I listened to the test with AKG K701 headphones, a good pair. So, NT1 and X1s are Almost identical. In a blind test, I would be easily confused. The Lewitt is different, very detailed as the others, but with less mid bass, and it's definitely noticeable. Very nice test and well done, the volumes are perfectly matched.
x1s has a white noise which shows him up. Hope it's not so crucial cause I wanna buy it today. When I had nt1-a I could easily record quiet sounds without any audible noise.
Thanks a bunch for your review and comparison. It sounds like your voice is fairly similar to mine, and these were three of the mics I was considering, so this was very helpful. Ended up going with the sE X1 S because it sounded just a little bit smoother to me. Even in the highs, I hear just a touch more smoothness to the X1 S, but definitely less of that boomy rumble in the sub-bass you mentioned. All together, just a nice, neutral, easy-to-listen to sound.
Great voice! - I've ripped the audio track to use when testing headphones and speakers. I have the 440 (and the similar 450) plus the X1s. Both are excellent and I would agree entirely with your comments. I do worry that the SE controls will loosen and/or become noisy with age but otherwise it is excellent value - on par sonically if slightly differently flavoured than the Lewitt and Rode.
I am a singer and I am planning to upgrade my home recording setup from usb condenser to xlr one. Will like to know your feedback on the following and which one will be the best one: 1. SE Electronics XA1 2. AKG P120/P220/P420 3. Lewitt LCT240 Pro Note : I don't have a treated room.
Thank you very much for your review. It's very helpful. Some short clicks in recording like very fast gater I can hear in headphones (Sennheiser 650). Your voice good for testing this mics. Rode have little hi mid boost on your voice. Lewitt and X1S have very close sound. Price very different.
I'm glad you liked the video. I have HD 650 headphones as well. I really like them. I think the clicks you are hearing are just points where I cut the tracks. I didn't have a gate or anything that modified the audio at all, but I did trim out some breaths and pauses, etc. Occasionally that creates a little click or audible change that sounds like a click. Actually, I've I'd used a noise gate it probably wouldn't be as bad because it would have been mostly gated out.
Id suggest getting the Perception 120 by AKG instead. It's quite a bit cheaper, and very similar in sound, albeit, slightly warmer. It also has a much more robust build than the X1 S. I own both mics, and much prefer my Perception. But you can't go wrong either way. Both seem to be great for the price.
I think the mids are more linear on the LC440 but some details seem to loose shape on a male voice and on a female voice the highs can sometimes be a bit too much (not something not correctable) P and S louds seem to be more pronounced. On the NT1 the male voice gets more shape but dynamic differences are not as smooth as on the LCT 440 or on the X1s. The NT1 seems to have no noise at all, impressive. So for the price and for male voice or thin female voices I would use the X1s the XE2200 seems to be more like the LCT 440 but does not shape enough for a voice both seem to be better for instruments like guitars or piano.
The X1s has quite a bit less lows then the Lewit and the NT-1 do on my Sony MDR7506 headphones, I am talking about the parts without roll-off of course. The Lewit and the NT1 sound more similar, the Lewitt a little more detailed. The X1s has a boost somewhere around the 2khz range which gives fatique, and so is annoying. The Lewitt and the NT1 sound (way) more natural on your lower bariton voice. The Lewitt would be my choice, the more hights of it weren't too noticable on your voice, the Sony MDR7506 which I am using is known for their in your face and not too little treble, so that could not be an issue.
Just keep in mind that he means the Rycote mount on the NT1 is better, but Rode changed their package to a lower quality pop filter and shockmount, the SM6.
NT1 sounds pretty nice. I'm recording my youtube videos direct on my laptop mic and it's so noisy! might be a pretty good upgrade. Thanks for the comparison!
Hello again! Quick question: I intend to do some voiceover while looking at my computer screen. I think the pop filter on the nt1 is just too big and would take too much of my field of vision. The x1s seems to be more flexible in that you can adjust the position of the pop filter, but it's hard to see if it gets less in the way than the nt1's pop filter in the lowest position. Would love to hear what you think!
The pop filter on the X1S is a bit more flexible, but it is nearly as large and other than up and down, it isn't really adjustable. What you are describing is why I like and use the LCT 440 Pure so much. It's just so compact and unobtrusive. I really like that it can be almost completely out of my way, but still right there. Also, if you are careful, you can use any of these microphones without a pop filter. It just takes some practice to get good at not popping the mic.
I have a question. I was recently gifted this microphone to use it for recording podcasts. So in this case I am sitting down and would like to have the microphone in front of me on the table. But somehow I am not able to find a standard to hold the microphone, not even on the website of se electronics. Do you maybe have a recommendation or advice?
