Just starting this in the proper area. A number of us have been wondering/waiting/curious about the new Microphone and Preamp technology from Slate since it's Jan 2014 NAMM announcement.
Sambrox pointed out the link: http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/VMS
And it seems they went from 2 Mics (1" & 1/2") and 2 types of preamps all for $2,000 to a 1" Mic, 1 Pream, for $999
I think I'd like to wait and see what the reviews are like before I give it a try, but I am curious. Because, just like the Kemper has allowed me to simplify and actually save money (by selling excess amps) maybe I can sell the microphones and preamp and get a cool $1k back.
This might be a tall order, but if the Slate is more like the Kemper and less like the Variax I'd jump on that ship in a heart beat!