Pricing and availability

Average Price: $699

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Dive into the world of pristine audio recording with the sE Electronics sE4. This small diaphragm condenser microphone is a true chameleon in the studio, thanks to its swappable capsules that offer versatility in capturing vocals, instruments, and ambient sounds. Whether you're laying down a delicate acoustic set or recording sharp percussive beats, the sE4 adapts effortlessly. Its switchable pad and high-pass filter ensure that you're always in control, allowing for clean, clear recordings devoid of unwanted noise or distortion. Perfect for both studio aficionados and recording novices, the sE4 brings professional-grade clarity and adaptability right to your fingertips.

Key Features:

  • Small diaphragm condenser microphone, ideal for a variety of recording situations
  • Swappable capsules for multiple polar patterns, providing flexibility and precision
  • Includes a switchable pad and high-pass filter for enhanced sound control
  • Comes as a matched pair with cardioid capsules and a stereo bar for perfect stereo recordings

Product specs

Brand sE Electronics
Model sE4 Small Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone Stereo Pair
Finish Nickel
Year 2008 - 2014
Made In China
Categories Microphones
Electronics Analog, Passive
Microphone Type Small-Diaphragm Condenser
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Wired/Wireless Wired

FAQs

What is the primary application for the sE Electronics sE4 microphone?

The sE Electronics sE4 is a small-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone, ideal for capturing acoustic instruments, drum overheads, and ensemble recordings where detail and clarity are crucial.

How does the cardioid polar pattern of the sE4 microphone affect its performance?

The cardioid polar pattern of the sE4 focuses on sound from the front while rejecting noise from the sides and rear, making it perfect for isolating the desired sound source in a studio setting.

Is the sE Electronics sE4 microphone suitable for live recordings?

While primarily designed for studio use, the sE4's robust build and cardioid pattern can be effective for live recordings, capturing clear instrument sound while minimizing feedback.

What are the standout features of the sE Electronics sE4 microphone's design?

The sE4 features a small-diaphragm design, providing a fast transient response and extended frequency range, ideal for detailed and accurate sound reproduction of instruments.

Does the sE Electronics sE4 require phantom power?

Yes, as a condenser microphone, the sE4 requires phantom power to operate, which is typically provided by most audio interfaces and mixing consoles.

Front End Audio

Front End Audio

sE Electronics sE4 Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone @ FrontEndAudio.com

Video thumbnail for sE Electronics sE4 Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone @ FrontEndAudio.com by Front End Audio

sE Electronics sE4 Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone @ FrontEndAudio.com

Front End Audio

Front End Audio

Video thumbnail for sE Electronics SE4 pencil condenser microphone by DV247 Music Store UK TV

sE Electronics SE4 pencil condenser microphone

DV247 Music Store UK TV

DV247 Music Store UK TV

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about sE Electronics sE4.

Features and functionality

  • The SE4's capsule is easily interchangeable, offering flexibility for diverse recording needs.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The SE4 is noted for its superior sound quality compared to budget Karma mics, which are described as shrill.

    Source

Build quality

  • The threading and connections on the SE4 are similar to Karma K-10, suggesting potential compatibility for capsule swaps.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • SE Electronics mics are praised for their remarkable sound quality relative to their cost, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • SE4s are favored for XY miking, highlighting their suitability for stereo recording techniques.

    Source
  • Mid Side stereo setup with the SE4 and NT2A can yield remarkable results in good-sounding rooms for piano recordings.

    Source
  • Placing the SE4 about 8 inches off mid and treble range strings, 3/4 the length from hammers, can capture a balanced sound for piano.

    Source
  • SE4 can be used effectively with the lid open, focusing on soundboard rather than strings, enhancing piano tone quality.

    Source

User experience

  • SE4, when used on a piano, should be positioned slightly inside the piano, angled towards the strings for optimal sound capture.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Thom Green uses sE Electronics sE4

Thom Green

Drummer, Composer

Alt-J

...
Verified via sE Electronics

Used live for the glockenspiel, as mentioned by alt-J's FOH engineer Lance Reynolds in this December 16, 2013 sE Electronics blog post.

The sE4 small diaphragm instrument microphone also demonstrated its value on Alt-J's U.S. jaunt in August and September. "We have a couple of toy glockenspiels, and I used two of them on those, and they were nice. I've also tried those on hats and overheads, and they're perfectly fine for those, too."

Reynolds later switched Green to the sE5.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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