SSL has announced a new audio interface designed to be the centrepiece of your setup, the SSL 18.
The new unit is a rack-mounted interface with 26 inputs and 28 outputs in total, including eight dedicated SSL preamps, two high-current headphone outs, and a built-in Listen Mic Compressor, the famous effect used in ’80s drum production. Each of the eight pre-amp inputs also features a 4K button that emulates the sound of the SSL’s famous 4000-series hardware console. All audio runs through SSL’s “next generation” 32-bit/192kHz converters.
While the unit has a total of 26 inputs and 28 outputs, the I/O is split over combi-jack, quarter-inch jack and digital via ADAT and SPDIF. There are two combi-jack inputs on the front of the unit for quick access, while the six extra ins and ten balanced quarter-inch jack outputs are round back. This is also where you’ll find the MIDI 3.5mm ports, return I/O and USB-C for connecting to your computer or laptop.
Software-wise, the 18 comes with a dedicated routing app called SSL 360. It offers comprehensive management of all I/O and allows you to route channels around the unit easily to set up personal monitoring systems for recording. Each mix setup in 360 can be saved as a template to recall later depending on the session. The SSL 18 also comes with the SSL Production Pack that bundles a range of third-party instrument plug-ins, samples, mix plug-ins and more including tools from Antares, Native Instruments, Output and Celemony.
The SSL 18 ships for €1,099 and is available now. Visit the SSL website for the full specifications.