Do you want the mic stand to actually sit on the desk? There are also lots of options for boom arms that allow the mic to be moved around and will better isolate the mic from noise on the desk (like bumping the desk or dropping a hand on it or something). What is your budget? At a site like B&H Photo, if you search desktop mic stand, you should find a lot of options. Something simple with only height adjustment can be had for around $10-$15. Something like an Auray TT-6220. For something a bit nicer that has some articulation, the Rode DS2 seems nice. The K&M 25995 has a short extension arm for greater height and position adjustment. Those are desktop stands. As for articulating boom arms, there are tons of options from around $20 to well over $100. Most of them have a desk clamp option, so they would just clamp to the edge of a desk. Tons of options out there, depending on what kind of setup you are looking for.
The pop filter for the 440 is too close, I wish they'd make it so they were a bit farther away, but not as much as the two others. They showed this in a test themselves, that it's too close to be super effective. I like all three, but I came for the sE X1 S, and was not disappointed. Nice comparison and review.
For my usage, the pop filter on the 440 is good enough and I love the compact package of the 440. But it does reduce the effectiveness of the pop filter a bit. Honestly, I don't think you can go too wrong with any of these mics.
Thank you very much for your review. I am searching for a microphone for my current podcast project. I've thought using sE v7 would be better for both podcast and future streaming projects because my room is not well prepared for noise management. Can you share your thoughts on this ? Btw. i am thinking on using Behringer UMC204HD.
That mic should work fine, but it will take a lot of gain and you will want to get right up on it to get good levels. Getting close to the mic is important anyway to keep down the background noise and reverb. Honestly, getting the mic close makes a bigger difference than anything else. I have a video comparing the Lewett LCT 440 to the Shure SM7b in an untreated room. It really illustrates the difference.
I am a singer and having a non-treated room. Which mic do you suggest for professional recording from the list below: 1. Lewitt 240 Pro 2. AKG P120 or P220 3. Se Selectronics xA1
When you say "live singing" are you talking about on a stage, or something like that? If so, there are probably better options, but I'm certainly not an expert on music, singing, or stage performing. Another thing to be aware of, the X1 comes in multiple varieties. The X1 A is cheaper than the X1 S, but it has a higher noise floor and smaller diaphragm.
bigtb1717 I’d be singing live at home through my STUNNING Yamah Genos. My understanding is condenser mics including this model are VERY good for recording vocals as I’ll be at home using GarageBand iOS but wondered if this mic is suitable for both singing live and recording? P.S, I’m getting a bundle package including the pop shield, shock mount, reflection filter and cable for £156 but used to cost £199.
I'm looking for an upgrade from the AT2020, and with availability in the uk right now and my price range this is all I could find. Do you know how much of an upgrade this would be?
It’s hard to say how much difference you would notice. The sound profiles would likely be a bit different, but without comparing them side-by-side it’s hard to say how different. The X1s should have a much lower noise floor, if the specs on the AT2020 are correct. So that part would be an upgrade. How well treated is your space? If you are recording in a totally untreated space and have a limited budget you might be better off putting a little time and money into making your recording space better. Just a thought. If you really want a new mic, the X1s is good. Is there some other mic you were wanting that you can’t find available?
Personally, the Lewitt LCT 440 Pure has become my favorite and most used microphone. It is such a convenient package that sounds good and doesn't get in the way. Nothing wrong with the others, but I use the Lewitt.
I’m debating on getting the se x1s/ a sterling st155 / a audio technica 4040 or a rode nt1a... this would be for male pop style vocals (singing) which one would be my best bet from your knowledge
Of those four, the only one I have experience with is an SE X1 S. I also don't have any experience with singing, so I'm not sure I'm the best to ask for a recommendation. Chances are, any of them would work okay. The Sterling ST155 does have the highest self noise spec.
This microphone requires 48V phantom power. The simplest way is a USB audio interface that supplies pantom power in order to connect a microphone like this to a computer.
Hi I like your review of all the microphones mentioned, thanks to you now but I am dealing with which of these two to buy, Lewitt LCT 240 PRO vs SE Electronics X1S, I want it primarily for recording vocals and I'm more inclined for Lewitt just nowhere I've read how there is noise because your recordings are not deaf and quiet places to compare, SE Electronics X1S says Noise: 9 dB (A), but what about Lewitt? could you please advise me simply on this?
The self-noise on the Lewitt LCT 440 Pure is very low. Comparable to the NT1, slightly less than the X1S. I think the spec is 7 db-A, but I can't remember for sure. Either way, it is a very quiet mic.
What about the noise floor of the SE x1 s. I'm thinking about purchasing this Mic, for voice over work. What do you think, can you honestly recommend it?
The noise floor on the one I had was very low. Not quite as low as the Rode NT1 or Lewitt LCT 440 pure, but really close. If the rest of your audio chain is good, you should be able to get plenty quiet recordings with the X1 S. At this point the Lewitt LCT 440 pure is my most used microphone. It sounds good and it's just such a compact and convenient package. It's my go-to most of the time. I switch it up now and then for one reason or another, but I most often use the Lewitt.
