🔁 Compatibility & Access
Q: I own an ML-1. Do I get access to the new "Virtual Microphone System" plugin?
A: If you own an ML-1 (legacy mic), you can access the Virtual Microphone System plugin by subscribing to Complete Access or by purchasing the plugin license separately from our website. ML-1A owners receive a perpetual license automatically with their microphone—no subscription required.
Q: I own an ML-2. Can I use the new Virtual Microphone System plugin?
A: Yes, but only if you are subscribed to Complete Access or if you purchase the plugin license separately from our website. Note: The Radio France expansion is not available for ML-2 users.
Q: I'm a subscriber to Complete Access. Can I use the Virtual Microphone System plugin without owning a mic?
A: No. This plugin is designed to work specifically with Slate Digital's modeling microphones (ML-1, ML-2, and ML-1A). These mics provide the calibrated input and frequency response required for the plugin's emulations to be accurate. Using it without the hardware is not supported.
Q: Can I use the ML-1A with Virtual Mix Rack mic emulations?
A: Technically yes — but not recommended. Virtual Mix Rack does not include a "source" selector, and it's optimized only for the ML-1 (or ML-2 for Classic Instruments). Since the ML-1A has a different frequency response, the results will not be accurate.
Q: Can the ML-1A use the same mic models from the ML-1 expansions?
A: Yes — the ML-1A is fully compatible with all existing mic models from previous VMS expansions. However, please note that dedicated ML-1A versions of these mic models have been created to account for the ML-1A's updated frequency response.
When using the new Virtual Microphone System plugin, you can select your mic "source" (ML-1, ML-1A, or ML-2) to ensure the correct version of the mic emulation is applied.
Q: Will a source selector be added to Virtual Mix Rack?
A: There are currently no plans to add an ML-1A "source" selector to VMR. We encourage ML-1A users to use the new Virtual Microphone System plugin, which is specifically tailored for this microphone and offers additional features not available in VMR.
Q: Can I use the ML-1A with the original VMS One Preamp?
A: Yes, the ML-1A is fully compatible with the VMS One Preamp. While the new microphone models were not specifically designed with that preamp as a reference, the signal path will still work correctly. Modern interfaces with clean or neutral preamps will also provide a great match. We encourage users to try different setups and use whichever sounds best to their ears—any tonal differences are likely to be subtle.
🎙️ Radio France Expansion
Q: How do I get the Radio France Expansion?
A: The Radio France Signature Collection comes included with the Virtual Microphone System plugin license. This license is provided with the purchase of the ML-1A microphone, or it can be purchased separately from our website. The expansion is also available through an active Complete Access subscription. Note: The Radio France expansion is not available for ML-2 users.
Q: I don't see a license for the Radio France expansion in my account.
A: That's expected. The Radio France expansion is authorized via the Virtual Microphone System plugin license — there is no standalone product or iLok license for it. You will not see a product card for "Radio France" in your dashboard.
Q: Will the Radio France expansion be added to Virtual Mix Rack?
A: No. At this time, there are no plans to include Radio France models in Virtual Mix Rack.
📦 Purchasing & Ownership
Q: Where can I buy the ML-1A microphone?
A: Visit our Find a Dealer page to purchase the ML-1A. We'll be adding more resellers soon.
Q: Is the original ML-1 still available for purchase?
A: The ML-1 is still available while supplies last. It will eventually be replaced by the ML-1A. Support for the ML-1 will continue, and all hardware is covered under a 2-year warranty.
Q: I own an ML-1. Is there an upgrade or trade-in program for the ML-1A?
A: Not at this time. While we've considered it internally, there is currently no official upgrade program in place. We may explore options in the future, but nothing is guaranteed.
Q: How is the ML-1A different from the ML-1?
A: The ML-1A features lower self-noise, enhanced signal-to-noise ratio, new mic modeling tools like Proximity and Width sliders, and includes the Radio France Signature mic pack. For full technical comparisons, see:
👉 ML-1A vs ML-1 – Technical Specifications
🔧 Setup & Licensing
Q: I just purchased an ML-1A — where do I find the serial number?
A: The serial number is printed on the bottom of the microphone, right by the XLR connector.
Q: How do I register my ML-1A and redeem my software license?
A: The ML-1A comes with a redemption postcard inside the box. Use the voucher code at:
👉 https://app.completeaccess.audio/ml1a
Once redeemed, the license will be sent to the iLok ID linked with your Slate Digital account. Don't have one? We'll help you create one during the process.
Q: What software is included with the ML-1A?
A: The ML-1A includes the new Virtual Microphone System plugin, 12 mic models from the Radio France Signature Expansion, and every microphone model we release for the ML-1A going forward.
Q: How do I transfer my ML-1A to another person?
A: We recommend following our official transfer process here:
👉 How do I sell or transfer my ML-1 license?
While it is possible to transfer the license through iLok License Manager, Slate Digital account access is not transferable that way; please contact support for help.
⚙️ Plugin Functionality
Q: Why isn't the "mic source" showing up in the plugin?
A: Make sure you have a valid ML-1, ML-2, or ML-1A license activated in your iLok account. The source selection in the plugin only appears when the appropriate license is detected. If issues persist, please contact support.
🛡️ Warranty
Q: What's the warranty for the ML-1A?
A: The ML-1A comes with a 2-year warranty from the date of purchase. For full details, see our policy here:
👉 Slate Digital Warranty
📷 Appearance
Q: What are the physical differences between the ML-1A and the original ML-1?
Here's a side-by-side look at the ML-1A (left) and the original ML-1 (right). While they share a similar form factor, the ML-1A features an updated design and improved specs under the hood:
Additional Questions
If you have any more questions that are not listed above, feel free to contact our support team.
We're happy to help!
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