Vanguard Audio Labs V1S gen2 Pencil Kit
Description
Description
The long-awaited 2nd-generation Vanguard V1S is a matched pair of multi-capsule FET pencil condenser microphones. Eight matched custom small-diaphragm capsules in 4 pickup patterns " Cardioid, Hypercardioid, Wide Cardioid, and Omnidirectional " allow for a cornucopia of tonal variations for virtually any sound source. We've upgraded the electronics with a high-end dual-monolithic parallel JFET and US-made audiophile resistors for an even better signal-to-noise ratio, and changed the color to a smooth cosmos black for use in stage & video environments. With premium cryogenically-treated FET componentry, American-made audiophile-grade resistors, an unparalleled selection of capsules, and a true heavy-duty VSSM shockmount, the V1S will be your new "go-to" set of small-diaphragm condenser microphones, whether you're in the studio or the field.
Quality The V1S was designed in the USA, and undergoes final assembly in sunny Southern California. We perform 100% quality control " every single part of your V1S kit undergoes a series of stringent audio and visual tests here in Southern California before being hand-packed. We precision-bias each high-grade JFET by hand.
Every part of the V1S was designed to be robust and reliable. Wherever possible, the circuitry is over-spec'ed. Deep-cycle cryogenic treatment improves the lifespan and performance of critical electronic components. Brass, steel, and zinc are part of the heavy-duty construction.
Design The VANGUARD V1S gen2 is very different from other microphones in its price range. It is designed and precision-built in limited quantities to "no-compromise" standards, with hand assembly and 100% testing taking place here in Southern California. We spent more than three years designing, developing and refining the V1S.
Our small-diaphragm capsules begin with a 16mm 4µm gold-sputtered Mylar diaphragm, carefully positioned in front of a precision-machined, custom-voiced backplate. We engineered the housing to bring the diaphragm as close as possible to the front of the capsule housing, preventing comb filtering.
The capsule is coupled to a transformer-balanced solid-state circuit that matches the unique musical properties of our capsules and is loaded with premium-grade, over-spec components sourced from manufacturers all over the world. We cryogenically treat critical components in the signal & power paths, including an ultra-high-grade hand-biased dual-monolithic FET.
In our entire lineup of gen2 microphones, we chose to use US-made, low-noise audiophile-grade resistors. This takes the noise floor of the V1 from a very quiet gen1 to a nearly undetectable gen2.
The circuit is designed with an "In = Out" philosophy, with only four components present in the signal path.
Aesthetically, we made a collective decision to go "all-black" for the V1 gen2. With its was a common customer request for use in video and live applications without being a visual distraction. We chose a non-reflective matte finish to make the V1 gen2 as stealthy as possible. We still integrate our signature precision-cast Vanguard badge. Each microphone's serial number is laser-engraved on the lower rear of the microphone.
The V1S was designed by a team of experts with more than 65 years of experience and vetted by award-winning engineers and producers.
Features
Features
Specifications
Specifications