Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Microphone Modeling System

Product Description

The Townsend Labs Sphere L22 is a microphone modeling system capable of emulating some of the most iconic studio microphones of all time with unparalleled accuracy and realism. The high-resolution, dual-channel L22 large-diaphragm condenser microphone captures crystal-clear recordings, while the included Sphere plug-in lets you change mic type, polar pattern, placement and more, before ad after tracking. With the current 1.4 version of Sphere users have access to over 30 individual models. Version 1.4 of the Sphere plug-in is available in all major native plug-in formats, as well as Universal Audio’s UAD-2/Apollo and Avid’s AAX DSP platforms.

IDENTICAL EMULATIONS

The Sphere L22 is a precision dual-capsule microphone that utilizes groundbreaking three-dimensional modeling technology to accurately recreate the exact character of countless classic microphones—down the proximity effect and off-axis frequency response.

Unlike traditional modeling microphones that simply apply EQ to emulate other microphones, the Sphere L22 uses two channels to completely capture the entire soundfield. By utilizing two channels, the Sphere L22 is able to capture stereo recordings with stunning depth. Simply rotate the Sphere L22 90-degrees and capture separate channels from each capsule. You can even use different mic models on the left and right channels using the Sphere 180 plug-in.

SPHERE L22 MICROPHONE

Not only is the Sphere L22 able to capture the sound of classic microphones—it actually improves them. With a self-noise level of just 7 dB-A SPL, Sphere L22 is whisper-quiet in comparison to most vintage mics. And with a maximum SPL of 140 dB, you can place Sphere L22 inside kick drums, against the grill of guitar amps and more without worrying about damaging the capsule. Plus, Sphere L22 has a rugged, durable frame that stands up to the most demanding studio sessions so you don’t have to worry about accidentally destroying a vintage ribbon.

SPHERE PLUG-IN

The Sphere L22 Microphone system works with any interface with at least two inputs. For extremely low latency performance, use the Sphere L22 microphone system with Universal Audio Apollo or Avid HDX systems. The Sphere plug-in is compatible with UAD, AAX DSP, AAX Native, VST, AU formats, enabling use with most DAWs.

Sphere – How It Works

Using a dual-capsule microphone with dual-outputs makes it possible to more completely capture the soundfield—including the directional and distance information otherwise lost with a conventional single-channel microphone. This allows the Sphere system to precisely reconstruct how different microphones respond to the soundfield. In contrast, other microphone modeling technologies apply EQ to filter the sound from what is essentially a conventional microphone. This is fundamentally no different from using EQ to process a recorded track.

The Sphere L22 microphone modeling system comprises this precision dual-channel microphone, plus an audio plug-in for your DAW. The software plug-in does all of the DSP processing used to create the microphone models. Using a plug-in, instead of DSP processing built into the mic, has the major advantage of allowing the user to change all of the modeling settings, such as mic type and polar pattern, after the audio is recorded.

The Components

L22 Microphone

Sphere L22 Microphone – high precision, dual-capsule, large-diaphragm condenser studio microphone, which can be used with or without modeling. Includes:

• 10 Foot (3 Meter) Breakout Cable
• Shock Mount
• Hard Mount
• Hard Carrying Case
• Plush Dust Cover

Sphere Plug-in

• Sphere DSP algorithms – accurately models a wide range of the most sought-after microphones in the world
• Re-Mic technology – allows the user to change the mic type and polar pattern even after tracking
• New patented features – including Off-Axis Correction, which can produce more accurate polar patterns for reduced bleed, room coloration, and feedback
• Supports a wide range of plug-in formats – including UAD, VST2, VST3, Audio Unit, and AAX DSP or AAX Native on Mac and Windows

Microphone Models:

