SSL 2 B-Stock

Alongside the almost identical SSL 2+, the SSL 2 is the first audio interface from the long-established British company Solid State Logic, which is most likely known to many musicians and sound engineers for its large mixing consoles. The 4000-series consoles (often referred to as "4K") have a legendary reputation and the SSL 2 interface is reminiscent of this series both visually and sonically. Each channel features a Legacy 4K button with which SSL have distilled two essential characteristics of the 4K sound into a single circuit, adding analogue colouration when the user needs to breathe some life into "dull" or "lifeless" sounding input sources, but more on that below. Apart from this special feature, the SSL 2 is a typical two-channel USB interface with LEDs and a large monitor mix control, and it comes at a surprisingly low price by SSL standards.

The SSL 2 is designed for sound and quality-conscious beginners who only require two inputs and outputs while also seeking the focused and punchy sound of the SSL 4000. The first thing that engaging the Legacy 4K button will do is introduce a "forward", yet musical high-frequency EQ boost, while also injecting a controlled amount of finely-tuned, sweet-sounding harmonic distortion into the signal path. The two inputs can be switched from line to Hi-Z, which allows for the simultaneous recording of an electric guitar as well as vocals with a condenser microphone. For users who need MIDI sockets, we recommend the SSL 2+, which also offers even more outputs.