The sE X1 S is a relatively sensitive microphone that doesn't need a ton of gain, so just about any interface/pre-amp will be sufficient. I have no idea what the noise floor performance is on the 1204 mixer pre-amps, but the sE X1 S would work fine with it.
@@jessekovala9527 plenty of reasons to do that - one common instance is when the performer is using a stand for sheet music or copy - then the mic is inverted and suspended above the stand.
Hard to say because I don't have any experience with the SE2200 or with music. The X1S has higher db level handling capability and a bit lower self noise. The SE2200 is a transformer based design, which may change the sound characteristic, but unfortunately I don't have any experience to tell you how it sounds.
I don't have any experience with the LCT 240. It's probably a decent mic, but it has a bit higher self-noise spec than the mics here. Otherwise, all of them will probably work perfectly fine for you. Personally, I find that I prefer the LCT 440 Pure. It has become my favorite and most used mic. It sounds good and it is a compact, convenient package that doesn't get in the way. But I'm sure there are people that prefer the others.
@@bigtb1717 appreciate ur reply🙏🏽, a little off topic, but I’m struggling with my recordings sound quite boomy/muddy around the 150 - 250hz range. I record in an untreated room, could that be the reason to this problem?
Possibly could be due to the room. Is it a small space? I've sometimes found that a very small space can cause a boomy low end. I've also heard that corners are bass traps and sometimes just treating the corners of a room can make a difference.
How close are you to the mic? Most microphones will have a bit of a "proximity" effect, whereby the bass response will increase as you get closer to the microphone. If you are really close to the mic it's possible that simply backing up from the mic a bit would help reduce the boomy/muddy sound.
Observation: the LCT 440 is slightly more harsh (peaky) in the 4-5.5 KHz region. The NT1's lower noise floor (according to specs) may be offset by the need for higher preamp gain (if one's preamp isn't super good). And sound-wise I couldn't tell them apart in a blind-test. If boosting the highs (Pully at 12 KHz) the NT1 is slightly less harsh around 6-8 KHz -ish 😎 All in all the Røde NT1's lack of a hipass filter kills it for me. A hipass filter lets you record louder, because the energy-expensive rumbly lows are gone, on the way in. Digitally, that gives you more bits to work with;)
I am a singer and I am planning to upgrade my home recording setup from usb condenser to xlr one. Will like to know your feedback on the following and which one will be the best one: 1. SE Electronics XA1 2. AKG P120/P220/P420 3. Lewitt LCT240 Pro Note : I don't have a treated room.
Are you having trouble with sibilance in your recordings? What is your setup now? How are you recording your audio? I checked out a few of your videos and it sounds like your voice over is recorded at a low bitrate. Am I just hearing things, or is that possible? I'm happy to help you out any way I can.
@@bigtb1717 Thanks. I'm recording at the 192, so I don't think that's the issue. I have other recording software, and I can still have some issue taking care of sibilance. I have an inexpensive (~$80) XLR condenser mic going into a DBX286s and then out to a MOTO M2. The audio is powered through a Furman M8-Lx. I use the De-esser on the DBX286s and sometimes still have to use a De-Essing plugin. This is due to the various situations I'm using this in, as well as being in an untreated room. Last I tried to handle this, I used a plugin to watch the frequency area that hits when I use a sibilant sound and then tuned the DBX to that approx freq. I still can't get it where I want. I'll try increasing my bitrate and see how that works.
@@TechButler If you are recording at 192 kbps, that should be enough. It's not super high, but I don't usually hear the artifacts I thought I was hearing until it starts to get under 128 kbps. What I'm hearing could just be a result of the de-esser.
@@bigtb1717 Perhaps it's a little more misleading than that. I have it going through at 48, but OBS is outputting at 192. That's likely part of the problem, but OBS won't take anything other than 48. I know others have solved this somehow, so it's not likely the bitrate, but I'll still give the output a try at 256. Maybe I could also try ditching the De-esser on the 286 and just do it via plugin.
i would choose Rode NT1 for 3 reasons: (1.) Rode NT1 can probably be the most quiet microphone (2.) Rode NT1 is very famous for it's completely flat and neutral sound signature (3.) when comparing these 3 microphone head-to-head, Rode NT1 is particularly noticeable for its lower frequency performance, which i really like..
Good point, it has something to take advantage of in this application that the others do not, something extra to work with, or work out. After all, let's remember, the order is: voice, microphone, mixer/interface whatever that next stage is.
I tend to appreciate build quality and fit and finish quite a lot. For me, the Lewitt and Rode are worth it over the sE X1S, but the performance and versatility of the X1S is good for the money.
