Every analog-to-digital converter (ADC) leaves a subtle imprint on your recordings—each has its own sonic character, which is one reason prices vary so widely between models. However, that character does not interfere with the accuracy of Slate Digital microphone modeling.
The key to accurate mic and preamp emulation is capturing a flat signal, with no added coloration or processing before the emulation plugin (either Virtual Mix Rack or Virtual Microphone System). If you're using the ML-1, ML-1A, or ML-2 microphones, the quality of your ADC should not hinder results.
Originally, the typical signal path was Microphone → VMS One → A/D converter (audio interface). The VMS One preamp was designed in tandem with the ML-1 microphone to ensure a predictable, consistent signal from capsule to line-level output—crucial for accurate modeling.
You don’t need the VMS One preamp to achieve accurate modeling. Modern analog-to-digital converters are so good that they won’t interfere with mic emulation—as long as you avoid adding processing before the plugin.
The VMS One preamp has since been discontinued, and most users today are connecting their Slate mics directly into their audio interfaces. That’s totally fine—modern converters are incredibly transparent, and as long as your preamp isn’t coloring the signal or adding any onboard processing (such as EQ, compression, or saturation), the modeling plugins will perform exactly as intended.
Use the cleanest possible gain from your interface, disable any onboard processing, and keep your levels healthy. No VMS One? No problem—modern conversion is more than good enough.
Comments
Article is closed for comments.