Solid State Logic SSL2+ USB Audio Interface Review / Explained (Differences between SSL 2 & SSL 2+)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 16 ก.ค. 2024
- Today I walkthrough, explain, and review the new Solid State Logic SSL2+ USB Audio Interface, demonstrate what the 4K switch does, test it with the SM7b, test it with electric guitar and electric bass, and even more. I also discuss the differences between the SSL2 and SSL2+ and why you might want this instead of something like the Motu M2. Overall this is a great sounding interface that offers a lot of features for musicians that may prove to be less beneficial for a simpler voice over work flow.
Buy the SSL2+ (Affiliate Links)
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Buy the SSL2 (Affiliate Links)
Amazon: geni.us/ssl2
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Buy the Rode NT1 Kit (Affiliate)
Amazon: geni.us/rodent1
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00:00 - Intro / Pricing
00:31 - Signal Chain for Testing
00:51 - What’s in the Box
01:13 - Build Quality
01:34 - Walkthrough of Features
03:54 - Specifications
04:25 - Legacy 4k Switch Demo
04:56 - Neumann U87 Ai Test
05:30 - Shure SM7b Mic Test (No Cloudlifter or Fethead)
06:21 - Preamp Gain Noise Test
07:29 - Latency Test
08:32 - Instrument Input (D.I.) Test
10:04 - Differences Between SSL2 and SSL2+
10:52 - Pros
13:23 - Cons
14:22 - Recommendation
14:42 - Why the SSL2+ Over the Motu M2
15:24 - Outro
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Amazing review as always. I hope people don't get the "4k" confused as a "hit this and get crystal clear 3840 x 2160 4k Ultra High Definition signal."
hah
For sure they will :facepalm:
Well, it is a problem with marketing. Remember everything had an i(something)? Remember everything had HD on the label? I don't know what 4K here means but you have to remember this would be a prosumer product where not everyone cares about science
@@ET2carbon 4K refers to SSL 4 thousand series serious mixers back in the day (the '70's) hence 4K.
I saw someone saying in a review, we all have used HD and HD+. SSL has come up with 4K. and i'm sure he meant better clear quality by that. lmao. I did leave the comment there telling him what it means.
Hey Bandrew, just wanted to say I bought the SSL based on this video, like 2 years ago, and it's been absolutely fantastic! As you point out, the signal you get is very clean and I've recommended it to a number of people since. The usb/input mix knob is also very handy. So, if anyone's looking to buy this thing, it's still well worth the money.
Thank you so much for the update ,I love hearing these long term updates good or bad. but I'm thrilled to hear it's been working well for you. Hope you get years more use out of it. Happy recording.
Sold by rme for this one!😂
That 4K analogue sounds nice on the SM7B. I was skeptical, but I stand corrected.
I have a raw audio clip with the Sennheiser MKH416 if you want to check it out. Feel free to DM me on Twitter. I sent it to him when I got mine last month, haha.
I agree. Normally when somebody "EQ's" an SM7B I find myself simply preferring the standard sound. I think I just really like the flat sound of the SM7B. But the 4K mode on this interface seems to work surprisingly well with the SM7B.
I used the 4K on the RE20 also. Sounds great. Put away my cloudlifter.
its the 9K you want, SSL9000 series is the one with good mic pres not the 4000 series which I think where standard amek, if you want that the SSL 6 and audiant interfaces have better versions of the Amek or 4K sound, the 4K on the SSL box is just a sim like version..the real deal can handle very hot signals and sound far better.
Ssl4000 had the worse pres, its the 9k we want
Had mine (2+) for two weeks now, and LOVE IT. Plays nice with my other SSL gear.
I do a radio program and have used many of the interfaces and microphones over the years. I now use the SSL 2 with a Shure sm7b. I've used the Shure sm7b for years. You are right about the 4K switch I love the sound of my Shure sm7b with it on, it is a great combination. Thanks for your reviews, you do a great job.
Dude, so sick when you had all the tracks together. Great tone and playing.
