Following the success of the recently launched UF8 advanced DAW controller, Solid State Logic now decided to introduce a new hardware controller, directly designed as an hardware extension of plug-in control, for virtual console ‘in-the-box’ audio production experiences. Building upon decades of SSL’s unique knowledge of console ergonomics and production workflows, the new SSL UC1 delivers simultaneous multi-function control of the included SSL Native Channel Strip 2 and Bus Compressor 2 plug-ins within any DAW session.
At the heart of the UC1 is the SSL 360° Plug-in Mixer (Mac and PC), allowing users to access and control all of their Channel Strips and Bus Compressors in one virtual console overview, offering a true console-like approach to mixing-in-the-box. The controller uses a simple USB connection to the computer and offers a solid surface with a high quality all-metal enclosure, with a brushed anodized top plate. It was also designed to fit perfectly side by side with the SSL UF8 studio controller 8-channel modules.
The UC1 combines studio-quality encoders, switches and feedback LEDS, with an authentic moving coil Bus Compressor gain reduction meter for a true console ‘centre section’ experience. With knob per-function control of the SSL Native Channel Strip 2 and Bus Compressor 2 plug-ins, the UC1 provides a continual on-board display of which plug-in is currently in use, and a value readout of the control currently engaged.
Adding power to any studio DAW mix experience, the new SSL 360° Plug-in Mixer application allows users to create their very own virtual SSL console to work in unison with the UC1 hardware. Designed to provide instant access to current and future SSL designed Channel Strip and Bus Compressor plug-ins within a single window environment, mix sessions are managed with unparalleled efficiency. Users can load plug-in presets and change Channel Strip routing directly from the UC1, and its even possible to switch between 3 different DAWs that are connected to the Plug-in Mixer.
“With the addition of UC1, we now provide a series of studio-quality, affordable production hardware controllers with our signature SSL design approach. From music production recording and mixing, to exacting audio finessing for post-production, the UC1 adds a level of detailed control and response for classic SSL EQ’s and compression, traditionally only found on a full-blown SSL console. With plans to expand our plug-in offerings in the future, we will bring more of our heritage and modern processing tools to these exciting products,” states Nigel Beaumont, SSL Managing Director.
Full licenses for SSL Native Channel Strip 2 and Bus Compressor 2 plug-ins are included with UC1 (worth $479 separately). Channel Strip 2 is a fully featured Channel Strip, based on digital modeling of the EQ and Dynamics curves from the legendary XL 9000 K SuperAnalogue console. V2 adds SSL’s proprietary anti-cramping algorithms and the ability to trigger the dynamics sidechain externally. Bus Compressor 2 expands its feature set with additional Ratio, Attack and Release options, the ability to trigger the sidechain externally, as well as x2 and x4 oversampling.
The UC1 is available at $849 USD or €619 EUR.
www.solidstatelogic.com
