Slate Digital VMS ML-1: Excellent Value Brings Even Better Results
For most studios and home recorders, owning a vintage Neumann U47 is an unattainable goal due to its price tag of up to $10,000. But, with the Slate Digital VMS ML-1, that isn’t true anymore. Well, not really.
What Is the Slate Digital VMS ML-1?
By replicating their success through software, you should be able to experience the same triumphs. Over the years, some companies have claimed that their product could give one microphone the same character as another. However, given the limits of their original microphones and mic pre-amps used to record it and their interface quality, most of these claims still need satisfactory results.
Slate Digital has created a unique system that eliminates as many variables as possible. With the VMS, you’ll have access to an opulent large capsule condenser microphone, a specific ultra linear mic pre-amp, and several modeled mics via their plug-in. The only variable is your A/D converter for moving it into your DAW software!
With a suitable A/D converter, you should be able to obtain the results Slate intends. For this review, we used a Prism Atlas, which ensures quality conversion is not an issue.
Mic Emulations
As we scanned the list of models provided, it became clear that all were vintage mics – ones that each had a distinct character and which we have utilized multiple times. Interestingly enough, every U47, U67, C12, etc., varied significantly from one another in terms of sound quality – some surprisingly so! Several models should be discarded due to being broken yet still used in studios.
Slate’s microphones are known for their fantastic sound quality, but what sets them apart is the unique character each mic offers. As professional audio engineers, we often have a particular go-to microphone for specific projects and studio sessions, so much so that many of us keep an extensive list of serial numbers to ensure we always get exactly what we need.
Though it is not likely possible to achieve this level of detail with a system like Slate, we can envisage that the VMS could offer multiple examples for the same microphone. This intricate capability, combined with the power and precision of such systems, makes us excited about what may come next!
Mic Build Quality
This all black microphone is shaped and sized like a hybrid of an AKG C12 and a Brauner VM1. It also has a very well-crafted suspension mount that it screws into, which we prefer over mounts with clips. Yet the mount could have been slightly more slack, as there is still some noticeable transmission noise.
Utilizing a standard 3-pin XLR cable, the microphone effortlessly connects to the Pre-amp. This compact unit is outfitted with dual XLR/1/4 inch jack input that can be changed between instrument and mic settings. In addition, it boasts switches for phantom power, phase, and pad capabilities, as well as one large-level control. The external power supply plugs in with an extra-long XLR chord while producing clear sound via balanced XLR and TRS Audio outputs.
Regarding metering, there is a ‘level’ LED present, but we can’t help but believe that it would have been better if something more advanced had been used. Understanding how much power you’re putting into a pre-amp is always advantageous. In addition, keeping the pre close to the mic and longer cables at line level–which makes them less prone to noise–would be highly beneficial for many applications with an additional level indication system.
The microphone and preamplifier are of the highest quality. The metalwork is flawless, and unlike some modern mics that require a firm grasp for adjustment, the suspension mount can be adjusted smoothly without any extra strength or effort.
The Slate Virtual Mix Rack offers an intuitive software solution that shows you which microphone is currently in use until the click of a button. When you press the MICS option, it presents up to eight models (with more on their way) for selection. Easily switch between options to get what sound experience and quality your project demands precisely!
This module of audio equipment offers a comprehensive range of options, from the U47 FG-47 to the Sony 800G and 800G. Additionally, you’ll find other models, such as the Telefunken 251FG, Neumann 67FG, AKG 12FG, Shure M7FG, and Neumann 269F. To further enhance your sound experience with this module is an adjustable Character slider control allowing for a more tailored listening session each time!
When you adjust this setting from 100% to 150%, there’s a dramatic improvement in the character of each mic. Yet even with extreme settings, it doesn’t sound like too much – just more! This is perfect for anyone wanting to fine-tune their audio and bring out its fullest potential.
The microphone comes with Slate’s signature modeled pre-amps, two of which are the FG-73 (modeled after a Neve 1073) and the FG-76 (based on a Telefunken valve). So if you want to achieve that renowned Slate sound, these pre-amps should be your go-to!
All of the hardware units offer excellent sound quality, but what particularly stood out to us was the clarity and warmth provided by the 76. As for the 73 models, it boasted a classic “fatness” that we’ve come to expect from Neve, making it an ideal choice when you’re looking to add additional depth – especially if your track lacks something in the low-end register like bass or drums.
The distortion capabilities of these pre-amps are unparalleled; you can get a wide range of tones from them. And if that isn’t enough, Slate also allows you to integrate different EQs and compressors into the chain for more options! This is incredibly convenient if your work involves frequently recording the same instruments or voices. In addition, it gives you access to an array of pre-made chains so that creativity never has to be sacrificed in favor of speed.
Original Mic Characteristics
Thus, setting up the system is quite effortless–now, how does it sound?
This mic has been tested and proven on vocals, guitars, double bass drums, and percussion. It’s a high-quality microphone that is ultra-quiet with evident sound production. We experimented by having the mic go through certain pre-amps, valve EQs and compressors without using any modeling for comparison purposes – the results were outstanding! It may be ideal when you need sterile-sounding audio recordings at specific moments of your project.
You open up a world of possibilities by directly accessing the software and flipping through different mic models. For example, we began our testing with vocals, and each model brought unique sounds that perfectly fit what we anticipated for their respective characteristics.
For a rich, resonant male vocal tone, the 67, 47, and 269 are all exceptional choices. However, if you’re seeking shimmery Pop highs for female vocals, turn to the 800 models or FG-12 to fulfill your needs. Regarding acoustic guitar tones that offer sweet delights with deep resonance – both the FG-12 and FG-251 can’t be beaten! Double bass will sound incredible when paired with the classic 47 or 67, while percussion instruments boast an array of diverse, high-end colors that make them ideal for any genre.
The subtle differences in sound between a flat signal and one blended with EQ, compression, and other effects are marvelous. That’s the beauty of it! Plus, you can quickly go back to make adjustments at any point if desired without having to reverse the work you’ve already done. Recording your original signal flat ensures that everything is there for later use should you need it.
In this day and age, it has become increasingly common to record music during the writing process. Unfortunately, this can make it harder to determine what sound works best for your track since the surrounding elements may deviate significantly as you create your piece.
Polar Pattern Restriction
The VMS microphone offers a fixed cardioid pattern, meaning you won’t have the option of an omnidirectional or figure-of-eight recording; however it is still an excellent choice for capturing ambient sounds. When placed far from a sound source, this mic reveals its unique characteristics compared to close micing. As expected, there were no unexpected qualities, and two of these microphones together would make the perfect combination for producing drum ambiance recordings and choir or quartet vocals.
Are you considering buying a high-quality microphone? The Slate is undoubtedly a fantastic option. Not only is it much cheaper than the other vintage models, but it also requires far less maintenance and offers eight distinct voices, with more to come! In addition, for educational institutions, this can be a great teaching aid – discussing the merits of all types of microphones isn’t enough if students don’t get to hear what those differences sound like!
After considering every detail, from design to delivery, Slate Digital has successfully created a comprehensive system. When weighing cost versus reward – the microphone, its mic pre that can be used for any application and as a DI unit — plus those incredible sounding models— you’ll quickly realize what an unbeatable bargain this is!
Tags: slate digital vms ml-2, slate ml-2, slate vms 1, slate digital vms ml-1 large-diaphragm modeling microphone, slate digital microphone
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