A Wealth of Iconic Microphones in One
Universal Audio’s SC-1 Condenser Microphone ushers in yet another UA innovation. This large-diaphragm condenser comes packaged with Hemisphere, an exciting microphone modeling plug-in descended from Sphere. Hemisphere contains eight iconic large-diaphragm condenser models that make the SC-1 a cinch in any recording situation. When we tested Hemisphere at Sweetwater, we were astonished by the quality of these emulations. They truly go toe-to-toe with the real things. What’s more, Hemisphere allows you to virtually control the mic’s proximity, axis, and filter — even after tracking. And if that’s not enough, the mic’s ultra-linear circuitry, high SPL handling, and bulletproof build quality make it an excellent microphone in its own right. Choose the Universal Audio SC-1 condenser microphone and get many iconic mics for the price of one.
Related Videos: SC-1 Condenser Microphone with Hemisphere Modeling
Explore Hemisphere’s virtual mic locker
Included with your new SC-1 condenser microphone, Hemisphere takes the concept of UA’s Sphere software and applies it to cardioid mics. It spans models of eight iconic large-diaphragm condensers from the world’s most respected manufacturers. Whether you’re looking for the bright, uncompromising clarity of hip-hop’s most popular mic or the studio staple that sounds 87 times better than the rest, Hemisphere has you covered — and then some. Better still, Hemisphere is compatible with every Universal Audio Standard series microphone and includes modeled microphones optimized for the SC-1 large-diaphragm condenser, the SD-1 dynamic mic, and the SP-1 pencil condenser.
Included Hemisphere mic models:
- LD-47K: The ultimate studio workhorse, this classic 47-style mic was the go-to vocal mic for the Beatles and Frank Sinatra and continues to be popular today with countless modern artists. It's also a prime choice for acoustic guitars, bass, and drums.
- LD-67 NOS: This custom 67-style mic evokes the coveted lead vocal sound showcased on classics like "Hey Jude" and "Sympathy for the Devil," as well as Nirvana's Nevermind album.
- LD-87 Vintage: Complete with a modeled low-cut and pad, this mid-'70s solid-state mic epitomizes the mid-forward sound of '80s pop vocals.
- LD-103: Brandishing a distinctive presence peak in the 8–12kHz range, this modern cardioid condenser delivers the vocal sound favored by artists such as Billie Eilish, Justin Timberlake, John Mayer, and many more. It's also an excellent choice for acoustic guitars and whispery ASMR recordings.
- LD-12: Used by Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Cyndi Lauper, Tina Turner, and many others, this iconic '50s-era mic boasts a gorgeous top-end sparkle that's tailor-made for lush, breathy vocals. It also performs admirably on piano and drum overheads.
- LD-251: Built upon the coveted CK12 brass capsule and 6072 tube, this mic is widely considered one of the greatest ever made — its huge, smooth sound has captured Dolly Parton, Celine Dion, and many other world-renowned vocalists.
- LD-414 US: Lauded by many studio professionals as one of the greatest all-around mics ever built, this nylon-capsule condenser delivers a clear, transparent sound that captures intimate vocals, voice-overs, and high-impact drums with equal aplomb.
- LD-800: Widely used in commercial pop, hip-hop, and R&B, this mic's silky-smooth character and transparent sound have been employed by modern greats such as Lady Gaga, Mariah Carey, Dr. Dre, and Eminem.
Enjoy total control with Hemisphere
There’s more to like about Hemisphere than the larger-than-life microphone models. The plug-in also offers proximity, axis, and filter parameters. The proximity knob virtually increases or decreases the distance of your microphone from the source, so you don’t have to physically move the mic to achieve an optimal sound. Furthermore, the axis control virtually alters the axis at which the mic is placed — an industry first. This control helps tame harsh, unwanted frequencies on your guitar amps, snare drums, and much more. Most importantly, Hemisphere is so powerful that you can change the filter, proximity, and axis controls even after you’re done tracking. Using Hemisphere is the easiest way to get perfect recordings the first time.
High-definition sound for any source
While the SC-1’s included virtual mic locker sounds incredible, this mic sounds plenty great on its own! Universal Audio’s team of engineers and microphone experts pulled out all the stops to ensure this microphone delivers a classic, well-rounded sound. Just supply phantom power, and this mic is ready to record any source in high definition. It flaunts high SPL handling and an ultra-wide dynamic range, which enable you to record screaming guitar cabs, gentle piano lines, and whispers with equal success. With the SC-1, you get far more than outstanding mic models — you’re investing in a workhorse microphone for every occasion.
Universal Audio SC-1 Condenser Microphone Features:
- Large-diaphragm condenser microphone with cardioid polar pattern
- Hemisphere modeling technology gives you access to 8 classic microphone models
- Track through legendary mic models in real time
- Proximity, filter, and axis controls shape your sound —before or after tracking
- Ultra-linear circuitry delivers smooth, accurate recordings
- High SPL handling allows you to record almost any source with no distortion
- Wide dynamic range captures whispers, screams, and everything in between
