X1 S
The new gold standard in affordable condensersWhen sE introduced the X1 in 2010, it redefined the potential of an affordable hand-crafted condenser microphone. Featuring the highest dynamic range and SPL handling capabilities in its class, along with dramatically increased flexibility, the X1 S has been improved in every way - yet is even more affordable than the original.
X1 S
THE NEW GOLD STANDARD IN AFFORDABLE CONDENSERSWhen sE introduced the X1 in 2010, it redefined the potential of an affordable hand-crafted condenser microphone. Featuring the highest dynamic range and SPL handling capabilities in its class, along with dramatically increased flexibility, the X1 S has been improved in every way - yet is even more affordable than the original.
Vocals, drum kit, OH, room, acoustic guitar, electric guitar cab, orchestral + strings, piano, woodwinds, brass
Inside the X1 S
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CUSTOM-DESIGNED, HAND-CRAFTED CAPSULE
Just like its predecessor, the X1 S utilizes a hand-made condenser capsule, meticulously constructed and tuned in sE’s capsule room by technicians with decades of experience. This results in a capsule built like the world’s finest musical instruments – and a capsule truly up to the challenge of recording them.
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HIGH-PERFORMANCE ELECTRONICS
Where the original X1 was powerful, the redesigned electronics of the X1 S take its performance to a whole new level, giving it the highest dynamic range in its class. Its internal redesign also allows for improved sensitivity, dramatically increased SPL handling (up to 160dB!), and a huge reduction in self-noise.
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TWO SWITCHABLE ATTENUATION LEVELS & LOW-CUT FILTERS
The -10 dB and -20 dB pad switches provide extended dynamic range, enabling a wide variety of applications and close-mic techniques. Selectable at either 80Hz or 160Hz, the two low-cut filters help eliminate low-frequency rumble or footfall noise and help compensate for excessive bass (proximity effect) with close-mic techniques.
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ALL-METAL HOUSING & GOLD-PLATED XLR CONNECTOR
Unlike the cheaply constructed bodies of some other “entry-level” microphones, the X1 S’s all-metal chassis provides efficient rejection of any electrical interference and noise. The X1 A’s gold-plated XLR connector and high-quality finish ensures a great look and sound for years to come.
The X1 S Studio Bundle & Vocal Pack
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The X1 S Studio Bundle
The X1 S Studio Bundle comes equipped with the X1 S microphone, the sE Isolation Pack (shockmount + pop shield), 3-meter mic cable & best-selling RF-X Reflexion Filter® so you can record anywhere you want.
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THE X1 S VOCAL PACK
All the essentials for the start of a great recording chain, including sE’s simple but highly effective metal pop shield, shockmount & X1 S condenser microphone.
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THE RF-X REFLEXION FILTER
If you’re recording in a non-acoustically-treated space (bedrooms, closets, etc.), a Reflexion Filter® helps keep your signal clean without the sound of your room around it.
Specs
Downloads
How should I store my microphone?
We generally recommend keeping your microphone in its case or original packaging when it is not in use for more than a few hours. If your studio is very clean and safe, it could be OK to leave out on its mic stand when not in use, but if a mic is out of its case, it could potentially be exposed to dust, smoke, moisture, or humidity – which can damage the sensitive parts of the mic – so we recommend avoiding those things at all cost.
What are the differences between your microphones’ polar patterns? How do I choose the most suitable type of polar pattern for my recording environment?
There are no real “right” or “wrong” answers to this question, as different patterns will just provide different types of sounds, and whatever best suits your particular song is usually the right answer! With that said:
- Cardioid – Generally best for recording vocals or other single sources, when you don’t want to hear much of the room sound around the source.
- Omni – This is good when you want a less focused, more “roomy” sound. Think distant drum mics in a great-sounding room.
- Figure-8 – Since this pattern lets the mic “hear” on both sides – front and back – and reject the sounds on either side, it’s handy if you want to record two sources at once from a point in between them, without hearing what’s off to the sides.
- Hypercardioid / Supercardioid – More directional than Cardioid, this is good for spot mics, when you want the sound to be very focused.
My guitar amplifier / drum / horn is VERY loud, and I am concerned about the risk of damage due to loud noise.
For the most part, sE mics can tolerate extremely high SPLs (typically over 135dB) and will be fine in front of even the loudest sources – yes, even our ribbon mics. If in doubt, you can check the specifications on the individual product page.
Which sE mic is best for recording vocals / drums / guitars / etc.?
Check out our Find Your Mic page to find the perfect mic for your application.
How do I clean the microphone from spillage and dirt?
If your microphone has come in contact with dirt or another removable substance, we recommend cleaning it with a very soft, slightly damp cotton cloth. Do not open the microphone up to clean the inside, and make sure you NEVER touch the capsule itself. Cleaning a capsule should only be done by highly trained professionals in a “clean room” environment. If you suspect your capsule needs to be cleaned, please contact [email protected] so we can recommend an authorized local technician.