Universal Audio's SC-1 condenser microphone comes with new modeling software

Mic modeling has come a long way in just a few years, and modern software plugins, to these ears, get quite close to the real deal. Universal Audio has been at the forefront of this technology for a while and now the company’s released a new condenser microphone that integrates with its equally new Hemisphere mic modeling plugin.

The SC-1 is a large diaphragm condenser microphone, operating as part of the company’s Standard Series that also includes the pre-existing SD-1 and SP-1. The SC-1 launches alongside the Hemisphere plugin that gives users digital access to a full range of classic mics from big-time companies like Neumann, Telefunken, AKG, Sony and others. The plugin uses a similar technology to the company’s Sphere line of modeling microphones, but with a drastic reduction in cost, as the SC-1 costs $500 and Sphere microphones range from $800 to $1,400.

The Hemisphere plugin lets you instantly audition different microphones to suit the take, tweak proximity, adjust filters and more. All of these adjustments can be done before recording or afterward, just like with the Sphere line. One benefit the SC-1 boasts over the Sphere line is that it requires just a single XLR input, while Sphere microphones require two to properly capture that stereo field.

The Hemisphere modeling plugin also extends to those other Standard Series mics, like the SP-1 pencil microphone and the SD-1 dynamic microphone. As for the SC-1 itself, it’s a standard no-frills large-diaphragm condenser with an extended dynamic range and a frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. There’s also an emphasis on low self-noise output, which makes it easier to transform via the numerous modeling options.

Universal Audio’s SC-1 is available for preorder right now and ships later in the fall. The microphone includes the Hemisphere modeling plugin, so your wallet won’t have to double dip. Additionally, the plugin is a free upgrade for existing SD-1 and SP-1 owners.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/universal-audios-sc-1-condenser-microphone-comes-with-new-modeling-software-153349656.html?src=rss https://www.engadget.com https://www.engadget.com/universal-audios-sc-1-condenser-microphone-comes-with-new-modeling-software-153349656.html?src=rss
Created 1y | Oct 20, 2023, 4:40:28 PM


Login to add comment

Other posts in this group

The Amazon Spring Sale 2025 is live: The best tech deals from Apple, Bose, Sonos, Anker and others

The Amazon Spring Sale has arrived, bringing a slew of discounts on household essentials, fashion, outdoor gear a

Mar 26, 2025, 1:11:11 AM | Engadget
The Pentagon warns government officials that Signal is being targeted by Russian hackers

As it turns out, including a reporter in your national security leader group chat about military strikes isn't the only way to compromise sensitive information on Signal. NPR

Mar 25, 2025, 10:50:04 PM | Engadget
Game Informer is back and so is its entire team

Gaming journalism stalwart Game Informer has risen from the ashes. More than thirty years afte

Mar 25, 2025, 10:50:03 PM | Engadget
Google releases Gemini 2.5 AI model for complex thinking

Google has the pedal to the metal on its AI development. Just a few months after the debut of

Mar 25, 2025, 8:30:37 PM | Engadget
Dreamhaven's Tabletop RPG party game Sunderfolk arrives on April 23

Sunderfolk, a game that borrows elements from tabletop games like Dungeons & Dragons and couch party games like Jackbox, has a launch date. The

Mar 25, 2025, 8:30:36 PM | Engadget
The UK could greenlight direct-to-phone satellite services this year

If you live in a rural area of the UK, you may soon be able to use your phone for satellite calls, messages and other standard data use. On Tuesday, the nation's telecom regulator, Ofcom,

Mar 25, 2025, 8:30:35 PM | Engadget
Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2 is now slated to launch in October 2025

Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2 has been delayed again. Publisher Paradox Interactive

Mar 25, 2025, 8:30:34 PM | Engadget