The SSL That Modernized Recording

Solid State Logic’s SL 4000 series of consoles was the first to incorporate not just EQ, but dynamics processing in every channel. This “channel strip” concept revolutionized workflow, because the crucial elements needed to optimize a channel’s sound were in one place, right at your fingertips.

Decades later, the E-series’ classic status has been reborn in hip hop and pop genres—thanks to the smooth yet punchy dynamics, and the bright, clear sound of the famed “black knob” EQ.

The Classic Sound of SSL Circuitry

The E-Channel models the SSL 4000E’s VCA-based gain element, Class A operation, and original behavior of the filter and dynamics never being out of the circuit—even when set to 0 gain and no dynamics. The circuitry’s sound is always there.

Legendary SSL EQ: Bright, Bold, Present

The SSL E’s 4-band parametric EQ section features the renowned Black Knob EQ, developed in 1983 with legendary producer George Martin. The Black knob’s bright, bold, present sound—a result of its constant frequency bandwidth—has become a signature in modern popular music. Choose a gentle shelf response for the high and low filter stages, or a bell curve for more surgical edits.

Sculpt Your Sound with Daring SSL Dynamics

The dynamics section features a soft-knee compressor/limiter and a separate expander/gate. As in the original console, you can place Dynamics before or after the filters and EQ, to tailor how the dynamics react—for example, cut lows before compression to tame a heavy kick. Makeup gain is applied automatically to maintain a steady output level.

Flexible Sidechaining

SSL also took sidechaining further. Not only can you switch the EQ or filters into the sidechain, but switch the filters and EQ into the sidechain to “tune” the control signal with even greater precision.

Over 130 All-Star Presets

Presets from Grammy-winning mix engineers and producers Chris Lord-Alge, Steve Lillywhite, Dave Pensado, Dave Darlington, Joe Barresi, Dave Aron, Thom Russo, and others cover a huge variety of superb sounds for vocals, drums, guitars, piano, keys, synths and strings.

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