@@bigtb1717 Thank you 🙏 i really appreciate your input it’s really needed! your video was on of the few displaying the se x1 and rode head to head and i think i might go with the rode
@@jsinned : i would also choose Rode NT1 for 3 reasons: - Rode NT1 can probably be the most quiet microphone - Rode NT1 is very famous for it's completely flat and neutral sound signature - when comparing these 3 microphone head-to-head, Rode NT1 is particularly noticeable for its lower frequency performance, which i really like..
The X1 S is a good value but I personally prefer the LCT 440 Pure. I just prefer the size and overall package of the Lewitt. The LCT 440 Pure has become my most used microphone. But the X1 S is less expensive, so that's something to keep in mind.
There is a very slight difference in the sound, but I wouldn't say it's a difference in sound quality, just a slight difference in the tone each one produces. The LCT 440 Pure does have very slightly less self-noise, but it is a tiny difference. Both are very quiet mics (in terms of self-noise).
I don't have any experience with either of those microphones (MXL 990 or the X1a). The X1a has a bit lower self-noise spec, but without listening to each one, I can't say which one I'd prefer.
Lol, sorry for the dirty hands. There are days after work where my hands are nearly completely black. This was after multiple, heavy scrubbings of my hands and a shower. After certain days at work the dirt gets ingrained in my calloused hands and can take days to fully go away, despite vigorous scrubbing.
I found it to be fairly basic, but not quite what I'd call garbage. It just deflects the air in one direction, so it's easy to have that direction be straight into the mic if you aren't careful. But as long as it's lined up to deflect the air away from the mic, it works okay.
@@bigtb1717 i found it did very little if anything to reduce plosives. Then again, I was using it for singing and not talking. It might be fine to talk through. But I prefer my cloth pop filters over those solid mesh types.
You really need to record audio books with that calming, soothing tone, I would listen to them without any doubt 😍😍
Yeah, that's good tone with the lewitt on his voice
Or a golf tournament commentator.
I listened to the test with AKG K701 headphones, a good pair.
So, NT1 and X1s are Almost identical. In a blind test, I would be easily confused. The Lewitt is different, very detailed as the others, but with less mid bass, and it's definitely noticeable.
Very nice test and well done, the volumes are perfectly matched.
X1 mucho better
x1s has a white noise which shows him up. Hope it's not so crucial cause I wanna buy it today. When I had nt1-a I could easily record quiet sounds without any audible noise.
Thanks a bunch for your review and comparison. It sounds like your voice is fairly similar to mine, and these were three of the mics I was considering, so this was very helpful. Ended up going with the sE X1 S because it sounded just a little bit smoother to me. Even in the highs, I hear just a touch more smoothness to the X1 S, but definitely less of that boomy rumble in the sub-bass you mentioned. All together, just a nice, neutral, easy-to-listen to sound.
Great voice! - I've ripped the audio track to use when testing headphones and speakers.
I have the 440 (and the similar 450) plus the X1s. Both are excellent and I would agree entirely with your comments. I do worry that the SE controls will loosen and/or become noisy with age but otherwise it is excellent value - on par sonically if slightly differently flavoured than the Lewitt and Rode.
I am a singer and I am planning to upgrade my home recording setup from usb condenser to xlr one. Will like to know your feedback on the following and which one will be the best one:
1. SE Electronics XA1
2. AKG P120/P220/P420
3. Lewitt LCT240 Pro
Note : I don't have a treated room.
Thank you very much for your review. It's very helpful. Some short clicks in recording like very fast gater I can hear in headphones (Sennheiser 650). Your voice good for testing this mics. Rode have little hi mid boost on your voice. Lewitt and X1S have very close sound. Price very different.
I'm glad you liked the video. I have HD 650 headphones as well. I really like them.
I think the clicks you are hearing are just points where I cut the tracks. I didn't have a gate or anything that modified the audio at all, but I did trim out some breaths and pauses, etc. Occasionally that creates a little click or audible change that sounds like a click. Actually, I've I'd used a noise gate it probably wouldn't be as bad because it would have been mostly gated out.
Damnit i was interested in Craig's story! great speaking voice my guy! thanks for the review
Lol, thanks. I wrote that just so I would have something non-copywrited to read for this review. So Craig’s story isn’t complete.
@@bigtb1717 You should become a writer then:)
I have a pair SE X1s - love them!
Thank you and very professional. Surprised that the X1 S did so well up against the NT1.
but i really prefer the lower frequency part of NT1..
This video has really helped me! Thanks for taking the time to make it. I wish you health, wealth, and happiness sir.
I think I'm going to get one of those Se mics. Can't really go wrong for the money and it's always handy to have another condenser kicking around.
Id suggest getting the Perception 120 by AKG instead. It's quite a bit cheaper, and very similar in sound, albeit, slightly warmer. It also has a much more robust build than the X1 S. I own both mics, and much prefer my Perception. But you can't go wrong either way. Both seem to be great for the price.
