Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
4.5 (3)
$549.00
Amazon
4.6 (46)
$229.00 New
$184.95 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
$229.00 6 available New
Thomann
5.0 (4)
$203.00 $202.00 $1.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£189.00

Average Price: $271

Standard/Professional

$100

$401+

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Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "sE Electronics sE8 Cardioid Microphone Capsules Matched Stereo Pair". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Elevate your recording game with the sE Electronics sE8 Cardioid Microphone Capsules Matched Stereo Pair, a must-have for audio professionals seeking precision and versatility. Whether you're capturing the subtle nuances of an acoustic guitar or the dynamic range of drum overheads, this matched pair of handcrafted, gold-sputtered small-diaphragm condensers will deliver a balanced and transparent sound. Engineered to maintain a low self-noise and high SPL capability, these capsules are perfect for both studio and live environments.

The cardioid polar pattern focuses sound capture from the front, reducing unwanted noise from the sides and back, making it ideal for precise stereo recordings. Each capsule is meticulously hand-tuned to ensure exceptional performance, guaranteeing that your stereo image is both clear and accurate. Plus, the inclusion of two switchable pre-attenuation pads (-10dB and -20dB) allows you to manage a broader dynamic range, letting you capture anything from subtle whispers to powerful brass instruments with finesse.

Key Features:

  • Handcrafted gold-sputtered small-diaphragm capsule
  • Cardioid polar pattern for focused audio capture
  • Individually tuned and factory matched for optimal sound
  • Switchable pre-attenuation pads (-10dB and -20dB) for greater dynamic range
  • Low inherent noise for high-resolution recordings
  • Suitable for instruments, ensembles, and orchestras
  • Engineered for balanced, transparent, and natural sound

Product specs

Microphone Type True condenser capsule
Compatibility sE Electronics sE8
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Max SPL 139/149/159 dB (0/10/20 dB pad)
Frequency Range 20Hz - 20kHz
Mono/Stereo Stereo Pair

FAQs

What instruments are the sE Electronics sE8 Cardioid Microphone Capsules best suited for?

The sE Electronics sE8 Cardioid Microphone Capsules are ideal for recording acoustic instruments such as guitars and drums, both in studio settings and live performances, due to their natural sound and high SPL handling.

What is the polar pattern of the sE Electronics sE8 Cardioid Microphone Capsules, and why is it important?

These capsules feature a cardioid polar pattern, which helps focus on the sound source while minimizing background noise, making them excellent for isolating instruments in a mix.

How does the gold-sputtered diaphragm in the sE Electronics sE8 Cardioid Microphone Capsules affect sound quality?

The ultra-thin 3 micron gold-sputtered diaphragm enhances transient response and ensures reliability, providing clear and accurate sound reproduction.

Are the sE Electronics sE8 Cardioid Microphone Capsules suitable for high SPL environments?

Yes, these capsules can handle a maximum SPL of up to 159 dB with the pad engaged, making them suitable for loud sound sources like drums or amplifiers.

Can the sE Electronics sE8 Cardioid Microphone Capsules be used in a stereo configuration?

Yes, they come as a matched stereo pair, allowing for precise stereo recording with consistent sound quality and imaging.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

sE Electronics sE8 Small-diaphragm Condenser Microphone Review

Video thumbnail for sE Electronics sE8 Small-diaphragm Condenser Microphone Review by Sweetwater

sE Electronics sE8 Small-diaphragm Condenser Microphone Review

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for SE ELECTRONICS SE8 vs RODE NT5 vs OKTAVA MK012 vs STUDIO PROJECTS C4 - Piano Mic Shoot Out by AE PRODUCED BY EQUIANO

SE ELECTRONICS SE8 vs RODE NT5 vs OKTAVA MK012 vs STUDIO PROJECTS C4 - Piano Mic Shoot Out

AE PRODUCED BY EQUIANO

AE PRODUCED BY EQUIANO

Video thumbnail for SE ELECTRONICS SE8 vs RODE NT5 vs OKTAVA MK012 vs STUDIO PROJECTS C4 - Acoustic Guitar Mic Shoot Out by AE PRODUCED BY EQUIANO

SE ELECTRONICS SE8 vs RODE NT5 vs OKTAVA MK012 vs STUDIO PROJECTS C4 - Acoustic Guitar Mic Shoot Out

AE PRODUCED BY EQUIANO

AE PRODUCED BY EQUIANO

Video thumbnail for SE ELECTRONICS SE8 vs RODE NT5 vs OKTAVA MK012 vs STUDIO PROJECTS C4 - Violin Mic Shoot Out by AE PRODUCED BY EQUIANO

SE ELECTRONICS SE8 vs RODE NT5 vs OKTAVA MK012 vs STUDIO PROJECTS C4 - Violin Mic Shoot Out

