Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $454

Budget/Beginner

$499

$1500+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Samson VR88 is the culmination of years of meticulous design and craftsmanship, delivering a studio-quality ribbon microphone that rivals the revered classics yet remains accessible to the modern musician. With a pure aluminum corrugated foil ribbon nestled in a powerful Neodymium field, this mic captures sound with a warmth and natural clarity that is both silky and robust. Whether you're capturing the nuance of a vocal performance, the intricate tones of acoustic instruments, or the raw power of electric guitars, the VR88's ability to handle high SPLs up to 138dB ensures it won't miss a beat.

Its bi-directional (figure-8) pickup pattern opens new dimensions for creative recording techniques, allowing you to embrace the ambiance of your recording environment or isolate sound sources with precision. Crafted for the discerning audio engineer, the VR88 comes equipped with a lightweight yet durable aluminum case, complete with a yoke mount, spider shockmount, and right-angle XLR cable, making it a reliable companion for both studio and live settings.

For those seeking the lush characteristics of a ribbon mic without breaking the bank, the VR88 stands as a testament to Samson's commitment to quality and affordability. This limited edition piece is not only a tool but a gateway to elevating your sound to professional heights.

Key Features:

  • Hand-crafted, limited production
  • Bi-directional (figure-8) pickup pattern
  • Pure aluminum corrugated foil ribbon
  • Handles high SPLs up to 138 dB
  • Includes yoke mount, spider shockmount, and right-angle XLR cable
  • Comes in a durable, lightweight aluminum case

Product specs

Brand Samson
Model VR88 Bidirectional Velocity Ribbon Mic with Shockmount and Case
Finish Silver
Year 2010s
Categories Microphones

FAQs

What is the primary application of the Samson VR88 ribbon microphone?

The Samson VR88 is designed for studio recording, offering a warm and natural sound ideal for vocals, acoustic instruments, and overhead drum miking.

What is the polar pattern of the Samson VR88 microphone?

The Samson VR88 features a bidirectional (figure-8) polar pattern, which captures sound equally from the front and back while rejecting sound from the sides, making it suitable for stereo recording techniques.

How would you describe the sound signature of the Samson VR88 ribbon microphone?

The Samson VR88 provides a smooth, warm sound with a natural high-frequency roll-off, characteristic of classic ribbon microphones, making it excellent for capturing detailed and nuanced performances.

Does the Samson VR88 come with any accessories?

Yes, the Samson VR88 comes with a shockmount and a protective case, ensuring safe transportation and reduced handling noise during recording sessions.

Is the Samson VR88 suitable for live sound applications?

While primarily designed for studio use, the Samson VR88 can be used in controlled live sound environments where its delicate ribbon element can be protected from excessive air movement and handling.

gearwire

gearwire

Samson VR88 Velocity Ribbon Mic Takes On AKG

Video thumbnail for Samson VR88 Velocity Ribbon Mic Takes On AKG by gearwire

Samson VR88 Velocity Ribbon Mic Takes On AKG

gearwire

gearwire

Video thumbnail for Samson VR88 and CL2 video, Summer NAMM 2006 by gearwire

Samson VR88 and CL2 video, Summer NAMM 2006

gearwire

gearwire

Video thumbnail for Comparing two ribbon mics with classical guitar, part 2/2 by Tuomas Kourula - Guitarist

Comparing two ribbon mics with classical guitar, part 2/2

Tuomas Kourula - Guitarist

Tuomas Kourula - Guitarist

Video thumbnail for SAMSON VR88 Ribbon Microphone Inside look by 3beltwesty

SAMSON VR88 Ribbon Microphone Inside look

3beltwesty

3beltwesty

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Samson VR88.

Features and functionality

  • The Samson VR88 has been noted for its ability to capture a broad frequency range, offering a natural sound with clarity, unlike typical darker ribbons.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The sE VR1/VR2 is frequently compared to the Samson VR88 for their extended high-frequency response, making them more similar to condensers in certain applications.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The VR88 is praised for its versatility, working well on a range of sources from drum overheads to vocals, due to its balanced tonality.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the VR88 handles EQ adjustments well, particularly when boosting high frequencies for added sheen without introducing harshness.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some users mention that the VR88 is solidly built, but there have been minor complaints about the placement of the XLR connector affecting yoke adjustment ease.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dave Lombardo uses Samson VR88

Dave Lombardo

Drummer

Slayer

...
Verified via Samson Technologies

Used by Dave According to his Samson Artist page.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Samson VR88, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Samson C01 Condenser Microphones
1
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Samson MTR201 Condenser Microphones
1
Samson Resolv RXA5
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1
Samson Q Kick
Samson Q Kick Dynamic Microphones
1
Samson Q Snare
Samson Q Snare Dynamic Microphones
1
Samson Q Tom
Samson Q Tom Dynamic Microphones
1
Samson C02H
Samson C02H Condenser Microphones
1

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