Honestly, for any contemporary self-sustained production people who has to record and process audio, is self-sustained and has to make good decisions about reasonable gear investment, your channel provides the most useful information. Here you can hear what is exactly what in simple technical terms, no bullshit. I really appreciate your work.
Well, the way I see; the interface hasn’t launched unless “JK” has reviewed it! JK’s surgical dissection, precise analysis and unbiased opinion supersedes all other opinions and approvals put together!
I couldn't have said it better! It is the same for me: No audio interface is even to be _considered, unless & until_ Julian Krause puts it through its paces! 😂
i had this and the drivers were top notch but the converters going to speakers were misssing a lot of details and were not it at all not the same converters as the more expensive rme the babyface was supposed to be a travelling interface
Wow dude I think God suggested your video to me lol . Just last night I ordered the first gen of ssl+ but got 24hrs to cancel my order, so here I am with only 2hrs left to cancel and I saw your video ! So I did and ordered the ssl2+ Mkii ☝🏾, Thanks 🙏🏾
Just picked one up on a boxing day sale to get my recording career restarted. Dumped all my old gear when the band broke up 14 years ago! Thanks for your excellent contribution to the review community!
Listening to you on my SSL12 which is basically flawless. Great sound, preamps, software (SSL12 actually has software for routing/monitor or headphones mixes), drivers (Win11). Excellent review as usual !
I like how the HP output chart is getting greener every time. Finally the manufacturers seem to understand that besides good A/D, an excellent HP out is important as well.
I am completely in the market for a first time UI. So many choices out there ..and i was pleased to find such unit at a great price point. To see you so animated here ..and your in- depth comparison helped make my decision. Thanks K😊
Hi Julian. Just to let you know that each time I hear about an audio interface worth to check, automatically I looked if you checked it. Your analyzes are in depth, detailed and clear. Keep it on. By the way, the 32Bit are NOT floating point.
Yesterday I received the Ssl-2 mk2 on your advice, after 2 years my M-Audio 192-4 started to crackle on the headphone knob. Plug and play on the mac. Fantastic sound, The inputs are much better quality than the M-audio, The 4k and stereo mode are a very good addition. Headphone volume output is more than sufficient, it does not have to be opened further than a quarter. We will see how it stands the test of time. But so far a top device. Thank you for your good videos, very helpful
I wonder if the SSL 12 would have similar measurements… 🤔 Still waiting on that review, by the way 😅 There’s no other channel with this level of in-depth review of Audio Interfaces, so I got to the point of thinking that all other reviews kinda suck 🤣 Anyway… suggestions, if I may: SSL 12, Zen Quadro, Apollo Twin X… I’d love to see a review from you for some of the higher-end interfaces. Above all, congratulations for being awesome Mr. @JulianKrause
Thank for the review. It would be nice to have a table for real time players (maybe guitarists) who choosing an audio interface for guitar playing real time. So here one of the most important things will be to see TOP audiointerface BY latency Anyway, you are #1 audiointerface geek who I ever found on RUclips, thank you for your efforts ❤
I absolutely love my original SSL 2+ - the stability, sound quality and headphone amps are phenomenal. The only problem I had was that after about 2 years some of the pots get a bit scratchy - maybe digital infinite rotary knobs could be an improvement for future generations.
Been waiting for your review. Thank you Julian. Interesting that despite improvements in dynamic range, output level and headphone output the pre amp measurements were slightly below the original SSL 2. Personally I prefer that there is no software control of the gain. You didn't touch on the converters, loopback or 32bit functionality.
I’ve already got it, and my first impression is: awesome! I upgraded from the M-Audio Air 192 due to issues like recordings stopping after a few hours without me noticing. The audio quality with the SSL 2 MK II is noticeably better-at least for me-because the noise level is so much lower. I can even skip using noise suppression if I want to. The headphone output is also significantly cleaner, making this interface a joy to use. I’m using it with an SM7B, and the SSL 2’s gain is much better and easier to set compared to the M-Audio Air, which was just a hassle to deal with. Before buying, I didn’t think I’d use the 4K mode, but after testing it, I actually really like the sound it produces. On a side note: I asked Thomann if my affiliate link for Julian worked, and they responded within a day-which is awesome! The link worked perfectly.
