SAMAR Audio Design VL37A – Active Figure-8 Ribbon Microphone

OVERVIEW

The SAMAR Audio Design VL37A builds upon the acclaimed performance of the VL37 by incorporating an active electronics stage that delivers significantly lower noise, higher output and improved compatibility with virtually any professional microphone preamp. Designed for engineers who demand uncompromising audio quality, the VL37A provides the unmistakable warmth and realism of a premium ribbon microphone while offering the convenience and output level typically associated with condenser microphones.

Based on the same sophisticated ribbon motor architecture found in SAMAR’s flagship MF65, the VL37A features a precision-tuned low-mass ribbon element, proprietary corrugation process and custom in-house amorphous-core toroidal transformer. Together with its active circuitry, these components deliver exceptionally low distortion, ruler-flat low-frequency response, extended high-frequency detail beyond 25kHz and a remarkably transparent sound. The active design also presents an optimised load to the ribbon element and ideal impedance matching, reducing dependence on microphone preamp quality and cable selection while preserving every nuance of the performance.

Handcrafted and meticulously assembled in the USA, the VL37A is equally at home in professional recording studios, broadcast facilities, film production, orchestral recording and live performance. Its symmetrical figure-8 polar pattern, high SPL handling and naturally balanced tonal character make it an outstanding choice for vocals, choirs, piano, strings, brass, guitars, drum overheads, room microphones and numerous other critical recording applications.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Active Ribbon Design with Condenser-Like Output

The VL37A combines premium ribbon microphone performance with active electronics, delivering higher output levels and easier integration with virtually any microphone preamp.

Exceptionally Low Noise Performance

Active circuitry reduces the microphone’s noise floor by approximately 4–5dB compared to the already quiet VL37, making it ideal for classical music, broadcast and critical studio recording.

Vintage Ribbon Character with Modern Clarity

The VL37A preserves the smooth warmth and natural transients of traditional ribbon microphones while offering the extended frequency response and detail demanded by today’s high-resolution recording environments.

Advanced Ribbon Motor Technology

Its sophisticated motor structure features one of the shortest front-to-back ribbon paths available, contributing to exceptional transient response, consistency and sonic accuracy.

Custom Amorphous-Core Toroidal Transformer

An in-house designed transformer ensures extremely low distortion, excellent transparency and faithful signal transfer throughout the audio chain.

Handcrafted Professional Quality

Every VL37A is handcrafted in the USA using premium materials and precision manufacturing techniques for long-term reliability and consistent performance.

FEATURES

• Premium active ribbon microphone with integrated low-noise electronics.
• Condenser-like output level provides excellent compatibility with a wide range of microphone preamps and audio interfaces.
• Approximately 4–5dB lower self-noise than the passive VL37 model.
• Figure-8 (bidirectional) polar pattern ideal for stereo recording techniques and natural room capture.
• Low-mass ribbon element delivers excellent transient response and musical detail.
• Balanced ruler-flat frequency response extending down to 20Hz (-0.43dB).
• Extended high-frequency response beyond 25kHz for exceptional openness and detail.
• Custom in-house amorphous-core toroidal transformer provides low distortion and transparent audio performance.
• Sophisticated ribbon motor with an ultra-short front-to-back ribbon path for improved accuracy.
• Proprietary ribbon corrugation process enhances ribbon integrity without requiring special handling.
• Optimised ribbon loading and impedance matching reduce dependence on microphone preamp characteristics.
• High SPL handling suitable for demanding recording applications.
• Stainless steel body for durability and professional use.
• Suitable for studio recording, broadcast, film production, orchestral recording and live performance.
• Handcrafted in the USA with meticulous quality control.
• Supplied with a 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: Active ribbon microphone

Polar Pattern: Figure-8 (bidirectional)

Power Requirement: 48V Phantom Power

Applications:

• Studio recording
• Broadcasting
• Film production
• Orchestral recording
  
• Classical music
• Live performance

Manufacture: Handcrafted in the USA

Ribbon System

Ribbon Type: Low-mass ribbon element with proprietary corrugation process

Ribbon Dimensions: 2″ × 0.250″ × 1.5µm

Ribbon Design Advantages:

• Precision-tuned ribbon assembly
• Improved ribbon integrity
• Excellent transient response
• High SPL handling
• Smooth natural frequency response

Performance

Frequency Response: 20Hz-25KHz (and beyond):

• Ruler-flat response to 20Hz (-0.43dB)
• Extended high-frequency response beyond 25kHz

Sensitivity: 8.4mV/Pa

Frequency Characteristics:

• Extremely low noise
• Low distortion
• Natural tonal balance

Output Impedance: 65 Ohms

Noise Performance: Approximately 4–5dB lower noise than the passive VL37.

Electronics

Circuit Type: Active ribbon microphone electronics

Power: 48V Phantom Power

Design Benefits:

• Higher output level
• Condenser-like sensitivity
• Optimised ribbon loading
• Reduced dependence on microphone preamp gain
• Improved impedance matching
• Lower cable sensitivity

Transformer

Type: Custom in-house-made amorphous-core toroidal transformer

Design Heritage: Derived from SAMAR Audio Design flagship ribbon microphone transformer technology

Features:

• Low distortion
• Low noise
• Transparent signal path
• Excellent frequency response
• Natural ribbon character

Physical

Dimensions:

• Diameter/Width — 33.02mm (1.3″)
• Height/Length — 163.06mm (6.42″)

Weight: 230g (8.2oz)

Construction: Stainless steel

Included Accessories:

• US-made wooden storage box
• Anti-vibration shockproof microphone clip

Country of Origin: USA

Recommended Applications

• Vocals
• Voice-over
• Choir
• Piano
• Violin and strings
• Brass instruments
• Acoustic guitar
• Electric guitar
• Drum overheads
• Speaker cabinets
• Room microphones
• Orchestra
• Broadcast production
• Film production
• Classical music recording

Warranty

Manufacturer’s Warranty:

• Parts — 5 Years
• Ribbon Replacement — 2 Years

Satisfaction Guarantee: 15 Days