Thank you for the very detailed review! It left me with no questions left at all!
the "audio gets loud" count down was very beneficial to the quality of the video. Thanks man
Thank you. I stumbled across this review after doing a bunch of research on this unit. reviewers everywhere can learn a lot from you sir. Thank you for the time, effort and detail you put into this. I'm sold. Keep up the good work!
I'm curiously waiting for getting my SSL 2+ delivered next week.
Thank you so much for your constant work to keep us informed 😊
Liked for the loud audio warnings. Much love man! Many thanks! 👏🏻👏🏻
Wow...it looks and sounds so good! This is going to satisfy a lot of recording enthusiasts new/old. Well done, SSL and well done Bandrew for the brilliant demonstrations! 👏👏👏
Thank you so much Chazz. Really means a lot. And I agree, SSL did a great job bringing their reputation and introducing it to us home studio folks who can't afford most of their stuff.
Awesome video. My SSL2 is going to be here Tuesday and Ironically I picked up an NT1 that will be here Monday. You demonstrated precisely what I can expect when they arrive. Sounds clean and nearly noiseless.
I ordered one to use with my SM7B. I was having 2nd thoughts until I watched your video. Thanks for putting my mind at ease. I can't wait to press that 4K button.
Ed Sullivan I was thinking both
hello, can I use +48v and 4k together with sm7b
My Focusrite audio interface shut down after 12 years. I loved that you did a test with SM7B since that is my main microphone for vocal recording, made me order a SSL2+! All love - subscribed! 💙
This completely sold me. I bought before the video even ended!
The vocal strip and drum strip plugins as an add are also amazing.
Just bought one for my RE20 an damn, that sounds so goddamn sick with the 4K feature and the Yellowtec VIP1. Thanks for reviewing it!
I bought mine last week, I cannot believe how good it sounds. It’s worth it’s price alone as just a DA converter for listen to music. Seriously, I’ve heard numerous high end interfaces and this equals them in terms of sound quality, no doubt about it.
" just a DA converter for listen to music" what do you mean here, what would you play?
@@DeepThinkingGPU I use it for recording, but it’s also great for listening to music through from my computer 🙂
Great review. All reviews should follow this format. Time stamps are great too!
That thing sounds sweet! And what a good combination it makes with the NT-1.
NT-1 has never sounded better, they are a great Studio package from Aussie boys Rode.
The SSL2+ sounds fantastic. Mine is on the way and I can't wait to start using it. Thank you!!!
I like the longer videos feel like I got more detail about the product and make it easier whether I should buy it or not
I've been using one for a little while, and it runs laps around my previous gen1 Scarlett. The pre amp quality is amazing, the DI guitars sounded terrible and were extremely noisy, but now I can actually use amp sims... and the 4k option is usable in a lot of scenarios, the headphone outputs are clean and much louder (where my Scarlett gen1 was always at almost maximum, this one stays between 1 - 3 with my ash m40x). Knobs are much better, the meters are 1000x better than the halos. USB/input monitoring is a godsend, individual phantom power is also very appreciated.
I always held off upgrading because a lot of people say that pre amps and interfaces are 1% of the sound, but goddamn that old ass Scarlett needed to go.
Wow this is a really detailed and excellent review. Answered all my questions and concerns. Thanks a lot for that.
This video was VERY well done, I appreciate the quality and detail!
Thanks for the great review! Was looking for a good audio interface to improve the sound on my TH-cam covers. I think I have found the right one. You've got a new sub :)
Oh man! You doing this very well!! 🙌🏻
Omg dude I hit the like button and subscribed when you threw that box 🤣. I don't know who you are but, I'm now rocking with you on gear reviews. Nice to meet you
I love mine, think it sounds great, and is super easy to work with. I wish it wasn't so big, and that the buttons were a bitt nicer, but I'm okay with that if they freed up funds to emphasize preamp quality. An extra headphone jack in the front would be nice, for sure.
