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sE Electronics sE2200a II C Microphone Review

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Every home studio needs a workhorse, and there’s no condenser microphone that carries the burden better than the sE Electronics sE2200A II C. This large diaphragm condenser microphone is perfect for use with a range of different instruments, but perhaps its best performance lies with capturing vocals perfectly.

The sE2200 is the latest in a long line of award-winning cardioid condenser microphones that sE Electronics has spent 20 years in the business perfecting. Thanks to its smooth, polished sound for vocals and voiceovers, the sE2200 line is a standard in studios around the world, and has even been used by iconic singers such as Amy Winehouse.


About the sE Electronics sE2200A II C Microphone


sE Electronics sE2200A II C Microphone

Polar Pattern

Cardioid

Frequency Range

20 Hz – 20 kHz

Sensitivity

23.7 mV/Pa (-32.5 dBV)

Max SPL

125 / 135 / 145 dB (0/10/20 dB pad) (0.5% THD @ 1kHz)

Signal to Noise Ratio

8 db(A)

Dynamic range

117 / 127 / 137 dB (0/10/20 dB Attentuation pad)

The sE2200 has two versions, the cardioid pattern sE Electronics sE2200a II C, and the multi-pattern version sE Electronics 2200a II. Both of the models have a high-pass filter switch at 60Hz, as well as a pad switch. However, the cardioid version does differ from the multi-pattern version thanks to its slight bump between 3-6 kHz and 10-15 kHz. The multi-pattern sounds a bit warmer when set to cardioid, but conversely might need more additive EQ to get the vocals to cut through. 

The sE 2200 is designed to remain true to the iconic original capsule design of its predecessors, as well as the custom-built transformer and class-A circuit topologies. Thanks to its top-of-the-line components and an optimized signal path, this model provides users with even better noise performance and clarity. It’s even more versatile now thanks to the new pad and filter options, and the fit and finish has been updated with the latest in sE Electronics mic manufacturing techniques— all while retaining the classic sound of the original.

A couple of more improvements to the sE Electronics sE2200a II C large diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone include a black rubberized finish and a bundled shock mount. The unit also comes with a pop filter, making for an easier setup and saving your money along the way. Also, thanks to its cardioid pickup pattern, you don’t have to worry about unnecessary noise when working in less-than-ideal environments such as a living room or bedroom.


sE Electronics sE2200a II C Microphone Pros


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The sE2200a mic comes with a ton of pros that make it one of the best condenser microphones in terms of value for money. The quality of the make is incredible, and the fantastic sound makes it a favorite for both amateur users and experts alike. When compared with mics of a similar make or price range, the sE2200 microphone exceeds expectations, and its voice-friendly sound and ability to handle loud volumes help it shoot straight to the top of many favorites lists.

Handcrafted and Original

Every unit in the sE2200a line is carefully handcrafted and individually tuned in the sE Electronics factory in Shanghai. Although the sE2200a II C in particular is a cardioid-only microphone, it has two gold-sputtered diaphragms in order to ensure the best possible acoustic performance. It also features a true externally polarized condenser capsule, allowing it to deliver top quality sound.

Sophisticated Design

The sE2200a line is made of carefully selected components in order to ensure incredible sound quality regardless of the source. It’s designed to avoid using any integrated circuits, which helps it blow all other competition out of the water. Thanks to its advanced, surface-mounted electronic components, it’s able to provide users with low noise, high sensitivity, and consistently excellent performance.


sE Electronics sE2200a II C What Do the Switches Do?

The sE2200a II C comes with two switchable attenuation levels. The -10dB and -20dB pad switches provide users with an extended dynamic range, allowing the unit to be used in a wide variety of applications and enabling close-mic techniques with the loudest of instruments. Worried about its performance with heavy electric guitars and brass instruments? Rest assured, because the sE2200a is definitely up to the challenge.

How to Disassemble sE2200a II C?

In case your sE2200a II C unit needs repair, please avoid disassembling it at home. Your unit comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty from date of purchase on the receipt, and customers can opt to extend their warranty to three years by simply registering their product at the sE Electronics website. In case your unit needs repair or replacement, sE Electronics customer care is very responsive, and will answer any questions you may have.

How to Change Polar Pattern sE2200a 2?

The sE Electronics sE2200a II is a multi-pattern condenser mic that allows you to pick between three polar patterns to suit your recording needs. Its dual, 1″ gold-sputtered diaphragms come with omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-of-eight user-selectable polar patterns. In order to switch your polar pattern, you can select one of three recssed mini-toggle switches on the mic body, which set the polar pattern, engage the low-cut filter, and allow you to select from a choice of three pad positions (0dB, -10dB, and -20dB).

Keeping Podcasting Professional Yet Affordable

Picking the right mic for podcasting is essential, as the quality of your voice is what keeps listeners, well, listening. Thankfully, the sE Electronics sE2200a II makes this decision easy. With its incredible vocal isolation settings, you can ensure that it won’t pick up any unnecessary background noise. It has a warm, clean sound that’s flattering for any voice type, whether high or low, and has been praised for its ability to deliver clear, dynamic recordings. Its affordability and quality make it a fantastic addition to any podcasting set up.


What People Are Saying

The sE Electronics sE2200a II C is one of the best affordable large diaphragm condenser mics on the market, but it gives users more than just affordability. Its handcrafted electronics and state-of-the-art design produce a sound quality that is miles ahead of competition. Compared to other mics in the same price range, the sE2200a II C sounds smoother and more quality, and has a nice airiness to vocals that allow them to cut through any mix.


Where to Buy the sE Electronics sE2200a II C Microphone




If you’re looking for a microphone that’ll give you top performance for vocals, then the sE2200a II C is exactly what you need. You’ll have the freedom to plug and play instantly, and it delivers a high resolution and open sound that you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. For first-timers, this is the best condenser microphone option on the market. Find the best deals for the sE Electronics sE2200a II C Microphone here.

Sound Quality
9
Design
8
Features
8
Price
10

Summary

The sE2200a II C has incredible sound quality for the price. It's voice-friendly while able to handle loud sound sources, and although it might need minor adjustments for noise, it's certainly comparable with other, more expensive condenser mics on the market.

Total Rating

8.8
Ash Burnett

Hailing from Chicago, IL - Ash made his break into journalism at the age of 23 writing music reviews for a local website. Now in his late 30's and after being pulled closer towards the technical side of the music and live gig industry, he founded Shout4Music to write thorough microphone reviews.

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