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Average Price: $675
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Description
The Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Modeling Microphone is a revolutionary tool for studio recording enthusiasts and professionals alike. This dual-channel condenser microphone goes beyond traditional recording capabilities by allowing you to emulate the characteristics of legendary large-diaphragm microphones with unparalleled precision. Whether you're tracking vocals, instruments, or both, the Sphere L22 provides the flexibility to change mic models and polar patterns even after recording, giving you creative control like never before.
The Sphere L22 is equipped with a dedicated software plug-in compatible with UAD, AAX DSP, AAX Native, VST, and AU, ensuring seamless integration into your existing workflow. It meticulously captures and recreates the complex nuances of classic microphones, including transient response, harmonics, and the proximity effect. With its ability to simulate the multi-dimensional polar response of iconic mics, this system is perfect for those seeking to achieve the exact sound they envision.
Incorporating Townsend Labs' extensive research into mic behavior, the Sphere L22 stands out in the realm of studio gear. Whether you're a seasoned producer or an aspiring artist, this microphone offers a dynamic range of possibilities to tailor your recordings to perfection.
Key Features:
- Dual-channel condenser microphone
- Emulates classic large-diaphragm microphones
- Software plug-in compatible with UAD, AAX DSP, AAX Native, VST, AU
- Real-time modeling of different mic polar patterns
- Captures transient response, harmonics, and proximity effect
- Provides post-recording flexibility to change mic models and patterns
Product specs
| Brand | Townsend Labs |
| Model | Sphere L22 Precision Microphone Modeling System |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2010s |
| Made In | China |
| Categories | Microphones |
| Electronics | Analog, Digital, Solid State |
| Microphone Type | Digital/USB, Large-Diaphragm Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Multipattern |
| Wired/Wireless | Wired |
FAQs
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What makes the Townsend Labs Sphere L22 unique compared to other condenser microphones?
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The Townsend Labs Sphere L22 offers a high-resolution dual channel system that captures a three-dimensional soundfield, allowing for selectable mic types and polar patterns before or after recording, making it highly versatile for studio use.
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Can the Sphere L22 microphone model different polar patterns?
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Yes, the Sphere L22 features a multipattern design that allows you to select and change polar patterns, offering flexibility in capturing sound from various angles and environments.
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Is the Townsend Labs Sphere L22 suitable for both vocals and instruments?
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Absolutely, the Sphere L22 is designed to handle a wide range of applications, making it suitable for recording both vocals and instruments with high fidelity and precision.
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How does the Sphere L22 integrate with digital audio workstations (DAWs)?
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The Sphere L22 integrates seamlessly with most DAWs, allowing users to adjust mic type and polar patterns during or after recording sessions, providing extensive post-production flexibility.
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What type of connectivity does the Townsend Labs Sphere L22 use?
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The Sphere L22 is a wired microphone that connects via standard XLR, ensuring reliable and high-quality audio signal transmission during recording sessions.
Videos
Podcastage
Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Review / Test (Compared to Neumann U87 Ai, U67, SM7b, & More)
Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Review / Test (Compared to Neumann U87 Ai, U67, SM7b, & More)
Podcastage
Microphone Modeling // Townsend Labs Sphere L22 // Review & Overview
MusicTechHelpGuy
Townsend Sphere Vs. U87 Vs. C414 - Mic Shootout!
Andertons Synths, Keys and Tech
Recording Magazine looks at the Townsend Labs L22 Sphere Modeling Microphone
RecordingMag
Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Mic Modeling System Demo
Acoustic Guitar Magazine
Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Microphone Modeling System Overview
Sweetwater
Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Vs Slate Digital ML-1
Fady Gergis
Townsend Labs Sphere L22 | First Impressions And How I Plan To Use It
Minimalist Musician
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional mic emulation offers flexibility and replicates vintage sounds authentically
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Ability to choose and alter mic models post-recording for optimal sound
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Streamlines workflow by reducing the need for multiple physical mics
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High sound quality rivals expensive vintage microphones
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Real-time monitoring of emulations enhances performance quality
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Integration with UAD’s Sphere plugins is seamless
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Provides access to a wide range of classic mic models in one unit
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Significant cost savings compared to purchasing multiple vintage mics
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Low self-noise and high clarity in recordings
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Robust build quality ensures durability
CONS
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Heavier than expected; may require sturdy boom stands
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Does not perfectly replicate polar patterns of each vintage mic
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Lacks the unique break-up and self-noise characteristics of original vintage mics
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Modeling Microphone Condenser Microphone.
Features and functionality
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The L22 allows changing angle, proximity effect, and pattern selection, offering unique tonal/spatial controls post-recording not possible with conventional mics.
Source -
The modeling process involves measuring minute differences, such as material changes in mic parts, which affect saturation, transient response, and impedance, beyond mere EQ adjustments.
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Non-linear EQ is based on arbitrary input thresholds, indicating a sophisticated approach to modeling sound beyond simple frequency adjustments.
Source
Comparisons
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Users note the L22's U87 model is indistinguishable from vintage and newer U87s, making it suitable for stereo pairing with them.
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The Slate LDC mic, while improved with emulations, is considered less versatile and authentic sounding than the Townsend L22 without models engaged.
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Some users feel the L22 offers results comparable to high-end mics like the C800G, outperforming the U87Ai in flexibility and versatility for certain vocal ranges.
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The L22 is considered a strong contender against the Lauten Atlantis for those seeking versatile FET mic options that rival the U87.
Source
Software and compatibility
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The Sphere plugin adds approximately 0.5ms latency, questioning the necessity of UA or HDX hardware for latency-free monitoring.
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The Sphere L22's modeling is aligned with UA’s process, suggesting detailed replication of original mic characteristics, which might include subtle saturation and sensitivity variations.
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Concerns about software support are mitigated by the L22's standalone performance, which remains effective even without modeling software.
Source
Use cases and applications
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The L22 is praised for its versatility and ability to suit different vocal and instrument sources by switching models, beneficial for uncertain arrangements.
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The L22 is recommended for studios aiming to cover a wide range of vocal types, especially in rap and rock, where post-recording flexibility is crucial.
Source
Other
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The L22's capability to use coincident mic setups, despite inherent challenges, shows its flexibility in experimental configurations.
Source
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Bora Karaca uses the Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Modeling Microphone Condenser Microphone, as listed on his LA Studio's website, The Laboratory Audio.
Teddy Swims uses the Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Modeling Condenser as a workhorse in the studio for recording covers, as seen in the official live video for "Let Me Love You (Mario Cover)," where the video credits Townsend Labs Microphones for sponsoring the session.
Album Usage
The Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Modeling Microphone Condenser Microphone has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Modeling Microphone Condenser Microphone, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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