You've got a great singing voice, but man, your speaking voice is one of the best "radio" voices I've ever heard. Can't really describe it, but it's like the perfect blend of dynamic, laid back, crispy... Very ASMR-y. Great video production, hope your subs blow all the way up.
OMG, I don't expect there was a beautiful song about this mic, you are amazing as an artist. Thank you, not just for this great review, but also for providing such enjoyable journey!
i just stumbled upon this page, honestly, I fucking love the way you make your videos! keep going! reviews with a twist of cinematic vibes and some great VO narration hehehe love it!!!!
Thank you for being the first person to accurately describe the figure 8 (and other) polar patterns. So many people say something like “this is what it sounds like from the side” or “this is what it sounds like from the back”. Nope… that’s what the room sounds like when the mic is pointed in a different direction. I see so many people talk into the back of a cardioid mic and say that’s what the mic is picking up from the back… that’s what the front is hearing bouncing off the desk and screen. Figure 8 has so much potential when strategically placing that 90 degree null. Thank you!
You, sir, have the most entertaining product videos on TH-cam! And I really like your logo. But you really need to have a hat with that design in your merch.
Super awesome! I only recently stumbled into your channel, and I've been searching for good reviews of the updated 4400! Talk about Serendipity! The mic sounds awesome! Very smooth and rounded! Thanks for the thorough and high-quality review! Couple things to note: - The current Amazon listing is apparently completely wrong. While it shows pictures for the sE4400, it's actually for a single RN17 capsule. Just a heads-up! - At 8:55 you say it's an edge-terminated capsule, but it is actually center-terminated! For the overwhelming majority of people, this doesn't matter in the slightest. Cheers! :D
Gah! You’re right! I made a couple of mistakes in this one. I also said the Shure KSM32 had no switches, but I meant “polarization” switches. When I get too excited and ramble, I make mistakes. Thanks for catching that one! And thanks for letting me know about Amazon’s mistake. I’ll try and update my links. Thanks for the comments, Dan!
Oh. Haha. Thanks so much, man! I appreciate it! Those songs come when I really like a product. I don’t really sit down to write them. They just kind of come to me as I’m testing the stuff. I’ll try to do more in the future! Cheers!
Oh boy, this one is going to the wish list! Thanks for the video! Also, percussionist here, the cajón's name is pronounced Ca like "ca-llous" and Jón like "Hon-ey" When I was studying in the States, I heard almost all the variations 😂 Thanks again!
Haha. You’re absolutely right. Cay-hon. Thanks for setting me straight! I could not recommend this mic more! The price is right, as well! Thanks for watching and for the correction!
“Sent from the darkest corners of our darkest places on earth - boardrooms.” Brilliant stuff. I can’t wait to see what The Time Preservation Society offers in 2024.
This is easily the best mic review I've seen...and I've watched a LOT. Keep it up! Really digging the sound of the 4400 btw. Been curious about it for a while, but there's simply not enough reviews on SE's products unfortunately so thanks for this. On a side note, any thoughts on Lewitt mics?
Hey Brandon! Thanks so much for the kind words! I love this mic. It’s small and robust and sounds amazing. I hope to be reviewing more sE products in the future. You know, I’ve never tried a Lewitt mic. It’s strange but in all my travels and adventures, I have never come across one in person. I have seen plenty of reviews, though. From what I gather, I’m not a big fan of the overly bright sound that some of their lower tiered mics seem to have. But again, I’d really have to play with it myself to make a judgement - and even then, it’s such a subjective area. Haha. Maybe I’ll review some Lewitts in the future. Thanks again and cheers!
I have a similar experience with sE electronics. While I haven’t tried as many of them as you, I’ve been left impressed by all their mics I have used. Especially the V7. Last month I contacted sE Electronics to encourage them to develop a super or hypercardioid capsule for the sE8. Much to my delight a rep quickly responded and told me they’ve “just kicked off the project and will be making progress rapidly.” They expect to be able to share more in 3-4 months from the time of their reply. This is all to say I would LOVE if you got your hands on a super/hypercardioid sE8 and put it through the TPS wringer. ❤
That’s awesome! I’ll contact Andy over at sE today and see what’s cooking! That is a fabulous idea and I would love to test that out! Thanks for letting me know!
@@TheRecordist Yeah definitely. I love to see more SDC’s with a focused pickup pattern (well) under $500. I lust after a DPA 4018c, but I can’t come close to justifying that right now! And the sE8 is already a great sounding mic that could serve well for many a year to come.
That's unreal. You know I've looked at the sE8 many times and thought "Damn, that would be such a great affordable indoor dialogue mic for new filmmakers. Shame there's no hypercardioid though" and then I keep recommending the same Oktava MK012 that's been pretty much the only affordable option, with all the numerous drawbacks it has. If sE8 hyper comes out, yep, it'll be a winner.
A nice review. I'm a big fan of the sE mics. I've had a pair of the 4400 mics for 5 years now, as well as a pair of the sE8 SDC mics. Both are amazing mics, with the sE8s my go to SDC mic for most applications.
Hahaha. Well thanks! The 4400a is almost identical in sound - if not totally identical. Same capsule and same circuit. Same body shape too. Just no rubber. Thanks for the sub!
I have se8 and se4400 stereo pairs. The se4400 they are characterized by much better sound quality. The sound is smoother and at the same time much more detailed.
Subcribed when I watched your UA Apollo review. Now my biggest worry is that i’ll start buying things I didn’t plan on buying after watching each of your reviews 😅
I very recently got into recording (virtually total beginner) to produce a radio show and bought a 4th gen NT1. Frankly, I found it underwhelming - or at least not to my taste - and have just arranged to send it back (30 day return is a wonderful thing) and ordered a 4400 on your and The Microphone Assassin's recommendation. Both of you make fantastic videos which, of course, sound amazing. I can't wait for it to arrive.
Hey thanks very much! And that’s a great choice! The NT1 is… a beginners mic - which actually means, you’ll be spending more to upgrade very soon (you’ll be buying twice). The NT1a is an abomination. You will never go wrong with a 4400 no matter where you are in your journey! Excellent choice!
@@TheRecordist My mic arrived, and I already love it. I knew it was going to be small, but it was actually even smaller than I expected. But everything, from the way it was packaged through to the sound of my untrained voice in an untreated space, reeks of quality. I'm delighted. I will have so much fun with this mic, and I can't wait to hear what I can get out of it as I learn how to record and mix. Thanks again.
