Slate Digital ML-1 Matte Black

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Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

Includes Classic Tubes & Virtual Preamp Collection
Neutral ML-1 condenser microphone, which is tuned to the VMS hard- and software (VMS preamplifier optional - not included)
VMS plug-in software can completely change sound characteristics even after recording
Virtual selection of classic vintage microphones and preamp models as well as unique models for advanced recording techniques (may require download and purchase from manufacturer site)
Software Type: Virtual modelling
Platform: Mac, PC
Format: AAX, AU, RTAS, VST
Hardware requirements Mac: Dual Core Intel processor, 2 GB RAM
Hardware requirements PC: Dual Core Intel / AMD processor with SSE2 support, 2 GB RAM
OS requirement Mac: OS X 10.15 or higher
OS requirement PC: Windows 10 or higher
Scope of delivery: ML-1 large diaphragm condenser microphone, microphone shock mount, case, software licence code, software

Note: Requires copy protection iLok Cloud service or iLok 2 / iLok 3 (Art.

401447 - not included)

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

3-Year Thomann Warranty

Available since December 2019

Item number 479694

Sales Unit 1 piece(s)

Tube No

Switchable Polar Pattern No

Omnidirectional No

Cardioid Yes

Figure-8 No

Low Cut No

Pad No

shockmount included Yes

USB Microphone No

345 €

All prices incl. VAT

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A microphone collection in one

Only a lucky few can afford a locker full of legendary microphones like the Neumann U47/U67 or the Telefunken 251. While digital microphone emulation isn't a new concept, past attempts have often fallen short due to the sheer number of variables involved - such as the intricate pairing of microphones and preamps. Slate Digital has taken a different approach by combining its high-quality ML-1 large-diaphragm condenser microphone with a dedicated preamp (the VMS One, sold separately), designed to be as neutral as possible. This leaves the A/D converter as the only remaining variable, though its impact on tonal colouration is minimal. This, in essence, is the Slate Digital Virtual Microphone System.

Vintage legends reborn

The ML-1, paired with Slate's proprietary software, provides access to a meticulously modelled collection of classic microphones. The FG-47, FG-67, and FG-269 replicate iconic Neumann models, while the FG-251 recreates the legendary Telefunken ELA M 251. High-end Sony microphones are represented by the FG-800 and FG-800G, while the FG-M7 pays tribute to a classic Shure dynamic mic. The FG-12 emulates the revered AKG C12, known for its silky highs. To further refine the sound, Slate Digital includes two virtual preamps: The FG-73, inspired by the Neve 1073, and the FG-76, a tube-based Telefunken preamp model. When combined with tube mic emulations, the FG-76 delivers a warm, full-bodied sound - all from hardware that remains completely neutral at its core.

An all-in-one microphone solution

For those without a large-diaphragm condenser mic in their setup, the ML-1 is a compelling option, even before considering its modelling capabilities. The microphone alone offers excellent value, but even well-equipped studios will appreciate the ability to expand their collection of vintage tones with a single purchase. In addition to the ML-1, Slate also offers the ML-2, a small-diaphragm condenser microphone that comes with its own dedicated emulations, making it ideal for different recording applications. The VMS One preamp can also be added to complete the system. For even more flexibility, Slate Digital provides expansion packs and additional microphone and studio gear emulations that can be purchased separately.

About Slate Digital

Founded in 2008 by Steven Slate and Fabrice Gabriel, Slate Digital is headquartered in the shadow of the Hollywood Hills, with an additional location in Grenoble, France. Known for their meticulously crafted DSP plugins and audio equipment, the company has quickly earned a reputation for delivering authentically analogue sound. Manufactured exclusively in the United States, their products include best-selling microphones and software solutions that have become staples in professional audio production. Slate Digital's innovative approach has cemented their position as a key player in the professional audio industry.

Endless tonal possibilities

One of the standout advantages of Slate Digital's Virtual Microphone System is the ability to modify microphone and preamp settings at any stage of the production process. A vocal take recorded with the FG-800G mic model and the FG-73 preamp can be reconfigured during mixing to resemble a Neumann-style tube mic with a Telefunken preamp by simply adjusting the plugin settings in a DAW. Moreover, there is no need to maintain delicate tube mics or vintage preamps. The ML-1 itself is built for durability and comes with a protective case for safe storage and transport, ensuring reliability in any recording environment.

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102 Reviews

Multifunctional tool for every vocalist

Anonymous 01.01.2022

I wasn't really sure which mic to buy, because the amount of choices is always vast and you never know what brand and model works for your voice. Right until I found out about this one.
At first I was kinda confused about the whole virtual modelling idea, because I couldn't even realize how it works. But, eventually, it turned out to be the best choice for me.
The thing is, ML-1 gives you not just one option. The slate plugins do some great replicas of well-know classic mics. Hence, you can switch them in the blink of an eye and try some different sounds. And we all know it matters, when it comes to mixing and stuff.
Knowing that every voice is unique, it's really important to find a right mic that suits you. Not many people have a full professional studio setup with a bunch of different mics. This one is the solution, because you always want to sound great.
As for me, 800 and 800m really gets along with my voice and brings it to a better level.

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A no-brainer!

tsotb 01.01.2022

To be honest, having read a whole GS thread on this mic, and having used this microphone in person afterward, my humble opinion is that even the starting price of $999 is a steal for this particular piece of hardware, although after a while the company kinda abandoned the idea of a necessary separate special preamp, as it turned out the microphone could be used just fine without it, which accordingly lowered the price of the VMS.
I can't think of a microphone with such versatility to it even for the double price, and with the Black Friday sale, it's a no-brainer for me.
Get it while you can, you surely won't regret it.

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A Beautiful & Versatile Microphone

RicardoLB 06.10.2020

At first I was a bit sceptical about the whole idea of this microphone. A microphone should sound the way it sounds and should not be 'imitating' another mic. But boy was I wrong.

The microphone itself sounds very decent, low-noise, etc. But with the Slate Digital modelings, this microphone sounds insane.
If you cannot buy a Sony C800G or Neumann U47, buy this one instead. You even get a lot of different mic-modelings with it. Perfect for a producer who works with different artists. You can easily switch between microphones and find the perfect sound.
And in some cases I even liked the modeling more than the original, especially with the Shure SM7.

I really recommend this mic!

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The only vocal mic I'll ever need

Axel Lessio 16.05.2022

The Slate ML-1 microphone is well built, sounds amazing, has a low noise floor and the emulations are spot on (thanks to this system I found out my voice sounds great with a 251 style mic, I would have never guessed). I also got it on sale for €499. What more could I ask for? Ah yes, the ML-2, and I think that will be my next purchase!

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Slate Digital ML-1 Matte Black

Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone