Pricing and availability
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Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,069
High-end/Boutique
$100
$401+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 7 merchants for "sE Electronics Z5600a II". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Dive into the heart of your sound with the sE Electronics Z5600a II, a tube large diaphragm microphone that captures the essence of your audio with unparalleled warmth and precision. Crafted for the passionate musician and producer, this microphone stands as a testament to sE Electronics' commitment to quality and innovation. With its 12AT7 tube amplification, the Z5600a II envelopes your recordings in a rich, detailed sound, making it a perfect choice for everything from vocals to acoustic instruments. Its gold-plated 1.07" diaphragm ensures every nuance is captured with crystal clarity, offering a level of depth that brings your music to life.
Whether you're laying down tracks in a home studio or capturing live performances, the Z5600a II adapts to your creative needs with nine different polar patterns, easily switchable on the power supply. This versatility allows for a wide range of recording techniques, giving you the freedom to explore your sound. Included with a spider shock mount, flight case, and microphone, this package equips you for the highest quality recordings, session after session.
Key Features:
- Equipped with a 12AT7 tube for warm, rich tonal quality
- Gold-plated 1.07" diaphragm captures every detail with clarity
- Nine switchable polar patterns for versatile recording applications
- Frequency range of 20 Hz - 20 kHz ensures full-spectrum audio capture
- Sensitivity of 14.1mV / Pa - 37 ± 1dB for precise sound reproduction
- 200 ohms impedance and 16dB (A-weighted) equivalent noise level for clean, noise-free signals
- Max SPL for 0.5% THD @ 1000Hz: 130 dB, handling high volume without distortion
Owner's manual
sE Electronics Z5600a II User ManualProduct specs
| Microphone Type | Tube Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8 |
| Diaphragm Size | 1.06" (27mm) |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Max SPL | 135dB |
| Output Impedance | 200 ohms |
| Self Noise | 12dB (A weighted) |
| Low Cut Filter | Yes |
| Pads | -10dB |
| Power Source | External power supply |
| Connector | 8-pin connector (mic), 3-pin XLR (power supply) |
| Included Accessories | Shock Mount, Wood Case, Flight Case |
FAQs
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What polar patterns does the sE Electronics Z5600a II offer?
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The sE Electronics Z5600a II features nine selectable polar patterns, including cardioid, omni, figure-8, and six intermediate stages, allowing for versatile recording options in various studio settings.
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Is the sE Electronics Z5600a II suitable for vocal recordings?
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Yes, the sE Electronics Z5600a II is ideal for vocal recordings due to its large-diaphragm tube design, which provides a warm and detailed sound, capturing the nuances of vocal performances effectively.
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What is the frequency response range of the sE Electronics Z5600a II?
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The frequency response of the sE Electronics Z5600a II ranges from 20Hz to 20kHz, ensuring it captures a wide spectrum of audio frequencies for detailed and accurate recordings.
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Does the sE Electronics Z5600a II come with a shock mount?
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Yes, the sE Electronics Z5600a II includes a shock mount, which helps reduce vibrations and handling noise during recordings, ensuring cleaner audio capture.
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What kind of power supply does the sE Electronics Z5600a II require?
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The sE Electronics Z5600a II requires an external power supply, which is included with the microphone, providing the necessary power for its tube circuitry.
Videos
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Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional clarity and dynamic range for vocals
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Minimal EQ needed for a great sound
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Inspires performers; often chosen over higher-end models
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Versatile across male and female vocals, and instruments
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Offers 9 polar patterns for recording flexibility
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Warm, bright, and silky sound on highs
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Performs well with both Focusrite ISA and Presonus preamps
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Robust and durable build quality
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Excellent value for its price point
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Smooth saturation and "creamy" sound quality
CONS
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Case quality does not match the microphone's standard
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about sE Electronics Z5600a II.
Setup and maintenance
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Tube mics like the Z5600a II require a high-end preamp, such as an Avalon, to ensure the tube is driven properly.
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The Z5600a II requires a specific 8-pin audio cable and power supply, which also serves as the cardioid pattern selector; these parts are crucial for operation.
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The Z5600a II does not require phantom power due to its external power supply, which can differ from the standard 48v.
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Comparisons
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For the price of a Z5600a II, one could consider a pair of used Neumann TLM-102s as an alternative.
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Use cases and applications
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While the Z5600a II is excellent for professional music recording, it might be overkill for occasional voice acting needs.
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Features and functionality
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The Z5600a II is noted for needing to be "driven hot" to achieve optimal performance, indicating it benefits from high signal levels.
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The microphone needs to be connected via an 8-pin cable to its power supply and then uses a 3-pin XLR to connect to an audio interface.
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The microphone’s warm-up time might not need to be as long as 30 minutes, with some users indicating a shorter time suffices for optimal performance.
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Value and pricing
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Replacement power supplies are costly, almost equating to the price of a second-hand full unit, with one reported at approximately 250 pounds.
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User experience
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Owners have considered returning the mic if the power supply isn't included, highlighting the importance of ensuring all components are present when purchasing second-hand.
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Some users find the Z5600a II sounds thin if not properly set up, similar to using an internal computer mic, indicating the importance of correct setup procedures.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
420
Excellent Valve microphone
I purchased this as I used one in college and it had a fantastic ability to pick up my deep bassy voice and other instruments like my accordion. This is certainly my favourite Valve microphone i my collection.
Artist usage
Add artistGenre Usage
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