I was doing just fine. Got through Christmas sensibly and responsibly. And then. Another of your epic videos to which I am incurably addicted, and over to Sweetwater or B&H I go. And I need another mic like I need 4400 jars of mustard. But ha, ha! I didn't cave for the Atlantis! My wife saved me by hitting me on the head with a 2 x 4 and knocked me unconscious just in time. To pay for the sE4400, I intend to set up a lemonade stand in front of my house as soon as it gets warm.
This was one of the few mics I was thinking about as my nr. 1 home studio mic. But yeah, I found almost nothing about it on youtube. Like you said, more on the 4400a. That made me hesitate. Wish I had seen this review when I was making my decision. I ended up buying the wonderful Austrian Audio OC18 on sale and I looove it. SE has been on my radar for a while and I have the Voodoo 2 ribbon mic and it's great.
Oh. So sorry for that. But the OC18 is a spectacular mic! You didn’t make a bad choice at all! But yes, sE make killer products! I’m a big fan of theirs! Cheers!
Hey there. I think the difference is only the body material and the shockmount. There is no reason not to get the 4400a. Same capsule. Same electronics. Same mic. Cheers!
Ah, interesting. The shock mount on my 4400a’s (mine are about 15 yes old) is the only thing that I don’t like about them. If you match these with the sE VR1 you get a beautiful sonic world. 😊
Just caught this video. Thank you for the great overview! Not to be critical but the microphone in your video sure looks like it had a center terminated capsule.
Hey thanks! And you’d be right. That’s what I meant to say but for some reason the words out of my mouth were the opposite. Haha. I had already corrected that mistake in the description when I realized I made that error. Sorry about that!
Wow. Just wow. And even before you said it, I thought the song had the most professional sound of the songs you've done. You've done songs just as complex with the number of instruments and "singers," but just as you said, this sounds like something I would hear on the radio or an album (real album). All of your recordings have been excellent, of course, but this one has something different. This mic is awesome, and so is the price. I have a Sennheiser MK4 that I use for voice overs, and I will be using it more this year. Whenever I feel it is time to step up from that mic, I think the 4400 will be "the one." How is the pick-up from 2 or 3 feet when on the hyper-cardioid setting?
Hey thanks, man! The pickup is not bad. Nothing like a SDC hyper cardioid, but close. It’s just a bit wider. It really is a phenomenal mic! And so cheap for how it sounds! Thanks for the always awesome comments!
Sure does! And I agree. The buls is the best C-414. I must say, the 4400 is just about the best sounding FET LDC under $1000 - and better than many over $1000, IMO. Thanks for watching! And where on earth did that third thumb come from, I wonder? Haha.
Haha! Excellent work as always Nathan, and a compelling offering here! As you say at the end, this would be a very useful tool for in the field. But can you put a mic of this form factor inside wind protection?
Hey thanks, Douglas! Well, you can pretty much find good wind protection for any mic, if you look hard enough and don’t mind spending. Also you can convert some blimps to take it. And considering the 4400 has a stem at the bottom, perhaps any shotgun mount inside a blimp might hold it. I’ll test it out later. Cheers!
These videos are fun and informative! Great work. I would like to inquire about the leather harness you’re wearing. I spotted it in another video and was wondering if you use it to carry microphones under your arms.
Hi there. Thanks very much! As for the strap/harness I sometimes wear, it’s actually designed for vapes. It’s made by Guerrilla Straps. I keep my AirPods in there and some other stuff. I also carry a man-bag with recorders and potentially needed items when I leave the house. Haha. I’m just always prepared. But it’s not for mics. Thanks for the excellent question!
Damn... When was the last time you wrote, produced, performed, recorded and mixed an album? 😎🎸 Really good stuff! Oh..ok... You kind of have recently. Cool. I'll check it out. It's a good mic... For sure
Man, I love your videos . Just like me , I can see and ear passion in what you do and like you said quality is the most important in your final work. I bought a Neumann u89 and saw your video reviewing bai feili v10 I think , and saw you’re in love with the Lauten audio Atlantis. When you put 4400 side to side I can ear some hisss like I do with Neumann u89. I hate noise mics especially when I pay 200 300 eur . I’m seriously thinking in selling my Neumann and buy lauten audio Atlantis to have my forever microphone. What you think ? Cheers from Portugal, thank you so much .
Hey there. Thanks! Well, the Atlantis has a self noise of 13dB-A, which is the same as a Neumann U87. It’s not the quietest mic. I think the quietest mic is the Røde NT1. I would say NT1a but that mic so so terrible that it should be burned with fire. The 4400 is also 13dB-A self noise. The 4400 is better than most mics I’ve tried up to $1300. But the Atlantis is so special! If you get a chance to try that mic, you should. Sometimes renting a mic before buying is a great way of figuring out if it’s the right one for you. Cheers from Canada! 🇨🇦
Hey there. No problem! For The 4400 song, I mixed it in Luna using the built in API Vision channel strip, UAD 1176 Rev A, VoosteQ Model N Channel, UAD LA3A, and Oaksound Soothe 2 just as a de-esser. In that order. Hope this helps! Cheers!
Hi! Great video! You said about field ecording, but have you tried it? I am still considering my choices. On paper Lewitt 540S seems better for quiet sources, but it's cardioid only, and multipattern 640TS is pricier. Seems like 4400 are also smaller, so it would be easier to fit in windprotection stuff. Initially I wanted to go with Clippy's, but i do prefer the sound of ORTF. That said multipattern gives me freedom of any stereo array i would imagine and be in need of M-S, A-B, XY, ORTF, you name it. Would sE4400 really cope with field recording? Would they handle quiet sources?
Hey thanks! Great comment and questions! Here’s what I think. For ambience field recording that requires low frequency capture from some distance, omni is the only way to go - since cardioid (or even figure 8) loses low end information the further away you are from the source. While in theory, multi-pattern large diaphragm condenser mics can work with field recording, they’re not ideal. The figure 8 is not as precise as, say, a small diaphragm condenser in figure 8. Also, wind will always be a huge problem. However, I’ve known about many a recordist who have used LDC mics in the field. I seem to see Røde NT1 or NT1a mics employed for that (just cardioid) and they seem to work well for ambiences due to the insanely low self noise. They just need a huge and expensive blimp per mic, along with further internal foam to protect the capsule. That said, I wouldn’t ever buy a Lewitt for any purpose. But that’s just my own preference. I find them brittle and a bit shrill, unless getting into the tube mic versions - which are much noisier. The 4400 is one of the best sounding mics I’ve ever heard. It works on everything. And it’s rather robust, but would I take it out in the field? Probably not. As tough as they claim it is, that’s not something I think I’d do if I was outdoors. Indoors, absolutely. I think the 4400 could handle quiet sources, but they’re not as quiet as the NT1. I hope I’ve somehow answered your questions. Haha.