Joshua Crain thanks for the advice. I decided to spend a little more and get the SE 2200a ii instead.
@@officialWWM awesome! Sounds like a solid choice.
Joshua Crain people seem to have a lot of good things to say about it and the demos I have heard sound pretty good, so I thought I'd give it a go :)
I think the mids are more linear on the LC440 but some details seem to loose shape on a male voice and on a female voice the highs can sometimes be a bit too much (not something not correctable) P and S louds seem to be more pronounced. On the NT1 the male voice gets more shape but dynamic differences are not as smooth as on the LCT 440 or on the X1s. The NT1 seems to have no noise at all, impressive. So for the price and for male voice or thin female voices I would use the X1s the XE2200 seems to be more like the LCT 440 but does not shape enough for a voice both seem to be better for instruments like guitars or piano.
I just got this mic. I agree 100% with you remarks on the build quality: overall good, b ut the switches are a slight letdown.
Thank you for this nice comparison. It was teally helpfull. The rhode and the se-x1 are very close... but I prefere the lewitt on this comparison
The X1s has quite a bit less lows then the Lewit and the NT-1 do on my Sony MDR7506 headphones, I am talking about the parts without roll-off of course. The Lewit and the NT1 sound more similar, the Lewitt a little more detailed. The X1s has a boost somewhere around the 2khz range which gives fatique, and so is annoying. The Lewitt and the NT1 sound (way) more natural on your lower bariton voice. The Lewitt would be my choice, the more hights of it weren't too noticable on your voice, the Sony MDR7506 which I am using is known for their in your face and not too little treble, so that could not be an issue.
Lewit sounds like a beauty
Just keep in mind that he means the Rycote mount on the NT1 is better, but Rode changed their package to a lower quality pop filter and shockmount, the SM6.
Yeah, it looks like the SMR shock-mount I got with the NT1 only comes with the AI-1 bundle currently. Worth pointing out, thanks.
You really don’t need a lot of low end when you’re double tracking vocals.
NT1 sounds pretty nice. I'm recording my youtube videos direct on my laptop mic and it's so noisy! might be a pretty good upgrade. Thanks for the comparison!
I think the x1s is just as good as either of the others
It is very good.
Hello again! Quick question: I intend to do some voiceover while looking at my computer screen. I think the pop filter on the nt1 is just too big and would take too much of my field of vision. The x1s seems to be more flexible in that you can adjust the position of the pop filter, but it's hard to see if it gets less in the way than the nt1's pop filter in the lowest position. Would love to hear what you think!
The pop filter on the X1S is a bit more flexible, but it is nearly as large and other than up and down, it isn't really adjustable. What you are describing is why I like and use the LCT 440 Pure so much. It's just so compact and unobtrusive. I really like that it can be almost completely out of my way, but still right there.
Also, if you are careful, you can use any of these microphones without a pop filter. It just takes some practice to get good at not popping the mic.
I have a question. I was recently gifted this microphone to use it for recording podcasts. So in this case I am sitting down and would like to have the microphone in front of me on the table. But somehow I am not able to find a standard to hold the microphone, not even on the website of se electronics.
Do you maybe have a recommendation or advice?
Do you want the mic stand to actually sit on the desk? There are also lots of options for boom arms that allow the mic to be moved around and will better isolate the mic from noise on the desk (like bumping the desk or dropping a hand on it or something). What is your budget?
At a site like B&H Photo, if you search desktop mic stand, you should find a lot of options. Something simple with only height adjustment can be had for around $10-$15. Something like an Auray TT-6220. For something a bit nicer that has some articulation, the Rode DS2 seems nice. The K&M 25995 has a short extension arm for greater height and position adjustment. Those are desktop stands. As for articulating boom arms, there are tons of options from around $20 to well over $100. Most of them have a desk clamp option, so they would just clamp to the edge of a desk. Tons of options out there, depending on what kind of setup you are looking for.
This is a great review my man, thanks for sharing
The pop filter for the 440 is too close, I wish they'd make it so they were a bit farther away, but not as much as the two others. They showed this in a test themselves, that it's too close to be super effective. I like all three, but I came for the sE X1 S, and was not disappointed. Nice comparison and review.
For my usage, the pop filter on the 440 is good enough and I love the compact package of the 440. But it does reduce the effectiveness of the pop filter a bit. Honestly, I don't think you can go too wrong with any of these mics.
You can really hear the sibilants peak out in the Lewitt and Rode when compared to the sE.
Thank you very much for your review. I am searching for a microphone for my current podcast project. I've thought using sE v7 would be better for both podcast and future streaming projects because my room is not well prepared for noise management. Can you share your thoughts on this ? Btw. i am thinking on using Behringer UMC204HD.
