SE Electronics VR2: Vintage Warmth with Modern Precision
The sE Electronics VR2 (Voodoo 2) marks a breakthrough in microphone design. While traditional ribbon microphones often exhibit a roll-off in the high frequencies starting at 7–10 kHz, the VR2 remains linear all the way up to 20 kHz. This is achieved through a patented mechanical filter system designed by sE’s CEO, Siwei Zou. You get the silky-smooth, “smoky” sound of a ribbon microphone, but with the clarity of a high-end condenser microphone.
Why Choose an Active Ribbon?
Unlike the passive VR1, the VR2 has internal electronics that provide phantom power (). This offers two major advantages:
High Output: You don’t need extremely expensive “high-gain” preamps to get a clean signal. Even with a standard interface, the VR2 sounds loud and noise-free.
Impedance Matching: The microphone’s sound remains consistent no matter which preamp you connect it to. This makes it extremely reliable in any studio setup.
Applications in the Studio
The Microphone excels in situations where you want to capture reality without the sharpness that condenser microphones sometimes have:
Guitar amplifiers: Captures the impact and texture of a cabinet without the “fizz” in the high frequencies.
Drums: Phenomenal as an overhead or room mic for a natural and wide stereo image.
Strings & Brass: Tames the sharp transients of violins or trumpets while preserving the rich overtones.
Piano: Provides an intimate, classical sound that sounds instantly “off” in the mix.
Built for Eternity
The microphone has a minimalist, slim design and a rugged metal housing. It comes with a deluxe wooden storage box and a sturdy shockmount to eliminate floor vibrations.
Technical Specifications for the sE VR2
Type: Active Ribbon
Ribbon: 2.5 µm aluminum
PolarPattern: Figure-8
Frequency range: 20 Hz – 18 kHz (±3 dB)
Sensitivity: 10 mV/Pa (-40 dB)
Max SPL: 135 dB
Power supply: Phantom power required