@@TheRecordist Yeah, thank you! As for the wind, I am 100% positive that I would have to go DIY route. As for the rest I guess I am the only one that can answere that. But I think that multi pattern would be so high on priority list, that I would sacrifice a little on self-noise/sensitivity end. Truth being, often it is not that hard to just get closer to the subject. And versatility/quality of that stereo pair would probably save me descent amount of money. I still have some time left before buying, so I will just continue my search for best set for me. Thanks! I surely will ask some more questions i other videos comment section!
@@TheRecordist Still researching. Have you happen to come across SE8? They are resonably quiet, resonably sensitive and have OMNI/Cardioid capsules to choose from. I really dig the ORTF stereo character, that is why i am still not entirely locked on Clippys from MicBoosters. And since Wind protection is expensive, I think going with SE8 Cardio/Omni might finally be cheaper, than SE8 Cardio/Clippys Omni.
@@marcinfilip7405 oh yes! The sE8 mics are fantastic. Among the best out there. Don’t forget you also might look into Line Audio CM4 mics. Incredibly flat and small.
The OC818 is a fantastic mic. I have never tried the LCT441. I would say, though, that the 4400 can hold its own against any mic. It’s truly a fabulous microphone. And thanks so much for the compliments!
Now I'm torn between the 4400 and the T2. Which one would you recommend if I was using it mostly for ambient drum room and or a secondary guitar cab mic? I plan on buying a pair of which ever I decide to get.
@@TheRecordist I've only recently come across SE microphones in my live work. I've already replaced my 58s and 609s with V7 and V7x. I'm so impressed by the sound of these mics; especially in live applications. Now I'm looking to grab a pair of great sounding, but won't break the bank, large diaphragm condensers for the applications I mentioned above. These just might be the ones.
Ok, so you just cost me $400 pal. I was (based on your review of reviewers) going to get an AT 2020. This is my first studio mic purchase and I've been watching/reading/listening to reviews for weeks trying to decide what to get but I just kept getting this sort of itchy/tight feeling in my crotchal region when I went to press the buy now button. Something just said, "No. Don't touch me there. It's inappropriate in the mall." Then I found this one, took off my tinfoil helmet, settled in with a nice glass of poutine (is that a thing?) and watched this review. Aaaaaaaand now I have to have one. What I wanted was a good quality, relatively flat mic but one that was good for a voice like yours, which is a lot like mine. One that was... versatile. And here it is. Reviewed by someone that I didn't immediately think was a tool. (That would be you by the way. Not a tool.) So I just wanted to say thank you for the awesome review. Thank you for the song. Thank you for not being a tool. You have a new sub, a host of likes and if this mic doesn't suck I'll buy you a cup o coffee. Or poutine. Or whatever it is you guys drink up there when it's not frozen.😁 EDIT: Looks like I won't be buying one yet. Your amazon link goes to what one reviewer complained was a broken listing. He only received a capsule, not an entire mic. Amazon doesn't seem to carry the whole mic. Do you have an affiliate link to some other vendor? EDIT 2: never mind. I found your sweetwater link on a newer video. Enjoy your twelve cents or whatever you get for a sale through it. :)
Hahahaha. Oh man. I actually spit my coffee out a little bit when I read your comment! Hahahahaha. I love it! I did apply to be a Sweetwater affiliate but I don’t think I was ever approved. I just put the links there to help viewers find the thing. But I appreciate the good will! You will love the 4400 I think! It’s one of my favorite all-rounder mics ever! Thanks so much for the kind words, dude! I hope you enjoy my stupid videos! Hahaha. Cheers!
Hey. Well, they’re completely different mics. The 4400 has no transformer, no color, just flat and rounded. It’s clear, transparent goodness. The LA-320 on the other hand, has a vacuum tube in there. It’s dark and colorful and has saturation and character. The 4400 is small and has several polar patterns. The LA-320 is larger, requires the included power supply brick, and has a few switches but none change the polar pattern. 4400 = clear and flat LA-320 = dark and colorful
@@TheRecordist wow, that was quick , many thanks , sounds like i want them both , i've got the se2300 and the earthworks ethos right now and am looking for another mic mostly for vocals . i really like the smallish form factor and the different polars of the 4400 , but tubes are just yummy .
@@malcolmdietmarborn2121 the 4400 is an all-rounder. It’s good for anything and it takes EQ like a champ. The LA-320 has this unmistakable warmness. And tube richness. Totally different mics. Hahaha. Tough choice!
Nerd question, or video idea, how does the different pickup patterns work, yeah, you flick the switch, and it happens... But how, really, I'm born curious. My Zoom H2n sadly passed away, and I immediately began my post-mortem examination, I order to understand pickup patterns. And it soon left me empty and hollow, with more questions.
That’s a fabulous question and you’re right. It might make a great video in the future. I’d just need to figure out how to visually show it. I’m no good with graphics. Haha. As for your answer, it’s a bit complicated to type out here, but I just searched for something I could send you that might contain the answers you’re looking for. Cheers! www.soundonsound.com/techniques/using-microphone-polar-patterns-effectively
@@TheRecordist That's a very good read for me, and shed some light into the mysteries of different patterns. As I understand it now, in general terms it's both different physical design, and sometimes combined with electronic phase manipulation/cancellation. Also, being Swedish, this is the first time Cardioid, actually made sense = heart shape. 🙄
@@daniel635biturbo yes you’re correct! Right! Cardioid = heart shaped. In English we say “I’m doing my cardio exercises” to mean heart fitness, etc. It’s great information!
@@DJILLEE you know, I also had a very difficult time finding the differences. You’re not alone. I do believe the 4400a has the rubber exterior and slightly higher self-noise. But I could be wrong. I think it’s the exact same capsule. Same sound. I don’t think it’s worth upgrading.
