The Solid State Logic SSL 2 is a desktop USB audio interface designed for engineers who want the legendary sound of SSL gear in a project-studio form factor. This interface captures audio at sample rates and resolutions of up to 192 kHz / 24-bit.
The SSL 2 offers two combination XLR-1/4" inputs for microphones, line signals, and Hi-Z instruments such as guitars and basses. Two 1/4" outputs are provided for monitors, and a 1/4" headphone output is on hand for private listening.
The interface itself offers a simple and elegant panel setup with a prominent monitor level knob and smaller controls for your headphone out and monitor mix. The monitor mix knob can be used to counter any latency from recording at high buffer rates in your DAW. Crank it counterclockwise all the way, and you'll be monitoring the input path alone. You can introduce more of the USB signal by rotating the knob to the right. Each input section offers switches for 48V phantom power, line signal, or Hi-Z signal, as well as 5-segment metering and gain knobs. All knobs and switches are reminiscent of iconic SSL consoles.
Underneath the gain knob on both inputs you'll note the Legacy 4K button. This feature helps you bring dull, uninspiring audio to life as you record it, doing so by adding subtle harmonic distortion and a high-frequency boost. The boost and the distortion are both analog processes that take their cue from the sound of SSL 4000 consoles, hence the name 4K.
Rounding things out, the interface includes the SSL Production Pack, a software bundle offering native plug-ins, DAWs, samples, loops, and virtual instruments. Purchase the SSL 2 and you also get VocalStrip 2, DrumStrip, Pro Tools | First, Ableton Live Lite, 1.5 GB of samples from Loopcloud, Komplete Start, and more.
