Vanguard Audio Labs V1+LOLLI Gen2 Pencil Condenser Kit

The Vanguard Audio Labs V1+LOLLI Gen2 Pencil Condenser Kit pairs the second-generation V1 award-nominated multi-capsule small-diaphragm condenser microphone with the V34C Gen2 “LOLLI” interchangeable large-diaphragm capsule head, building a versatile, multi-format recording tool from a single compact body. The V1 gen2 is engineered around a dual-monolithic parallel JFET front end, a custom-wound humbucking dual-bobbin transformer-balanced output, US-made audiophile-grade low-noise resistors, and deep-cycle cryogenically treated critical components — all assembled and 100% quality-tested by hand in Hatfield, Pennsylvania. Four interchangeable 22mm capsules — cardioid, hypercardioid, wide cardioid, and omnidirectional — give the system a complete set of pickup patterns for acoustic instruments, drum overheads, guitar and piano recording, and spot-miking applications. Designed in the USA by a team with more than 65 years of combined experience and backed by a five-year warranty, the V1+LOLLI Gen2 kit delivers small-diaphragm and large-diaphragm multi-pattern capability in a single package for engineers, producers, and studio owners who demand genuine versatility from a compact condenser system.

Key Features

• Dual-monolithic parallel JFET front end — gen2 upgrade — the gen2 V1 replaces the gen1 front end with a dual-monolithic parallel JFET design for reduced noise and higher resolution; each JFET is hand-biased at the Hatfield, Pennsylvania facility for optimal performance; cryogenically treated as part of the critical signal path component set; the circuit follows an “In = Out” philosophy with only four components between capsule and output, including a custom-wound humbucking dual-bobbin transformer for balanced output and noise rejection
• Four interchangeable 22mm small-diaphragm capsules — one per pattern — one each of cardioid, hypercardioid, wide cardioid, and omnidirectional; 16mm 4µm gold-sputtered Mylar diaphragm per capsule; precision-machined, custom-voiced backplates; capsule housing engineered to position the diaphragm as close to the front as possible to prevent comb filtering; swappable without tools for fast pattern changes across setups and sources
• Transformer-balanced output — custom-wound humbucking dual-bobbin transformer — wound specifically for the V1 capsule system to match the musical and electrical properties of the capsule set; humbucking dual-bobbin construction rejects common-mode noise and interference; transformer-balanced output handles long cable runs with high noise rejection
• Deep-cycle cryogenic treatment throughout the signal and power paths — critical electronic components including the JFET, transformer, capacitors, and resistors undergo deep-cycle cryogenic treatment to improve electronic stability, reduce noise contribution, and extend long-term operational reliability
• US-made audiophile-grade low-noise resistors — used throughout the gen2 lineup; precision-selected for the noise floor and signal-to-noise requirements of the gen2 circuit; a direct contributor to the improved performance over the gen1 design
• V34C Gen2 “LOLLI” interchangeable large-diaphragm capsule head included — the same V34C Gen2 LOLLI capsule head sold separately; compatible with the V1 via M21x0.5 threading, converting the pencil condenser body into a switchable-pattern large-diaphragm recording tool; 34mm edge-terminated, 3µm gold-sputtered Mylar dual-capsule assembly — the same proprietary capsule used in the Vanguard V44S and V13 microphones; switchable between cardioid and omnidirectional via top-mounted switch
• VSSM shockmount — heavy-duty diecast zinc and high-impact ABS construction; aerospace-grade suspension rings for effective mechanical vibration and rumble isolation; windowed design allows access to mic switches without repositioning the microphone on the stand
• Matte black finish — stealthy in video and live environments — non-reflective cosmos black matte finish chosen to minimize visual distraction in video recording and live performance contexts; precision-cast Vanguard Audio Labs badge; each microphone carries its own unique serial number laser-engraved on the lower rear; heavy-duty brass, aircraft-grade aluminum, steel, and zinc construction throughout
• Pinewood storage case with custom-cut foam — houses the V1 gen2 microphone, all four capsules, the LOLLI capsule head, and included accessories; individual capsule pockets carved into a solid pine block; custom-cut foam padding for secure storage and transport
• Designed in the USA — assembled and QC’d in Hatfield, Pennsylvania — every V1 gen2 kit undergoes stringent audio and visual testing before hand-packing; designed by a team with more than 65 years of combined experience, vetted by award-winning recording engineers and producers; five-year warranty

Specifications

• Note: Specifications below apply to the V1 gen2 microphone. V34C Gen2 LOLLI capsule head specifications are listed on the LOLLI product page.
• Transducer Type: Condenser
• Capsule Housing Size: 0.87″ / 22mm
• Diaphragm Size: 0.63″ / 16mm
• Diaphragm Thickness: 4µm gold-sputtered Mylar
• Electronics Type: Solid-state; transformer-balanced output
• Output Impedance: 200Ω
• Max SPL: ≥136 dB (0.5% THD @ 1kHz)
• Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz
• Equivalent Noise Level: ≤13 dB(A)
• S/N Ratio: ≥91 dB (Ref. 1Pa, A-weighted)
• Sensitivity: –39 dB @ 1Pa
• Output Connector: XLR 3-pin male; gold-plated
• High-Pass Filter: None
• Pad: None
• Phantom Power: 48V
• Finish: Matte Black
• Weight (microphone): 4.79 oz (136 g)
• Weight (in case): 2.5 lbs (1.13 kg)
• Dimensions (microphone): 5.59″ L × 0.87″ Ø (142mm L × 22mm Ø)
• Dimensions (case): 11.53″ L × 7.67″ W × 3.74″ H (293mm × 195mm × 95mm)
• Assembly: Designed USA; assembled and 100% QC in Hatfield, Pennsylvania
• Warranty: 5 years
• Included: 1× V1 gen2 microphone; 4× 22mm capsules (cardioid, hypercardioid, omnidirectional, wide cardioid); 1× VSSM shockmount; V34C Gen2 LOLLI capsule head; pinewood storage case