Sanken CS-3e

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Sanken CS-3e

Sanken

CS-3e

4.7 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 489879
Brand: Sanken
Model: CS-3e
Price: $1,283.70

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

The CS-3e is a serious tool for location sound recording, offering clarity and precision that’s hard to beat. Its focused pickup pattern makes it a dream for dialogue and isolating instruments in noisy environments—perfect for film crews, wildlife recordists, and anyone needing pristine audio capture. The build quality is top-notch, as you'd expect from Sanken.

Product Description

  • Sanken CS-3e
  • Condenser Shotgun Microphone
  • For on-location and studio recording
  • Three directional capsules in a "front-back" arrangement
  • Frequency range: 50 - 20
  • 000 Hz
  • Sensitivity (nominal at 1kHz): 50mV / P (-26dB
  • 0dB = 1V / Pa)
  • Equivalent noise level: 15 dB-A
  • Max. SPL: 120 d
  • Output impedance: 120 ohms
  • Phantom power: + 48V +/- 4V
  • Power consumption: <3 mA
  • 3-Pin XLR
  • Tube length 270 mm
  • Diameter: 19 mm
  • Weight: 120g
  • Colour: Matte black
PROS
  • • Exceptional off-axis rejection minimizes room noise effectively.
  • • Lightweight design reduces boom operator fatigue during extended shoots.
  • • Sanken's renowned capsule delivers a natural, detailed sound.
  • • Robust, matte black finish provides durability and a professional aesthetic.
CONS
  • • Limited polar pattern options restrict versatility for certain recording situations.
  • • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for budget-conscious users.
  • • Output impedance may require a high-quality preamp for optimal results.

Product Video

Key Features

Mic Type Small Diaphragm Condenser Shotgun
Polar Pattern Uni-directional
Frequency Range 50 - 20,000 Hz
Max SPL 120 d
Sensitivity 50mV / P (-26dB)
Connector 3-Pin XLR
Weight 120g

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Frequently Asked Questions

The CS-3e’s 15 dB-A noise floor is remarkably quiet, often outperforming competitors in similar price brackets, especially when considering its compact size.
While designed for location work, the CS-3e’s clean sound makes it usable in the studio, but its highly directional pickup pattern is best suited for controlled environments.
Given the relatively high output impedance, a preamp with a low input impedance and high gain will yield the best results, ensuring a clean and robust signal.

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