  We show that the use of a superstation (a phased array created using multiple
stations of an interferometric array) created in post-processing for LOFAR-VLBI
observations introduces a direction-dependent loss of signal in the image. We
show this effect using simulations and real data. Using the RIME formalism, we
characterise it fully, and give limits under which this signal loss is
negligible. Finally, we show that we are able to fully predict this effect. We
close with guidelines for interferometric observers to avoid this effect in
their observations, and a discussion of techniques which could limit this
effect or do away with it entirely. The latter in particular will be relevant
to the SKA should its long baselines be used to their fullest potential.
