The Solid State Logic Super 9000 is a single-channel analogue channel strip in a 1U rack case. It is built on SSL's SuperAnalogue technology and aims for the modern SSL sound of the SL 9000 J and Duality consoles. It is intended for recording and mixing in studios and hybrid setups. SSL presents it as a counterpart to the E-Series-flavoured Revival 4000, so the two units offer different sounds.
-
Two preamp characters: a clean SuperAnalogue mic preamp, or a VHD (Variable Harmonic Drive) preamp that adds harmonics and saturation in the manner of a Duality console
-
Dual-circuit EQ: switch between the variable-Q 292 G-Series "Pink Knob" and the constant-Q 242 E-Series "Black Knob" designs
-
9000-style dynamics: compressor built around a THAT 2181A VCA, with switchable Fast Attack and Peak Detect, plus SSL's expander/gate with variable hysteresis on the threshold
-
Flexible processing order: dynamics can be placed before or after the EQ
-
Studio routing: balanced insert at the input or output stage, external sidechain input and sidechain linking for stereo use with a second unit
-
INPUT FLIP: routes the line input through the mic preamp so line-level DAW returns can be driven through the VHD stage without re-patching
The two EQ modes behave differently. The 292 circuit uses wide, smooth curves that narrow as gain increases, and its shelves are steeper and have SSL's characteristic undershoot and overshoot. The 242 circuit was developed with Sir George Martin. Its constant-Q response gives more precise, surgical control.
In the signal path, SuperAnalogue keeps the audio path free of electrolytic capacitors. It also aims for wide bandwidth and very low noise, distortion and phase shift. That makes the strip a clean front end for tracking. With the VHD preamp and INPUT FLIP, the same unit can add colour to individual stems or buses at the mix stage. With sidechain linking, two units can work as a stereo pair.