I bought one a few weeks ago and the difference in audio quality between it and my old interface is pretty big. Doubt anyone could go wrong with this interface. I've already recorded a client reading an audiobook with a ribbon mic, and I had to push the pre-amp a little, but not all that much. Results were excellent.
I was looking forward to you reviewing these, thank you! It's great to know how sound quality improved. Especially the headphone output, key for EQing or mixing with them. From the usability perspective, the 2+ MKII brings the benefit of the additional monitoring outputs, that would be really great to have for my use case. The feature of individually managing A and B headphone outputs is also great. I see a few cons compared to their MKI counterparts, though: - They are much uglier 😛. The first generation had sober, classic albeit modern, overall beautiful design. This one loses colours on the knobs, and that black background isn't great. - Connectors aren't mechanically attached to the frame, just to the PCB. This is a point of failure. - LED meters would be more practical measuring 3 or 6 dB increments, this was some frequent criticism they didn't address. - They have similarly-looking push buttons. It's unclear if they changed them under the hood, because in the MKI they're a source of trouble.
I received my Audient ID24 today. Had a ID22 which i loved for 3 years before it crapped out like alot of them did. I went with the ID24 over the SSL II+ for one primary reason, it has a line in return that allows you to bypass the preamps. I have a Golden Age Pre 73 modded by Zen Pro with the Carnhills etc. I can use that with the Audient and bypass the Audient preamps, you can’t bypass the SSL preamps. That’s a great reason to get the Audient of you’ve a preamp like the Golden Age. Otherwise, I would likely have gotten the SSL. they are both great interfaces, probably the best in their price range of $300-$400 you cant go wrong with either.
Месяц назад+1
@@WyattScott Audient is better in terms of converter quality. Burr Brown uses AD/DA
Would love details about class compliance and (stretch goal) Linux support in these reviews. But regardless they are top notch and a service to the audio community as a whole. Thanks!
Audient EVO have much better latency, I never would expect this when it comes to something from SSL. I got the Audient Evo because of your video by the way, best audio interface for the money in my opinion.
I love my SSL2+ but I always kind of hated the headphone jacks being on the back since it made cable routing a bit more annoying, I won't upgrade now but it's nice to see they changed it :)
Haha, I love that they are on the back. My case is pretty rare, where device is sitting vertically, flat against the wall. So all connections are at the top.
How does it compare to the RME Babyface Pro FS? The stats look like it exceeds even the RME except in latency and output! How is the difference in sound?
SSL has a page on their website under FAQ about the 32 bit conversion. It’s 32 bit integer, and basically, the newer chips and 32 bit integer converters allow them to improve a few performance numbers and do some things internally to the device with lower noise in the digital domain when digitally lowering levels. But there is no performance benefit to recording in 32 bit integer format. The 24 bit recording format can store everything the unit can capture. To me, this is totally fine except that by advertising and plastering “32 bit” everywhere, I imagine some prospective buyers may be confused unless they find the explanation on SSL’s website. Those buyers may purchase it thinking it does the 32 bit float thing with dual ADCs and they can recover their clipped audio in post, be disappointed when that doesn’t work, and then write a poor review. That would be quite unfortunate because this is an excellent interface, just that 32 bit and the marketing around that can be unclear at times.
Since I discovered your channel I never bought any new audio interface without consulting your videos. always excellent review. one thing I might have missed that is not present on the version 1 is if this version 2 already has playback function?
I bought the SSL2+ Mk2 for my son (Christmas present) not realizing that his headphones only work on just his computer (through USB)... What compatible headphones would you recommend for a teenager? (We live in Ontario, Canada).
