Universal Audio Introduces Hemisphere Mic Modeling Plug-in and SC-1 Standard Condenser Microphone

In February 2022, Universal Audio unveiled a complete range of microphones, just a few months past since the acquisition of microphone modeling pioneer Townsend Labs. It was clear that the Californian company was determined to lead in the microphone modeling space. Now Universal Audio expands that strategy with the introduction of a new Studio Condenser generic microphone, the SC-1, and the Hemisphere plug-in that allows users to select from a collection of classic microphones from Neumann, Telefunken, AKG, Sony, and more.

Just a few months past since Universal Audio announced the acquisition of microphone modeling pioneer Townsend Labs, it seems there is a clear path forward for the Californian company - and it's certainly exciting. Universal Audio just announced the introduction of a full microphone lineup to complement the original Townsend Sphere L22. The new microphones include the SD-1 Standard Dynamic microphone for streamers and podcasters, the SP-1 pencil condenser microphone pair, and three classic studio UA Bock Series Microphones designed by David Bock.

Universal Audio (UA) expanded its already unique portfolio of professional audio recording hardware and software, now announcing an asset purchase agreement with Townsend Labs Inc., the company behind the TEC award-winning Sphere L22 Microphone System. With the studio market seeing increasing acceptance of microphone modeling technology, the Townsend Labs Sphere L22 microphone system is a valuable addition to UA's recording product line.

Since its debut in 2017, the Townsend Labs Sphere L22 has established itself as a credible microphone modeling solution, thank also to its pioneering multi-dimensional modeling technology and unique dual-channel design, taking microphone modeling far beyond merely mimicking the static on-axis response of the original microphones. Townsend Labs now announced that AAX DSP support for Pro Tools is included in version 1.3 of the Sphere plug-in.

The Sphere L22 microphone, unveiled by Townsend Labs as their debut product, was launched August 4 with a phenomenally successful international crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo, raising over $100,000 (250% of its target) in 24 hours. The high-precision, side-address, large-diaphragm condenser microphone, combined with microphone modeling software has proved its appeal to the market, emulating the characteristics of the most sought-after microphones on the market.