Essential Information About the SSL 18 Audio Interface
- 32-bit/192 kHz Conversion with up to 125 dB dynamic range on monitor/line outputs and 120 dB on inputs and headphones, for uncompromising fidelity.
- 8 SSL Microphone Preamps with "4K" Legacy switch, HPF, +48 V phantom power, and 67 dB gain to capture the character of the 4000 series consoles.
- Comprehensive 19-inch Rack Connectivity: 10 line outputs, ADAT inputs, S/PDIF, Word Clock, MIDI, USB-C, dual headphone outputs with adjustable impedance.
- Modern Routing with stereo loopback, LMC talkback, and control via the free SSL 360deg app, ideal for studio, creation, and streaming.
The First 19-inch Rack USB Interface from SSL
With the SSL 18, Solid State Logic launches its very first USB audio interface in a 1U format. Drawing on decades of the brand's analog and digital engineering, it brings the SSL sonic signature and the famous "mojo" of the 4000 consoles into a rack format thanks to the Legacy "4K" mode. It positions itself as a high-end solution for studios wanting to move from desktop to rack without compromise.
Who Is It For and What Are Its Uses?
The SSL 18 is aimed at producers, engineers, and educational studios needing a substantial number of I/O and flexible monitoring. It excels in multi-mic recording, live capture, content creation, and multi-platform streaming thanks to stereo loopback, talkback with LMC, and two independent headphone outputs.
Key Features for Modern Productions
Reference Conversion and Dynamics
The next-generation 32-bit/192 kHz converters deliver 120 dB dynamic range on inputs and headphones, and 125 dB on monitor/line outputs. The +24 dBu operating level ensures perfect integration in a professional hybrid studio environment.
SSL Preamps and "4K" Coloration
The eight microphone preamps offer a wide gain range (67 dB), ultra-low noise, phantom power, high-pass filter, and the Legacy "4K" switch which adds gentle harmonic distortion and a slight high-frequency boost to make your sources "pop."
Routing, Monitoring, and Integration
The dual headphone outputs with selectable impedance, assignable stereo loopback source, and talkback with Listen Mic Compressor simplify both recording sessions and production/broadcast workflows. The SSL 360deg app centralizes control and streamlines studio setup.
Technical Specifications
Conversion and Audio
- Resolution: 32-bit/192 kHz
- Operating Level: +24 dBu for all inputs and outputs
- Dynamic Range: 120 dB on all inputs and headphone outputs
- Dynamic Range: 125 dB on monitor and line outputs
Analog Inputs
- 2 microphone/instrument/line inputs on combined XLR/6.3 mm TRS jacks
- 8 microphone/line inputs on combined XLR/6.3 mm TRS jacks
- Inputs 1/2 switchable to instrument level
- Talkback Mic input on combined XLR/6.3 mm TRS jack
- Return on 2x 6.3 mm TRS jacks
Outputs and Monitoring
- 10 line outputs on balanced 6.3 mm TRS jacks (+9 dBu / +24 dBu optional for outputs 1/2 and 3/4, Send 9/10)
- 2 stereo headphone outputs on 6.3 mm TRS jacks, independently adjustable with 3 impedance levels (Standard / High Sensitivity / High Impedance)
Preamplifiers
- 8 microphone preamplifiers (67 dB gain range, -130.5 dBu EIN, +48 V phantom power, 120 dB dynamic range, HPF, 4K switch)
- Legacy "4K" switch for coloration based on the SSL 4000 series
Digital Inputs/Outputs and Clock
- 2 ADAT inputs at 44.1 / 48 kHz (8 channels at 96 kHz)
- 2 S/PDIF inputs (coaxial or optical)
- Word Clock input on BNC
- MIDI input/output on 3.5 mm mini-jack
Routing and Control
- Stereo loopback with selectable loopback source
- Talkback input with integrated Listen Mic Compressor (also usable as line input for stems with LMC)
- Control via the free SSL 360deg app
Connectivity and Computer Interface
- USB audio interface
- USB-C port
Included Software
Dimensions and Weight
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 482 x 294 x 43 mm
- Weight: 4 kg
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