Love your videos man, I just wish that more people would start talking about using audio interfaces on Linux, because I want to move away from Windows and Mac. Support is currently very poor across the industry. I really hope it changes
if there are significant changes, can you please do an updated review of the Motu M4? I just purchased last month and would love to hear some tips from you
Something I noticed; the Windows software panel looks identical to the one for the Behringer UMC1820. Do we know what chipset is being used for the USB communications? Do we know if this is an out-of-the-box solution that was developed by a third party? If anyone knows please share - asking because we at Ghost Note Audio might want to look into developing USB audio capabilities for some future products, and wondering if there's a good existing solution we could utilize. If it's good enough for SSL, it's probably good enough for us, hah! :)
Can't believe they destroyed the # 1 reason to buy the predecessor: having all output and input on the back for a clean desk. Now it’s just another interface, just like 99 percent of the others.
Great review! Blackstar Amplification Polar 4 would be another interesting audio interface to visit. This one is interesting for guitarists! :-) LG, Roland
Great review, as always, Julian! Please, can you make one for SSL 12 ? It's more like the first gen SSL2/2+, despite the 32bit/192 converters or more like second gen ? What converters does it use, Cirrus Logic, AKM etc ? Also, with 360 software, can it be controlled from software entirely (gain etc) or just in part ? Thanks a lot for you great work !
julian, how would u compare the audio quality from to this to say the baby face pro fs from rme? from what i'm hearing this sounds cleaner and idk if i should believe my ears bc they're in such different price ranges lol. i think a lot of ppl try to sell rme on how dependable their drivers/software are, but if i'm not really interested in that, and i just want a clean signal, am i not just better off with the ssl 2+? my ears are telling me yes, but i would appreciate hearing ur perspective
Hey Julian, thank you very much for your great review👌I have two questions about this interface. Does the headphone output have enough Power for 250 Ohms DT770? Is there a volume reset to 0 every new windows start? I ask because first the audient ID4 or ID14 was my favourit to buy, but there is exact this (for me this problem) you have to turn up the volume every start of PC
I have the EVO4 and I really don't like all the clicking I need to do to navigate it (but it isn't a deal-breaker for me). The SSL would be a quality of life upgrade, but is it an upgrade overall?
Can someone tell me the best way to hook up a digital keyboard, such as the Yamaha p-525. I purchased the SSL 2 Mkii, without the midi inputs. Mmmm, maybe I should have gotten the next model up. Any input would be helful. 1/4 input good enough for keyboard recording?
Given that the P-525 has individual Left and Right 1/4" Outputs, you can route individual 1/4" TRS cables from the keyboard into the SSL's instrument inputs, and record both channels to a single stereo track in your DAW.
Does the id44mk2 outperform all audio interfaces? Seen it is the only interface that uses Channel Summation on the ADC. Or do other interfaces use this technique as well? In your chart for the line input the id44mk2 should be @ 121 dba dnr. Many thanks!
How does the MK2s compare in audio quality vs the SSL 12? I know the 12 was their first 32bit, do they use the same converters or have the similar charts/quality?
Very good questions! I have the same curiosity but SSL12 did not appear in any chart. More in general, I was surprised this review did not even mention the 32-bit conversion. I also would be curious to understand how the physical control of the preamplifiers works in conjunction with 32-bit converters. Thanks for any comments in this area!
love your videos, details are amazing. Julian between Motu m2,id14 mk2 , ssl2 mk2 which one would you get mostly for recording vocals and music production at home
@@big-baby-buddha i got the id14 mk2 , mainly bcuz of preamps and the fact that they are newer than motu, i love the m2 m4s but they are older and i think we will see new version of them very soon. and ssl is fine too they released mk2 version but don't like the preamps and feel, audient has better compatibility and support overall
Julian, thank you for all that you do. Hoping you can help me decide. I have an original Komplete Audio 6 from 2011, 98 db output. Have it going out to a Yamaha HS8 2.1 speaker config. Sound treated room. It sounds great, but I'm wondering if it would sound better with a newer interface, like this SSL 2+ MKII, or even an Audient ID24. Is db jump from 98 to 120, or 125 perceptible in audio quality? Reading up on forums has been a nightmare, everyone has opposing opinions and it can't get a conclusive answer...