I was so jealous when you got yours weeks ago. I’m super stoked you’re liking it though. I sleep a bit easier knowing you’re connecting your monitors properly because the daisy chain method you described before gave me heart palpitations. 🤮
@@Podcastage 🤣🤣
Out of all companies who make audio gear knobs & buttons, the only ones I like are the SSL, Toft or Trident.
@@Podcastage
L
You can't tell the difference to a Focusrite Scarlett. I'm sorry.
I have purchased one of these and am very excited for it to arrive. I will admit I am frightened by the headphone output impedance being so high. It is high enough that I expect it will cause some frequency response issues undesirable for monitoring on more sensitive headphones. Great review as always!
Been waiting weeks for you to post this one man! I run an Apollo twin at home but have been debating on a new work interface.
same man. Have you made your decision???'
Great review! Love his dry sense of humor!
Hell yeah! Was waiting for this review! Thank you. (Pff..don't ever apologize for long reviews.) THANK YOU SO MUCH for telling me what you thought about the PREAMPS vs the MOTU m2/m4, but in the end that matters to me more than an ON/OFF button, or loopback functionality.
The on/off. loopback. meters. all selling points for the Motu.
@@Podcastage Definitely, but I'll take the preamps of the SLL2. Thanks again.
That 4K switch sounds beautiful!
Love this interface. Just got the 2plus in yesterday. Plan to track drums all day today...
I just got this as my first professional voice over setup, I really like how simple it is to use, and set up. though I'm not so sure why there is hiss in my audio. further learning is required. u.u
I'm watching this video in June of 2023. As I'm about to pick up one of these interfaces for about $170. Very well delivered, thorough and informative. A tip of the hat to you sir. Thanks for the info.
An awesome very thorough review & video as per usual, Bandrew. 😁
👍 👍
Cheers man! 🍻
No lie I am soooo happy I got this interface definitely an upgrade for my set up definitely give my AT4040 more power for voice acting and listening it through my headphones definitely hear audio very nicely love the power through this puppy
The current offer of four of their native plugins on perpetual license along with the interface makes it an absolute no brainer for me. Great review, by the way.
I just got this for my Shure SM7B, thanks man!
Heck yes! I can't wait to hear what you think!
@@Podcastage I've been fiddling with it for the last few hours. It's a big upgrade over how I sounded with my old mixer, that's for sure!
That’s so great to hear man!
I'm gonna buy a SM7B and the SSL2+ as well. Do you need a cloudlifter or feathed to increase the gain or not required with the SSL2+????
@@MahDryBread
can u record 16bit 48000 with it ?
need to get to work, but this video popped up, and must watch :)
Sounds fantastic! Thanks for the great review!
best review ssl2 on TH-cam. thank you !
It's definitely a cool interface. I can't say most of the features would benefit me personally, because I've never had the knack for music (you sure seem to have it). But it seems to have some stellar pre-amps and the price isn't bad, considering the features and quality.
Great job.
Dude, thank you as always. I think you can compare the sound of preamps of different audio interfaces, think people will love it.(or I)
As I need a second interface whilst on the road, my upgrade from a very dated gina 3d interface is definitely decided on the ssl2+.... Thanks man 🙏🏻
Thank you very much for the video. It helped me a lot to buy a SSL2+. 😍
4K switch enabled + mid presence boost option on SM7B.. can’t wait to try!!
" THANK YOU , for all the Hard Work that you and your Team put into These Enlightening; Helpful Videos. Well Done ! "
Love your review, and your guitar ditty!
This was a really well thought out/put together interface....I wouldn't expect anything less from SSL tho!!!
I love this thing I'm so excited there is an interface that's by an industry standard company, but that doesn't make me go bankrupt! I am definitely upgrading from my Steinberg UR22 MKII even though that is a great interface and it has served me well for years. Super excited for this guy.
I hear the DSP on the MKii is amazing. Is that true?
You literally have the worst interface right now... anything will be a upgrade from what you have now
The best part is @15:40 !!! I kept hitting it again and again! Wow, that alone is worth this video!
