Designed to be the ultimate studio centerpiece in a single 19” rack unit, the new SSL 18 recording interface for Mac and Windows enhances production workflows while elevating the performance of almost any production, or mixing space. Whether it is powering a desktop setup or at the heart of a professional studio, the new SSL design offers best-in-class conversion specifications, high-performance mic preamplifiers, flexible inputs and outputs, monitor control capabilities, and the signature SSL sound and premium quality that professionals trust.
Specifications for the new SSL 18 rackmount USB-C audio interface detail a total of 26-inputs and 28-outputs, with 16 channels of ADAT I/O at 44.1/48kHz, 8 channels at 96kHz, plus two channels of S/PDIF (coaxial or optical), and MIDI I/O. Clocking options include an internal clock signal available on Word clock format, or clock from incoming ADAT or S/PDIF. All inputs and outputs can be managed via the SSL 18 low-latency software mixer that allows creating the control room mix, plus an additional 4 custom monitor mixes, and route any input or aux master directly to an output – perfect for feeding personal monitoring systems, external metering and outboard FX. The front panel buttons of the monitoring section can be customized to suit any workflow.
Next-generation 32-bit/192 kHz converters provide the platform for SSL 18’s analog design to shine, with a dynamic range performance of 120dB across all of its microphone, line-level and instrument inputs – enabling the faithful capture of sources. With 125dB dynamic range on the monitor and line outputs, users can also experience music and audio with uncompromized fidelity. Meanwhile, the unit’s integrated high-current amplifier features dual headphone outputs offering 120dB dynamic range.
Featuring eight high-performance SSL-designed mic preamplifiers with switchable Mic/Line configuration, SSL 18's inputs offer an ultra-low noise floor and a huge dynamic range allowing every detail of a performance to be captured with accuracy. A two-stage circuit design ensures ultra-low distortion during recordings while maintaining the natural character of the source. Each input can also be flipped into Legacy “4K Analogue Enhancement Mode”, which adds real analog saturation and a musical high-frequency boost – allowing users to access the sonic character of the iconic SSL 4000 series mixers for vocals, drums, and more. Inputs 1 & 2 are conveniently located on the front panel and offer instrument/Hi-Z inputs to capture DI’d guitars and vintage synths/drum machines.
“The new SSL 18 embodies our commitment to crafting a 19-inch rack audio interface that delivers SSL quality. Our engineering team applied their analog and digital design expertise to exceed expectations. With the powerful SSL 360 sofware, SSL 18 delivers a world-class studio experience to any setup. We’re eager for everyone to experience its sound and workflow,” explains Andy Jackson, Senior Product Manager, Studio.
The SSL 18 comes equipped with 10 balanced line-level outputs located on the rear of the unit. Line outputs 1&2 and 3&4 can be configured to +9 or +24 dBu, ensuring compatibility with a broad array of studio monitors and vintage equipment. Outputs 3 to 10 operate at +24 dBu, making them perfectly suitable for integrating professional outboard equipment. All outputs are DC-coupled and capable of sending Control Voltage (CV) to synthesizers and/or modular analog instruments. Additionally, the SSL 18 features configurable analog insert points for inputs 1 and 2, making it easy to track with processing directly in the chain.
The SSL 18 interface also features a full monitoring control section with talkback input. Line outputs 1&2 and 3&4 offer alternative speaker switching with Alt Speaker and Cut controls located directly on the front panel. The talkback input can be flipped into LINE mode for processing the audio through the classic SSL Listen Mic Compressor - perfect for crushing drums, parallel vocals, and more. Using the SSL 360 software, these features and many others can be customized.
With a host of possible audio connections and workflows, the SSL 18 interface is scalable to meet the needs of any user and is the perfect companion to SSL’s forthcoming ALPHA 8 8-in/8-out AD/DA Converter and 18-in/18-out USB Audio Interface (expected Feb/March 2025). With this combination, the mic or line level I/O count can be increased by 18 channels using its ADAT and S/PDIF connections. Also, the dedicated Word Clock output provides rock-solid clocking for integrating any external digital devices.
The new SSL 18 audio interface also comes bundled with the acclaimed SSL Production Pack, creating a complete hardware and software ‘SSL studio’ solution. The SSL Production Pack features a selection of must-have virtual instruments, plug-ins, samples and DAWs, including Harrison Mixbus 10 (worth over $1100). Additionally, users receive an extended 6-month trial of Complete Access which includes every plug-in from SSL, Slate Digital and Harrison Audio.
The SSL 18 audio interface is priced at USD $1199 or €899 plus taxes.
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