Solid State Logic Super 9000 SuperAnalogue Channel Strip

Solid State Logic Super 9000 The Solid State Logic Super 9000 is an all-in-one analog channel strip that condenses the legendary performance of SSL’s flagship 9000 Series consoles into a compact 1U rackmount unit. Known for its ultra-low distortion, exceptional punch, and breathtaking clarity, the Super 9000 utilizes SSL's proprietary SuperAnalogue™ technology to provide a transparent signal path with a ruler-flat frequency response (±0.1 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz). This design philosophy eliminates electrolytic capacitors from the audio path, resulting in unmatched phase accuracy and a larger-than-life soundstage that has defined hit records across rock, pop, hip-hop, and R&B for decades. Dual Preamplification Options The Super 9000 features a dual microphone preamp design that offers two distinct sonic characters. The primary SuperAnalogue™ preamp provides high-headroom, pristine fidelity, and extreme transparency. Alternatively, users can engage the Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD™) circuit, which allows for adjustable harmonic saturation. This VHD section can blend between 2nd-order harmonics for rich, tube-like warmth and 3rd-order harmonics for a harder, transistor-style edge. An "Input Flip" feature allows these preamps to process line-level signals, making it easy to add analog character to DAW stems during mixing. Comprehensive EQ Section The unit provides the ultimate sound-shaping flexibility by including two iconic SSL equalizer circuits: • 292 G-Series "Pink Knob" EQ: Features a variable-Q design that delivers smooth, wide boosts and cuts. It is characterized by a steep filter response and a musical "undershoot/overshoot" effect at the hinge frequency. • 242 E-Series "Black Knob" EQ: Developed in collaboration with Sir George Martin, this constant-Q design offers surgical precision for more detailed frequency control. A unique feature of the Super 9000 EQ is the "E Bell/G÷3" and "Gx3/E Bell" buttons. In 292 mode, these extend the reach of the mid-bands by dividing the low-mid or multiplying the high-mid frequencies by three. In 242 mode, they switch the high and low bands between shelving and bell curves. Advanced Dynamics and Routing The dynamics section is built around the high-performance THAT 2181A VCA, providing the punchy compressor and gate/expander sounds found on Duality and SL 9000 J consoles. It includes switchable Fast Attack and Peak Detect modes, alongside a gate section with a dedicated HOLD control. The Super 9000 is engineered for modern hybrid workflows with extensive routing options. It includes an 18dB/octave high-pass filter and a 12dB/octave low-pass filter, both of which can be routed to the input or the dynamics sidechain. A balanced insert point allows for the integration of external outboard gear and can be repositioned throughout the signal chain—from immediately after the input stage to just before the final output trim. For stereo operation, two Super 9000 units can be linked via a dedicated sidechain link, ensuring perfectly matched dynamic processing for the stereo field. Why We Love It Our Gear Experts appreciate the Solid State Logic Super 9000 for its legendary "SuperAnalogue™" clarity and massive headroom. It offers the iconic sound of SSL’s 9000-series consoles in a portable 1U rack. The dual-preamp design is a favorite, allowing users to switch between pristine transparency and grit via the Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD). Combined with the surgical precision of E-Series and G-Series EQ circuits, it provides total authority over any signal. Features: Dual Mic Preamp Modes: Features both the ultra-clean, high-headroom SuperAnalogue™ preamp and the Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD™) circuit for adding rich 2nd order (valve-like) or 3rd order (transistor-edge) saturation. Switchable EQ Circuits: Allows users to toggle between two iconic SSL EQ designs: the G-Series "Pink Knob" 292 (variable-Q) and the E-Series "Black Knob" 242 (constant-Q) developed with Sir George Martin. SuperAnalogue™ Technology: Utilizes a DC-coupled signal path without electrolytic capacitors, providing a ruler-flat frequency response, ultra-low distortion, and exceptional phase accuracy. Advanced Dynamics Section: Built around the high-performance THAT 2181A VCA, providing the classic SSL compressor with switchable Peak/Hard Knee or Soft Knee modes and Logarithmic/Linear release. Flexible Process Routing: The dynamics section and filters can be repositioned throughout the signal chain, allowing for Pre-EQ or Post-EQ dynamics processing. Comprehensive Filter Section: Includes a high-pass filter (18 dB/octave) and a low-pass filter (12 dB/octave) that can be routed to the input or the dynamics sidechain. "Input Flip" Functionality:…