The result of nearly three years of development, the new VRS8 Virtual Analog audio interface combines Slate Digital's software and hardware into a robust audio ecosystem called The Virtual Recording Studio. A "no compromise" design approach was used, resulting in a great-sounding eight-channel audio interface that leads the industry when it comes to components, specifications, price, and performance.
Do you already have a sound card? No problem!
MacOS users can pair their existing audio interface with a VRS8. Learn how to upgrade your VRS8 to a great recording studio here. VRS8 Interface Harmony | Slate Digital
EIGHT ULTRA LINEAR
The start of any signal chain is incredibly important, which is why the VRS8 features 8 high bandwidth Ultra Linear microphones. These are the same ‘blank canvas’ design as our award-winning Virtual Microphone System VMS-One, allowing you to use our modelling software to recreate the authentic sound of famous microphones. Each has its own high quality metal knob, so you can easily adjust levels like a normal analogue, rather than using single logic controller buttons and menus like some of our competitors choose to do.
THE BEST CONVERTERS IN THE INDUSTRY
The next step in the signal chain is the converter itself. Instead of using cheap components, the VRS8 incorporates the latest AKM AK5578 converter chips to deliver mastering quality conversion - delivering an industry-best 124db dynamic range across all 8 inputs!
HIGH QUALITY COMPONENTS
The sound of an audio interface depends on much more than the converter chip itself - all components in the audio circuit have a direct impact on the sound quality. Maintaining our "no compromise" design aesthetic, the VRS8 uses high-quality WIMA capacitors for the entire audio path.
LOW LATENCY
Part of the goal behind creating Virtual Recording Studio was to provide a near real-time experience when using our analog modeled plug-ins while monitoring. To achieve this goal, we created a new technology called LLN, which stands for "Low Latency Native". LLN uses a custom wired converter chipset that reduces managed components in the audio path and allows for an incredible 1 millisecond latency at 96K (with a 32 buffer size). This latency feature allows you to monitor through the microphone and its emulations while monitoring, allowing you to hear the audio in context while allowing you to change your mind later.
XTC AUDIO CLOCK
The Audio Clock is the heart of any recording interface, so it was important for the VRS8 to have an incredible clocking system built in. We use satellite-grade XTC clocking technology, which uses four temperature-compensated crystal oscillators for ultra-stable audio performance, so you experience freedom from jitter and distortion.
HEADPHONE AMPLIFIERS
Most engineers listen to music through headphones while working in the studio, but headphone amplifiers are often the first place manufacturers look to cut costs when creating an interface. Instead of using typical designs that cost just a few bucks, we use separate amplifiers to ensure your headphones are delivering solid, clear sound for all your monitoring tasks.
MIDI IO
Our "no compromise" design goal has also extended to areas that other manufacturers simply ignore, as evidenced by the VRS8's native MIDI IO. Unlike USB MIDI interfaces (where MIDI information must contend with your mouse, keyboard, and other USB traffic), the MIDI IO on the VRS8 never touches the USB bus. You can count on extremely precise MIDI timing!
Get a free year of Slate All Access Pass!
Slate Digital Virtual Recording Studio comes with the All Access Pass Annual License. The All Access Pass includes all Slate's award-winning plugins, worth thousands of dollars. You'll be able to monitor world-class microphones, preamps, equalizers, and more in real time using VRS8 and VMS Microphones.
VRS EXPERIENCE
You can now experience Slate Virtual Recording Studio, which includes all of our microphone models. Click below to go to the VRS Experience page, where you can download all of the Slate plugins, including demos of our VMS microphone plugins, and a multi-track session recorded with VMS microphones via our VRS8 interface. Once you have downloaded the plugins and session, click below to go to the VRS Experience page, where you can download a multi-track session recorded with a track. Once you have downloaded the plugins and session, you can load a track and try out different premium virtual microphones from the mic cabinet. Hear the old FET47F, 414, and ribbon 121. Try vocals with 67s, 251s, 47s, and more.
