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sE Electronics X1 A Medium-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone (Black)

BH #SEX1AU • MFR #X1-A
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sE Electronics X1 A Medium-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone (Black)
Key Features
  • Cardioid Polar Pattern
  • 2/3" Electret Condenser Capsule
  • Selectable -20 dB Pad
  • Low-Cut Filter at 100 Hz
The sE Electronics X1 A is a medium-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone designed for versatile, full-range vocal and instrument recording on a small budget, making it an attractive choice for a first mic or adding to an existing mic locker. The 2/3" electret condenser capsule features a pressure-gradient design for directional focus and rejection of off-axis sounds. It utilizes a gold-plated XLR 3-pin jack and requires 48V phantom power.
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sE Electronics X1-A-U Overview

The sE Electronics X1 A is a medium-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone designed for versatile, full-range vocal and instrument recording on a small budget, making it an attractive choice for a first mic or adding to an existing mic locker. The 2/3" electret condenser capsule features a pressure-gradient design for directional focus and rejection of off-axis sounds. It utilizes a gold-plated XLR 3-pin jack and requires 48V phantom power.

The metal-bodied X1 A delivers a 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response along with low self-noise (16 dBA). Its selectable 100 Hz low-cut filter helps to reduce rumble and low-frequency buildup, and the switchable -20 dB pad minimizes distortion when miking loud sources such as drums and amplified guitars. Even without a pad, the X1 A can handle a maximum SPL of 130 dB. It ships with a mic clip and thread adapter for easy mounting on a mic stand.

Based on the X1
When it was introduced in 2011, the X1 brought a new level of quality to its price point, competing easily with microphones costing several times as much. But that didn't stop sE from trying to outdo themselves again.

With a newly developed condenser capsule and an exterior based on the rugged metal chassis of the X1, the X1 A offers first-class sound and specifications at an even better "home studio" cost, featuring an extremely natural frequency response, massive SPL-handling capabilities (150 dB), switchable attenuation and low-cut filters, and a balanced sensitivity level. So, it's at home on absolutely any source.
Electret Condenser Capsule
The X1 A utilizes a permanently biased 2/3" condenser capsule with a cardioid polar pattern, making it well suited for anything from vocals and acoustic guitars to guitar amps and percussion.
All-Metal Housing and Premium Finish
Unlike the cheaply constructed bodies of many entry-level microphones, the X1 A's all-metal chassis provides efficient rejection of any electrical interference and noise. Plus, the high-quality finish ensures a great look for years to come.
Integrated Windscreen
By incorporating an integrated windscreen, the X1 A eliminates the need for an external pop filter while providing an extra layer of safety and security for the all-important capsule.
New Acoustic Design
The X1 A's new condenser capsule design is a work of art, delivering stellar sonic performance on any source with incredible speed, accuracy, and well-balanced frequency response. The electronics have also undergone a complete overhaul, and exhibit better specifications and sound on and off the test bench.
Attenuation and Low-Cut Switches
The -20 dB pad switch on the left provides extended dynamic range, enabling an array of applications and close-mic techniques for even the loudest instruments such as super-heavy electric guitars, fortissimo brass instruments, and heavy-footed kick drums.

On the right, the 100 Hz low-cut switch helps eliminate low-frequency rumble or footfall noise, and compensates for excessive bass with close-mic techniques (proximity effect).
Gold-Plated XLR Connector
The gold-plated XLR connector ensures a loss-free, reliable signal connection for years to come.
UPC: 819032011171

sE Electronics X1-A-U Specs

Key Specs
Microphone Type
Large Diaphragm
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Element Type
Electret Condenser
Controls
Low Cut/HPF, Pad
Frequency Response
20 Hz to 20 kHz
Maximum SPL
130 dB (1 kHz, .5% THD)
150 dB (1 kHz, .5% THD, with Pad)
Analog Output
1x XLR 3-Pin Male
Power Sources
Phantom Power
Microphone
Microphone Type
Large Diaphragm
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Element Type
Electret Condenser
Sound Field
Mono
Diaphragm
0.67" / 17.02 mm
Orientation
Side Address
Controls
Low Cut/HPF, Pad
Pad
-20 dB
Filter & EQ
Low-Cut Filter: 100 Hz, 6 dB/Octave
Circuitry
Solid-State
Performance
Frequency Response
20 Hz to 20 kHz
Maximum SPL
130 dB (1 kHz, .5% THD)
150 dB (1 kHz, .5% THD, with Pad)
Off-Axis Rejection
3 dB at 60°
10 dB at 120°
22 dB at 180°
Dynamic Range
114 dB (without Pad)
134 dB (with Pad)
Equivalent Noise Level
16 dB (A-Weighted)
Connectivity
Analog Output Connector
1x XLR 3-Pin Male
Power
Power Sources
Phantom Power
Operating Voltage
48 V (Phantom Power)
Physical
Color
Black
Mounting Thread Size
5/8"-27 Female (3/8"-16 Female with Included Adapter)
Dimensions
ø: 2.28 x L: 6.65" / ø: 5.79 x L: 16.89 cm
Weight
13.8 oz / 391 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight
1.4 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
10.5 x 5.1 x 3.9"

sE Electronics X1-A-U Reviews

Great microphone even if it costs double.

By Alec
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2026-03-23

I like it. I am using it for podcasting and Zoom calls. When positioned using a boom about 6" from my mouth, at about 45o off center, it sounds really good. Aw, heck... it looks good, too. I'm using the flat frequency option (no high pass filter), I don't think it's "boomy" at all. I could EQ the signal if I needed to.

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