sE Electronics NEOM USB Microphone User Manual

Introduction

Thank you for choosing an sE microphone! This manual provides essential details and specifications to help you get the most out of your NEOM USB. We hope you enjoy the sound of this microphone as much as we enjoyed designing and building it.

Brief Description

The NEOM USB is a USB condenser microphone, similar to the sE X1 A studio microphone. Its condenser capsule captures sound with exceptional detail and clarity, making it ideal for recording vocals and instruments. The microphone features a cardioid polar pattern, meaning it primarily picks up sound from the front, reducing noise from the sides and rear. An integrated internal shock mount system helps minimize rumble and handling noise. Unlike analog microphones, USB microphones include built-in audio interfaces. The NEOM USB supports recording resolutions up to 192 kHz at 24-bit. While high resolutions provide maximum detail, they generate large audio files. For most applications, a standard resolution of 48 kHz at 24-bit is recommended to manage file sizes.

All sE products are designed for professional use, and the NEOM USB is no exception. It includes a robust metal desktop stand with rubber feet to minimize vibrations. The microphone clip can be detached (by twisting counter-clockwise) for use with standard microphone stands. The NEOM USB can also be used with the sE Isolation Pack, which includes a studio shock mount and a metal pop filter.

What's in the Box

• NEOM USB microphone
• Desktop microphone stand
• Microphone clip
• Thread adapter
• USB-C to USB-A cable

Using the Microphone

The NEOM USB is designed for simple and user-friendly operation. Simply plug it into your computer's or mobile device's USB port to begin.

Controls and Features

Mic Gain

The Mic Gain knob adjusts the microphone's input sensitivity. As you increase the gain, the surrounding LED halo lights up green, indicating it's receiving a signal. If the LED turns red, the signal is too loud, potentially causing audio distortion. Reduce the gain by 10-15% or until the red light disappears.

Mute Button

The sE logo on the microphone also functions as a Mute Button. Use this to prevent the microphone from sending audio to your computer. The button flashes red when muted. Ensure the Mute Button is off if you experience recording issues.

Headphone Output

The 1/8" headphone output is located on the bottom right rear of the microphone. Connecting headphones directly to the microphone bypasses potential audio latency (delay) that can occur when headphones are plugged into a computer.

Mic Level and Playback Level Knobs

These knobs allow you to create a custom headphone mix, balancing playback from your computer with the sound captured by the microphone. Adjust the Playback Level knob to a comfortable listening volume, then adjust the Mic Level knob until you can clearly hear yourself.

Best Practices

The NEOM USB is a side-address microphone, meaning sound is captured by the surface above its controls, not the top. For optimal results, position yourself about 6 inches (15 cm) from the microphone when singing or speaking. Using a pop filter is recommended for clean vocal recordings. For each new audio source, even different singers, readjust the Mic Gain to ensure proper recording levels and prevent distortion.

Compatibility and Software

The NEOM USB is compatible with Windows and Mac systems, as well as portable Apple and Android devices. It includes a USB-C to USB-A cable for devices with a USB-A port. Use a USB-C to USB-C cable for devices with a USB-C port. For other port types like micro-USB or Lightning, use a suitable cable or adapter.

While no driver installation is required, Windows users are recommended to install the custom ASIO driver from the sE Electronics website (www.seelectronics.com) for advanced control options, a virtual mixer, and virtual channels.

Technical Specifications

Frequency Response Diagram

The frequency response graph shows the microphone's sensitivity across different frequencies. It typically displays a relatively flat response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, with a slight presence boost in the mid-high frequencies and a gradual roll-off at the lower end, characteristic of a condenser microphone designed for vocals and instruments.

Polar Pattern Diagram

The polar pattern diagram illustrates the microphone's directional sensitivity. For the NEOM USB, this is a cardioid pattern, showing maximum pickup directly in front of the microphone (0°) and significantly reduced sensitivity from the sides (90°/270°) and rear (180°).

Support

For any issues or questions regarding your sE product, please contact your dealer first for the fastest service. If authorized service is required, your dealer will arrange it. You can find dealers at: http://www.seelectronics.com/dealers

If you experience difficulties with support or assistance, please contact sE Electronics directly: http://www.seelectronics.com/contact-us

Remember to register your product on the sE website to extend your warranty to three years: http://www.seelectronics.com/registration

Contact Information

sE Electronics International, Inc.
448 Ignacio Blvd, STE 411
Novato, CA 94949 USA

Website: www.seelectronics.com

Email: contact@seelectronics.com

For international distributors and sales representatives, visit: http://www.seelectronics.com/contact-us

This product conforms to the standards listed in the Declaration of Conformity. Please contact sE Electronics to request a free copy of the Declaration of Conformity. Technical data is subject to change without notice.