DESIGN
The VANGUARD V13 is very different from other mics in its price range. It is designed and
precision built in limited quantities to “no-compromise” standards.
We started with a 34mm edge-terminated, gold-sputtered Mylar 3
µ
m dual-capsule assembly
and custom-voiced it with a proprietary hand-tuning process, placing it in an open-weave
headbasket for a natural sound with low internal reflections. We then designed a circuit that
compliments the unique musical properties of our capsules, loading it with premium-grade, low-
tolerance, ultra-reliable
components sourced from highly-respected manufacturers around the
world. We cryogenically treated critical components in the signal path, including a hand-
selected European vacuum tube. We placed the low-frequency roll-off and -10dB pad toggle
switches on the rear of the microphone, where they are easily accessible to the engineer. We
topped off the electronics with an ultra-linear, fully shielded, custom-wound, dual-bobbin/
humbucking transformer for the output stage to drive long cable runs.
Aesthetically, the precision-machined brass body is coated with our signature Pinot Noir finish
with a deep, lustrous gloss. We accented the color with polished nickel trim and a precision-cast
Vanguard badge. Machined into the rear of the microphone is a cooling vent to prolong
component life. Your V13’s serial number is laser-engraved on the lower rear of the microphone.
The V13 was designed by a team of experts with more than 65 years of experience and vetted
by world-famous engineers and producers.
QUALITY
The V13 was designed in the USA, and undergoes final assembly in sunny Southern California. We
perform 100% quality control - every single microphone undergoes a series of stringent audio
and visual tests here in Southern California before being hand-packed.
Every part of the V13 was designed to be robust and reliable. Wherever possible, over-specced
components were utilized. The deep-cycle cryogenic treatment improves the lifespan,
efficiency, and performance of critical electronic components. Brass, steel, aluminum, and zinc
are part of the heavy-duty construction. Every Vanguard microphone is confidently backed by
our FIVE-YEAR WARRANTY.
ACCESSORIES
When you buy a V13, you also get a VLSM Heavy-Duty Shockmount. We wanted to rethink the
standard “spider-style” shockmount of old, and designed the VLSM with a few nifty features. First
is the open front, which allows you to position the microphone as close to the source as
necessary. Second, we install aerospace-grade suspension rings that won’t break, sag, crack, or
stretch over time.
The V13 also comes with the PS-13 power supply, which allows you to select any of 9 available
polar patterns on your microphone. We encourage you to experiment with the different polar
patterns, as each one changes the character and frequency response of the microphone. The
PS-13 can operate from 110-240V.
©2015 Vanguard Audio Labs, LLC. All rights reserved.
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