The SE Electronics X1 S is a large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone designed for versatile, full-range vocal and instrument recording in commercial facilities, project studios, home setups, and mobile rigs. The handcrafted gold-sputtered capsule features a pressure-gradient design for directional focus and rejection of off-axis sounds. It utilizes a gold-plated XLR 3-pin jack and requires 48V phantom power.

The metal-bodied X1 S delivers a 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response and a selectable 80 Hz or 160 Hz low-cut filter to reduce rumble and low-frequency buildup. A switchable -10 dB or -20 dB pad minimizes distortion when miking loud sources such as drums and amplified guitars. Even without a pad, the X1 S can handle a maximum SPL of 140 dB. It ships with a mic clip and thread adapter for easy mounting on a mic stand.

Cardioid Polar Pattern    Pressure-Gradient Design    Handcrafted Gold-Sputtered Capsule    20 Hz to 20 kHz Frequency Response    Switchable -10 dB or -20 dB Pad    Selectable 80 Hz or 160 Hz Low-Cut Filter    High Maximum SPL    Metal Housing    Gold-Plated XLR Connector    Includes Mic Clip

The X1 S utilizes a handcrafted condenser capsule, meticulously constructed and tuned in SE's capsule room by technicians with decades of experience

Its internal redesign allows for improved sensitivity, dramatically increased SPL handling (up to 160 dB), and a large reduction in self-noise

The -10 dB and -20 dB pad switches provide extended dynamic range, enabling a wide range of applications and close-mic techniques

Selectable at either 80 Hz or 160 Hz, the two filters help eliminate low-frequency rumble or footfall noise, as well as help compensate for excessive bass (proximity effect) with close-mic techniques

The X1 S's all-metal chassis provides efficient rejection of electrical interference and noise

A gold-plated XLR connector ensures loss-free, reliable signal connection

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. No headphone jack? If recording with a modern iPhone, no way to monitor except maybe high latency bluetooth headphones.

A: The MK4 is a large diaphragm condenser mic which requires 48V phantom power. It can not be connected directly to an iPhone. However, you can connect it to an audio interface that is compatible with the iPhone and one that supplies phantom power such as the IK Multimedia iRig Pro I/O Audio and MIDI Interface for Mac, Windows & iOS (B&H # IKIPIRIGPROI). The MK4 will connect to the input on the interface and then the interface will connect to your iPhone's Lightning port. The interface has a built-in 3.5mm stereo headphone jack with its own level control to monitor the audio.

Q: 2. Would you recommend this microphone over the AT2050? I have the AT2050, but I want a better overall mic, I am also planning on getting a better preamp or to get a mixer instead.

A: The AT2050 is a fine microphone but I'll give RODE the edge here. 10 year warranty too!

Q: 3. Does ride ws 8 windscreen fits this microphone?

A: No, the Rode WS 8 windscreen fits microphones with a diameter of 20mm and the SE Electronics SE7 has a diameter of 12.7 mm.

Q: 4. I am updating my Samson MTR 231, what differences should I expect between both mics, please?

A: In comparison, the Sennheiser is the more feature rich. 3 step low cut filter and 3 step pad. You are also getting more selectable pickup patterns. These allow you to more precisely tailor the mics performance to a specific application. Comparatively the mic are similar in self noise, however the Sennheiser offers better specs in dynamic range as well as signal to noise ratio. Regarding frequency response, the Sennheiser is relatively flat, with the Samson featuring a slight boost in the higher frequencies. This will generally be interpreted as the Sennheiser having a warmer sound.

Q: 5. I presume that this was not designed for use with a Mac, but if purchased, what additional product would be needed to have the ability to input the sound from this combo into a computer?

A: An audio interface, such as the Solid State Logic SSL 2+ Desktop 2x4 USB Type-C Audio/MIDI Interface, BH #SOSSL2P would compliment this kit, by providing a high quality, analog to digital transfer into an Apple computer.

Q: 6. Is a table stand compatible for this for studio use?

A: A table stand will work. A studio arm is recommended for better positioning: Auray TT-ISO Isolating Desktop Microphone Stand B&H # AUTTISO

Q: 7. Is this the best mic for recording a quartet or small choir or group of instrumentalists where the microphone will be 5 to 10 feet way from the performers?

A: This is an excellent microphone for the price and well suited for your stated application.

Q: 8. Can I use this mic for rap vocals or any type of music vocals??

A: This mic is great for rap vocals. It has great clarity and sound.

Q: 9. Can the capsules be interchanged for omnis? Confusing because the Sound on Sound review said they are fixed but I see omni caps in your inventory.

A: Yes, you can use the sE8 Omni Microphone Capsules - Matched Pair (B&H # SE8OMNICAPPR) in place of the cardioid capsules that come with sE8 microphones.

Q: 10. Is there a good case to put this equipment in? I am looking to be able to pack it up and take it with me when necessary

A: I have not seen a compatible case for this reflection filter or one like it. I surmise that a case for something odd-shaped such as this reflection filter would be unreasonably large. I have a slightly larger reflection filter that I just bag up in a clear plastic bag, or I put it into a drum throne bag if I want it padded.