Vanguard Audio Labs V24 Tube Stereo Condenser
Vanguard V24 Tube Stereo Condenser Microphone
The Vanguard V24 is a culmination of combined knowledge and experience, designed to be the pinnacle of stereo microphones. This unique microphone is crafted to be a versatile, reliable, professional tool in the spirit of highly sought-after vintage stereo condensers. With a pair of matched coincident BeesNeez CK12 Capsules and nine polar patterns per capsule, the V24 allows for X/Y, Mid-Side, Blumlein, and other unconventional stereo microphone techniques in a single microphone. It is the first and last stereo microphone needed for achieving professional results.
Quality
The V24 is designed and built in the USA, undergoing final assembly in Southern California. The V44S chassis platform is modified, stripped, polished, re-engraved, and finished. Vanguard assembles every unit by hand, performing 100% quality control, with each part of the kit undergoing stringent audio and visual testing before being hand-packed. Each microphone is built from stainless steel, and every component is designed to be robust and reliable, over-spec’d wherever possible. Deep-cycle cryogenic treatment further improves the lifespan and performance of critical electronic components. Vanguard microphones are backed by a five-year warranty.
Design
The V24’s design starts with the capsule. After careful consideration, Vanguard selected a matched set of BeesNeez CK12 capsules. Manufactured using modern automated CNC machining, these Australian-made capsules are the heart of the V24, offering the character of some of the most hallowed vintage microphones. These capsules are set within the “tour-proof” V44S platform, with open-weave headbaskets that minimize internal reflections.
Vanguard also employed dual Cinemag® transformers, emulating the properties of the famed T14 transformer found in vintage Austrian microphones but designed with a larger core for superior low-end response and precision windings. The V24 is constructed from premium-grade, over-spec components sourced globally, and it features a hand-selected cryogenically-treated 6072A tube and US-made low-noise resistors. The polished stainless steel body features a laser-engraved serial number.
Performance
The V24 provides a modern take on vintage stereo microphone performance while meeting the requirements of today’s professionals. It allows X/Y, Mid-Side, and Blumlein stereo mic’ing, with nine polar patterns independently switchable via the power supply. Engineers can select between a “12” or “251” style high-end rolloff for each capsule, expanding the tonal palette of the microphone.
The heavy-duty capsule rotation mechanism provides up to 120° of rotation, detenting every 15° for reliable repeatability. The power supply is designed to deliver clean, consistent power, featuring an additional phase-reversed output for seamless mid-side processing, making the V24 suitable for less-than-ideal recording conditions.
Features
- “12” vs “251” mode – switchable per capsule for varied tonal response
- Nine independently switchable polar patterns per capsule
- “Tank Turret” Top Capsule – 120° rotatable with 15° detents
- 3-output PSU for easy Mid-Side processing with additional phase-reversed top capsule output
- Open-weave headbasket for low internal reflections
Capsule & Electronics
- Twin matched BeesNeez CK12 capsules
- Nine independently selectable polar patterns per capsule
- Twin Cinemag® T14 transformers
- Hand-selected cryo-treated 6072A tube
- Transformer-balanced tube circuitry with audiophile-grade parts sourced globally
- Deep-cycle cryogenic treatment of most components
- Ultra-low-noise design with PRP® audiophile-grade resistors
Construction
- Heavy-duty SUS304 stainless steel construction with locally machined components
- Robust punched-steel capsule rotation mechanism
- Laser-engraved markings for microphone and PSU
- Precision-cast Vanguard badge
- Neutrik® interconnects throughout
- 5-Year Warranty
