I have used some of the more expensive SE mics in large live recording sessions and found them to be excellent. So, when it came time to buy a new mic for my home studio, I chose SE. The X1A is an entry level mic, so I figured it would be good, if not quite as good as the others I had used. I was right, the X1A is a good mic, but lacks some of the magic of it?s bigger brothers. That said, I am still pleased with my purchase. I used it for backing vocals and was surprised at how I could sing really close without the pop problem?I am an experienced studio singer so I do know how to sing close to a mic. Even so, I was impressed. Later, I used the X1A to record a female vocalist who I?ve made a couple of albums with. In this scenario, the mic was a little less impressive and required a pop shieled. It lacked life, if that makes sense. Adding a little top brought up the sibilance, and I found I had to lose some 300 Hz ish to lose some mud. I would have loved to boost some 2k5, but my preamp only has 1 swept mid so I couldn?t do it whilst recording?I did it on play back and the sound was fine.
In summary?This mic has the unique ability to make vocals sound up front, but lacks that certain sparkle that I was hoping for. I am happy with my purchase overall and will happily put this mic in front of any instrument that comes through the door.
Pros:
Great build quality.
Usable if slightly different sound
Reasonable price for the home budget
Cons:
No pop shield included and it needs one
Would like a more positive ?feel? on the switches
Addendum...11/7/17
OK, I've used the mic on several things now and I get what they've gone for...The sound of a valve mic. Makes perfect sense once you think about the sound that way.
Colin Owen
His Place Malvern
