Designed with Mr. Rupert Neve, the RN17 redefines the capabilities of an SDC. This is the world's first pencil microphone with a large-scale, hand-wound, ultra high performance transformer.

The second product of the sE / Rupert Neve collaboration, work on the RN17 began with a discussion between Rupert and Siwei Zou on the merits and problems of small-diaphragm condensers.

THE SMALL DIAPHRAGM

With a 15mm diaphragm (the world's smallest production gold-sputtered diaphragm), the transient response of the RN17 is unparalleled.Such a small capsule reacts extremely quickly, and is therefore adept at picking up the most delicate of high-frequency content.However, a tiny diaphragm usually results in a lack of low-frequency response. How to counter this?

THE MASSIVE TRANSFORMER

Made obvious by the unusual chassis shape, the RN17's transformer is substantially larger than the norm. This full-scale transformer was custom-designed by Rupert Neve specifically for this microphone - and nobody has been designing audio transformers longer (or better) than Rupert Neve.With an audio transformer of this magnitude, the RN17 is able to put out astonishing clarity across ALL frequencies - not just the highs. The midrange is detailed and forward, the lows are full and accurate, and the whole microphone has a balance and headroom never before achieved with a small-capsule microphone.

MATTE BLACK FINISH

The matte black finish minimizes the level of visual attention drawn to the microphone when used on stage or in the studio, allowing it to blend into the background.

ADDITIONAL CAPSULES

The RN17 ships with a cardioid capsule, but the wooden box has room for additional capsules in the form of omni, cardioid cut, hypercardioid, and figure-8. These capsules can be utilized for enhanced room sound (omni), low frequency control (cardioid cut) greater side rejection (hypercardioid), or mid-side recording techniques (figure-8).

CUSTOM SHOCK MOUNT

Every RN17 includes a custom-designed, sturdy, protective, and easy-to-use shock mount, which is essential to reducing the unwanted effects of vibration or knocks to the supporting microphone stand.