The Latest from Vanguard Audio Labs – 7 February 2025 (Year of the Snake Edition)

Exploring the Vanguard Variable-Voltage V14 Tube Mic with MillSounds

At Vanguard Audio Labs, we’re always excited to see our microphones put to the test in real-world recording scenarios. This time, Matt Anderson of MillSounds Studio takes our Vanguard V14 through its paces, demonstrating its incredible versatility and unique variable-voltage design.

See the V14 in Action

Want to hear the Vanguard V14 in action? Check out Matt Anderson’s demo, where he seamlessly blends two guitars and vocals to create an impressive short tune—all while tweaking the V14’s voltage and voicing settings.

Whether you’re a seasoned engineer or a home studio enthusiast, the Vanguard V14 offers unparalleled sonic flexibility. Ready to explore a microphone that adapts to your creativity? The V14 is here to redefine your recordings.

👇 Learn more about the Vanguard V14 and experience its recording versatility today!

Recording Versatility with the Vanguard V14

Matt Anderson, an experienced audio engineer and owner of MillSounds Studio in Mountain View, Arkansas, showcases just how easy it is to dial in different tones with the Vanguard V14 Tube Microphone. In his latest session, he quickly adjusts the V14’s variable-voltage settings, highlighting how seamlessly this microphone adapts to different vocal and guitar recordings.

With 3 voicing switches, 9 tube voltage settings, and 9 polar patterns, the V14 offers an astounding 243 tonal combinations. This means artists and engineers can effortlessly tailor the mic’s response to match their sound and creative vision. Whether you need smooth warmth for vocals, crisp clarity for acoustic guitars, or rich depth for electric tones, the V14 delivers.

Why the Vanguard V14 Stands Out

The Vanguard V14 Tube Mic isn’t just another high-end studio microphone—it’s a game-changer for professionals seeking ultimate control over their sound. Here’s why:

✅ Unmatched Flexibility – With 243 tonal variations, this mic adapts to virtually any source.
✅ Vintage Warmth Meets Modern Precision – Classic tube warmth with the clarity and accuracy today’s recordings demand.
✅ A True Studio Workhorse – From vocals and guitars to drums and strings, the V14 excels in any setting.

Matt Anderson has been a longtime supporter of Vanguard Audio Labs, and we’re grateful for his expert insights into what makes the V14 a must-have for recording studios.

Vanguard Audio Shout-Out to FOH Mixer Robbie Barr (Foster the People, Chappell Roan, Childish Gambino)

Robbie Barr is bona-fide master at his craft. He approaches it like it’s a craft, with all the nuances of working in the studio. That’s a great trend we’ve seen as more and more FOH mixers are looking at the V44S stereo FET condenser mic as a drum overhead solution. With everyone on in-ears, and tight-dispersion line-array systems in the house, it’s a great time be a live mixer who loves nuance, and Robbie is one.

After spending most of last year on the road with Chappell Roan, Barr is out this year with California indie-band, Foster the People. We were invited to catch the show in Oakland at the fabulous Fox Theater.

Foster the People’s Aaron Steele’s kit, with the floating V44S!

Vanguard Audio Labs appreciate Robbie taking the V44S along for the ride. He said it has really improved and tightened up the drum sound substantially, especially in the low-end and kick. Foster’s sound on this tour is giant, and danceable, and having the tight bottom a stereo pair of capsules in the same phase-plane affords really adds to the wallop.

We dig Robbie because he’s an old-school craftsperson in a digital, in-the-box, world. He approaches it with a subtle touch and gets a great sound. Like this!