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Universal Audio Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Precision Microphone Modeling System

SKU: # 490631   |   Model: # SPHERE-L22   |    Product Reviews4 Reviews  Write a Review

Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Precision Microphone Modeling System

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Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Precision Microphone Modeling System
Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Precision Microphone Modeling System
Townsend Labs Sphere L22 Precision Microphone Modeling System

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YouTube Video Townsend Labs Sphere L22

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The Sphere L22 microphone system from Townsend Labs models the characteristics of the most sought-after large-diaphragm condenser microphones with amazing accuracy, and allows selection of different mics and patterns even after tracking.

The Sphere L22 system consists of a dedicated, dual-channel microphone and its software counterpart, the included Sphere plug-in. The exacting models incorporate transient response, harmonics, proximity effect, and multi-dimensional polar response. Thanks to Townsend Labs' exhaustive and curated study of classic microphones, the Sphere system currently brings the soul of 34 of the world's most revered microphones to life, in the included Sphere plug-in (UAD, AAX DSP, AAX Native, VST, AU).

What the Sphere L22 can do:

  • Record with the sound of some of the most prized microphones of all time, including a 47 (with VF14 tube), a 67, an M49, and a C12

  • Change mic type, polar pattern, and other microphone characteristics, even after tracking!

  • Audition the sound of different microphones without tiring the vocalist

  • Reduce bleed, undesirable room coloration, and other common issues using Off-Axis Correction

  • Record in stereo from a single microphone


Sphere L22 Microphone
The Sphere system employs the high-resolution, dual-channel L22 large-diaphragm condenser microphone, custom designed to capture the three-dimensional soundfield with exacting detail. Manufactured to extremely tight tolerances, the L22 ensures that modeling is consistent and accurate.

Realtime UAD Processing
With the Universal Audio Apollo, achieve extremely low latency (approx. 1.6ms round trip at 96kHz) for guaranteed real-time performance. Also supports AAX DSP, AAX Native, VST and AU.

Polar Pattern Modeling
Because Sphere captures the three-dimensional response of target microphones, it precisely emulates the polar patterns and other off-axis characteristics of vintage microphones which are essential to their unique sound.

Record In Stereo (With One Mic)
With just one Sphere L22 mic its possible to make coincident stereo recordings, and even have different mic models on the left and right channels, using the Sphere 180 plug-in.

Low Noise
The microphone hardware has a self-noise level of 7dB-A SPL, well below most vintage microphones and comparable to many of the best modern microphones.

High SPL Handling
The L22 can handle in excess of 140dB SPL before clipping and is remarkably rugged. It wont be damaged by high SPLs or air blasts as some vintage microphones can be.

Sphere L22 Microphone Specs:

Equivalent Noise Level: 7 dB-A
Max SPL at 0.5% THD: 140dB (with -20dB pad engaged)
Pad Attenuation: -10db and -20dB
Sensitivity: 22 mV/Pa
Output Connector: 5-pin male XLR
Breakout Cable: 10' (3m) 5-pin female XLR to dual 3-pin male XLR
Weight (mic only): 1.7 lbs. (770 grams)
Dimensions (mic only): 8.9" x 2.5" (225mm x 63mm)
Output Impedance: 200 Ohms
Recommended Load Impedance: > 1000 Ohms
Phantom Power
Voltage: 44 to 52 V per channel
Current: 5 mA per channel typical, 8 mA at max SPL

What's Included:

Sphere L22 Microphone - high precision, dual-capsule, large-diaphragm condenser studio microphone, which can be used with or without modeling

Bundled Accessories
• 10 Foot (3 Meter) Breakout Cable
• Shock Mount
• Swivel Mount
• Hard Carrying Case
• Plush Dust Cover

Sphere Plug-in
• Sphere DSP algorithms - accurately models a wide range of the most sought-after microphones in the world.
• Re-Mic technology - allows the user to change the mic type and polar pattern even after tracking.
• New patented features - including Off-Axis Correction, which can produce more accurate polar patterns for reduced bleed, room coloration, and feedback.
• Supports a wide range of plug-in formats - UAD, AAX DSP, AAX Native, VST, AU, on both Mac and Windows. Voucher included for free UAD Sphere plug-in.