AE PRODUCED BY EQUIANO

AE PRODUCED BY EQUIANO

Video thumbnail for SE Electronics SE8 shootout by Dracomies

SE Electronics SE8 shootout

Dracomies

Dracomies

Video thumbnail for SE ELECTRONICS SE8 vs RODE NT5 vs OKTAVA MK012 vs STUDIO PROJECTS C4 - Flute Mic Shoot Out by AE PRODUCED BY EQUIANO

SE ELECTRONICS SE8 vs RODE NT5 vs OKTAVA MK012 vs STUDIO PROJECTS C4 - Flute Mic Shoot Out

AE PRODUCED BY EQUIANO

AE PRODUCED BY EQUIANO

Video thumbnail for Meet the sE8 Small-Diaphragm Condenser by sE Electronics

Meet the sE8 Small-Diaphragm Condenser

sE Electronics

sE Electronics

Video thumbnail for sE Electronics Overhead Mic Comparison -  sE8 vs 4400 by Blue Diamond Media Consulting

sE Electronics Overhead Mic Comparison - sE8 vs 4400

Blue Diamond Media Consulting

Blue Diamond Media Consulting

Reviews

PROS

  • Provides precise, focused sound capture with excellent dynamic response

  • Clean, natural, and smooth sound without harsh high-end distortion

  • Comes with useful -20 dB pad and low-frequency cut features

  • Matches the sound quality of higher-end microphones at a lower price point

  • Great build quality and durability, comparable to more expensive models

  • Versatile for various instruments and settings, from studio to live performances

  • Captures sound sources honestly without altering their natural character

  • Compact size and horizontal mounting reduce accidental knocks

  • High gain and clarity, even at a distance

  • Equal performance across different applications like podcasting and Zoom

CONS

  • Noticeable self-noise in quiet environments

  • May not suit vocal recordings due to detailed high frequencies

  • Requires phantom power, no XLR cable included

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about sE Electronics sE8 Cardioid Microphone Capsules Matched Stereo Pair.

Comparisons

  • The sE8 is considered an upgrade from the sE7, with better SPL handling, lower self-noise, and higher SNR, making it competitive up to the KM184 level.

    Source
  • The sE8 integrates low and high frequencies more cohesively compared to cheaper condensers like the NT5, avoiding disjointed high frequencies.

    Source
  • The sE8 has a presence peak in the upper mids/lower treble, unlike typical SDC mics with treble peaks, making it less ideal for outdoor ambience compared to Line Audio OM1.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • An owner effectively uses sE8 cardioids in an XY setup with omnis at 66cm for classical recordings, achieving a detailed and warm sound.

    Source
  • The sE8 is favored for recording acoustic guitars, requiring minimal processing when paired with a Shelford channel, particularly with a Martin D18.

    Source
  • The sE8's 159 dB SPL handling is ideal for high-intensity recordings like WWII weapons and mortar shots.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users report the sE8's self-noise being more noticeable than advertised, affecting its use for very quiet sources.

    Source
  • Users have noted the sE8's sensitivity to humidity and temperature, causing it to "pop" when used outdoors.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The sE8 capsules are interchangeable, allowing users to switch between cardioid and omni patterns, with the omni featuring a 15 dB self-noise and 79 dB SNR.

    Source
  • Capsules can be bought separately, allowing users to expand from omni to cardioid as needed, especially useful for studio versus field recording.

    Source

Build quality

  • The sE8's wider diameter can complicate fitting into shock mounts like Rycotes, though it's not excessively long.

    Source

Critic Reviews

sE Electronics sE8

soundonsound.com

The sE Electronics sE8 microphones deliver stellar performance for their price point, making them a versatile choice for small studio setups. They shine on various instruments, handling acoustic guitars with finesse and capturing electric amps naturally. The dual pad and low-cut filter options add flexibility, accommodating high SPLs without a hitch. Although they lack interchangeable capsules, their well-balanced sound and robust construction, complete with a smooth frequency response, make up for it. The matched stereo pair offers excellent off-axis response and a reliable stereo image. Overall, the sE8s are a cost-effective, high-quality addition to any mic locker.

positive

Reviewed: sE Electronics sE8 Stereo Condenser Microphones - Mixdown Magazine

mixdownmag.com.au

The sE Electronics sE8 Cardioid Microphone Capsules Matched Stereo Pair delivers exceptional value in a compact package, perfect for both studio and live settings. Their crisp sound quality, fast transient attack, and ability to handle high sound pressure levels make them versatile for various applications. The inclusion of a robust aluminum flight case ensures durability and protection during transport. Despite the lack of novelty in concept, the sE8 pair stands out with its price-to-performance ratio, promising potential for future versatility with interchangeable capsules. Overall, a stellar choice for quality stereo recording without breaking the bank.

positive

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