sE Electronics VR1 | LPA special

sE Electronics VR1

The VR ribbon microphones from sE mark a new era for ribbon mic technology

The VR1 is a passive ribbon, so it does not require phantom power – though it is “phantom-protected”, so it will not be damaged by accidental application of phantom power. Given its lower output, it is ideally suited for loud sources such as electric guitars, drum overheads, and brass. A passive ribbon to bring out the bite and edge from your guitar cabs with no muddy highs.

The VR1 and VR2 ribbon microphones mark a new era in ribbon technology. Whereas most ribbon microphones have a dark, muted high-frequency response, the VR1 and VR2 utilize a clever mechanical device to achieve nearly full-range frequency response that extends well beyond that of most other ribbon microphones, approaching nearly 20kHz. This provides an extended level of top-end detail, so the result includes not only the distinctly natural low-end and midrange that most ribbons provide, but also minimal loss in high frequency content. Guitar and brass tones retain their “edge”, cymbals still sound rich and full, and a supremely natural sound is achieved from top to bottom.

Additionally, the VR1 and VR2 can handle very high sound pressure levels and thus can be utilized for applications not normally considered for most ribbon microphones, including loud brass, drums, and electric guitar cabinets, both in the studio and on stage.