Vanguard Audio Labs V14 Variable-Voltage Tube Condenser
Vanguard V14 Variable-Voltage Tube Condenser Microphone
The Vanguard V14 is a versatile, reliable, professional tube condenser microphone inspired by the highly sought-after vintage Austrian-made condensers. The V14 is the single-capsule sibling of Vanguard Audio Labs’ acclaimed V24 Dual-Capsule Stereo Tube mic. Featuring a BeesNeez CK12 capsule, vintage GE 6072A tube, nine polar patterns, and a unique “Variable Voltage” control, the V14 offers a range of tonal colors and exceptional performance.
Quality
The V14 is designed and built in the USA, undergoing final assembly in Southern California. The power supply chassis is locally manufactured, and each microphone is hand-assembled. Vanguard performs 100% quality control, with every piece undergoing stringent audio and visual tests before being hand-packed. Each component is built from stainless steel, over-spec’d where possible, and deep-cycle cryogenically treated to improve lifespan and performance. Every Vanguard microphone is backed by a five-year warranty.
Design
The V14’s design starts with the capsule. Vanguard chose the BeesNeez CK12 capsule, which is handmade in Australia using modern CNC machining. This historically accurate capsule provides the heart of the V14’s sound. The V14 also features a Cinemag® transformer, inspired by the T14 transformer found in vintage Austrian microphones, designed with a larger core to enhance low-end response. The microphone utilizes premium-grade components sourced globally, including a hand-selected vintage GE 6072A tube, with all circuit boards assembled in California.
The precision-machined stainless steel body is hand-polished to a #4 grained finish, with the serial number laser-engraved in Vanguard’s workshop.
Performance
The V14 is equipped with nine polar patterns, independently selectable via the power supply, to deliver versatility in a wide range of recording applications. On the rear of the microphone, a three-way switch provides different voicings:
- Flat: Delivers an untouched signal straight from the tube to the output transformer.
- “251” Rolloff: A switchable capacitor for emulating the top end response of the famous Telefunken model.
- Ribbon: A mode providing a thicker, warmer sound.
The V14 also introduces a unique “Variable Voltage” control on the power supply, allowing users to adjust the tube voltage between 34-105V, effectively modifying harmonic distortion, transient response, frequency response, and output level. This makes the V14 even more versatile, allowing for optimized settings based on specific applications.
Features
- Three switchable voicings: Flat, “251” rolloff, and Ribbon mode
- Nine independently switchable polar patterns
- World’s first Variable Voltage Selector for fine-tuning harmonic distortion levels
- BeesNeez CK12 Capsule, handmade in Australia
- Open-weave headbasket for low internal reflections
Capsule & Electronics
- BeesNeez CK12 historically-accurate capsule
- Nine independently selectable polar patterns via power supply
- Cinemag® T14 transformer
- Hand-selected 6072A tube
- Transformer-balanced tube circuitry with audiophile-grade parts
- Deep-cycle cryogenic treatment of most components
- Ultra-low-noise design using PRP® audiophile-grade precision resistors
Construction
- Heavy-duty SUS304 stainless steel construction with locally machined components
- Laser-cut stainless steel power supply made in Pennsylvania
- Laser-engraved microphone and PSU markings
- Precision-cast Vanguard badge
- Neutrik® interconnects throughout
- Five-year warranty
