sE Electronics VR2 – Active Ribbon Microphone with Extended Range
The VR2 is an active ribbon mic designed to merge the warm, natural tone of classic ribbons with the sensitivity and noise performance more typical of condensers. It requires +48 V phantom power and offers extended frequency response, durability under high SPLs, and versatile use across instruments and vocals.
Key Features
- Active ribbon design: Built-in preamp allows higher output and better signal-to-noise than passive ribbons
- Figure-8 polar pattern: Captures sound from front and rear—excellent for ambient and stereo work
- High SPL capability: Performs reliably even with powerful sources like drums, guitar cabinets, and brass
- Extended high-frequency response: Mechanical enhancements preserve top-end detail up to ~20 kHz
- Hand-tensioned aluminum ribbon: Durable construction for consistent performance
- Balanced XLR output: Standard 3-pin output for use with mic preamps, interfaces, and consoles
- Shockmount & wooden case included: Helps reduce vibration noise and protects the mic in transport
Customer Benefits
The VR2 gives you the classic ribbon warmth and smoothness without sacrificing clarity or sensitivity. Because it's active, you don’t have to push your preamp as hard, and you still retain detail in the highs. Its ability to handle loud sources means you can use it in broader scenarios than many other ribbons.
Quick Specs
- Polar pattern: Figure-8
- Requires: +48 V phantom power
- Ribbon type: Hand-tensioned aluminum
- Frequency response: Extended up to ~20 kHz
- High SPL tolerance: Suitable for loud instruments and amplifiers
- Output connector: Balanced XLR 3-pin
- In the box: Shockmount, wooden case
What’s in the Box
- sE Electronics VR2 microphone
- Shockmount
- Wooden storage / transport case
- Documentation / user guide
Use Cases / Ideal For
Ideal for capturing acoustic instruments, guitars, drum overheads, brass, ambient room sound, and vocal textures where blending ribbon softness with extended top end is desired.
Compatibility
Works with standard +48 V phantom-powered mic preamps or interfaces. Must be paired with a clean, low-noise preamp with enough gain headroom to maximize its active output.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Ribbon warmth combined with better high-end clarity
- Active design reduces preamp strain and improves usability
- Handles very loud sources well
- Includes accessories for protection and mounting
⚠️ Cons:
- Figure-8 pattern picks up rear sounds (may require careful placement)
- Requires phantom power (cannot operate passively)
- Sensitive to strong air blasts (use pop shields appropriately)
The sE Electronics VR2 is a versatile, high-fidelity active ribbon mic that bridges classic tone and modern performance—available at Soundium.