I just purchased the SSL 2 and couldn't be happier with my purchase. The preamps have a little character and I like that. I've gotten mixed reactions from peers but I personally like the sound, and afterall it is MY ears that will be doing the listening and my brain doing the mixing.
I am a bit upset however that I chose to buy my LDC based on Sweetwater's suggestion that I would need a Cloudlifter if I purchased the SM7B and due to the gain range of the preamps of THIS unit (I had a Presonus Audiobox USB before) I could've been completely happy with the SM7B.
But I wound up with a Warm Audio WA47jr and it has a similarly dark sound. So it's all good...saved a $100 too. I'm not too upset I guess! lol
thanx for the review I managed to buy the ssl 2+,nNow I'sure It s yhe right interface I need in my home studio!
same
impressive for lower level prosumer use, seriously thinking abt grabbing one now, great review, btw.
Watching him to sad face in 2x speed was amazing. 😂 (I do not generally speed through your videos, but this time it was worth it. Also, I only sped through the pros and cons lists.)
I luv this device.... SSL are the masters of preamps and with a small formfactor like this, it is getting just better for a small speakbooth..... I like the fact, that the front has no plugs.... make the desk look cleaner. Personal pref..... great review.
Great overview!
Honestly I've been so lost and wanted something with a great preamp and great A/D that is not as pricey as a UA apollo so, given SSL's street cred, I'm sold on this one, thank you for reviewing it :)
My pleasure. You're going to love it.
How about do a shoot out between SSL 2 motu M2 and ID14
Kyron yes please!!!
Yes please
Looking out for it, please
Same, interested also into this information
Bison voice: YES! YES!
oh man today i bought ssl2 it amazing!!! iv got audient id4 and i cant compare them ssl2 is so clean so (radio ready sounding) cant believe...regards and thanks for your great videos...
Did you not hesitate between SSL and MOTU M2/M4? I'm having that problem right now, also being an ID4 user.
@@Hugmir dont know how motu sounds, didnt have a chance to try it...but ssl2 is really good...regards
@@Hugmir didnt try motu but ssl2 is great...
Thank You " Podcastage " , for your informative and music talent !! - Merci " Podcastage " , pour votre talent informatif et musical !!
Thanks, i love uour vids. I'm actually looking at a ssl SiX. I wish they put a interface on it.
Have one with an sm7b. Music producer and I engineer for people as well as myself, Pretty great for my set up and style over all. The one thing everyone complaining about... I have mine routed into a usb3 port with led power switches, so no power switch needed on the unit ;)
Really helpful bro thank you for this
Great review!
Nice Video Man!
Best reviews on youTube! Bad attitude a bonus.
Impressive...sounds great!
Great Review!
Thank you so much Rod. That really means a lot and I appreciate the help.
Perfect, thanks!
As always, thanx bro.
OMG!! Finally a reviewer I can actually listen to and i'm glad the SSL2+ brought us together!! I already pre ordered the thing!
Did you get the SSL2+ already? Thinking of purchasing it.
Nice video - there had not been many videos showing what people want to see - a range of industry pro mics and its output sound and capabilities - although you get paid for views - I’d like to say thanks 😁
Nice to see quality amps that can drive dynamic without needing a Cloudlifter or Fethead. SSL2 is great opton for voice same amps less money and uneeded features.
I just ordered one....Thanks
I’m swear your content never cease to amaze me. I purposely looked this interface review up, just to know more about the how well it works with the sm7b. And of course you pop up! ANND WITH an example with the sm7b. I freakin love you, you make the experience of setting up my home studio easier. no longer am buying a booster.. 🤗😅
And again amazing talent you have!
I’ve noticed you’re very intentional about your audience , I love that. You obviously have some expensive professional gear in your studio but for the target of this channel you consistently discuss budget friendly, bang for buck , beginner - pro consumer level gear. Awesome work.