@@TheRecordist always hated the rubber bodies and I’m not a fan of the shock mount which it seems like a lot of people are. They’re just kind of annoying to me.
Hi Oscar. Yes, the T2 is made with a titanium sputtered capsule, whereas the 4400 is a gold sputtered capsule. The sound difference is the faster snap of the transients. Since titanium is lighter than gold and much stiffer, it’s much more quick to react to the initial hits of sounds (transients). Hope this helps!
Hey there. I don’t think there’s much a sonic difference. I haven’t personally had a chance to test out the 4400a but I could not find any information online that refers to any sonic differences. It’s mostly aesthetics, I think.
@@TheRecordist Hello again with dealy... I never got reply from SE nor a comparison or mention of any sonic difference, only talk about finish and mount upgrades. Did you ever got information? I have become a regular to your awesome reviews. Thanks!
Hey. Well as far as I can tell, the shockmount has had a total makeover and the body. The 4400a had a rubberized body and this is heavy metal. It’s also been made more rugged for daily use. Hope this helps!
I don’t use autotune, but sometimes due to time constraints, I’ll use a little Melodyne. It’s only just me here and I put a lot of work into my videos - including writing a song and producing it. All in less than a week. So I don’t have time to do comps of several takes. But I appreciate the compliments!
Ok, stop it 😂 Now I am in love with the Lauten Audio 320 v2, the se T2, this one, and the Sennheiser 416. They all sound insane in your narrations. But here is the problem. If I want to buy a Lauten Audio in Spain, the onkt option is an obscure shop in Madrid that shows it's prices without VAT (absolutely illegal and doesn't generate any confidence in their service) or Se in Amazon Spain, without prime protection and the only comment wonderful 440 is that all se catalogue is a mess and they don't deliver the promised models... Honestly, I hope thesee companies do something about it, because after watching your reviews my only concern is which affordable sound interface should I buy, Ps: so great songs! But what blows my mind is the introduction at the beginning of theb L.A 320❤
Oh man. I didn’t know that about Spain. I will forward your observations to the companies. I’m really sorry about that. Let me see what I can do. But yes. The LA-320 is incredible! Lauten Audio is incredible period. Thanks so much for the compliment! I’ll get back to you!
Hey. Trent at Lauten Audio got back to me. He recommends the following stores to purchase your LA-320: Either: Mastering Mansion in Madrid: masteringmansion.com/pro-audio/categorias/microfonos-valvulares/la-320-large-diaphragm-tube-condenser-black-mk2/ Or Thomann: www.thomannmusic.com/lauten_audio_series_black_la_320_v2.htm Let me know if this works for you!
@@TheRecordist No big deal ;) I only really noticed because I was surprised by the fact that hey were using a center terminated (k67 style) capsule when clearly trying to emulate the c414 which is the edge-terminated ck12 capsule. Either way, it seems to work. This is on my shortlist for next mic purchase. Thanks again.
@@narrator-timothymckean honestly, this mic is better than it should be. It’s insanely balanced and sounds so good on anything I’ve used it on. If I could choose one mic - a desert island mic - it’ll be this one. I can’t recommend it enough.
Best review on anything I’ve ever seen. The editing efforts are acknowledged my friend
Hey thanks so much! I always appreciate it when someone understands the work that goes into these. Cheers!
You've got a great singing voice, but man, your speaking voice is one of the best "radio" voices I've ever heard. Can't really describe it, but it's like the perfect blend of dynamic, laid back, crispy... Very ASMR-y. Great video production, hope your subs blow all the way up.
Oh wow. Thanks so much! What a wonderful compliment! I’ve heard that before, but I never quite believed it myself. I appreciate you saying so! Cheers!
OMG, I don't expect there was a beautiful song about this mic, you are amazing as an artist. Thank you, not just for this great review, but also for providing such enjoyable journey!
Hey thanks so much! What a wonderful thing to say! I appreciate it! Cheers!
the intro alone deserves 1K likes.
Hahaha. Thanks, man!
Definitely!
i just stumbled upon this page, honestly, I fucking love the way you make your videos! keep going! reviews with a twist of cinematic vibes and some great VO narration hehehe love it!!!!
Hey thanks, man! I appreciate the awesome comment! Cheers!
Man! This is a movie. Thank You for this.
Hahah. Thanks! I love movies, so I try to do a little mini one whenever I can. Cheers!
Man this video needs more likes. The song and video production. Commenting for the algorithm ✌Nice work!
Thanks so much! I appreciate the awesome comment!
Thank you for being the first person to accurately describe the figure 8 (and other) polar patterns. So many people say something like “this is what it sounds like from the side” or “this is what it sounds like from the back”. Nope… that’s what the room sounds like when the mic is pointed in a different direction.
I see so many people talk into the back of a cardioid mic and say that’s what the mic is picking up from the back… that’s what the front is hearing bouncing off the desk and screen.
Figure 8 has so much potential when strategically placing that 90 degree null. Thank you!
Oh haha. No worries! I’m a nerd, so these kinds of things are interesting to me. Thanks so much for the awesome comment! Cheers!
You, sir, have the most entertaining product videos on TH-cam! And I really like your logo. But you really need to have a hat with that design in your merch.
Hey thanks! Hmm. A hat. I’ll get right on it! Thanks for the suggestion!
This the best mic review I have ever listened to. Very entertaining. Great job.
Oh wow! Thanks! I appreciate it!
😂 I love this video! Song is amazing too. Thank you.
Oh thanks! Cheers!
Super awesome! I only recently stumbled into your channel, and I've been searching for good reviews of the updated 4400! Talk about Serendipity!
The mic sounds awesome! Very smooth and rounded! Thanks for the thorough and high-quality review!
Couple things to note:
- The current Amazon listing is apparently completely wrong. While it shows pictures for the sE4400, it's actually for a single RN17 capsule. Just a heads-up!
- At 8:55 you say it's an edge-terminated capsule, but it is actually center-terminated! For the overwhelming majority of people, this doesn't matter in the slightest.
Cheers! :D
Gah! You’re right! I made a couple of mistakes in this one. I also said the Shure KSM32 had no switches, but I meant “polarization” switches. When I get too excited and ramble, I make mistakes. Thanks for catching that one!
And thanks for letting me know about Amazon’s mistake. I’ll try and update my links.
Thanks for the comments, Dan!
Man, you are a brilliant songwriter/artist at the same time... More of those detailed reviews.
