sE Electronics X1 R - Dynamic Ribbon Microphone

sE Electronics X1 R – Dynamic Ribbon Microphone

The sE Electronics X1 R blends the classic smoothness of ribbon microphones with modern technology for versatility, durability, and ease of use. Its 2.5µm aluminum ribbon element is hand-wound and surrounded by state-of-the-art neodymium magnets that deliver gentle high-frequency extension before the natural roll-off at 16kHz, providing definition and air without the harshness of traditional condensers. The all-metal construction and gold-plated XLR connector ensure effective shielding from interference and a solid connection in any studio or live environment.

Main features

• Transducer: 2.5µm hand-made aluminum ribbon, surrounded by neodymium magnets.
• Polar pattern: Figure 8, front and rear capture with side rejection.
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 16 kHz, with slight high-frequency boost for clarity
• Output impedance: 200 Ω.
• Sensitivity: 1.8 mV/Pa (–55 dBV).
• Maximum SPL: 135 dB (0.5% THD @ 1 kHz).
• Equivalent noise level: 23 dB(A).
• Construction: Robust metal body and gold-plated 3-pin XLR connector.
• Dimensions: Ø 58 × 169 mm.
• Weight: 510 g.
• Included accessories: Microphone stand clip and thread adapter.

Product benefits

• Warm, natural sound with midrange details characteristic of tape.
• Greater definition and “air” in the treble thanks to integrated HF extension technology.
• High SPL tolerance for powerful sources such as amplifiers and drums.
• Side sound rejection ideal for recording in spaces with unwanted reflections.
• Heavy-duty construction suitable for intensive studio and touring use.

Use cases

• Voice Microphone: Warm, sibilance-free emissions.
• Drum Overheads: Balanced capture of cymbals and kit.
• Acoustic and electric guitar: Faithful replication of body and nuances.
• Wind and string instruments: Natural and immersive sound image.
• Orchestra and strings: As a stereo pair, it offers spatial realism.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does it need phantom power? No; completely passive design.
• Is the tape fragile? The 2.5 µm aluminum alloy is optimized for strength and high SPL handling.
• How to mount it? Standard clamp with 3/8″–5/8″ adapter included.
• Does it require a special preamplifier? A low-noise, high-gain preamplifier improves performance.

Description for projects

Passive ribbon microphone with 2.5 µm aluminum element, figure-8 pattern, 20 Hz–16 kHz, sensitivity 1.8 mV/Pa, impedance 200 Ω, maximum SPL 135 dB, noise 23 dB(A), metal body 58×169 mm, weight 510 g.