Essential Information About the SSL PURE DRIVE OCTO Mic Preamp / Audio Interface
- 8 SuperAnalogue PureDrive mic preamps with 3 sonic personalities: "Clean," "Classic Drive," and the new "Asymmetric Drive" for controlled musical saturation.
- 32-bit / 192 kHz conversion and integrated USB 12x12 interface for high-fidelity recording flow with low latency.
- Stepped-Gain control up to +65 dB + 31-step 1 dB Trim, 4 mic impedance options, +48 V phantom power, polarity inversion, and adjustable high-pass filter.
- Complete studio connectivity: combo XLR/6.35 mm jack inputs, 4 Hi-Z DI, inserts on Sub-D25, ADAT, 8 AES/EBU outputs, Word Clock, and cascading via "Link."
From the ORIGIN Console to the "Octo": The PureDrive Lineage
Designed as a continuation of the ORIGIN console, the PURE DRIVE OCTO condenses SSL's "SuperAnalogue" DNA into a 2U chassis, while adding cutting-edge conversion and modern connectivity. It delivers the characteristic transparency, dynamics, and punch, plus the ability to shape the tone through drive modes inherited from the console world, now accessible on eight independent channels.
Who Is It For and What Is It For?
Ideal for studios, artistic producers, and engineers recording drums, ensembles, multiple vocals, or live captures. The PURE DRIVE OCTO works equally well as a high-end
analog front-end connected to your interface or as a standalone
12x12 USB interface. Its flexible routing (inserts, DI, ADAT, AES/EBU) simplifies hybrid setups and integration into existing rigs.
Key Features and Notable Innovations
PureDrive Preamps with 3 Characters
In "Clean" mode, you get SSL's most transparent signature. "Classic Drive" adds a symmetrical musical saturation reminiscent of analog consoles. The
new "Asymmetric Drive" introduces a different harmonic behavior on positive and negative swings, ideal for thickening a source without muddiness. Each channel features precise stepped gain up to +65 dB, 1 dB step Trim, and 4 selectable impedances to optimize signal-to-noise ratio and color with any microphone.
Premium Conversion and Integrated USB
The 32-bit / 192 kHz conversion offers excellent dynamic range and increased precision during tracking and re-amping. The 12x12 USB interface allows recording eight analog inputs while benefiting from digital returns, with Word Clock synchronization for stable integration into a master system.
Flexible Routing and Studio Connectivity
Eight combo XLR/6.35 mm jack inputs, inserts and lines on Sub-D25,
4 front-panel DI inputs, AES/EBU digital outputs, and ADAT ports ensure quick patching between devices. The "Link" connection via ADAT enables cascading multiple units to expand channel count.
Technical Specifications
Analog Preamplification and Processing
- 8-channel SuperAnalogue PureDrive microphone preamplifier (modes: Clean, Classic Drive, Asymmetric Drive)
- Stepped-Gain control with gain up to +65 dB
- 31-level Trim control with 1 dB steps
- Microphone/line input switching per channel
- 4 input impedance options for mic preamps
- +48 V phantom power, polarity inversion
- Adjustable high-pass filter
- 4 asymmetrical Hi-Z/DI instrument inputs
Conversion and Audio Interface
- Maximum resolution: 192 kHz / 32 bits
- USB audio interface with 12 inputs / 12 outputs
- Cascading via "Link" connection (ADAT)
- USB port for audio and control
Analog Connectivity
- 8 combo microphone/line inputs on XLR/6.35 mm jack
- Line inputs on Sub-D25
- Insert returns on Sub-D25
- 4 line outputs / insert sends on Sub-D25
Digital Inputs/Outputs
- ADAT input/output
- 8 AES/EBU outputs on XLR
Synchronization
- Word Clock input/output on BNC
Format
- 19-inch rack format / 2U
- Dimensions: 482 x 303 x 88 mm
- Weight: 6.2 kg
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