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9 polar patternsSE Electronics Z5600

Multi-Pattern Tube Condenser Microphone

The Z5600 was one of sE’s first multipattern tube mics. It had a large-diaphragm (27mm), dual-sided capsule with a 9-way pattern-selection switch on the power supply. The tube was a socketed 12AT7 (or 12AX7 by some reports).

Z5600Based on photos we’ve seen, the capsule is a K67 design, with dual backplates. This is the most common capsule design found in Chinese-manufactured condenser microphones, especially in the early years (prior to 2010).

It was replaced by the Z5600a.

Warren Dennis Kahn

The size of the image was enormous, the low end extended, the top end crisp and present, and the noise floor non-existent… There isn’t anything except maybe a snare drum (for fear of an errant drumstick) that I wouldn’t use it on. I seem to be carrying it around and moving it from source to source throughout my sessions.

So heed this warming. If you hear this mic, you will have to have it. The Z5600 is perhaps the best mic I have ever heard.

The SE Electronics Z5600 is also known as: Z-5600.

Specifications

Pickup Patterns Pads & Filters
Omnidirectional (12 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Cardioid (12 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Bidirectional (12 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Capsule Dimensions Impedance SPL/Noise
Diaphragm diameter: 27mm
n/a Self-noise: 16.0 dB(A)
Weight Length Max Diameter Interface(s)
n/a 205mm (8.07'') 60mm (2.36'')
  • 3-pin XLR male (1)
Power Specifications
  • Includes tube power supply

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