Steven Slate Audio ML‑2A Modeling Microphones (Pair)
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Description
VMS ML‑2A delivers a factory-matched pair of professional-quality, small-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphones that can do it all-on any instrument, in mono or stereo. They come paired with the comprehensive VMS library, featuring accurately modeled vintage and modern high-end microphones, giving you access to those iconic tones right in your studio. The ML‑2A is the perfect companion to the vocal-optimized ML‑1A.
The Ultimate Modeling Mic
Powered by the Slate Digital Virtual Microphone System plug-in, the ML-2A gives you access to the ultimate mic locker, right in your DAW. Instantly audition vintage, rare, even obscure mic models: from essential workhorses like the S-57 and S-421, to smooth ribbons like the S-121, legendary small-diaphragm condensers such as the S-451 and S-222, and even large-diaphragm classics like the S-414 and the revered tube S-67.
Built with precision hardware and premium components, the ML-2A goes beyond the original ML-2 to deliver enhanced detail, greater dynamic range, and added versatility. Designed for demanding recording environments, it handles high-SPL sources with ease and provides extra control through a bass roll-off switch and a -20dB pad. Supplied as a factory-matched pair with an included mounting bar, the ML-2A is a practical choice for capturing stereo recordings in both studio and on-location setups.
With zero-latency processing, you can monitor through mic models while tracking and still have the flexibility to change them later as your mix comes together. The future of mic modeling is here-and it's better than ever.
Limitless Possibilities
Step into a world of sonic freedom with 27 microphone models. Both industry standards and creative options are included inside the Virtual Microphone System plug-in. Instantly audition and compare different microphones in your mix or blend the characteristics of two models to create a completely unique sound tailored to your recordings. Add color and vintage saturation with the Virtual Preamps Collection for a complete virtual front-end recording experience.
Slate Digital's ever-growing microphone collection gives you unmatched flexibility in any recording session. From kick drums, snares, and toms to guitar and bass cabs, horns, and even vocals, the ML-2A covers it all. This level of versatility, once exclusive to world-class studios, is now within reach. As Slate Digital develops new mic models for VMS, they will automatically be added to your mic locker, just download the update and start using the new flavors in your productions, instantly.
Pro Quality
The ML‑2A's pro‑grade hardware combines a gold‑sputtered small‑diaphragm cardioid capsule with low‑noise electronics to deliver clean, detailed capture, a flat, extended frequency response, stable cardioid imaging, and rugged construction - optimized to get the most from the industry‑leading Virtual Microphone System software.
The Leader in Mic Modeling
Since launching the original ML-1 in 2015, Slate Digital has led the way in mic modeling technology, providing more microphone models to users than any other. With the new ML-1A and ML-2A microphones in your studio, you have access to over 60 microphone models in total...and the collection continues to grow every year with new models added through simple software updates.
Expanded Headroom
No source is too loud, thanks to the -20dB pad switch. Whether you're working with softer sounds or extremely loud sources, the ML-2A can handle up to an incredible 156dB SPL, ensuring clean, distortion-free recordings even in the most demanding environments.
Ultra-Low Self-Noise
Achieve pristine clarity with a remarkable 16dB self-noise rating. Capture every nuance with minimal interference, giving you the highest-quality recordings possible, whether you're in the studio or on location. ML-2A also includes a low-frequency roll-off switch at 80Hz 6dB/octave for eliminating low-end rumble directly at the source.
It's a Match
With its updated design, the ML-2A combines modern aesthetics with legendary sound. Delivered as factory-selected matched pairs with corresponding serial numbers, you can capture stunning stereo recordings with ease, complete with the included stereo mounting bar.
Unlock Complete Access
The ML-2A doesn't just deliver exceptional sound; it also includes a three-month Complete Access Bundle subscription, giving you instant access to over 150 software plug-ins from Slate Digital, Solid State Logic, and Harrison Audio, along with Slate Digital Virtu assisted mastering, the Slate Sounds sample library, and more. Everything you need to make perfect mixes of your recordings.
Q & A
Reviews

Protect your investment with the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty
A warranty can be a very important factor when making a buying decision. Because repairs can be very expensive in terms of parts and labour costs, manufacturers usually only provide one year limited warranties that generally only cover items that malfunction due to a manufacturer’s defect. With an important purchase such as a musical
instrument or piece of studio gear, however, many people want to have the peace of mind in knowing that their investment will be protected should the product no longer be performing at 100%.
Because of this, Long & McQuade provides our customers with a FREE one-year Performance Warranty on most of our products. The Long & McQuade Performance Warranty supplements the manufacturer’s warranty to ensure that our customers receive complete “no hassle” warranty coverage within their first year.
How does the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty differ from most manufacturers' warranties?
- Performance Guarantee: Normal wear and tear is covered, so your product will be performing as well as the day you purchased it for the entire duration of the coverage. Band and Orchestral Performance Warranty does not include replacing pads or cleaning for woodwind instruments, unless deemed necessary by our repair staff. Ultrasonic cleaning for brass instruments will be provided if deemed necessary by our repair staff, but is not routinely offered under the Performance Warranty.
- Product Replacement: If your product cannot be fixed or costs too much to fix, we will replace it with the equivalent model for no additional charge. If this is not possible, a full refund will be provided.
- No Lemon Policy: Your product will be replaced should the same problem occur multiple times.
- Convenient: Easy drop off and pick up of the product at any Long & McQuade location.
- Guitar Setup: Guitars purchased at Long & McQuade come with 1 free setup, to be redeemed within 1 year for new guitars and 90 days for used guitars.
- Loaners Available: A loaner product may be given while the product is being repaired.
- Power Surge Protection: Your product is covered even if damaged from a power surge.
- Accessory Coverage: Any peripheral devices or accessories that come with your product (i.e. foot pedal, case) are also covered.
- Commercial Use Coverage: Music and recording professionals who purchase gear for “heavy-use” commercial purposes will still be covered.
Long & McQuade reserves the right to restrict the purchase of additional years of Performance Warranty. Used products come with a 3-month Long & McQuade Performance Warranty. Some products (i.e. computers, software, cymbals and other items) are covered only by the manufacturer‘s warranty. Consumables (i.e. strings, reeds, drum sticks, batteries, tubes, cross faders) are excluded as they are designed to be replaced. Cosmetic Damage, Accidental Damage, or problems caused by Humidity or Temperature Issues are not covered. Speakers damaged by overpowering are generally not covered. Our coverage does not provide compensation for loss of use. As of June 2018 the Performance Warranty is no longer transferable. The warranty is only valid in Canada.
Purchasing additional years of coverage
Some manufacturers provide warranties for longer than 1 year; however, these are usually limited warranties that do not provide the same coverage as the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty. Customers interested in more complete and convenient (but not necessarily longer) coverage are still able to purchase additional years of the Performance Warranty.
If you are interested in receiving this coverage for longer than one year, you have the option of purchasing additional years of the Performance Warranty. The pricing is as follows:
- NEW products: Starting at 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. Starting at 4% for each additional year.
- USED products: Starting at 4% of the current new selling price to increase the warranty from 3 months to 1 year. Starting at 4% for each additional year.
- GUITARS: 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. 4% for each additional year. $45 maximum. An additional free setup is not included with additional purchased years of Performance Warranty.
- BAND and ORCHESTRAL instruments: 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. 4% for each additional year.

