Details
The second generation Vanguard V44S is a stereo large-diaphragm multi-pattern FET condenser microphone lovingly re-imagined by Vanguard's team. This unique microphone is designed to be a versatile, reliable, professional tool in the vein of highly-sought-after vintage stereo condensers of yesteryear. With a pair of twin coincident custom-voiced multi-pattern capsules, you can utilize X/Y, Mid-Side, Blumlein, and other less conventional stereo microphone techniques in a single-microphone. With a gen2 redesigned detented heavy-duty rotation mechanism, premium cryogenically-treated FET circuitry, Neutrik interconnects, and a VLSM shockmount, the V44S is the first and last stereo microphone you'll ever need to reach for.
Vanguard has upgraded key components to audiophile-grade parts, including US-made low-noise resistors. These upgrades have netted a lower signal-to-noise ratio (even though they already had a superb reputation for low noise mics), and vastly improved sound staging. In addition, Vanguard made physical design upgrades in several areas, including a redesigned rock-solid rotating mechanism for the V44S, allowing the user to precisely set the angle of the two capsules and widening the available rotation range to 120º. Even the fit and finish of the final product has been improved, so not only are they world-class performers, but they look good while they're doing it!
FEATURES
CAPSULE & ELECTRONICS
- Twin custom-voiced, edge-terminated 34mm dual-capsule assembly with 3µm gold-sputtered Mylar diaphragms
- 3 independently selectable polar patterns per capsule
- Electronically-balanced solid-state circuitry using audiophile-grade parts, sourced from USA, Germany, Japan, France, and more
- Deep-cycle cryogenic treatment of critical signal & power path components
- 120º rotatable top capsule with 15º detents
- Versatile splitter box for mobile & live recording conditions
- Ultra-low-noise JFET design
- US-made low-noise audiophile-grade resistors
CONSTRUCTION
- Heavy-duty brass, aluminum, steel, and zinc construction
- Robust punched-steel capsule rotation mechanism
- Open-weave headbasket for low internal reflections and “open-air” voicing
- Each V44S comes with its own laser-engraved serial number
- Over-spec componentry
- Deep-gloss Pinot Noir finish
- Polished nickel trim
- Precision-cast Vanguard badge
- Neutrik interconnects throughout
- Final Assembly & 100% Quality Control in California, USA
- 5-Year Warranty
QUALITY
The V44S was designed in the USA, and undergoes final assembly in sunny Southern California. Vanguard performs 100% quality control - every single piece of your microphone kit undergoes a series of stringent audio and visual tests before being hand-packed.
Every part of the V44S was designed to be robust and reliable. Wherever possible, components were over-specced. The deep-cycle cryogenic treatment improves the lifespan and performance of critical electronic components. Stainless steel, aluminum, and zinc are part of the heavy-duty construction. Every Vanguard microphone is backed by their five-year warranty.
DESIGN
Vanguard started with twin extra-large 34mm edge-terminated, gold-sputtered 3µm Mylar dual-capsule assemblies and custom-voiced them with a proprietary hand-tuning process, placing each capsule in an open-weave headbasket for a natural sound with low internal reflections. New for the gen2, the top headbasket now rotates up to 120 degrees, with detents every 15 degrees for repeatability of settings.
Vanguard then designed a transformerless solid-state circuit that matches the unique musical properties of their capsules and loaded it with premium-grade, over-spec components cryogenically treated critical components in the signal & power paths, including an ultra-high-grade FET. In the entire Vanguard lineup of gen2 microphones, US-made low-noise audiophile-grade resistors are used, taking the noise floor of the V44S from a very quiet gen1 to a nearly undetectable gen2.
Aesthetically, the precision-machined stainless steel body is coated with Vanguard's signature Pinot Noir, finished with a deep, lustrous gloss, and accented by polished nickel trim and a precision-cast Vanguard badge. The serial number is laser-engraved on the lower rear of the microphone.
PERFORMANCE
Vanguard designed the V44S with the character of classic stereo microphones in mind, while also utilizing modern technology & design to meet the demands of today's recording professionals. Both custom-voiced capsules are independently switchable between cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8 pickup patterns, enabling X/Y, Mid-Side, and Blumlein stereo mic’ing within one microphone, as well as less conventional stereo techniques. The heavy-duty, punched-steel rotation mechanism (which detents every 15 degrees) was designed for reliable, durable operation.
The included splitter box contains an additional phase-reversed top capsule output, which is perfect for less-than-ideal recording conditions such as concert taping. This allows mid-side recording with no additional mixer patching.
SPECS
- Transducer Type: Condenser
- Capsule Size: 1.34″ / 34mm (dual-capsule)
- Diaphragm Size: 1.04″ / 26.4mm
- Capsule Diaphragms Thickness: 3µm
- Electronics Type: Solid-state, electronically-balanced output
- Output Impedance: 200Ω
- Max SPL: appx. 135dB (145dB w/ Pad)
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20000Hz
- Equivalent Noise Level: ≤14dBA (A-weighted)
- S/N Ratio: ≥80dB (Ref. 1Pa A-weighted)
- Output Connector: Neutrik Male XLR 5-pin, gold-plated
- Finish: Polished nickel trim / High-gloss Pinot Noir
- Weight (microphone): 1.5 lbs / 0.68kg
- Weight (in case): 9.625 lbs / 4.37kg
- Dimensions (microphone): 10.63″ long, 2.05″ max diameter / 270mm long, 52mm max diameter
- Dimensions (case): 16.92″L x 12.60″W x 6.02″H / 430mmL x 320mmW x 153mm
- Voltage Requirement: Phantom Power (+48V ideal)
INCLUDED ACCESSORIES
- VLSM Large Shockmount
- V44S Splitter Box
- 5-Pin Heavy-Duty Microphone Cable
- Padded Pinewood Microphone Storage Box
- Locking Aluminum Carrying Case
When not in use, your V44S should be stored in its padded pinewood box.
The aluminum combo-lock carrying case keeps your V44S microphone, pinewood box, cable, and splitter box in one place.
SKU: VAN-V44S