sE Electronics SE8 Cardioid - Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

sE Electronics SE8 Cardioid – Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

The sE Electronics SE8 Cardioid is a small diaphragm (½") condenser microphone designed for studio and live professionals looking for accurate, balanced, and detailed pickup patterns. Its hand-built, gold-plated true-condenser capsule and low-noise electronics ensure a linear response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. A switchable pad (-10 dB, -20 dB) and low-cut filter (80 Hz/160 Hz) allow for control of proximity and unwanted low end. With an impressive dynamic range (up to 146 dB with a 20 dB pad) and a self-noise level of only 13 dB(A), the SE8 is perfectly suited to acoustic guitars, backing vocals, overheads, percussion, wind instruments, and piano, delivering a rich, transparent sound.

Main features

• Capsule: Handcrafted ½" gold-plated true-condenser.
• Polar pattern: Cardioid, for rejection of off-axis signals.
• Frequency range: 20 Hz – 20 kHz.
• Output impedance: 110 Ω.
• Sensitivity: 25 mV/Pa (–32 dBV).
• Maximum SPL: 139 dB / 149 dB / 159 dB (pad 0 dB, 10 dB, 20 dB) (0.5% THD @ 1 kHz).
• Own noise: 13 dB(A).
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 81 dB.
• Dynamic range: 126 dB / 136 dB / 146 dB (pad 0 dB, 10 dB, 20 dB).
• Switchable filters: Low-cut 80 Hz / 160 Hz (6 dB/oct).
• Pad switchable: –10 dB, –20 dB.
• Power supply: Phantom +48 V (IEC 61938).
• Dimensions: Ø 23 mm × L 120 mm.
• Weight: 141 g.
• Included accessories: Clamp with thread adapter, anti-wind foam.

Product benefits

• Extremely detailed and linear pickup, ideal for acoustic sources and environments.
• Control proximity and unwanted bass through integrated filters and pads.
• Low self-noise and high dynamic range for clean recordings at any level.
• Sturdy, lightweight construction, perfect for studio and touring.
• Easy integration into paired stereo arrangements thanks to hand-crafted capsules.

Use cases

• Acoustic Guitar: Natural, uncolored body and string nuances.
• Choirs and orchestra: Clear image and rejection of lateral leaks.
• Drum and Percussion Overheads: Balanced capture of cymbals and kit.
• Piano and wind instruments: Faithful reproduction of midrange and treble.
• Ambient recording: Room environments with minimal internal noise.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What pads does it include? –10 dB and –20 dB for high-level sources.
• How do you activate the low-cut? By flipping the 80 Hz/160 Hz switch on the microphone body.
• Does it need phantom power? Yes; +48 V phantom power according to IEC 61938.
• Is it suitable for stereo pairing? Yes; its handcrafted capsules ensure a very tight match.

Description for projects

½" small diaphragm condenser microphone, cardioid, 20 Hz–20 kHz, 110 Ω, sensitivity 25 mV/Pa, poll max 139/149/159 dB (0/10/20 dB pad), noise 13 dB(A), low-cut 80/160 Hz, pads –10/–20 dB, phantom +48 V, Ø 23×120 mm, 141 g.