SSL 18 USB Audio Interface - Secondhand

Full Description

High-resolution audio performance

SSL 18 delivers professional sound quality with next-generation 32-bit/192 kHz converters, capturing audio with an impressive 120 dB dynamic range on all mic, line, and instrument inputs. The monitor and line outputs extend this performance further, offering 125 dB dynamic range for playback and mixing with exceptional clarity.

This high-performance conversion ensures accurate reproduction of every detail in your recordings and mixes. The dual headphone outputs also offer 120 dB dynamic range, providing critical listening capabilities for tracking and monitoring in any environment.

Precision mic preamps with analog character

SSL 18 is equipped with eight SSL-designed mic preamps, delivering low-noise, high-gain performance for capturing vocals and instruments with stunning accuracy. Each preamp features advanced 2-stage circuitry, ensuring clean, transparent audio while preserving the natural character of the source material.

The front-panel inputs support direct connection for instruments such as guitars and synthesizers. Engaging the Legacy 4K mode adds harmonic saturation and a smooth high-frequency boost, bringing a classic analog touch inspired by SSL's iconic 4000 series consoles.

Flexible connectivity and expansion

With ten balanced line outputs, SSL 18 offers versatile routing options suited to a variety of studio setups. Outputs 1-4 can be adjusted between +9 and +24 dBu, allowing compatibility with professional studio monitors and outboard equipment. Outputs 3-10 operate at +24 dBu, providing a reliable solution for integrating external hardware.

All outputs are DC-coupled, allowing control voltage signals to be sent to modular synths and other external gear. The digital I/O section provides an additional 16 ADAT channels and two S/PDIF channels, making it easy to expand the system to accommodate growing production needs.

Streamlined monitoring and workflow

SSL 18 includes a full monitor control section with built-in talkback functionalit y, offering convenient speaker switching, volume control, and talkback communication. The monitor controls can be customised using the SSL 360 software, providing a tailored workflow to fit any studio setup.

The talkback input can be switched to line mode, allowing audio to be processed through the legendary Listen Mic Compressor, a tool famous for adding punch to drums and parallel vocal processing. The interface's headphone outputs offer configurable settings for different impedance levels, ensuring accurate monitoring for various headphone types.

Comprehensive software integration

SSL 18 works seamlessly with the SSL 360 software, offering deep control over input and output routing, custom monitor mixes, and scalable metering options. Users can create multiple monitor mixes for performers, manage talkback routing, and store custom templates for tracking, mixing, and other workflows.

The Mirror Routing system allows any input or aux master to be routed directly to an output, making it easy to send audio to personal monitoring systems, external effects, or additional metering devices.

Included software bundle for creative production

Each SSL 18 interface comes with the SSL Production Pack, featuring a collection of virtual instruments, plug-ins, and samples from industry-leading brands. This bundle includes essential tools for music production, mixing, and mastering, helping users enhance their workflow right out of the box.

In addition, new SSL 18 owners can claim a free six-month subscription to Complete Access, which includes plug-ins from Solid State Logic, Slate Digital, and Harrison Audio. This extensive software package provides the creative tools needed to produce professional-quality tracks.

Features

• High-resolution 32-bit/192 kHz converters deliver exceptional dynamic range and audio fidelity for all inputs and outputs
• Eight SSL-designed mic/line preamps provide ultra-low noise, high dynamic range, and optional Legacy 4K analog enhancement
• Dual front-panel Hi-Z inputs allow direct recording of guitars, synths, and drum machines
• Ten balanced line outputs with flexible level configuration for seamless integration with studio monitors and outboard gear
• DC-coupled outputs enable control voltage routing for synthesizers and modular systems
• Two independent headphone outputs with multiple impedance settings for personalized monitoring
• Legacy 4K analog enhancement adds classic harmonic distortion and musical high-frequency boost
• Comprehensive digital I/O with 16 channels via ADAT and 2 channels via S/PDIF for expanded connectivity
• Dedicated word clock output ensures reliable synchronization with external digital devices
• Integrated monitor controller with customizable controls for speaker switching, talkback, and cut functions
• Built-in talkback mic with legendary Listen Mic Compressor for creative sound processing
• SSL 360 software provides full control over mixing, routing, and monitor management
• Flexible routing options with Mirror Routing to send inputs or aux masters directly to outputs
• Bundled SSL Production Pack includes virtual instruments, plug-ins, and samples to enhance creativity
• Six-month Complete Access subscription offers a comprehensive collection of professional plug-ins

Specifications

• 8 Microphone/Line-Level Inputs:
  • 4K Analogue Enhancement, Polarity Invert, High-Pass Filters And 48V Phantom Power Per Channel.
  • Configurable Analog Insert Points For Inputs 1 And 2, Great For Tracking With Analog Gear.
  • Inputs 1 And 2 Are Switchable To Instrument-Level.
  • Line Inputs Bypass Preamp – Perfect For Integrating External Preamps.
• 10 Balanced Line Outputs:
  • Alternative Speaker Switching.
  • +9 dBu /+24 dBu Output Level Configuration Options For Pairs 1&2 And 3&4 To Best Match Your Monitors.
  • DC-Coupled Outputs Are Capable Of Sending Control Voltages To Synthesisers And Modular Rigs.
• 2 Independent, Powerful Headphone Outputs With Dedicated Level Controls:
  • 3 Mode Options To Suit Different Headphone Impedances – Standard, High Sensitivity, High Impedance.
  • Create Custom Headphone Mixes.
  • Re-Purpose As Line Outputs.
• Dedicated Talkback Input With Listen Mic Compressor (LMC):
  • Talkback Input Can Also Be Used In LINE Mode For The Creative Processing Of Stems Through The LMC When Producing And Mixing.
• +24 dBu Operating Level For Inputs And Outputs: Perfect For Integrating Professional Outboard Gear As Hardware Inserts.
• 16 Channels Of ADAT I/O: At 44.1/48 kHz, 8 Channels At 96 kHz.
• 2 Channels Of S/PDIF: Coaxial Or Optical.
• MIDI I/O: On 3.5 Mm TRS Jacks.
• Flexible Clocking Options: Internal (Clock Signal Available On Word Clock Output), Or Clock From Incoming ADAT Or S/PDIF.
• Next-Generation 32-Bit/192 kHz Converters: Class-Leading Audio Performance In Every Area:
• Best-In-Class Low-Noise Microphone Preamps With Outstanding –130.5 dBu EIN And 67 dB Gain Range For Working With Any Microphone.
• Best-In-Class 120 dB Dynamic Range Across All Inputs & Headphone Outputs.
• Best-In-Class 125 dB Dynamic Range On Monitor And Line Outputs.
• Product Code: SSL0143