SAMAR AUDIO DESIGN VL37A Active Figure-8 Ribbon Microphone

Offering premium sonics, a hot condenser-like output level, and stellar build quality at a cost factor that's within reach of musicians, producers, and independent engineers, the Samar Audio Design VL37A phantom-powered active ribbon microphone delivers the performance of microphones far beyond its price point, especially considering that it is handcrafted and assembled in the USA. Protected by the stainless steel body is the large 2" zigzag-corrugated, low-mass ribbon, which provides ruler-flat frequency response down to 20 Hz while the custom transformers ensure low noise and minimal distortion. The integral pop filter provides convenient and effective reduction of vocal plosives and blasts of air from speaker cabinets. The special ribbon design combined with the active circuitry yields the maximum SPL handling, bass extension, and strong output normally associated with studio condenser microphones.

Amorphous-core toroidal transformers—made in-house and inherited from Samar's flagship MF65 mic—are mated to the ribbon motor, which offers an extremely short front-to-back path. The transformers were selected for the mic due to how their properties complement the tonal signature (classic character with high fidelity) of the VL37A. Thanks to its symmetrical figure-8 polar response, the VL37A is well suited for use in multi-mic configurations such as Mid-Side and Blumlein in addition to performing ideally as a primary mic on instruments and vocals. The VL37A includes an anti-vibration clip to absorb shock and a US-made wooden box for safe storage.