Solid State Logic SSL XL-Desk

XL-Desk features 8 of SSL’s patented Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD) microphone preamps, built-in to the first 8 channels of the console. The VHD pre can deliver clean SSL grade recordings but also features the VHD circuit used in our acclaimed Duality console* which can be switched into the signal path. The Variable Harmonic Drive circuit uses a 100% analogue signal path to generate rich harmonic distortion. As you increase the input gain, the Variable Harmonic Drive circuit introduces either 2nd or 3rd harmonic distortion or a blend of the two to your source material. At lower gain settings it adds gentle valve-style warmth or a touch of transistor edge. As the gain is increased the more extreme the distortion becomes until at high gain settings it delivers fierce trashy transistoresque grunge. VHD pre’s give the user the ultimate versatility from a studio grade preamp. Whether it’s ultra-clean traditional SSL, subtle warming or totally trashy transistor distortion, VHD will change your expectations of what a preamplifier should deliver.

• 8 SSL preamps deliver 75dB of pristine gain
• Switchable Variable Harmonic Drive on every pre
• Blend between tube and transistor distortion styles
• Phantom power and -20dB pad on every preamp
• Trim knob and hi-Z switch accommodate most levels
• Same DC-coupled circuit design found in SSL’s top gear
• Transparent signal path exceeds 24-bit/192kHz resolution
• Extremely wide frequency range with flat response
• Ultra-low distortion performance won’t color your sound
• Virtually non-existent noise floor offers extended dynamics
• Integrated 500 Series slots on all 16 mono channels
• Mix Bus A includes SSL G Comp bus compressor
• Slots 9–16 can be assigned to any stereo mix bus
• Slots 1–16 are also accessible via DB-25 connectors
• 4 mix buses provide legendary SSL summing
• Insert points and direct outputs offer additional routing
• ALT inputs on first 16 channels provide playback summing
• Stereo Cue and both Aux sends can be pre or post fader
• Uniform DB-25 I/O makes it easy to add a patchbay
• Effortlessly switch between 3 sets of monitors
• Assign a subwoofer in or out with each monitor set
• Mono fold down, dim, and 2 solo modes onboard
• Talkback mic feeds 2 of 3 headphone mixes
• Recordable Listen Mic input with classic compression