• LD-563 (New in version 1.4): based on a classic German bottle microphone with interchangeable microphone capsule heads. The different polar patterns in the Sphere plug-in are based on three different capsules, M7, M8, and M55k. For many, the 563 with the M7 cardioid capsule is a favorite for recording vocalists.
• LD-017T (New in version 1.4): a commissioned model of a current production Soyuz 017 TUBE large diaphragm microphone, created in partnership with Soyuz. It’s a modern classic that is 100% hand-built in Tula, Russia. Popular uses include vocals and acoustic instruments.
• DN-409N and DN-409U (New in version 1.4): based on two different variants of the classic German 409 dynamic microphone, which is a favorite for rock vocals and guitar amplifiers. The older N-version is slightly more colored whereas the U-version from the 1980s has a nice, smooth top-end.
• DN-421N, DN-421S, and DN-421B (New in version 1.4): based on three different variants of the iconic German 421 microphone—a large-diaphragm dynamic, popular for bass and guitar amps, kick drums and toms, horns, and vocals. The N-version is based on a classic beige 421 from the 1960s and has a slightly warmer sound than the 421B, which is based on a current production black 421 and faithfully captures its slightly brighter character. The 421S is the oldest version of the three, with a script logo and a more colored sound.
• DN-12A and DN-12E (New in version 1.4): based on Austrian dynamic microphones - a go-to choice for kick drum and bass instruments. The DN-12A is based on the original version from the 1950s and has a more colored sound. The DN-12E is based on a later version with a slightly more "modern" sound.
• SD-416 (New in version 1.4): based on an industry-standard shotgun microphone, commonly used in the studio for voice-over and ADR duties. It is the go-to mic for that big voice-over sound in Hollywood-produced movie trailers we’re all so familiar with.
• LD-47: For many the 47 is the ultimate vocal mic. Rumor has it that Frank Sinatra would not sing without his. The specimen Townsend modeled is an original 47 with a fully brass K47 capsule with a mylar diaphragm and a VF-14 tube.
• LD-12: Released in 1953 the C12 is another iconic mic which has a gorgeous high-end sheen and sparkle, due to the uniquely designed CK12 capsule. It's a great choice for lush, breathy vocals, without overly accentuating sibilance.
• LD-67: The 67 is a very unique and wonderful mic that tends toward warm, yet without sounding dull. Townsend modeled a mid 1960s version. It really shines on distorted guitar amps where it can cut some of harshness, while maintaining detail.
• LD-49K: Although the M49 used the same capsules as the U47, it has a number of “enhancements” which give it its iconic and distinctive sound. The center position on the pattern knob is approximately cardioid, but often the pattern was dialed in a little more exactly to get the best cardioid pattern possible. The model uses this “best” cardioid position.
• Sphere Linear: The Sphere Linear model provides ruler flat frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, as well as an extremely smooth and well controlled off-axis response. A first of its kind, for a directional microphone.

Other Microphone Models:

• LD-87
• SD-451
• RB-4038
• DN-57

Microphone Specifications:

• Equivalent Noise Level: 7 dB-A
• Max SPL at 0.5% THD: 140 dB (with -20 dB pad engaged)
• Pad Attenuation: -10 db and -20 dB
• Sensitivity: 22 mV/Pa
• Output Connector: 5-pin male XLR
• Breakout Cable: 10’ (3m) 5-pin female XLR to dual 3-pin male XLR
• Weight (mic only): 1.7 lb (770 grams)
• Dimensions (mic only): 8.9" x 2.5" (225 mm x 63 mm)
• Output Impedance: 200 Ohms
• Recommended Load Impedance: >1000 Ohms
• Phantom Power
• Voltage: 44 to 52 V per channel
• Current: 5 mA per channel typical, 8 mA at max SPL

DSP specifications:

• Supported Plug-in Formats: UAD, AAX Native, VST2, VST3, Audio Units (Mac only)
• Supported Operating Systems: Mac OSX 10.8.5 and above, Windows 7 and above / Apollo Interfaces and UAD-2 hardware (AAX, VST, AU, and RTAS) Mac OSX 10.9.5 and above, Windows 7 and above

System Requirements:

• 4 GB of RAM
• 200 MB free disk space
• 1024 x 768 display resolution
• Internet connection to download software
• Two microphone preamplifiers with phantom power
• Compatible plug-in host application (DAW) software supporting AAX, VST2, VST3, AU or UAD.