Oh. Haha. Thanks so much, man! I appreciate it!
Those songs come when I really like a product. I don’t really sit down to write them. They just kind of come to me as I’m testing the stuff.
I’ll try to do more in the future! Cheers!
Oh boy, this one is going to the wish list!
Thanks for the video!
Also, percussionist here, the cajón's name is pronounced Ca like "ca-llous" and Jón like "Hon-ey"
When I was studying in the States, I heard almost all the variations 😂
Thanks again!
Haha. You’re absolutely right. Cay-hon. Thanks for setting me straight!
I could not recommend this mic more! The price is right, as well! Thanks for watching and for the correction!
“Sent from the darkest corners of our darkest places on earth - boardrooms.” Brilliant stuff.
I can’t wait to see what The Time Preservation Society offers in 2024.
Haha. Thanks so much! I hope this year will be even better than last year! Cheers!
This is easily the best mic review I've seen...and I've watched a LOT. Keep it up!
Really digging the sound of the 4400 btw. Been curious about it for a while, but there's simply not enough reviews on SE's products unfortunately so thanks for this.
On a side note, any thoughts on Lewitt mics?
Hey Brandon! Thanks so much for the kind words!
I love this mic. It’s small and robust and sounds amazing. I hope to be reviewing more sE products in the future.
You know, I’ve never tried a Lewitt mic. It’s strange but in all my travels and adventures, I have never come across one in person. I have seen plenty of reviews, though. From what I gather, I’m not a big fan of the overly bright sound that some of their lower tiered mics seem to have. But again, I’d really have to play with it myself to make a judgement - and even then, it’s such a subjective area. Haha.
Maybe I’ll review some Lewitts in the future.
Thanks again and cheers!
I have a similar experience with sE electronics. While I haven’t tried as many of them as you, I’ve been left impressed by all their mics I have used. Especially the V7.
Last month I contacted sE Electronics to encourage them to develop a super or hypercardioid capsule for the sE8. Much to my delight a rep quickly responded and told me they’ve “just kicked off the project and will be making progress rapidly.” They expect to be able to share more in 3-4 months from the time of their reply. This is all to say I would LOVE if you got your hands on a super/hypercardioid sE8 and put it through the TPS wringer. ❤
That’s awesome! I’ll contact Andy over at sE today and see what’s cooking!
That is a fabulous idea and I would love to test that out!
Thanks for letting me know!
@@TheRecordist Yeah definitely. I love to see more SDC’s with a focused pickup pattern (well) under $500. I lust after a DPA 4018c, but I can’t come close to justifying that right now! And the sE8 is already a great sounding mic that could serve well for many a year to come.
That's unreal. You know I've looked at the sE8 many times and thought "Damn, that would be such a great affordable indoor dialogue mic for new filmmakers. Shame there's no hypercardioid though" and then I keep recommending the same Oktava MK012 that's been pretty much the only affordable option, with all the numerous drawbacks it has. If sE8 hyper comes out, yep, it'll be a winner.
A nice review. I'm a big fan of the sE mics. I've had a pair of the 4400 mics for 5 years now, as well as a pair of the sE8 SDC mics. Both are amazing mics, with the sE8s my go to SDC mic for most applications.
Thanks! And yes, I’ve used the sE08 mics before and I fully recommend them!
I'm hooked on the intro just to know that I was looking for a review of SE4400A, not this one. Nevertheless I stayed for content. Subscribed!
Hahaha. Well thanks! The 4400a is almost identical in sound - if not totally identical. Same capsule and same circuit. Same body shape too. Just no rubber.
Thanks for the sub!
Wonderful video! Thank you for your hard work on this!
Hey thanks, Austin! I really appreciate it what someone recognizes the work that goes into these. Cheers!
Such a great channel. Love your content
Thanks very much!
I gotta sub just for the passion! 🎤😃👍🏻
My matched pair of SE7s are amazing, so I’m open to the 4400 being amazing as well.
Great company! Amazing products! I always wanted to check out the sE7 mics!
I have se8 and se4400 stereo pairs. The se4400 they are characterized by much better sound quality. The sound is smoother and at the same time much more detailed.
Subcribed when I watched your UA Apollo review. Now my biggest worry is that i’ll start buying things I didn’t plan on buying after watching each of your reviews 😅
Hahaha. Isn’t that always the problem? I watch reviews regularly and I feel the same way! Hahaha. It’s GAS!
I very recently got into recording (virtually total beginner) to produce a radio show and bought a 4th gen NT1. Frankly, I found it underwhelming - or at least not to my taste - and have just arranged to send it back (30 day return is a wonderful thing) and ordered a 4400 on your and The Microphone Assassin's recommendation. Both of you make fantastic videos which, of course, sound amazing. I can't wait for it to arrive.
Hey thanks very much! And that’s a great choice! The NT1 is… a beginners mic - which actually means, you’ll be spending more to upgrade very soon (you’ll be buying twice). The NT1a is an abomination.
You will never go wrong with a 4400 no matter where you are in your journey! Excellent choice!
@@TheRecordist Thank you!
@@In-The-Padded-Room Cheers!
@@TheRecordist My mic arrived, and I already love it. I knew it was going to be small, but it was actually even smaller than I expected. But everything, from the way it was packaged through to the sound of my untrained voice in an untreated space, reeks of quality. I'm delighted. I will have so much fun with this mic, and I can't wait to hear what I can get out of it as I learn how to record and mix. Thanks again.
@@In-The-Padded-Room woo hoo! It’s so good! Congrats!
I was doing just fine. Got through Christmas sensibly and responsibly. And then. Another of your epic videos to which I am incurably addicted, and over to Sweetwater or B&H I go. And I need another mic like I need 4400 jars of mustard. But ha, ha! I didn't cave for the Atlantis! My wife saved me by hitting me on the head with a 2 x 4 and knocked me unconscious just in time. To pay for the sE4400, I intend to set up a lemonade stand in front of my house as soon as it gets warm.
Hahahahahahaha! Rounder. What is your first name? Haha. You’re hilarious!
Daniel@@TheRecordist
@@Rounder-One well thanks, Daniel, for always making me actually laugh out loud. Hahaha. Cheers buddy!
This was one of the few mics I was thinking about as my nr. 1 home studio mic. But yeah, I found almost nothing about it on youtube. Like you said, more on the 4400a. That made me hesitate. Wish I had seen this review when I was making my decision. I ended up buying the wonderful Austrian Audio OC18 on sale and I looove it. SE has been on my radar for a while and I have the Voodoo 2 ribbon mic and it's great.
