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Average Price: $220

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$100

$401+

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Description

Embrace the precision and versatility of the sE Electronics sE5 Matched Pair, an essential addition to any studio or live performance setup. Designed for discerning musicians and sound engineers, these small-diaphragm condenser microphones offer a pristine audio capture experience, whether you're miking acoustic guitars, pianos, or percussion. With a fixed cardioid polar pattern, the sE5 ensures excellent on-axis response while effectively rejecting unwanted noise from off-axis sources.

These microphones are built to handle the rigors of both studio and live environments, thanks to their robust construction and impressive transient response. The sE5 Matched Pair comes equipped with a 100Hz bass cut, reducing proximity effect and isolating low-frequency rumble, which is perfect when dealing with close-miked sources. For those high-energy performances or recording sessions, the -10dB and -20dB pad switches are at your disposal, allowing you to manage loud sound sources without compromising signal quality.

Each pair includes custom shock mounts and a stereo bar, providing you with the tools needed to set up seamlessly and capture high-quality stereo recordings right out of the box. Additionally, the microphones come housed in a rugged flight case, ensuring they stay protected during transport.

Key Features:

  • Matched pair of small-diaphragm condenser microphones
  • Fixed cardioid polar pattern for superior on-axis response
  • 100Hz bass cut for eliminating unnecessary low-frequency noise
  • -10dB and -20dB pad switches for handling loud sound sources
  • Impressive transient response for detailed audio capture
  • Includes custom shock mounts, stereo bar, and flight case
  • Requires +48V phantom power

Product specs

Brand sE Electronics
Model sE5 Small Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone Matched Pair
Year 2014 - 2017
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 sE5 Matched Pair microphones?

The sE Electronics sE5 Matched Pair is ideal for stereo recording of acoustic instruments, drum overheads, and ensembles, providing precise and detailed sound capture.

What is the polar pattern of the sE5 microphones, and how does it affect recording?

The sE5 microphones feature a cardioid polar pattern, which is excellent for isolating the sound source while minimizing background noise and feedback, making them suitable for focused recordings.

Are the sE5 microphones suitable for high-SPL environments?

Yes, the sE5 microphones can handle a maximum SPL of 170 dB, making them suitable for recording loud sound sources like drums and brass instruments without distortion.

What power supply do the sE5 microphones require?

The sE5 microphones require 48V phantom power, which is standard for condenser microphones and typically provided by most audio interfaces and mixers.

How does the sE5 Matched Pair ensure consistent sound quality?

The sE5 Matched Pair is precisely matched in terms of sensitivity and frequency response, ensuring uniform sound quality and stereo imaging in professional recording applications.

What type of connector is used with the sE5 microphones?

The sE5 microphones use XLR3F connectors, which are standard for professional audio equipment, ensuring secure and reliable connections.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about sE Electronics sE5 Matched Pair.

Comparisons

  • The sE8 is an upgrade with lower self-noise and better SPL handling than the sE5 and sE7, making it competitive until reaching the Neumann KM184 level.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The sE5 emphasizes high-end frequencies off-axis, beneficial as ambient mics for natural reverb in dry acoustic environments.

    Source
  • sE8 mics used effectively in classical music setups, such as XY cardioids and omni pairs in Faulkner arrays, positioned 1.5m in front and 3m high.

    Source
  • In community theater setups, the sE8 can be used center stage for general coverage when individual miking isn't feasible.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The self-noise of the sE8 appears louder than advertised, comparable to the LCT 140 Air, affecting its suitability for recording very quiet sources.

    Source

User experience

  • An owner reported seamless integration of low and high frequencies with the sE8, maintaining tonal consistency even when boosting high frequencies like 12kHz.

    Source

Critic Reviews

SE Electronics SE5

soundonsound.com

The sE Electronics sE5 matched pair offers a clean, neutral sound with impressive noise handling and high SPL capability, making it a versatile choice for both studio and live applications. Its added features, like the low-cut and pad switches, provide flexibility, particularly when handling high sound pressure levels. The inclusion of shockmounts and a stereo bar in the stereo kit adds significant value. While the mic's performance is commendable, achieving better results would require a considerably higher investment. This makes the SE5 an excellent option for those seeking quality without breaking the bank.

positive

sE Electronics sE5 Stereo Pair Review

musictech.com

The sE Electronics sE5 Matched Pair shines as a solid, budget-friendly option for studios seeking a reliable small diaphragm condenser duo. With a robust build, it captures detailed, natural sound, especially excelling with acoustic instruments. The cardioid-only design limits versatility, and its bright high end might not suit every source, but for most project studios, it offers a strong performance. While it lacks the interchangeable capsules of its predecessors, the sE5 compensates with excellent transient response and a touch of top-end lift. Ideal for those looking to add a quality stereo pair without breaking the bank.

positive

sE Electronics sE5 Pair review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

sE Electronics' sE5 Matched Pair shines as a nimble stereo recording solution, offering clarity and accurate transient response. The package includes a stereo bar and shock mounts, providing versatile placement options. Though a bit pricey, the mics' airy top-end and high SPL handling make them ideal for capturing detailed acoustic sounds. A solid choice for both studios and serious hobbyists, the sE5 pair is a sound investment for expanding recording capabilities.

positive

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