The sE4100
The sE4100 is the latest addition to sE Electronics' renowned range of large-diaphragm true-condenser microphones. Positioned as the cardioid-only version of the multi-pattern sE4400, it carries forward the same sleek design and warm, smooth sound that has made the sE4400 a favorite among engineers and musicians. Its philosophy is captured neatly in its tagline: "Sometimes Less Is More." Rather than offering multiple polar patterns, the sE4100 focuses entirely on cardioid pickup, streamlining the microphone for the specific applications where that pattern excels. This makes it a versatile tool suited to drum overheads, guitar amps, lead vocals, orchestral and string sections, piano, acoustic guitar, woodwinds, and brass. Whether in the studio or on stage, the sE4100 is built to deliver consistent, professional-grade results.

Capsule and Sound
At the heart of the sE4100 is the very same hand-crafted twin 1" gold-sputtered brass capsule found in the sE4400. This is a true condenser cardioid capsule, individually tuned in sE Electronics' own factory to ensure consistent performance and sound character across units. The capsule uses a gold-sputtered mylar diaphragm, and the microphone offers a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz with a sensitivity of 25 mV/Pa. Its warm, smooth sonic signature is what makes it so adaptable across a wide variety of recording applications, from capturing the shimmer of overhead cymbals to the low-end punch of a guitar cabinet.
Build and Design
The sE4100 is built roadworthy with all-metal housing, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of both studio and touring environments. It pairs with an innovative close-miking shockmount, designed to isolate the capsule from handling noise and vibration while allowing tight mic placement. Practical controls include switchable 80/160 Hz low-cut filters and switchable -10/-20 dB pads, giving engineers flexibility to manage low-frequency rumble and high-SPL sources like drums or loud amplifiers. The mic connects via a standard 3-pin male XLR connector and runs on 48V phantom power.
Availability and Accessories
For engineers who need matched characteristics across multiple mics, the sE4100 is available in a matched-pair configuration—ideal for stereo recording applications like drum overheads or orchestral pickups. Each individual sE4100 ships with a custom shockmount and thread adapter, along with a metal carrying case, while the matched-pair package includes two microphones, two shockmounts with thread adapters, a stereo mounting bar, and a metal case.
Why We Love This
Our gear experts appreciate the sE4100 for its warm, smooth sound drawn from the same hand-crafted gold-sputtered capsule as the acclaimed sE4400. Its cardioid-only focus makes it simple and reliable across countless applications—lead vocals, drum overheads, guitar cabs, piano, strings, and brass. The all-metal, roadworthy housing means it holds up on tour, while the innovative shockmount enables tight close-miking. Switchable low-cut filters and pads add flexibility, making it a dependable, individually tuned workhorse for both studio and stage.
Features:
- Cardioid-only version of the renowned sE4400
- Hand-crafted twin 1" gold-sputtered brass capsule
- True condenser cardioid capsule design
- Gold-sputtered mylar diaphragm
- Individually tuned in-house at sE's own factory
- All-metal, roadworthy housing
- Innovative close-miking shockmount included
- Switchable 80/160 Hz low-cut filters
- Switchable -10/-20 dB attenuation pads
- Available in a matched-pair configuration