V14 Variable-Voltage Tube Condenser Microphone

 Vanguard Audio Labs is proud to present the V14 Variable-Voltage Tube Condenser Microphone - designed to take the classic mics of yesteryear and make them just plain better! 

The V14 is the mono, single capsule version of our celebrated V24 stereo tube mic and uses the same componentry including a BeesNeez CK-12 capsule, Cinemag custom-wound output transformer and a vintage GE 6072A tube.

The V14 also adds a unique control that can adjust the tube voltage up or down, providing even more creative tonal shadings.

BETTER THAN A CLONE!

The V14 is neither a "clone", "homage", nor "tribute" to one of the most beloved Austrian tube mics microphones of all time. Rather, we used the basic circuit topology and improved upon it in as many ways as we could. This includes:

• A modernized power supply with extra filtering stages and integrated polar pattern switching for clean, reliable power with low noise
• Variable Tube Voltage control for starving or oversupplying the tube and creating even more unique voicings
• Extended low frequency response with a better transformer design and key component value optimization means the V14 has much more robust low frequency response than its vintage counterpart
• Improved noise filtering along the capsule and power paths for lower noise floor and better signal-to-noise ratio
• Modernized components, including US-made audiophile-grade low-noise resistors, high-end capacitors, Cinemag™ transformers, and deep-cycle cryogenic treatment of the majority of the componentry for lower noise and no-holds-barred tonal bliss
• Switchable voicings for "12"-, "251"-style, or "ribbon" high-frequency response, giving the engineer even more tonal options

Every great microphone starts with a great capsule. After much consideration, we chose the BeesNeez CK12 capsules for the V14. This Australian-made beauty is manufactured using modern automated CNC machining and Ben is extremely knowledgeable of the original CK12s. One of the most complex (and revered) capsule designs ever conceived, the CK12 is the beating heart of some of the most hallowed vintage microphones.

The Cinemag™ transformer emulates the properties of the famed T14 transformer found in vintage Austrian microphones, but uses a larger core to obtain better low end response along with higher-quality alloys and precision windings. 

Audio Performance & Features

• Variable Tube Voltage - a 9-position switch on the power supply allows you to over- or under-supply the tube's plate,changing the microphone's frequency response, harmonic distortion characteristics, and output level
• "12" vs "251" vs mode - the capsule has a switch for the famous "251" high-end rolloff to emulate those hallowed microphones' respective top end response.
• "Ribbon" mode - an additional switch position allows for an even darker and thicker tone - perfect for getting vintage vibes
• 9 selectable polar patterns for increased versatility
• Open-weave headbasket for low internal reflections and “open-air” voicing

Capsule & Electronics

• BeesNeez CK12 historically-accurate capsule handmade in Australia
• 9 independently selectable polar patterns at the power supply
• Cinemag™ T14 output transformer
• Hand-selected GE 6072A tube
• Transformer-balanced tube circuitry using audiophile-grade parts, sourced from USA, Germany, Japan, France, and more
• Deep-cycle cryogenic treatment of the majority of components
• Ultra-low-noise design using PRP™ audiophile-grade precision resistors

CONSTRUCTION

• Heavy-duty SUS304 Stainless Steel construction, with locally machined components
• Laser-engraved microphone and PSU markings
• 5-Year Warranty
• #4 grained hand-polished Stainless Steel finish
• Precision-cast Vanguard badge
• Neutrik® interconnects
• Made in USA - Assembly & 100% Quality Control in California, USA

Included Accessories

• PS-24 Power Supply
• Padded Pinewood Microphone Box
• VLSM Large Shockmount with aerospace-grade suspension rings
• SKB i-Series Mil-Standard Waterproof Carry Case with Custom-Routed Foam Insert
• 7-pin Microphone Cable with Neutrik™ connectors
• IEC Power Cable

Use Cases

• Vocals
• Drum Overheads
• Piano
• Acoustic Guitar
• String Ensembles
• Orchestral Recording
• Room Mic
• Horns & Brass
• Woodwinds
• Percussion
• and many more…