Universal Audio's Unique & Affordable Hemisphere Microphones! | SD-3, SD-5, SD-7

Pete from Anderson TV introduces a new series of microphones from Universal Audio with Pedro, showcasing a departure from the usual content to focus on educational aspects of recording gear. The video delves into how guitars and other instruments are recorded, and the use of specific microphones. Pedro presents three new microphones from the Standard Series with UAD Sphere modeling, including the SD3 for versatile use, the SD7 for multiple instruments, and the SD5 for capturing low-end frequencies. The microphones come with special software that allows for sound sculpting post-recording, a feature that is unique and not found in traditional microphones.

The conversation continues with an explanation of UAD Sphere, a software modeling technology that allows users to change the sound characteristics of the microphones post-recording. This feature is likened to reamping a guitar amp, providing flexibility in the recording process. The software includes a library of microphone models that can be applied to the recordings, and also features like proximity effect adjustment and axis control, which can simulate the physical movement of the microphone relative to the sound source.

The hosts transition to a hands-on demonstration, setting up the new microphones to record guitar. They compare the sound of the SD3 and SD7 microphones with traditional dynamic mics, noting the differences in warmth and low-end response. The discussion highlights the value of the new microphones, which offer high-quality sound at a fraction of the cost of traditional models. The video also touches on the use of the UAD plugin with an Apollo interface for real-time sound shaping during recording.

The video script describes a detailed comparison of the microphone models using the UAD Sphere plugin. The hosts load different microphone models into the plugin to see how they affect the sound of the recorded guitar. They discuss the importance of knowing the source microphone used for accurate modeling and the ability to explore different microphone characteristics, such as the iconic sound of the Shure SM57, even after the recording has been made.

The hosts explore the advanced features of the UAD Sphere plugin, such as axis control and proximity effect, which allow for fine-tuning the sound of the recorded tracks. They demonstrate how these features can simulate the physical positioning and distance of the microphone to the sound source, offering a new level of control over the recording. The conversation emphasizes the value of these post-production sound-shaping tools and their impact on the final mix.

The script concludes with reflections on the recording process, emphasizing the importance of mic placement and the value of having the flexibility to change the microphone model and settings after recording. The hosts discuss the cost-effectiveness of the new microphones and the UAD Sphere plugin, which provide access to a wide range of microphone models at a fraction of the cost of traditional high-end microphones. They also touch on the subjective nature of sound preference and the potential for the plugin to enhance the recording experience.

In the final part of the script, the hosts wrap up the session by expressing their enthusiasm for the new microphones and the UAD Sphere plugin. They discuss plans for future videos on their tech channel, encouraging viewers to subscribe and engage with their content. The conversation ends on a casual note, with an invitation to have lunch and a reminder for viewers to check out the links provided in the video description for more information.