Tape Op Review: Vanguard Audio Labs V4 Microphone

I was first introduced to Vanguard Audio several years ago by an industry veteran who would periodically tell me about "a microphone that was still in development..." and that "...I would not only be blown away by its sound but that the price-point would leave me purchasing more than one." The mic he was telling me about was Vanguard's V13 [Tape Op #119] large-diaphragm valve condenser that hit the market in 2016. He was right. I was indeed blown away at how the V13 sounded. Its smooth top-end was never harsh, and it always retained a richness no matter which polar pattern I used or what source I put it in front of. It was a beautiful piece of gear, and the only reason that I didn't purchase more than one was because I was getting ready to have my first child!

When I heard that Vanguard was making a mono version of their stereo V44S FET condenser mic, I couldn't wait to get my hands on one. The microphone is simply called the V4, and it's aesthetically just as beautiful as their other offerings: the same signature pinot noir-colored brass body, finished with a zinc alloy Vanguard badge.

Read the full review in Tape Op