Ultimate USB-C microphone V2 - UNOFFICIAL discussion

I know it's been a long time coming but the main pre-amp section of the V2 has been ready for a while now. The capsule section is also done but I wanted to ask everyone for the features YOU want before I finalise this and to judge if there's any call for a souped-up version.

Matt's original has a beautiful aesthetic and it's not my intention to change that.

My task is the electronics from a single part board only (Michelle - MIC-Elle, geddit?) to a multi-part build with extra features.

The current version runs the JFET through a pair of LDOs reducing noise dramatically, especially when pushed but also has a +5/-5 regulated supply available to power extra amplifiers and a (separate) 24V drive for external use. All of this is from USB.

Of course the biggest question is what does it sound like right now? 

I had an acoustic guitarist lined up but the recent holidays got in the way so it'll likely be mid Jan 2026 before I can upload a decent demo. Trust me folks, you really don't want to hear me doing Shakespeare into this thing: I've got a face for radio and a voice for print. Poor old Yorick...

Output quality (for the integrated version) is limited by the USB interface, currently 48K at 16-bit which is slightly better than CD quality. However, a digital signal is available to insert digital effects boards on using I2S in and out. Similarly it can take a DAC headphone amplifier for real-time monitoring as desired.

The original design is mono with a single capsule but adding a second capsule (or even a dual) isn't especially difficult and has always been on the roadmap. I've also designed a capsule adaptor for "unpolarised" capsules - those are the ones without the electret material and this opens access to some very detailed commercial capsules.

It's usual (for professional mics) to have very limited control on the body - usually a -20 db cut for stronger signals. It's also common to have a pattern switch when a dual-diaphragm is in use although we could make this adjustable. Things like low-cut and treble boost are not expensive but they do add a little bit of noise.

Some features do cost more - some a lot more so I've attempted to keep the single-board cost similar to the cost of the original BOM. Things like unpolarised capsules are difficult to drive well without external supplies (wall warts).  

I've also sourced a low-voltage valve using a unique fluorescent display technology which will behave very much like a real thermionic valve (tube) but development of this side of things requires considerable time and money so I might have to do a kickstarter. 

Suggestions/questions welcome.