Oh. So sorry for that. But the OC18 is a spectacular mic! You didn’t make a bad choice at all!
But yes, sE make killer products! I’m a big fan of theirs! Cheers!
WHAT is the difference between this 4400 and the "4400a" (with an A at the end) ??????????? Any reason NOT to get the 4400a ????
Hey there. I think the difference is only the body material and the shockmount. There is no reason not to get the 4400a. Same capsule. Same electronics. Same mic.
Cheers!
Ah, interesting. The shock mount on my 4400a’s (mine are about 15 yes old) is the only thing that I don’t like about them. If you match these with the sE VR1 you get a beautiful sonic world. 😊
Just caught this video. Thank you for the great overview! Not to be critical but the microphone in your video sure looks like it had a center terminated capsule.
Hey thanks! And you’d be right. That’s what I meant to say but for some reason the words out of my mouth were the opposite. Haha.
I had already corrected that mistake in the description when I realized I made that error.
Sorry about that!
This mic is works great on a snare also
I don’t doubt it. This mic works well on everything!
Love your videos!!! Thanks a lot for doing them!!
Hey no problem! Thanks for watching! Cheers!
Wow. Just wow. And even before you said it, I thought the song had the most professional sound of the songs you've done. You've done songs just as complex with the number of instruments and "singers," but just as you said, this sounds like something I would hear on the radio or an album (real album). All of your recordings have been excellent, of course, but this one has something different.
This mic is awesome, and so is the price. I have a Sennheiser MK4 that I use for voice overs, and I will be using it more this year. Whenever I feel it is time to step up from that mic, I think the 4400 will be "the one."
How is the pick-up from 2 or 3 feet when on the hyper-cardioid setting?
Hey thanks, man! The pickup is not bad. Nothing like a SDC hyper cardioid, but close. It’s just a bit wider. It really is a phenomenal mic! And so cheap for how it sounds!
Thanks for the always awesome comments!
Great review and so creative!
Thanks so much!
That Thing Really does sound good. great song too.
Hey thanks, Danny! I love this mic so much! Cheers!
It does have some of the warmth of the 414 buls. (the best of the 414's IMHO) Never heard of the 4400. Triple thumbs up for Mahna Mahna.
Sure does! And I agree. The buls is the best C-414. I must say, the 4400 is just about the best sounding FET LDC under $1000 - and better than many over $1000, IMO.
Thanks for watching! And where on earth did that third thumb come from, I wonder? Haha.
Haha! Excellent work as always Nathan, and a compelling offering here! As you say at the end, this would be a very useful tool for in the field. But can you put a mic of this form factor inside wind protection?
Hey thanks, Douglas! Well, you can pretty much find good wind protection for any mic, if you look hard enough and don’t mind spending. Also you can convert some blimps to take it. And considering the 4400 has a stem at the bottom, perhaps any shotgun mount inside a blimp might hold it. I’ll test it out later. Cheers!
These videos are fun and informative! Great work. I would like to inquire about the leather harness you’re wearing. I spotted it in another video and was wondering if you use it to carry microphones under your arms.
Hi there. Thanks very much!
As for the strap/harness I sometimes wear, it’s actually designed for vapes. It’s made by Guerrilla Straps. I keep my AirPods in there and some other stuff. I also carry a man-bag with recorders and potentially needed items when I leave the house. Haha.
I’m just always prepared. But it’s not for mics. Thanks for the excellent question!
Damn... When was the last time you wrote, produced, performed, recorded and mixed an album? 😎🎸 Really good stuff! Oh..ok... You kind of have recently. Cool. I'll check it out.
It's a good mic... For sure
One of my absolute favorites!
I used to work on music all the time. I still do, but I used to as well. Haha.
Man, I love your videos . Just like me , I can see and ear passion in what you do and like you said quality is the most important in your final work. I bought a Neumann u89 and saw your video reviewing bai feili v10 I think , and saw you’re in love with the Lauten audio Atlantis. When you put 4400 side to side I can ear some hisss like I do with Neumann u89. I hate noise mics especially when I pay 200 300 eur . I’m seriously thinking in selling my Neumann and buy lauten audio Atlantis to have my forever microphone. What you think ? Cheers from Portugal, thank you so much .
Hey there. Thanks!
Well, the Atlantis has a self noise of 13dB-A, which is the same as a Neumann U87. It’s not the quietest mic. I think the quietest mic is the Røde NT1. I would say NT1a but that mic so so terrible that it should be burned with fire.
The 4400 is also 13dB-A self noise. The 4400 is better than most mics I’ve tried up to $1300.
But the Atlantis is so special! If you get a chance to try that mic, you should.
Sometimes renting a mic before buying is a great way of figuring out if it’s the right one for you.
Cheers from Canada! 🇨🇦
Sounds great! Do you mind telling me your vocal chain?
Hey there. No problem!
For The 4400 song, I mixed it in Luna using the built in API Vision channel strip, UAD 1176 Rev A, VoosteQ Model N Channel, UAD LA3A, and Oaksound Soothe 2 just as a de-esser. In that order.
Hope this helps! Cheers!
Thanks , Please compare with TLM 103 if you can ❤
Hey. So sorry. I don’t have a TLM 103 here. I’ll see if I can get one. Cheers!
I put my headphones on lol audio-technica ATH-M50x its all I got. Your voice. i will never listen without headphones again haha
Hahaha. Always best with headphones! Thanks so much!
Hi! Great video! You said about field ecording, but have you tried it? I am still considering my choices. On paper Lewitt 540S seems better for quiet sources, but it's cardioid only, and multipattern 640TS is pricier. Seems like 4400 are also smaller, so it would be easier to fit in windprotection stuff. Initially I wanted to go with Clippy's, but i do prefer the sound of ORTF. That said multipattern gives me freedom of any stereo array i would imagine and be in need of M-S, A-B, XY, ORTF, you name it. Would sE4400 really cope with field recording? Would they handle quiet sources?
Hey thanks! Great comment and questions!
Here’s what I think. For ambience field recording that requires low frequency capture from some distance, omni is the only way to go - since cardioid (or even figure 8) loses low end information the further away you are from the source.
