What is the primary function of the Universal Audio Sphere LX?

The Sphere LX is a modeling microphone designed to replicate the character, tonality, and polar patterns of 20 classic microphones using digital signal processing. It allows users to capture a high-fidelity signal and then apply specific vintage microphone emulations via software.

Can I change the microphone sound after recording?

Yes, one of the primary features of the Sphere LX is the ability to change the mic model, polar pattern, and other characteristics even after the recording session is finished. This allows you to audition different sounds within the context of your mix.

How many microphone models are included with the Sphere LX?

The system includes 20 distinctive microphone models. These emulations represent iconic mics used by major artists such as Beyonce, Radiohead, and Frank Sinatra.

Does the Sphere LX require specific hardware to work?

While it uses standard XLR connections, it requires two channels of phantom power and a dual-input audio interface to capture the necessary information for the modeling software to function correctly.

Can I use two different mic models at once?

Yes, the software allows you to combine two different microphone models. This feature enables the creation of unique, phase-coherent combinations that would be difficult to achieve with traditional hardware.

Is the Sphere LX suitable for live use?

While primarily designed for studio environments, its robust build and the ability to control polar patterns to reduce feedback make it a versatile tool, though it is categorized within professional modeling lineups.

How does the Sphere LX handle polar patterns?

Unlike traditional microphones with fixed switches, the Sphere LX polar patterns are digitally adjustable. This provides a continuous range of patterns that can be refined to manage room bleed and proximity effect.

What artists are associated with the sounds emulated by the Sphere LX?

The mic models included in the Sphere LX library recreate the sounds used on legendary recordings by The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, Beyonce, and Radiohead, among others.

How does it compare to a Shure SM58 or SM57?

While the SM58 and SM57 are legendary dynamic mics with fixed characters, the Sphere LX can emulate these types of sounds while offering much higher sensitivity and the flexibility to change to a condenser or ribbon sound instantly.

What is the typical price for the Sphere LX?

The typical price range for the Universal Audio Sphere LX is approximately £1,375, positioning it as a professional-tier studio tool.

Can I reduce room reflections with this microphone?

Yes, by adjusting the polar patterns and off-axis response in the Sphere plug-in, users can effectively minimize the impact of poor room acoustics or unwanted bleed from other instruments.

Is the modeling software included?

Yes, the modeling technology is provided via the Sphere plug-in, which works in conjunction with the physical microphone to provide the emulations and adjustable parameters.

Gear article

Universal Audio Sphere LX Modeling Microphone

The Universal Audio Sphere LX is a high-performance modeling microphone system designed to replicate the sonic characteristics and tonality of legendary vintage microphones. By combining a precision dual-diaphragm condenser microphone with advanced digital signal processing, it allows users to emulate 20 iconic microphone models and adjust polar patterns after recording.

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Overview

The Universal Audio Sphere LX is a professional-grade modeling microphone system that provides a wide palette of sounds through digital emulation. It is designed to act as a 'sonic chameleon,' allowing engineers and vocalists to access the character of rare and expensive studio microphones within a single hardware unit. The system captures the nuanced response of classic gear used by legendary artists such as The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, and Radiohead.

Technology and Functionality

The Sphere LX operates by using a dual-output microphone that captures the sound field in three dimensions. This data is then processed by the Sphere plug-in, which allows for unprecedented control over the microphone's behaviour.

Key functional features include: * Post-Recording Adjustments: Users can change the microphone model, polar pattern, and off-axis response even after the performance has been tracked. * Polar Pattern Control: The software allows for continuous adjustment of polar patterns, helping to reduce bleed or change room ambiance in a way that traditional microphones cannot. * Dual Mode: The system allows for the combination of two different microphone models to create unique hybrid sounds and phase-coherent textures.

Sound Character

While the physical microphone itself is designed for transparency and high transient detail, its primary sound character is determined by the 20 included microphone models. These emulations cover a vast range of textures, from the warmth of vintage ribbon mics to the mid-range punch of classic dynamic microphones and the airy high-end of premium large-diaphragm condensers. The system is engineered to faithfully recreate the specific harmonic distortion and frequency response of each emulated unit.

Applications and Target Users

The Sphere LX is particularly suited for project studios and professional engineers who require a versatile microphone locker without the expense of maintaining vintage hardware. Because it allows for 'auditioning' different sounds using a recorded performance as a reference, it is an efficient tool for vocalists and instrumentalists seeking the perfect tonality for a specific mix. It bridges the gap between traditional studio recording and modern digital flexibility.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard dynamic microphones like the Shure SM58 or the Sennheiser MD 441-U, the Sphere LX offers significantly more high-frequency detail and versatility due to its modeling capabilities. While specialized microphones like the Electro-Voice RE20 or the Shure 520DX 'Green Bullet' are chosen for their specific, fixed character, the Sphere LX aims to emulate those distinct sounds within a single software-driven workflow. Unlike standard condensers, the Sphere LX requires a dual-input preamp setup to facilitate its modeling software.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the Universal Audio Sphere LX?: The Sphere LX is a modeling microphone designed to replicate the character, tonality, and polar patterns of 20 classic microphones using digital signal processing. It allows users to capture a high-fidelity signal and then apply specific vintage microphone emulations via software.
Can I change the microphone sound after recording?: Yes, one of the primary features of the Sphere LX is the ability to change the mic model, polar pattern, and other characteristics even after the recording session is finished. This allows you to audition different sounds within the context of your mix.
How many microphone models are included with the Sphere LX?: The system includes 20 distinctive microphone models. These emulations represent iconic mics used by major artists such as Beyonce, Radiohead, and Frank Sinatra.
Does the Sphere LX require specific hardware to work?: While it uses standard XLR connections, it requires two channels of phantom power and a dual-input audio interface to capture the necessary information for the modeling software to function correctly.
Can I use two different mic models at once?: Yes, the software allows you to combine two different microphone models. This feature enables the creation of unique, phase-coherent combinations that would be difficult to achieve with traditional hardware.
Is the Sphere LX suitable for live use?: While primarily designed for studio environments, its robust build and the ability to control polar patterns to reduce feedback make it a versatile tool, though it is categorized within professional modeling lineups.
How does the Sphere LX handle polar patterns?: Unlike traditional microphones with fixed switches, the Sphere LX polar patterns are digitally adjustable. This provides a continuous range of patterns that can be refined to manage room bleed and proximity effect.
What artists are associated with the sounds emulated by the Sphere LX?: The mic models included in the Sphere LX library recreate the sounds used on legendary recordings by The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, Beyonce, and Radiohead, among others.
How does it compare to a Shure SM58 or SM57?: While the SM58 and SM57 are legendary dynamic mics with fixed characters, the Sphere LX can emulate these types of sounds while offering much higher sensitivity and the flexibility to change to a condenser or ribbon sound instantly.
What is the typical price for the Sphere LX?: The typical price range for the Universal Audio Sphere LX is approximately £1,375, positioning it as a professional-tier studio tool.
Can I reduce room reflections with this microphone?: Yes, by adjusting the polar patterns and off-axis response in the Sphere plug-in, users can effectively minimize the impact of poor room acoustics or unwanted bleed from other instruments.
Is the modeling software included?: Yes, the modeling technology is provided via the Sphere plug-in, which works in conjunction with the physical microphone to provide the emulations and adjustable parameters.