Media


Townsend Labs Sphere L22Watch Video
Youtube video product demo

Q & A


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Reviews


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Very nice 4 of 4 customers found this review helpful
Features  
Quality  
Value  
Overall  
Product Experience   I own it
Closest Store   Brampton, Ontario
I had a Rode NT1 for years and thought it was great - and it absolutely is - BUT I have to say after I re-tracked some vocals and acoustic guitar tracks on some of my music and A/B'd the tracks with the NT1 vs L22 the difference is undeniable and so clear. The top end is more pronounced but silky smooth. The mic models make a big difference too. The proximity setting has some effect but not as much as the polar pattern. The LD-251 is a standout model for me but who knows for others maybe the LD 47K......lots of models to chose from..... It's a lot of $$ for this mic, especially for a home studio but, if you take your hobby or profession seriously, then I would recommend this unequivocally. As far as the accuracy of the modelling goes, well I can't comment. I've never used or even come close to being able to afford a vintage mic before..... But I can say that my music sounds far more professional with this mic.
Posted by Cam on Oct 15, 2021
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Sphere L22 - incredible! 1 of 2 customers found this review helpful
Features  
Quality  
Value  
Overall  
Product Experience   I own it
Closest Store   Vancouver, British Columbia
First of all, it’s an extremely high quality unit, with a build quality on par or better than other high-end mics I’ve worked with before. Second, as a full time multi-instrumentalist, singer, and owner of a small but well-equipped home studio, this system has streamlined my recording process and saved me time, space, and therefore money. I primarily play low brass (trombone, bass trombone, tuba, Alphorn) and the mics/techniques used to capture ideal sounds on those instruments are all subtly different. Before, I would have to spend a lot of time switching mics, re-positioning boom stands, setting levels, etc. Now with the Sphere L22 I can just set up one mic, record an entire project, and adjust mic choice/proximity/axis/pattern in post production. So far, some of my favourite emulations are: 421N (tuba), Coles 4038 (jazz trombone), U87 (commercial trombone), U47 (voice).
Posted by Jim on Sep 26, 2020
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The best mic purchase I've made... 7 of 7 customers found this review helpful
Features  
Quality  
Value  
Overall  
Product Experience   I own it
Closest Store   North York (Steeles), Ontario
When I first heard about mic modelling technology I was very skeptical, and not particularly interested, but when I read about this mic on a forum it piqued my interest. I own a few mics, including some higher end ones that cost much more than this one. So why would I be interested in something like this? The thought of being able to adjust different mic colors, polar patterns, and proximity effect at any point in the production stage was really interesting...and the fact it could also work as a stereo mic was also intriguing. Finally, the fact it was compatible with my UA Apollo for latency-free monitoring kind of sealed the deal. I'd been looking for a versatile mic I could take around with me to any kind of recording situation, so I decided I had to try one out. As it turns out, this thing is a total a game changer! Choosing and adjusting the mic models and polar patterns while I'm at the mix stage is fantastic. When tracking and layering vocals, switching mic models for each layer (to avoid the build up of ringing frequencies) makes smooth sounding vocal stacks quick and easy. Being able to record drum overheads/drum rooms in stereo (phase coherent), stereo acoustic guitar, piano, or even stereo group vocals with this one mic just adds to the usability. You literally won't find a more versatile mic (at any price point). Add to that the fact that this mic takes very high SPLs easily, so you can have the sound of very expensive mics you wouldn't dare throw in front of a screaming guitar cab or inches from a kick drum with no worries. I wasn't actually that bothered about the accuracy of the mic models when I decided to try this mic out, I figured just having access to so many different sound flavors and tones would make it worth the money, as long as they sound GOOD. As it turns out, the mic models are incredibly accurate sounding. I've been lucky enough to use many of the mics that are modeled, and have been able to compare the models to the originals, and I couldn't be happier. At the time of writing this, there are 3 different mic packs available (including the free pack that comes with the purchase), with a great selection that would put most high end studios' collections to shame. The mic itself is really well made, and sounds great on it's own without the modelling software...which was an added bonus. And Townsend Labs' customer service is fantastic - when I've had questions or needed help with anything they have been quick and extremely helpful. Great to see in a new company. If you're on the fence about trying this, you'd be doing yourself a total disservice by not giving it a chance. I have no doubt you'll be as surprised as I was. We all know that no matter how great a microphone is, there are sources that it won't work well on. So having a collection of the best sounding mic flavors at your fingertips is pretty priceless. I never would have thought I'd be writing a glowing review about a modelling microphone, but it's turned out to be such a vital part of my work flow I felt the need to support and great company and product. Currently saving for a second one....
Posted by Steve Chahley on May 9, 2019
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L22: A One Mic Treasure Chest 7 of 8 customers found this review helpful
Features  
Quality  
Value  
Overall  
Product Experience   I own it
Closest Store   Toronto (Bloor St.), Ontario
Since I first saw a demo of a prototype of this mic by James of Pro Tools Expert, I knew I had to have one. I saw at the time that they were crowdfunding and bought mine that way. I waited a while and when it shipped I was excited. I won't bore you with the rest of the story. It's enough to say it does everything as advertised; I can use my UA interface or my standalone analogue dual mic preamp. All the models sound great. I have even automated many of the software features in my mixes, including swapping mic models on the fly. The fact there are two other mic bundles available at the Universal Audio website is a bonus but the stock ones are amazing and as far as DAW's and hardware go, I consider this mic and its software as open source as these things can possibly get. The 3D mic models hold up against the actual mic's. I own a few of the microphones they modeled so comparison is pretty straightforward. The first time I used L22, I shut my eyes and twice in a row landed on a U87 model. This is not surprising since a U87Ai was my main microphone for 15 years when I worked for a broadcaster. I cannot recommend this product enough. It's great to have it in my collection. It fills out my collection completely and it's only one mic. A real treasure.
Posted by Damian Kearns on May 1, 2019
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Rental rates


This product is normally available for rental. Please contact your preferred location for further information.

1 Day from $44.00

1 Week $88.00

1 Month $175.00

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