Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $485
Budget/Beginner
$499
$1500+
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Budget
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High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 8 merchants for "sE Electronics Voodoo VR2". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Introducing the sE Electronics Voodoo VR2, an active ribbon microphone that signifies a new chapter in ribbon mic technology. Designed for a wide array of applications, it excels in capturing vocals, wind instruments, and acoustic string instruments with remarkable detail and authenticity. The VR2 is a product of sE's innovative approach, boasting a full frequency response achieved through a mechanical device designed by Siwei Zou and a meticulously hand-tensioned ribbon. The result is a superior, natural, and open recording of acoustic instruments and guitar cabinets.
A unique element of the VR2 is its full frequency response, a feature previously unique to sE’s Rupert Neve collaboration, the RNR1. The VR2 continues this legacy, providing you with an unmatched tonal palette from 20Hz to 18kHz. This mic is not just a tool, but an ally for any musician or sound engineer, providing a quality and distinctiveness that will set your recordings apart.
Key Features:
- Active Ribbon Microphone with detailed, open, and natural sound.
- Full frequency response from 20Hz to 18kHz, ensuring clarity across the whole spectrum.
- Hand-tensioned ribbon, designed by Siwei Zou, for superior performance.
- High-performance ribbon microphone offering great value.
- Active design providing ample output and quieter performance.
- Can handle a max SPL of 135dB, making it suitable for both quiet and loud sound sources.
- Rugged design for durability and versatile usage.
- Requires +48V phantom power.
- Figure-8 pickup pattern for capturing environmental sounds and impulses.
- All-metal housing and gold plated XLR connector for longevity and reliable connectivity.
Product specs
| Microphone Type | Active Ribbon |
| Ribbon Type | 2-micron Aluminum |
| Polar Pattern | Figure-8 |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-18kHz |
| Max SPL | 135dB SPL |
| Output Impedance | 200 ohms |
| Self Noise | 18dB (A weighted) |
| Sensitivity | 10mV/Pa (-40 dB) |
| Connector | XLR |
| Power Source | 48V phantom power |
| Weight | 14 oz. |
FAQs
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Does the sE Electronics Voodoo VR2 require phantom power?
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Yes, the sE Electronics Voodoo VR2 is an active ribbon microphone and requires 48V phantom power for operation.
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What is the polar pattern of the sE Electronics Voodoo VR2?
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The sE Electronics Voodoo VR2 features a figure-8 polar pattern, which captures sound equally from the front and back while rejecting noise from the sides.
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Is the sE Electronics Voodoo VR2 suitable for recording loud sound sources?
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Yes, the sE Electronics Voodoo VR2 can handle high sound pressure levels up to 135dB SPL, making it suitable for recording loud sources like guitar amplifiers and drums.
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What is the frequency response of the sE Electronics Voodoo VR2?
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The sE Electronics Voodoo VR2 has a frequency response range of 20Hz to 18kHz, providing a balanced sound suitable for various recording applications.
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How does the sE Electronics Voodoo VR2 differ from passive ribbon microphones?
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Unlike passive ribbon microphones, the sE Electronics Voodoo VR2 is an active ribbon mic, offering higher sensitivity and requiring phantom power, which makes it versatile for a wider range of recording situations.
Videos
Podcastage
sE Electronics VR2 Mic Test / Review (vs. SM7b, M160, KU5a, NTR)
Reviews
PROS
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Similar timbre to high-end microphones without needing additive treble EQ
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Controlled proximity effect allows for versatile placement
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Excels on a variety of instruments including guitar amps and piano
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Active electronics allow use with standard interface preamps
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Greater top-end clarity compared to other ribbon mics
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Durable build quality with a full-metal housing
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Includes a nice storage case for protection
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Delivers warmth while capturing mid-range frequencies effectively
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Easy to use without fear of damage from phantom power
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Provides a natural, relaxed sound quality
CONS
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Heavier than some counterparts, potentially straining standard mic clips
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Noticeable noise floor in certain settings, especially with low-frequency instruments
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Wooden storage box feels light and cheap, contrasting with the mic's build quality
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about sE Electronics Voodoo VR2.
Comparisons
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The sE VR2 is favored over the Rode NTR by some users, citing its durability and slightly lower price as advantages despite its less flashy design.
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Alternatives like the AEA R84, Beyer M160, and Coles 4038/4040 are mentioned as good choices, highlighting the VR2's competitive positioning among popular ribbon mics.
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The Cascade Fathead with the stock transformer is recommended for adding warmth when paired with the brighter SM57, especially on bright amps like the Fender Twin.
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User experience
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sE VR2 owners report its sturdy build and consistent usage, suggesting it holds up well over time.
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Use cases and applications
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The VR2 is recommended for both voice and acoustic guitar, appreciating its ability to maintain the instrument's character and deliver a warm sound.
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The VR2 captures a lot of low end and overtones, making it beneficial to blend with a small diaphragm condenser for a more focused sound when recording violins.
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The Nady RSM-5 is highlighted as a durable ribbon mic, ideal for recording instruments and capturing the detailed sound of amps and cabs, simulating eardrum response.
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Ribbons are noted for capturing a "good crackling" sound from amps, providing a unique and desirable tone when recording electric guitars.
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Value and pricing
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The sE VR2 is noted to be a more budget-friendly option compared to pricier ribbon mics while still delivering impressive sound quality.
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The ART-AR5 is praised as a budget-friendly ribbon mic option, costing around $100 CAD, delivering impressive results without significant investment.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
In the "John Petrucci 2024 Rig Walkthrough" video by Ola Englund, at 7:22, the sE Electronics Voodoo VR2 microphones are clearly visible, confirming their use by John Petrucci.
"Mics used: Neumann KM 184 http://amzn.to/2vhnJ6I SE Electronics Voodoo VRII http://amzn.to/2hnAUgn SE Electronics X1 http://amzn.to/2hmTiG9 Neumann TLM-102 http://amzn.to/2vsuuTv Shure SM57 http://amzn.to/2hnf5O3"
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 sE Electronics Voodoo VR2, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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