While in theory, multi-pattern large diaphragm condenser mics can work with field recording, they’re not ideal. The figure 8 is not as precise as, say, a small diaphragm condenser in figure 8.
Also, wind will always be a huge problem.
However, I’ve known about many a recordist who have used LDC mics in the field. I seem to see Røde NT1 or NT1a mics employed for that (just cardioid) and they seem to work well for ambiences due to the insanely low self noise. They just need a huge and expensive blimp per mic, along with further internal foam to protect the capsule.
That said, I wouldn’t ever buy a Lewitt for any purpose. But that’s just my own preference. I find them brittle and a bit shrill, unless getting into the tube mic versions - which are much noisier.
The 4400 is one of the best sounding mics I’ve ever heard. It works on everything. And it’s rather robust, but would I take it out in the field? Probably not. As tough as they claim it is, that’s not something I think I’d do if I was outdoors. Indoors, absolutely.
I think the 4400 could handle quiet sources, but they’re not as quiet as the NT1.
I hope I’ve somehow answered your questions. Haha.
@@TheRecordist Yeah, thank you! As for the wind, I am 100% positive that I would have to go DIY route. As for the rest I guess I am the only one that can answere that. But I think that multi pattern would be so high on priority list, that I would sacrifice a little on self-noise/sensitivity end. Truth being, often it is not that hard to just get closer to the subject. And versatility/quality of that stereo pair would probably save me descent amount of money.
I still have some time left before buying, so I will just continue my search for best set for me.
Thanks! I surely will ask some more questions i other videos comment section!
@@marcinfilip7405 no worries! I’m always around!
@@TheRecordist Still researching. Have you happen to come across SE8? They are resonably quiet, resonably sensitive and have OMNI/Cardioid capsules to choose from. I really dig the ORTF stereo character, that is why i am still not entirely locked on Clippys from MicBoosters. And since Wind protection is expensive, I think going with SE8 Cardio/Omni might finally be cheaper, than SE8 Cardio/Clippys Omni.
@@marcinfilip7405 oh yes! The sE8 mics are fantastic. Among the best out there. Don’t forget you also might look into Line Audio CM4 mics. Incredibly flat and small.
How does it compare to the lct 441 flex and with the Austrian audio 818?
The song is fabulous!!! Also the review
The OC818 is a fantastic mic. I have never tried the LCT441. I would say, though, that the 4400 can hold its own against any mic. It’s truly a fabulous microphone.
And thanks so much for the compliments!
@@TheRecordist I subscribed to the recordist channel too…incredible. I found there the sm7db song too!!!
@@photo-markus oh yes! I have a few I’ve done up there. Haha. Thanks so much!
@@TheRecordist On the way to buy a SE4400, I was wondering how does it compare to SE2300?
Now I'm torn between the 4400 and the T2. Which one would you recommend if I was using it mostly for ambient drum room and or a secondary guitar cab mic? I plan on buying a pair of which ever I decide to get.
Hmmm. For those uses, I would go for the 4400. Smoother sound. Good for so many things.
@@TheRecordist
I've only recently come across SE microphones in my live work. I've already replaced my 58s and 609s with V7 and V7x. I'm so impressed by the sound of these mics; especially in live applications. Now I'm looking to grab a pair of great sounding, but won't break the bank, large diaphragm condensers for the applications I mentioned above. These just might be the ones.
Ok, so you just cost me $400 pal. I was (based on your review of reviewers) going to get an AT 2020. This is my first studio mic purchase and I've been watching/reading/listening to reviews for weeks trying to decide what to get but I just kept getting this sort of itchy/tight feeling in my crotchal region when I went to press the buy now button. Something just said, "No. Don't touch me there. It's inappropriate in the mall."
Then I found this one, took off my tinfoil helmet, settled in with a nice glass of poutine (is that a thing?) and watched this review.
Aaaaaaaand now I have to have one. What I wanted was a good quality, relatively flat mic but one that was good for a voice like yours, which is a lot like mine. One that was... versatile.
And here it is. Reviewed by someone that I didn't immediately think was a tool. (That would be you by the way. Not a tool.)
So I just wanted to say thank you for the awesome review. Thank you for the song. Thank you for not being a tool. You have a new sub, a host of likes and if this mic doesn't suck I'll buy you a cup o coffee. Or poutine. Or whatever it is you guys drink up there when it's not frozen.😁
EDIT: Looks like I won't be buying one yet. Your amazon link goes to what one reviewer complained was a broken listing. He only received a capsule, not an entire mic. Amazon doesn't seem to carry the whole mic. Do you have an affiliate link to some other vendor?
EDIT 2: never mind. I found your sweetwater link on a newer video. Enjoy your twelve cents or whatever you get for a sale through it. :)
Hahahaha. Oh man. I actually spit my coffee out a little bit when I read your comment! Hahahahaha. I love it!
I did apply to be a Sweetwater affiliate but I don’t think I was ever approved. I just put the links there to help viewers find the thing. But I appreciate the good will!
You will love the 4400 I think! It’s one of my favorite all-rounder mics ever!
Thanks so much for the kind words, dude! I hope you enjoy my stupid videos! Hahaha. Cheers!
now , the million dollar question is , how would you describe the difference to the Lauten Audio LA-320 ?
Hey. Well, they’re completely different mics. The 4400 has no transformer, no color, just flat and rounded. It’s clear, transparent goodness.
The LA-320 on the other hand, has a vacuum tube in there. It’s dark and colorful and has saturation and character.
The 4400 is small and has several polar patterns.
The LA-320 is larger, requires the included power supply brick, and has a few switches but none change the polar pattern.
4400 = clear and flat
LA-320 = dark and colorful
@@TheRecordist wow, that was quick , many thanks , sounds like i want them both , i've got the se2300 and the earthworks ethos right now and am looking for another mic mostly for vocals . i really like the smallish form factor and the different polars of the 4400 , but tubes are just yummy .
@@malcolmdietmarborn2121 the 4400 is an all-rounder. It’s good for anything and it takes EQ like a champ.
The LA-320 has this unmistakable warmness. And tube richness. Totally different mics.
Hahaha. Tough choice!
Hopefully the Nautillus is in good shape, even in its aging state.
Hahaha. It’s a whale of a tale, I tell ya!
You’re a genius.
Hahaha. Hardly. You should see me try to do math! Haha. Thanks, man!
Nerd question, or video idea, how does the different pickup patterns work, yeah, you flick the switch, and it happens...