That mic should work fine, but it will take a lot of gain and you will want to get right up on it to get good levels. Getting close to the mic is important anyway to keep down the background noise and reverb. Honestly, getting the mic close makes a bigger difference than anything else. I have a video comparing the Lewett LCT 440 to the Shure SM7b in an untreated room. It really illustrates the difference.
I hope you got the sE v7. It is such a good microphone!
@@kalebmyers9146 thank you very much for your comment. I’ve started using sE v7 and l am really happy with the quality.
Great review! Thanks!
Very helpful, thank you.
X1S is a top budget mic, the next thing to get would be the 5 times more expensive AKG C414 XLS
I am a singer and having a non-treated room. Which mic do you suggest for professional recording from the list below:
1. Lewitt 240 Pro
2. AKG P120 or P220
3. Se Selectronics xA1
Non-treated room. You need a dynamic microphone not a condenser.
Shure sm7b
Very useful video. Thank you very much.
great job ,thank you for this video
Hi. I’m getting the sE X1. Is this mic suitable for both recording vocals and for live singing?
When you say "live singing" are you talking about on a stage, or something like that? If so, there are probably better options, but I'm certainly not an expert on music, singing, or stage performing. Another thing to be aware of, the X1 comes in multiple varieties. The X1 A is cheaper than the X1 S, but it has a higher noise floor and smaller diaphragm.
bigtb1717 I’d be singing live at home through my STUNNING Yamah Genos. My understanding is condenser mics including this model are VERY good for recording vocals as I’ll be at home using GarageBand iOS but wondered if this mic is suitable for both singing live and recording? P.S, I’m getting a bundle package including the pop shield, shock
mount, reflection filter and cable for £156 but used to cost £199.
@@bestrickie2 In that case I'd say the SE X1S would likely be a good option. As I've said, I don't have any singing experience, but it is a good mic.
@@bestrickie2 i think the only restriction is to play with headphones, if you wanna use loudspeakers a dynamic mic it's a better solution
I'm looking for an upgrade from the AT2020, and with availability in the uk right now and my price range this is all I could find. Do you know how much of an upgrade this would be?
It’s hard to say how much difference you would notice. The sound profiles would likely be a bit different, but without comparing them side-by-side it’s hard to say how different. The X1s should have a much lower noise floor, if the specs on the AT2020 are correct. So that part would be an upgrade. How well treated is your space? If you are recording in a totally untreated space and have a limited budget you might be better off putting a little time and money into making your recording space better. Just a thought. If you really want a new mic, the X1s is good. Is there some other mic you were wanting that you can’t find available?
hi. which of the three is your favorite and which would you safely recommend, for voice over?
Personally, the Lewitt LCT 440 Pure has become my favorite and most used microphone. It is such a convenient package that sounds good and doesn't get in the way. Nothing wrong with the others, but I use the Lewitt.
Any chance you could also review the se2200 or se3200
I put the se2200 in my wish list. I'll try to get to it some time. I can't say exactly when I might get to it, but I'll try.
When you say porch and breeze on the lewitt it's like a percussive hit that I don't hear on the SE.
But a quiet.. another place where I feel it.
I think the close mounted pop filter on the Lewitt isn't quite as effective as the others, which are further back from the capsule.
Thanks.Good review
I’m debating on getting the se x1s/ a sterling st155 / a audio technica 4040 or a rode nt1a... this would be for male pop style vocals (singing) which one would be my best bet from your knowledge
Of those four, the only one I have experience with is an SE X1 S. I also don't have any experience with singing, so I'm not sure I'm the best to ask for a recommendation. Chances are, any of them would work okay. The Sterling ST155 does have the highest self noise spec.
Can I connect this to my pc with a usb to xlr cable? Or do I need a power supply?
This microphone requires 48V phantom power. The simplest way is a USB audio interface that supplies pantom power in order to connect a microphone like this to a computer.
@@bigtb1717 Thank you!
Hi I like your review of all the microphones mentioned, thanks to you now but I am dealing with which of these two to buy, Lewitt LCT 240 PRO vs SE Electronics X1S, I want it primarily for recording vocals and I'm more inclined for Lewitt just nowhere I've read how there is noise because your recordings are not deaf and quiet places to compare, SE Electronics X1S says Noise: 9 dB (A), but what about Lewitt? could you please advise me simply on this?
The self-noise on the Lewitt LCT 440 Pure is very low. Comparable to the NT1, slightly less than the X1S. I think the spec is 7 db-A, but I can't remember for sure. Either way, it is a very quiet mic.
@@bigtb1717 thanks for the quick response
@Anmol yessir ;)
What about the noise floor of the SE x1 s. I'm thinking about purchasing this Mic, for voice over work. What do you think, can you honestly recommend it?
