SAMAR Audio Design VL373 – Passive Stereo Figure-8 Ribbon Microphone
OVERVIEW
The SAMAR Audio Design VL373 is a handcrafted passive stereo ribbon microphone designed to capture recordings with exceptional realism, depth and precise stereo imaging. Based on the acclaimed VL37 and flagship MF65 ribbon microphone platform, the VL373 combines two perfectly matched ribbon motors within a single chassis, positioning them in extremely close proximity to minimise phase distortion while producing an incredibly natural stereo soundstage. The result is a professional stereo ribbon microphone capable of faithfully reproducing everything from intimate acoustic performances to large orchestral ensembles.
One of the VL373’s most distinctive features is its innovative adjustable swivel mechanism, allowing the stereo angle to be continuously varied from 60° to 120°. This unique design provides remarkable flexibility for Blumlein, Mid-Side and XY recording techniques, making it easy to optimise stereo width for everything from full orchestras and choirs to piano, drum overheads, room microphones and solo instruments. Custom in-house amorphous-core toroidal transformers, precision-tuned low-mass ribbon elements and proprietary ribbon corrugation technology combine to deliver exceptionally low distortion, ruler-flat low-frequency response, extended high-frequency detail and outstanding transient accuracy.
Handcrafted and meticulously assembled in the USA, the VL373 features a durable stainless steel body, integrated pop filter and high SPL capability suitable for demanding studio and live recording environments. Supplied with a premium wooden storage box and anti-vibration shockproof microphone clip, the VL373 provides uncompromising ribbon microphone performance for engineers, producers and musicians seeking true-to-life stereo recordings.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
True Stereo Ribbon Design
The VL373 incorporates two closely matched ribbon motors within a single microphone body, providing exceptionally accurate stereo imaging with outstanding phase coherence across the frequency spectrum.
Adjustable Stereo Swivel Mechanism
An innovative swivel system allows the stereo angle to be adjusted between 60° and 120°, providing outstanding flexibility for orchestras, choirs, drum overheads, room microphones and stereo instrument recording.
Designed for Professional Stereo Techniques
Perfectly suited to Blumlein, Mid-Side and XY recording, the VL373 captures natural stereo width, depth and localisation for critical recording applications.
Flagship Ribbon Technology
Built using the same motor design, premium components and engineering philosophy as the acclaimed MF65 and VL37, the VL373 delivers uncompromising ribbon microphone performance.
Custom Amorphous-Core Toroidal Transformers
Custom in-house transformers ensure exceptionally low distortion, low noise and transparent signal transfer while preserving the natural character of the ribbon elements.
Handcrafted Professional Quality
Every VL373 is handcrafted and meticulously assembled in the USA using precision-manufactured components for outstanding reliability and long-term performance.
FEATURES
- Passive stereo ribbon microphone with dual matched figure-8 ribbon motors.
- True stereo design positions both ribbon motors in extremely close proximity for exceptional phase accuracy.
- Innovative adjustable swivel mechanism allows stereo angles from 60° to 120°.
- Ideal for Blumlein, Mid-Side (M-S) and XY stereo recording techniques.
- Low-mass ribbon elements deliver excellent transient response and natural detail.
- Balanced ruler-flat frequency response extending down to 20Hz (-0.43dB).
- Extended high-frequency response beyond 25kHz.
- Custom in-house amorphous-core toroidal transformers provide transparent, low-noise signal transfer.
- Sophisticated ribbon motor design features one of the shortest front-to-back ribbon paths available.
- Proprietary ribbon corrugation process improves ribbon consistency and durability without requiring special handling.
- High SPL handling suitable for demanding recording sources.
- Integrated pop filter protects the ribbon during close-miking applications.
- Stainless steel body for professional durability.
- Suitable for orchestras, choirs, piano, vocals, guitars, brass, drum overheads, room microphones and broadcast applications.
- Handcrafted in the USA.
- Supplied with US-made wooden storage box and anti-vibration shockproof microphone clip.
- 5-year parts warranty and 2-year ribbon replacement warranty.
- 15-day satisfaction guarantee.
TECHNICAL SPECS
General
Type: Passive stereo ribbon microphone
Polar Pattern: Dual Figure-8 (Bidirectional)
Stereo Configuration: Adjustable stereo ribbon design
Stereo Angle Adjustment: 60°–120°
Applications:
- Professional stereo recording
- Studio recording
- Broadcasting
- Orchestral recording
- Live performance
Manufacture: Handcrafted in the USA
Ribbon System
Ribbon Type: Dual low-mass ribbon elements
Motor Design: Matched dual ribbon motors positioned in extremely close proximity
Ribbon Design Advantages:
- Proprietary corrugation process
- Fine-tuned ribbon adjustment
- Excellent transient response
- High SPL capability
- Outstanding phase coherence
Performance
Frequency Response Characteristics:
- Ruler-flat response to 20Hz (-0.43dB)
- Extended response beyond 25kHz
- Low distortion
- Low noise
- Natural stereo imaging
- Wide dynamic range
Stereo Performance:
- Extremely low phase distortion
- Precise stereo localisation
- Excellent mono compatibility
- Adjustable stereo width
Transformer
Type: Custom in-house-made amorphous-core toroidal transformers
Design Heritage: Derived from SAMAR Audio Design flagship ribbon microphone transformer technology
Features:
- Low distortion
- Low noise
- Transparent signal path
- Neutral sonic character
Physical
Construction: Stainless steel
Pop Filter: Integrated
Included Accessories:
- US-made wooden storage box
- Anti-vibration shockproof microphone clip
Country of Origin: USA
Recommended Applications
- Orchestra
- Choir
- Piano
- Vocals
- Violin
- Brass instruments
- Acoustic guitar
- Electric guitar
- Drum overheads
- Room microphones
- Broadcast
- Classical music recording
- Blumlein recording
- Mid-Side (M-S) recording
- XY stereo recording
Warranty
Manufacturer’s Warranty:
- Parts — 5 Years
- Ribbon Replacement — 2 Years
Satisfaction Guarantee: 15 Days






