Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $231
Budget/Beginner
$499
$1500+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 8 merchants for "sE Electronics X1R". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The sE Electronics X1R is where vintage charm meets modern functionality, offering a hybrid design that captures the smoothness of classic ribbon microphones while providing the versatility you need for today's recording demands. Whether you're recording the sweet melodies of a guitar amplifier or the powerful blast of brass instruments, the X1R's rich, warm tones deliver exceptional clarity without sacrificing the beloved darker character ribbons are known for.
With its state-of-the-art ribbon element and top-grade Neodymium magnets, the X1R is a passive microphone that comfortably handles high sound pressure levels, making it suitable for a wide array of applications—from vocals to drum overheads. The X1R's frequency response extends up to 16kHz, offering more articulation and definition than traditional ribbon mics, thanks to a gentle high-frequency lift. This makes it not only a great addition to any studio but also a robust choice for live performances.
Built on the sturdy chassis of the sE X1 Series, the X1R is designed to withstand the rigors of both studio and stage, providing reliability and ease of use that outshines many other ribbons on the market today. Whether you're a first-time project studio buyer or a seasoned sound engineer, the sE Electronics X1R adds a touch of vintage elegance and modern practicality to your microphone arsenal.
Key Features:
- Type: Passive ribbon microphone
- Element: 2µ aluminum ribbon
- Frequency Response: 20Hz - 16kHz ±1dB
- Sensitivity: -55.3dB 1V/Pa ±1dB
- Directional Pattern: Figure-8
- Impedance: ≤200 Ohm
- Max SPL: 135dB
- Connector: 3-pin XLR
- Ideal for guitar amps, drums, brass, woodwind, strings, broadcast, and voiceover applications
- Includes tripod joint
Product specs
| Microphone Type | Ribbon |
| Ribbon Type | 2-micron Aluminum |
| Polar Pattern | Figure-8 |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-16kHz |
| Max SPL | 135dB |
| Output Impedance | 200 ohms |
| Connector | XLR |
| Weight | 1.1 lbs. |
FAQs
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Does the sE Electronics X1R require phantom power?
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The sE Electronics X1R, being a passive ribbon microphone, does not require phantom power. However, it can tolerate phantom power if the mic is connected with a balanced cable before the power is applied.
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What is the polar pattern of the sE Electronics X1R?
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The sE Electronics X1R features a figure-8 polar pattern, which captures sound equally from the front and back while rejecting sound from the sides, making it ideal for recording in stereo or capturing room ambiance.
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What is the frequency response of the sE Electronics X1R?
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The sE Electronics X1R has a frequency response range of 20Hz to 16kHz, providing a warm and natural sound characteristic typical of ribbon microphones, suitable for a variety of recording applications, especially vocals and acoustic instruments.
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Is the sE Electronics X1R suitable for loud sound sources?
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Yes, the sE Electronics X1R can handle a maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 135dB, making it suitable for recording loud sound sources like guitar amplifiers or drums without distortion.
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What type of connector does the sE Electronics X1R use?
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The sE Electronics X1R uses a standard XLR connector, allowing it to be easily integrated into most professional recording setups and audio interfaces.
Videos
Andertons Music Co
Using the sE X1-R Ribbon Mic for Home Recording
Reviews
PROS
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Excellent for string instruments, capturing detailed sound with warmth and smooth highs
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Natural and warm vocal reproduction, reducing harsh frequencies without processing
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Versatile across various instruments like acoustic guitars, winds, brass, and percussion
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Consistent frequency response with special detail in highs, allowing creative EQing
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Durable build quality, designed to last
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Minimal proximity effect, making it manageable and versatile
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Greater sensitivity compared to vintage ribbon mics, comparable to dynamic mics
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Phantom power protected, adding a layer of safety for the ribbon
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Requires less preamp gain, works well with devices like Cloudlifters
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Good value for money, offering professional quality at an affordable price
CONS
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Lacks a carrying pouch, comes in a paper box with foam cutout
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Some might find the design resonant tone around 400Hz undesirable, though it can be EQ'd out
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Requires a lot of input level for low volume sources, which might be challenging
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Figure-8 pattern picks up room reflections, requiring careful placement
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about sE Electronics X1R.
Comparisons
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The sE Electronics X1R is considered a step below the VR1 in terms of price and possibly quality, with VR1 being preferred for drum room setups.
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The VR1 and VR2 models are noted for their modern ribbon mic sound, suitable for pop vocals, contrasting with the traditional ribbon mic characteristics.
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The Apex 205, modded with a Lundahl transformer, offers a unique sound quality on full instruments, differing from the sE X1R's performance.
Source
Use cases and applications
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The X1R is praised for its performance as room mics, delivering quality sound above its price range.
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When paired with condenser mics like the AKG 414 in a figure-8 pattern, ribbon mics can create unique sounds for open-back guitar or bass cabinets.
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Ribbon mics like the sE Electronics X1R may not be ideal for acoustic guitars as they can be too sensitive for heavy fingerpicking styles.
Source
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings
800
Best in this pricerange
Quality mic for a low price. Has a nice rounded sound and is built to last
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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