But how, really, I'm born curious.
My Zoom H2n sadly passed away, and I immediately began my post-mortem examination, I order to understand pickup patterns.
And it soon left me empty and hollow, with more questions.
That’s a fabulous question and you’re right. It might make a great video in the future. I’d just need to figure out how to visually show it. I’m no good with graphics. Haha.
As for your answer, it’s a bit complicated to type out here, but I just searched for something I could send you that might contain the answers you’re looking for.
Cheers!
www.soundonsound.com/techniques/using-microphone-polar-patterns-effectively
@@TheRecordist That's a very good read for me, and shed some light into the mysteries of different patterns.
As I understand it now, in general terms it's both different physical design, and sometimes combined with electronic phase manipulation/cancellation.
Also, being Swedish, this is the first time Cardioid, actually made sense = heart shape. 🙄
@@daniel635biturbo yes you’re correct!
Right! Cardioid = heart shaped. In English we say “I’m doing my cardio exercises” to mean heart fitness, etc.
It’s great information!
I can't find the differences betwen the 4400 and 4400a. I have a stereo pair of 4400a's Im curious if it's worth the upgrade.
@@DJILLEE you know, I also had a very difficult time finding the differences. You’re not alone. I do believe the 4400a has the rubber exterior and slightly higher self-noise. But I could be wrong. I think it’s the exact same capsule. Same sound. I don’t think it’s worth upgrading.
@@TheRecordist thank you! I also appreciate the insane effort you put into your videos!
@@TheRecordist always hated the rubber bodies and I’m not a fan of the shock mount which it seems like a lot of people are. They’re just kind of annoying to me.
Do you know the difference between the se electronics t2 and the 4400?
Hi Oscar. Yes, the T2 is made with a titanium sputtered capsule, whereas the 4400 is a gold sputtered capsule.
The sound difference is the faster snap of the transients. Since titanium is lighter than gold and much stiffer, it’s much more quick to react to the initial hits of sounds (transients).
Hope this helps!
@@TheRecordist so if i want it for recording guitars, strings or some vocals which one would you recommend me?
@@oscarestrada2545 if it were me, I’d choose the 4400. The T2 would be better for percussive sounds.
nice song
Thank you very much! Cheers!
A Top Mic! A Top Mic! Lol love it
You know it! Haha.
I do have a matched pair of 4400a, what´s the (sonic) difference with this new model?
Hey there. I don’t think there’s much a sonic difference. I haven’t personally had a chance to test out the 4400a but I could not find any information online that refers to any sonic differences. It’s mostly aesthetics, I think.
Thank you. Im really happy with mine. I put the same question to se electronics through their website. Waiting for an official answer.
@@pacovillalta4910 when you do get a reply, let me know what they say! Cheers!
@@TheRecordist Hello again with dealy... I never got reply from SE nor a comparison or mention of any sonic difference, only talk about finish and mount upgrades. Did you ever got information? I have become a regular to your awesome reviews. Thanks!
@@pacovillalta4910 hey thanks very much!
I was told the mic is the same other than the finish. The shockmount was upgraded. That’s all I can find.
would you take this over the Sony C80
The Sony C80 is a fantastic mic, but I would choose the 4400 over it all day long. That’s my opinion. It may not be yours or others.
Great question!
@@TheRecordist thanks. would you take the 4400 over the Slate Digital-ML1 too ? Mainly for recording vocals
@@h1asthemfmoon644 oh yes. The 4400 is much better than anything Slate makes. Absolutely.
@@TheRecordist I appreciate the response. Keep up the good content
@@h1asthemfmoon644 thanks very much!
What’s the difference between the se4400a and se4400
Hey. Well as far as I can tell, the shockmount has had a total makeover and the body. The 4400a had a rubberized body and this is heavy metal. It’s also been made more rugged for daily use.
Hope this helps!
Nope, ..not a fan of hearing autotune from note 1 being sung. But it's a well produced, nicely presented, informative video nonetheless...
So thanks👍.
I don’t use autotune, but sometimes due to time constraints, I’ll use a little Melodyne. It’s only just me here and I put a lot of work into my videos - including writing a song and producing it. All in less than a week. So I don’t have time to do comps of several takes.
But I appreciate the compliments!
Pitch correction 👍
Ok, stop it 😂 Now I am in love with the Lauten Audio 320 v2, the se T2, this one, and the Sennheiser 416. They all sound insane in your narrations.
But here is the problem. If I want to buy a Lauten Audio in Spain, the onkt option is an obscure shop in Madrid that shows it's prices without VAT (absolutely illegal and doesn't generate any confidence in their service) or Se in Amazon Spain, without prime protection and the only comment wonderful 440 is that all se catalogue is a mess and they don't deliver the promised models...
Honestly, I hope thesee companies do something about it, because after watching your reviews my only concern is which affordable sound interface should I buy,
Ps: so great songs! But what blows my mind is the introduction at the beginning of theb L.A 320❤
Oh man. I didn’t know that about Spain. I will forward your observations to the companies. I’m really sorry about that. Let me see what I can do.
But yes. The LA-320 is incredible! Lauten Audio is incredible period.
Thanks so much for the compliment! I’ll get back to you!
Hey. Trent at Lauten Audio got back to me. He recommends the following stores to purchase your LA-320:
Either:
Mastering Mansion in Madrid: masteringmansion.com/pro-audio/categorias/microfonos-valvulares/la-320-large-diaphragm-tube-condenser-black-mk2/
Or
Thomann: www.thomannmusic.com/lauten_audio_series_black_la_320_v2.htm
Let me know if this works for you!
@@TheRecordist I´m also in Spain and Thomann hasn´t fail me yet. Good costumer post-sale the one time I had a complain.
Hm… clearly not edge-terminated.
Yes. That was a slip of the tongue. I didn’t mean to say that. I meant center, yet my mouth had its own agenda.
@@TheRecordist No big deal ;) I only really noticed because I was surprised by the fact that hey were using a center terminated (k67 style) capsule when clearly trying to emulate the c414 which is the edge-terminated ck12 capsule. Either way, it seems to work. This is on my shortlist for next mic purchase. Thanks again.
@@narrator-timothymckean honestly, this mic is better than it should be. It’s insanely balanced and sounds so good on anything I’ve used it on. If I could choose one mic - a desert island mic - it’ll be this one. I can’t recommend it enough.