The second generation Vanguard Audio Labs V44S is a stereo large-diaphragm multi-pattern FET condenser microphone 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.

The VANGUARD V44S is very different from other microphones in its price range. It is designed and precision-built in limited quantities to “no-compromise” standards.
 
Starting with twin extra-large 34mm edge terminated gold-sputtered 3µm Mylar dual capsule assembliesand custom-voicedthem 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.

Designed with a transformerless solid-state circuit that matches the unique musical properties of our capsules and loaded it with premium-grade, over-spec component sourced from manufacturers around the world. Allcritical components in the signal & power paths were cryogenically treated including anultra-high-grade FET. In our entire lineup of gen2.

Aesthetically, the precision-machined stainless steel body is coated with our signature Pinot Noir, finished with a deep, lustrous gloss, and accented by polished nickel trim and a precision-cast Vanguard badge. Your V44S’s serial number is laser-engraved on the lower rear of the microphone.

Performance
The V44S was designed with the character of classic stereo microphones in mind, while also utilizing modern technology & design to meet the demands of today’s recording professionals. The ultra-thin 3µm edge-terminated capsule diaphragms is extraordinarily sensitive, ensuring that every nuance and detail of the performance is faithfully captured.

Both custom-voiced capsules areindependently 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.

One of the biggest frustrations users of stereo microphones have is the flaws of current and past headbasket rotation assemblies. Too often, the current designs are fragile and prone to noisy operation, breakage, and signal loss. The V44S is designed with a heavy-duty, punched-steel rotation mechanism which detents every 15 degreesfor 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.

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 our FIVE-YEAR WARRANTY