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Still gonna need a full review on your high end studio gear ! UA 610 mkii I noticed?? And that Neve looking device?! And that tape real looking thing ! Please :)
Tim. Thank you very much for the kind words. That really means the world to me. I love the high end stuff, but it's very rarely exciting to me because you buy it and almost always know it's going to work and sound great. With budget stuff, you'll stumble across a lot of trash, but then you'll find an amazing diamond in the rough.
And absolutely I'll have the LA610, WA73EQ, BAE1073, Neve 1073LB, API 512c, Arturia 8 Pre, U Audio X8 and UA Twin X...That's just the outboard gear. The mics I have coming up are going to be insane but I have to mix in the affordable stuff as well.
Thank you again Tim! Appreciate ya very much.
Podcastage wow!! More thumbs up from me, can’t wait to see your channel grow , it will and you deserve it, the high end series is gonna be awesome it’s hard to find good reviews like yours with any gear.
And I love the diamond in the rough concept ..it’s a competitive market indeed.
Best pre owned gems?? Could be a series/playlist down the road. With Your channel content and style of delivery + how thorough your reviews ....endless content ! 🙏🏽
Tim Aka TAllent oh I have a series planned for out of production items. Have a bunch of them already lined up. I just need to find the right time to record and release them. I have some coooool ones. Like the original Rode NT1, the American SM7, the SM5B, a bunch of the predecessors to the blue snowball. I’m so excited to eventually do them.
Podcastage can’t wait!!! Thanks for sharing that info
Just so you know, I’m going to buy a SSL2 tomorrow because of this review.
Looks like a great two person podcast interface, too
Totally podcasting is one of its target markets apart from VO Pros.
Thank you for this video, it was definitely fun, interesting and helpful - I only discovered your channel today - Shame I had not discovered you before purchasing the Focusrite clarett 2pre - I imagine you would have reviewed this preamp by now if you had intended to?
Clarett 2pre isn't better than this one?
awesome thanks for that review
Great info
So I record rap at a studio near by. Great quality. I asked my engineer what he felt about home recording cuz I'm a skeptic. I feel like my home will never sound as good as a big studio. Then he suggested the SSL2 as well as the Sm7b because of my aggressive style and to my surprise this video shows BOTH. So I'm kinda sold on it. Lol i would definitely get the cloudlifter though lol subscribed
You might really not need the cloudlifter with this interface, though - especially if you're more on the aggressive side and not whispering quietly at your mic (and SM7B really wouldn't be the mic to go to for whispering, I think). The notion that pushing your gain to the limit introduces additional noise seems to have been debunked a while ago (at least when it comes to most devices).
I am viewing on my Samsung Home Theater and the audio is clean and even on the distortion end it was tame.
Subbed . Great video
That is one seriously impressive noise floor.
Love the info. Thank you. Would you go with the UAD Arrow or the SSL 2+?
Subscribed when you threw that box to narnia 😂
Thanks for the info. : )
sounds tidy with quality instruments that music man ooohhh
I love the knob color
great review, I agree with her, in the general context I really like my ssl 2, for the price I think there can be no better, I am thinking of buying a shure 7b to record rap vocals since my room is not acoustically treated, do you think which would be a combination, from what I've seen most audio interfaces and even the apollo twin brings a lot of noise to the mic, do you think this pre amp handles it well enough to record vocals
I love mine! It’s a great sounding unit I hope they make a 8 channel version later for my drum kit 👍🏼
i hope they think of this, an 8 channel version would be amazing
does the sound diffrent from unit to unit?
and they just did recently!
@@rickguerre its here now
I generally really don't give much credit to on-board "features" and "fx" that seem to never amount to anything more than cheesy gimmicks, but that 4K did absolutely work on the SM7B. The bass as well really took advantage of it letting the high end come through. (Though from a practical view, I'm not sure if the bass upper frequencies wouldn't just get lost/cut in a complete mix anyways. Save it for the solo I suppose :D)
Bandrew: Enjoy/learn from your entertaining reviews. Older, rookie here, setting up the home studio. Need ability to use compressor/EQ going in. Is the SSL2+ fine with that?
thank info about ssl2 audio interface