereo miking of acoustic guitars and pianos
• Drum overheads and snare drum recording
• Capturing brass and woodwind instruments
• Recording choirs and ensemble performances
• Close-miking electric guitar cabinets

These microphones may not be suitable for applications requiring a wide-angle omnidirectional pickup pattern, as the sE7 features a fixed cardioid polar pattern. Additionally, because they are condenser microphones, they require a consistent 48V phantom power source, which may limit their use with portable devices or audio interfaces that do not provide sufficient power.

Key specifications

• Microphone type: Small-diaphragm condenser
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz
• Sensitivity: -34.5 dB
• Polar pattern: Cardioid
• Connectivity: Wired XLR-3
• Power requirements: 48V phantom power
• Construction: All-metal housing

To use the sE7 Matched Pair, connect each microphone to a balanced XLR input on your audio interface or mixing console using high-quality microphone cables. Ensure that 48V phantom power is enabled on your device to activate the condenser capsules. For stereo recording, position the microphones according to your preferred stereo technique, such as X/Y or ORTF, to achieve the desired spatial image. Adjust the attenuation pad and low-cut filter switches on the microphone body based on the sound source intensity and the desired frequency balance.

What to consider before purchase

• Ensure your audio interface or mixer supports 48V phantom power
• Verify that you have appropriate microphone stands and stereo bars for your intended recording setup
• Consider the acoustic environment, as these sensitive microphones will capture room reflections
• Confirm that your recording space is sufficiently quiet to take advantage of the low self-noise

For optimal results, use the included windscreens when recording outdoors or in environments with air movement, and always store the microphones in their protective cases when not in use to maintain the integrity of the capsules.