The sE8 is a brand-new, high-performance small-diaphragm condenser microphone, handcrafted in sE’s own factory. Its newly developed hand-built capsule features a sophisticated backplate design that delivers a perfectly balanced sound—never harsh or aggressive—making it ideal for sources such as hi-hats and drum overheads. It is also one of the quietest small-diaphragm microphones on the market, offering an exceptionally wide dynamic range and class-leading SPL handling. Combined with switchable attenuation pads and low-cut filters, the sE8 provides outstanding flexibility for both studio recording and demanding live applications.

As with all sE matched stereo pairs, every microphone included in an sE8 Matched Pair is hand-selected from hundreds of individual units. This ensures identical performance and the highest possible consistency between microphones, resulting in a precise and accurate stereo image. The sE8 Matched Pair includes a precision stereo mounting bar, two windshields, two microphone clips, and a rugged metal flight case.

Features

• Gold-sputtered diaphragms for maximum reliability
• Each capsule is handcrafted and individually tuned in sE’s own factory
• Ultra-precise electrode design optimized for excellent linearity and natural sound
• Ultra-thin 3-micron gold-sputtered diaphragm for superior transient response
• Newly developed backplate design delivers a smooth, natural sound and highly consistent off-axis response
• Sophisticated acoustic design with precision components minimizes coloration in demanding applications
• Advanced electronic design ensures extremely low self-noise without the use of integrated circuits
• Transformerless design for exceptional transparency and clarity
• Proven Class-A circuitry provides high dynamic range, low distortion, and excellent transient response
• Switchable -10 dB and -20 dB pads extend dynamic range, making the microphone suitable for high-SPL sources such as brass instruments and snare drums
• Two switchable low-cut filters (80 Hz or 160 Hz, 6 dB/octave) help eliminate rumble, footfall noise, and excessive low-frequency buildup from proximity effect
• All-metal housing effectively rejects electrical interference and unwanted noise
• Premium finish and gold-plated XLR connector ensure reliable, loss-free signal transmission for years of use

Specifications

• Included in the box: 2 × sE8 microphones, 2 × microphone clips (with thread adapters), 2 × windshields, stereo mounting bar, rugged metal case
• Capsule Type: Handcrafted small-diaphragm condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 25 mV/Pa (-32 dBV)
• Maximum SPL: 139 / 149 / 159 dB SPL (0 / -10 / -20 dB pad, 0.5% THD @ 1 kHz)
• Equivalent Noise Level: 13 dB(A)
• Dynamic Range: 126 / 136 / 146 dB (0 / -10 / -20 dB pad)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 81 dB
• Low-Cut Filter: 80 Hz / 160 Hz, 6 dB/octave, switchable
• Pad Attenuation: -10 dB / -20 dB, switchable
• Power Requirement: 48V phantom power (IEC 61938)
• Electrical Impedance: 110 Ohms
• Recommended Load Impedance: >1 kOhm
• Current Consumption: 2.7 mA
• Connectivity: 3-pin male XLR connector
• Dimensions: 23 mm (0.91 in.) diameter × 120 mm (4.72 in.) length
• Weight: 141 g (4.97 oz.) per microphone