Slate Digital ML-1A

When the ML-1 was launched years ago, emulating the timbre of over 25 hand-picked vintage microphones was a milestone for many users. The new ML-1A and the newly developed Virtual Microphone System plug-in now come with optimised hardware and additional important functions.

The new ML-1A large diaphragm condenser microphone is ideal for recording vocals, live instruments, drum kits and almost any other application. It has a slimmer, dark grey housing with a redesigned grille and an optimised capsule. Apart from the aesthetic differences, the most important new feature of the ML-1A is the new three-stage pad switch with 0 dB/ -10 dB/ -20 dB. With the -20 dB pad activated, up to 145 dB SPL can be recorded. The ML-1A also has a lower self-noise for sparkling clean recordings.

The usability of the virtual microphone models has also been significantly improved as all microphone models are now housed in a standalone plugin.

The new VMS plugin offers numerous new functions. For example, the "Microphone Model Morphing" allows cross-fading between two microphone models, the "Proximity" control simulates the natural bass boost by placing it close to the sound source and the "Monoto Stereo Widening" ensures the "widening" of voices in the stereo spectrum, which optimises the contrast of backing vocals, for example.

And as if that wasn't enough, the ML-1A comes with the brand new "Radio France Signature" microphone package. To celebrate the company's French roots, the ten most famous microphones from the legendary Radio France headquarters have been recreated. From studio microphones to an "indestructible" microphone to the largest ribbon microphone ever made, the microphones in this pack are unique developments that make (not only) the human voice sound great.