The noise floor on the one I had was very low. Not quite as low as the Rode NT1 or Lewitt LCT 440 pure, but really close. If the rest of your audio chain is good, you should be able to get plenty quiet recordings with the X1 S.
At this point the Lewitt LCT 440 pure is my most used microphone. It sounds good and it's just such a compact and convenient package. It's my go-to most of the time. I switch it up now and then for one reason or another, but I most often use the Lewitt.
@@bigtb1717 I'm using a focusrite audio interface, but I'm thinking about getting myself a behringer 1204 usb mixer. Would that suffice for the SE x1s
The sE X1 S is a relatively sensitive microphone that doesn't need a ton of gain, so just about any interface/pre-amp will be sufficient. I have no idea what the noise floor performance is on the 1204 mixer pre-amps, but the sE X1 S would work fine with it.
@@bigtb1717 are you familiar with the yamaha mg10x and mg12x mixers
Unfortunately, I don't have personal experience with any mixers.
I just wondered if you can hang this mic upside down or if it falls out of the spring mount. Can someone say something about that?
I do believe you can hang it upside. Check out Sweetwater's review for confirmation. Good luck.
@Fred Yeboah 🤷🏾♀️
Why would u hang it upside down. It has no tubes…
@@jessekovala9527 plenty of reasons to do that - one common instance is when the performer is using a stand for sheet music or copy - then the mic is inverted and suspended above the stand.
Which one y’all think I should get Audio Techica or the sE S 1
Which model Audio Technica?
do you think se2200 is better than se x1s? for music
Hard to say because I don't have any experience with the SE2200 or with music. The X1S has higher db level handling capability and a bit lower self noise. The SE2200 is a transformer based design, which may change the sound characteristic, but unfortunately I don't have any experience to tell you how it sounds.
what preamp or other equipment are you using?
Generally I record with the microphone/s connected directly into the Sound Devices USBPre 2 audio interface, and that connects to my PC via USB.
Between that 3 microphones, and adding a fourth (the Lewitt LCT240) which one do you recommend for voices? Possibly also ropes
I don't have any experience with the LCT 240. It's probably a decent mic, but it has a bit higher self-noise spec than the mics here. Otherwise, all of them will probably work perfectly fine for you. Personally, I find that I prefer the LCT 440 Pure. It has become my favorite and most used mic. It sounds good and it is a compact, convenient package that doesn't get in the way. But I'm sure there are people that prefer the others.
Which microphone sounds the least muddy/boomy? The lewitt 440 or the Se x1s?
(Without the high pass filter ofc)
Between those two I would say the Lewitt 440 Pure is very slightly less muddy in the low end when the X1 S is set to flat mode.
@@bigtb1717 appreciate ur reply🙏🏽, a little off topic, but I’m struggling with my recordings sound quite boomy/muddy around the 150 - 250hz range. I record in an untreated room, could that be the reason to this problem?
Possibly could be due to the room. Is it a small space? I've sometimes found that a very small space can cause a boomy low end. I've also heard that corners are bass traps and sometimes just treating the corners of a room can make a difference.
How close are you to the mic? Most microphones will have a bit of a "proximity" effect, whereby the bass response will increase as you get closer to the microphone. If you are really close to the mic it's possible that simply backing up from the mic a bit would help reduce the boomy/muddy sound.
@@bigtb1717 it’s more on the smaller side yes, thank u I may have to do that
Observation: the LCT 440 is slightly more harsh (peaky) in the 4-5.5 KHz region.
The NT1's lower noise floor (according to specs) may be offset by the need for higher preamp gain (if one's preamp isn't super good). And sound-wise I couldn't tell them apart in a blind-test. If boosting the highs (Pully at 12 KHz) the NT1 is slightly less harsh around 6-8 KHz -ish 😎
All in all the Røde NT1's lack of a hipass filter kills it for me. A hipass filter lets you record louder, because the energy-expensive rumbly lows are gone, on the way in. Digitally, that gives you more bits to work with;)
I am a singer and I am planning to upgrade my home recording setup from usb condenser to xlr one. Will like to know your feedback on the following and which one will be the best one:
1. SE Electronics XA1
2. AKG P120/P220/P420
3. Lewitt LCT240 Pro
Note : I don't have a treated room.
@@IshaanNigamOfficial : if you are a singer, i would really recommend AKG P420, SE Electronics X1S, or Aston Spirit
Tamaño del diagragma?
Ok so you are 3 inches from all of the mics, this is a proximity effect test.
It has been a while, but I think I was approximately 3 to 4 inches or so from each mic.
Would love to know how you're dealing with sibilance.
I don't normally do any editing to my audio other than adjusting the levels.
Are you having trouble with sibilance in your recordings? What is your setup now? How are you recording your audio? I checked out a few of your videos and it sounds like your voice over is recorded at a low bitrate. Am I just hearing things, or is that possible? I'm happy to help you out any way I can.
@@bigtb1717 Thanks. I'm recording at the 192, so I don't think that's the issue. I have other recording software, and I can still have some issue taking care of sibilance. I have an inexpensive (~$80) XLR condenser mic going into a DBX286s and then out to a MOTO M2. The audio is powered through a Furman M8-Lx. I use the De-esser on the DBX286s and sometimes still have to use a De-Essing plugin. This is due to the various situations I'm using this in, as well as being in an untreated room. Last I tried to handle this, I used a plugin to watch the frequency area that hits when I use a sibilant sound and then tuned the DBX to that approx freq. I still can't get it where I want. I'll try increasing my bitrate and see how that works.
@@TechButler If you are recording at 192 kbps, that should be enough. It's not super high, but I don't usually hear the artifacts I thought I was hearing until it starts to get under 128 kbps. What I'm hearing could just be a result of the de-esser.
@@bigtb1717 Perhaps it's a little more misleading than that. I have it going through at 48, but OBS is outputting at 192. That's likely part of the problem, but OBS won't take anything other than 48. I know others have solved this somehow, so it's not likely the bitrate, but I'll still give the output a try at 256. Maybe I could also try ditching the De-esser on the 286 and just do it via plugin.
i would choose Rode NT1 for 3 reasons:
(1.) Rode NT1 can probably be the most quiet microphone
(2.) Rode NT1 is very famous for it's completely flat and neutral sound signature
(3.) when comparing these 3 microphone head-to-head, Rode NT1 is particularly noticeable for its lower frequency performance, which i really like..
the rode is also around $200 more
Good point, it has something to take advantage of in this application that the others do not, something extra to work with, or work out. After all, let's remember, the order is: voice, microphone, mixer/interface whatever that next stage is.
is the price difference of the se x1s and NT1 worth it? i’m on a bit of a budget but willing to pay a bit more if it’s worth it
I tend to appreciate build quality and fit and finish quite a lot. For me, the Lewitt and Rode are worth it over the sE X1S, but the performance and versatility of the X1S is good for the money.
@@bigtb1717 Thank you 🙏 i really appreciate your input it’s really needed! your video was on of the few displaying the se x1 and rode head to head and i think i might go with the rode
@@jsinned : i would also choose Rode NT1 for 3 reasons:
- Rode NT1 can probably be the most quiet microphone
- Rode NT1 is very famous for it's completely flat and neutral sound signature
- when comparing these 3 microphone head-to-head, Rode NT1 is particularly noticeable for its lower frequency performance, which i really like..
Would you suggest the Lewitt lct 440 pure or the se X1s?
The X1 S is a good value but I personally prefer the LCT 440 Pure. I just prefer the size and overall package of the Lewitt. The LCT 440 Pure has become my most used microphone. But the X1 S is less expensive, so that's something to keep in mind.
@@bigtb1717 is there much difference to sound quality at all?
There is a very slight difference in the sound, but I wouldn't say it's a difference in sound quality, just a slight difference in the tone each one produces. The LCT 440 Pure does have very slightly less self-noise, but it is a tiny difference. Both are very quiet mics (in terms of self-noise).
ATH 2035 or sE X1 s???
I don't have any experience with any Audio Technica microphones, so I can't say for sure. I would like to test some at some point, but I haven't yet.
@@bigtb1717 gracias
NTI is winner.
Does sE electronics x1a microphone have tube? Is sE electronics x1a microphone tube microphone?
No, it is not a tube microphone.
@@bigtb1717 oh thank u!
@@bigtb1717 mxl 990 is better or sE x1a is better??
I don't have any experience with either of those microphones (MXL 990 or the X1a). The X1a has a bit lower self-noise spec, but without listening to each one, I can't say which one I'd prefer.
@@bigtb1717 ok thank u very much!!
I already have the NT1, so i m not getting the X1S
SEX1 s the BEST
Ok
Ok de qué?
De nada!!
A vale!!
No hay de que, tonto el último
If someone uses a mic correctly there would never be need for a pop filter
May I offer you some soap for cleaning your hands before this kind of video? 😑
Lol, sorry for the dirty hands. There are days after work where my hands are nearly completely black. This was after multiple, heavy scrubbings of my hands and a shower. After certain days at work the dirt gets ingrained in my calloused hands and can take days to fully go away, despite vigorous scrubbing.
The pop filter on the x1 s is absolute garbage.
I found it to be fairly basic, but not quite what I'd call garbage. It just deflects the air in one direction, so it's easy to have that direction be straight into the mic if you aren't careful. But as long as it's lined up to deflect the air away from the mic, it works okay.
@@bigtb1717 i found it did very little if anything to reduce plosives. Then again, I was using it for singing and not talking. It might be fine to talk through. But I prefer my cloth pop filters over those solid mesh types.