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sE Electronics Voodoo VR1 Passive Ribbon Microphone (Black)

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sE Electronics Voodoo VR1 Passive Ribbon Microphone (Black)
Key Features
  • Hand-Tensioned Aluminum Ribbon
  • Figure-8 Polar Pattern
  • Passive Design
  • Classic Ribbon Sound with Extended Highs
Presented in a black finish, the sE Electronics VR1 Passive Ribbon Microphone features a hand-tensioned aluminum ribbon and passive electronics that are designed to protect the ribbon element from phantom power. It is tuned to deliver the classic sonic characteristics of ribbon mics along with the extended high-frequency traits normally associated with condenser microphones. Since it can handle high SPLs, it can be used on loud sources such as drums and guitar cabs as well as acoustic instruments.
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sE Electronics VR1 Overview

Presented in a black finish, the sE Electronics VR1 Passive Ribbon Microphone features a hand-tensioned aluminum ribbon and passive electronics that are designed to protect the ribbon element from phantom power. It is tuned to deliver the classic sonic characteristics of ribbon mics along with the extended high-frequency traits normally associated with condenser microphones. Since it can handle high SPLs, it can be used on loud sources such as drums and guitar cabs as well as acoustic instruments.

Like most ribbons, the VR1 has a traditional figure-8 polar pattern, so it will pick up some ambient sound behind the mic. Equipped with a balanced XLR 3-pin output, the VR1 can be connected to your audio interface, mixer, or external mic preamp; one with robust gain is recommended for optimal performance. The supplied shockmount reduces vibration and stand-borne noise while providing added visual flair. A wooden case is included for safe storage between sessions.

Voodoo Series
Whereas many ribbon microphones have a dark, muted high-frequency response, the Voodoo VR1 utilizes a clever mechanical device to achieve nearly full-range frequency response that extends well beyond that of most other ribbon microphones, approaching nearly 20 kHz. This provides an extended level of top-end detail, so the result includes not only the distinctly natural lows 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 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.
VR1 vs VR2
The VR1 is a passive ribbon, so it does not require phantom power. However, 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, or quieter sources when paired with a clean, high-gain preamp.

The VR2 is an active ribbon and requires +48V phantom power for operation. With higher sensitivity than the VR1, it is ideally suited for applications including acoustic instruments, piano, and vocals as well as the same sources as the VR1 (guitars, drums, brass).
Widely Used
Voodoo ribbon mics are used by these artists and many more 

  • Queens of the Stone Age
  • Billy Gibbons
  • August Greene
  • My Morning Jacket
  • Pete Thorn
  • Steve Stevens
  • John Browne
  • Neil Cappellino
  • Linkin Park
  • Band of Horses
  • Taking Back Sunday
  • Paramore
  • Black Sabbath
  • David Hodges
UPC: 850426001736

sE Electronics VR1 Specs

Key Specs
Microphone Type
Ribbon
Polar Pattern
Figure-8
Element Type
Ribbon
Controls
No
Frequency Response
20 Hz to 18 kHz
Maximum SPL
135 dB (1 kHz, .5% THD)
Analog Output
1x XLR 3-Pin Male
Power Sources
No Power Required
Microphone
Microphone Type
Ribbon
Polar Pattern
Figure-8
Element Type
Ribbon
Sound Field
Mono
Orientation
Side Address
Controls
No
Pad
No
Performance
Frequency Response
20 Hz to 18 kHz
Maximum SPL
135 dB (1 kHz, .5% THD)
Sensitivity
-55 dB
Equivalent Noise Level
19 dB (A-Weighted)
Connectivity
Analog Output Connector
1x XLR 3-Pin Male
Power
Power Sources
No Power Required
Physical
Color
Black
Mounting Thread Size
5/8"-27 Female (3/8"-16 Female with Included Adapter)
Dimensions
H: 5 x W: 0.77 x L: 1.3" / H: 12.7 x W: 1.96 x L: 3.3 cm
Weight
8.11 oz / 230 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight
2.2 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
13.9 x 5 x 3.8"

sE Electronics VR1 Reviews

See any errors on this page?

My Voodoo VR1 mics are suspended horizontally ...

My Voodoo VR1 mics are suspended horizontally over the drumkit. Can I leave them this way or will the ribbon sag over over time?
Asked by: johnny
You would ideally want to store ribbon mics vertically. For the length of a session it shouldn't be a problem, but I would recommend that you avoid leaving them in place for longer than necessary.
Answered by: Calvin M
Date published: 2023-05-11

?? thickness of ribbon??

?? thickness of ribbon??
Asked by: Luis
sE uses 2.5 micron aluminum for the ribbon in the VR1 and VR2 microphones.
Answered by: John
Date published: 2022-10-05
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