sE Electronics
SE Electronics SE8 Stereo Set
Best matched pair for capturing detailed acoustic instruments and drum overheads.
Capture pristine audio with the SE Electronics SE8 Stereo Set, a matched pair of small diaphragm condenser microphones. Ideal for musicians and recording engineers, these mics deliver detailed sound reproduction for acoustic instruments, drum overheads, and stereo room recordings. They feature handmade capsules and a cardioid polar pattern for focused capture. With versatile switching options for low-cut filters and pads, you can precisely tailor your sound. The SE8 set includes a stereo bar and a transport case, making it ready for any recording session.
$385.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
190
/ 1827
#190 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-24%
Below average
Capsule Type
Handmade small diaphragm condenser
/ Handmade small diaphragm condenser
Who it's for
- Recordists capturing delicate acoustic instruments or quiet ambient sounds
- Engineers requiring precise, phase-accurate stereo soundscapes
- Studio professionals needing versatile, road-ready microphones for loud sources
Who should skip it
- Hobbyists working with restricted equipment budgets
- Producers needing versatile polar patterns for complex miking techniques
- Field recordists using basic gear lacking phantom power
Performance breakdown
Stereo Imaging Accuracy
Factory-matched capsules ensure perfectly balanced, phase-coherent stereo recordings every time.
Transient Response
Captures fast, percussive attacks with exceptional clarity and natural detail.
SPL Handling
Handles extremely loud sources without distortion thanks to versatile pad settings.
Self-Noise Floor
Quiet operation allows for clean capture of delicate acoustic instruments.
Build Quality
Robust metal construction feels professional and built for daily studio use.
Versatility
Switchable filters and pads make these mics adaptable for diverse recording environments.
Key Specs
Capsule Type
Handmade small diaphragm condenser
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Frequency Range
20 to 20,000 Hz
Max. SPL (0.5% THD)
139/149/159 dB SPL (0/10/20 dB pad)
Inherent Noise
13 dB (A)
LoCut Switchable
80 / 160Hz (6dB / oct.)
Pad Switchable
0dB, 10dB, 20dB
Power Requirement
48 V phantom power
Features
- Matched pair for accurate stereo imaging
- Handmade small diaphragm condenser capsule
- Versatile switching for sound tailoring
- High maximum SPL handling
- Cardioid polar pattern for focused capture
- Includes stereo bar and transport case
- Wide frequency response for detail
- Requires standard 48V phantom power
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the SE Electronics SE8 Stereo Set for its exceptional sonic accuracy and pristine clarity, positioning it as a top small-diaphragm condenser choice. Reviewers frequently highlight the detailed transient response, making these microphones perfect for critical stereo miking of sources like acoustic instruments and drum overheads. A key benefit noted is the incredibly low self-noise, which ensures recordings remain clean even with high gain. The factory matching provides excellent phase coherence and balanced stereo imaging. Combined with robust metal construction and quality accessories, users feel the SE8 delivers phenomenal value, offering performance that rivals much more expensive microphones. It is viewed as a professional and satisfying investment.
Know before you buy
The SE8 Stereo Set is factory-matched to ensure that both microphones have identical frequency responses and sensitivity. This consistency is essential for accurate stereo imaging when recording drum overheads, acoustic guitars, or room ambiance.
Yes. With switchable pads of 10dB and 20dB, these microphones can handle extremely high sound pressure levels up to 159 dB, making them well-suited for close-miking loud instruments.
The SE8s require standard 48V phantom power, which is provided by almost all professional audio interfaces and mixing consoles via an XLR connection.
The switchable 80Hz and 160Hz low-cut filters help you manage unwanted low-frequency rumble, such as stage vibrations or proximity effect, before the signal even reaches your preamp.
They are versatile enough for both. Their cardioid polar pattern provides excellent off-axis rejection, which helps isolate your sound source in a busy studio environment or minimize bleed on a live stage.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.