Slate Digital VMS ML-2A – Modelling Microphone (Pair)

OVERVIEW

Introducing the ML‑2A Modelling Microphone from Slate Digital, the evolution of their award‑winning Virtual Microphone System (VMS) that puts the sound of the finest vintage and modern mics at your fingertips.

The world’s top producers build mic collections over decades, at the cost of tens of thousands of dollars, because each vintage, rare, or high-end microphone is a unique voice; its tonal qualities, frequency response, and harmonic character shape the emotion and impact of a performance.

VMS ML‑2A delivers a factory-matched pair of professional-quality, small-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphones that can do it all – on any instrument, in mono or stereo. They come paired with the comprehensive VMS library, featuring accurately modelled vintage and modern high-end microphones, giving you access to those iconic tones right in your studio. The ML‑2A is the perfect companion to the vocal-optimised ML‑1A.

The Ultimate Modelling Mic

Powered by the Slate Digital Virtual Microphone System plug-in, the ML-2A gives you access to the ultimate mic locker, right in your DAW. Instantly audition vintage, rare, even obscure mic models: from essential workhorses like the S-57 and S-421, to smooth ribbons like the S-121, legendary small-diaphragm condensers such as the S-451 and S-222, and even large-diaphragm classics like the S-414 and the revered tube S-67.

Built with precision hardware and premium components, the ML-2A goes beyond the original ML-2 to deliver enhanced detail, greater dynamic range, and added versatility. Designed for demanding recording environments, it handles high-SPL sources with ease and provides extra control through a bass roll-off switch and a -20dB pad. Supplied as a factory-matched pair with an included mounting bar, the ML-2A is a practical choice for capturing stereo recordings in both studio and on-location setups.

With zero-latency processing, you can monitor through mic models while tracking and still have the flexibility to change them later as your mix comes together. The future of mic modelling is here – and it’s better than ever.

Limitless Possibilities

Step into a world of sonic freedom with 27 microphone models. Both industry standards and creative options are included inside the Virtual Microphone System plug-in. Instantly audition and compare different microphones in your mix or blend the characteristics of two models to create a completely unique sound tailored to your recordings. Add colour and vintage saturation with the Virtual Preamps Collection for a complete virtual front-end recording experience.

Slate Digital’s ever-growing microphone collection gives you unmatched flexibility in any recording session. From kick drums, snares, and toms to guitar and bass cabs, horns, and even vocals, the ML-2A covers it all. This level of versatility, once exclusive to world-class studios, is now within reach. As Slate Digital develops new mic models for VMS, they will automatically be added to your mic locker – just download the update and start using the new flavours in your productions, instantly.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Pro Quality:

The ML‑2A’s pro‑grade hardware combines a gold‑sputtered small‑diaphragm cardioid capsule with low‑noise electronics to deliver clean, detailed capture, a flat, extended frequency response, stable cardioid imaging, and rugged construction – optimised to get the most from the industry‑leading Virtual Microphone System software.

The Leader in Mic Modelling:

Since launching the original ML-1 in 2015, Slate Digital has led the way in mic modelling technology, providing more microphone models to users than any other. With the new ML-1A and ML-2A microphones in your studio, you have access to over 60 microphone models in total… and the collection continues to grow every year with new models added through simple software updates.

Expanded Headroom:

No source is too loud, thanks to the -20dB pad switch. Whether you’re working with softer sounds or extremely loud sources, the ML-2A can handle up to an incredible 156dB SPL, ensuring clean, distortion-free recordings even in the most demanding environments.

Ultra-Low Self-Noise:

Achieve pristine clarity with a remarkable 16dB self-noise rating. Capture every nuance with minimal interference, giving you the highest-quality recordings possible, whether you’re in the studio or on location. ML-2A also includes a low-frequency roll-off switch at 80Hz 6dB/octave for eliminating low-end rumble directly at the source.

It’s a Match:

With its updated design, the ML-2A combines modern aesthetics with legendary sound. Delivered as factory-selected matched pairs with corresponding serial numbers, you can capture stunning stereo recordings with ease, complete with the included stereo mounting bar.

Unlock Complete Access:

The ML-2A doesn’t just deliver exceptional sound; it also includes a three-month Complete Access Bundle subscription, giving you instant access to over 150 software plug-ins from Slate Digital, Solid State Logic, and Harrison Audio, along with Slate Digital Virtu assisted mastering, the Slate Sounds sample library, and more. Everything you need to make perfect mixes of your recordings.

FEATURES

• Factory-matched pair of professional small-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphones
• Powered by Slate Digital’s award-winning Virtual Microphone System (VMS)
• Access to 27 microphone models, including vintage, modern, ribbon, and condenser classics
• Zero-latency monitoring through mic models while tracking
• Ability to audition, swap, or blend mic models at any stage of production
• Enhanced hardware design for improved detail, dynamic range, and versatility
• Handles extremely loud sources with up to 156dB SPL capability
• Ultra-low self-noise performance for pristine, detailed recordings
• Bass roll-off switch (80Hz, 6dB/octave) for reducing low-frequency rumble
• -20dB pad for clean capture of high-SPL sources
• Supplied as a factory-selected matched stereo pair with mounting bar
• Includes three-month Slate Digital Complete Access Bundle subscription
• Compatible with Slate Digital Virtual Preamps Collection for a complete virtual front-end
• Future-proof mic locker with new models added via software updates

TECHNICAL SPECS

Microphone Type: Small-diaphragm condenser

Polar Pattern: Cardioid

Capsule: Gold-sputtered small-diaphragm capsule

Self-Noise: 16 dB

Maximum SPL: Up to 156 dB SPL (with -20dB pad engaged)

Pad: -20 dB

Low-Cut Filter: 80 Hz, 6 dB/octave

Frequency Response: Flat, extended response optimised for VMS modelling

Output: Balanced XLR

Power Requirement: 48V phantom power

Configuration: Factory-matched stereo pair with matching serial numbers

Included Accessories: Stereo mounting bar

Software Included: Virtual Microphone System plug-in + 3-month Complete Access Bundle