@@Nighthawkclips Well, if crosstalk is really bad, then it can be an issue in terms of stereo image. For the most part it is totally fine today and the are no audible issues.
My AKG perception 150 SD is giving very low ticking sounds at about 3.6 seconds. Changing the buffer size and reconnecting, different XLR and USB cables is not fixing it. My synco D2 shotgun mic has no such problem on the same setup nor does my rode procaster. Is a regular ticking sound possible by a faulty circuit in the mic ? If its regular can RG be the cause or is there any chance of a faulty circuit ? The regularity of the ticks bothers be. Its about -40db at normal recording. I am asking because I do not want to open up the microphone to take a look inside.
I'm mainly a guitarist and want to upgrade from my just-do-some-testing-if-this-is-fun Behringer UMC202HD and those two are on my shortlist. But I have a really hard time figuring out if I should go with a more "guitar oriented" interface instead. Something like the AXE I/O series could be an option instead. These would give me a very nice integration with the Amplitube CS MAX that I use all the time and offer integration of for example wah pedals. I don't do much mic based recording. So the big question is, whether this changes my criteria substantially (which you can't answer of course). I'm pretty sure that the AXE interfaces are lower quality than the SSL2+, but will the guitar specific features outweigh this? I really like your style, where you present pros and cons of various options instead of telling me what to do. And I thought that comparing the AXE to SSL2+, maybe also the ID24 (for example) might be an interesting challenge for you. Especially if you add really guitar specific challenges like how we control interactive stuff while recording - the wah pedal is a very good example, because this is something that guitarists will always want to do with the feet while playing, never do post-recording.
So glad to see the HP output being taken seriously. I do wonder if these new HP stages are identical to the one on the SSL 12, or are they in fact better since they are more newly revised?
Can someone explain how is that a better option than just getting SSL 12? It's almost the same price, but this one has less inputs/outputs, less control and no ADAT.
Honestly, for any contemporary self-sustained production people who has to record and process audio, is self-sustained and has to make good decisions about reasonable gear investment, your channel provides the most useful information. Here you can hear what is exactly what in simple technical terms, no bullshit. I really appreciate your work.
The most anticipated review of the year!!!
I've already bought an Audient iD14 mkII based on your reviews, but still watch this just for the appealing level of nerdiness! 😁
Same, I am a proud iwner of a marvelous Moto M2 thanks to him, but still watch every review he does just because he's so good at it!! 😅
@@sergio_grez I didn't even realize how much I had missed listening to his voice! Hahaha!
🤣
same here, using an iD14 MkII to hear this excellent review
ruclips.net/video/6BiN_zFVwCY/видео.html - but dont buy RME
I dream of the day you would review the SSL BigSIX. But in the meantime, your reviews are just a mandatory watch.
You are the real MVP. Period.
Humor dryness : 0 % out of 100 , where lower is better. I rate this review 11 out of 10.
wait, your scale goes up to 11... which is one louder than 10!
But why don't you make 10 the loudest? ;)
This one goes to 11.... chews gum@@apocryphal_man
@@apocryphal_man thank you for getting the reference.
this looks like something you could pass on to your grandchildren. its gorgeous.
I came for interface shopping advices.
I stayed for the great reviews.
Great stuff!
Well, the way I see; the interface hasn’t launched unless “JK” has reviewed it! JK’s surgical dissection, precise analysis and unbiased opinion supersedes all other opinions and approvals put together!
@@garyembar4774 Thank you so much for the kind words. Much appreciated!!
@ Julian, You are blessed …and you may know this! And you also are a blessing to many of us in more ways than you would ever know!
I couldn't have said it better! It is the same for me: No audio interface is even to be _considered, unless & until_ Julian Krause puts it through its paces! 😂
I almost bought MK1 3 weeks ago and decided to wait for black Friday deals, so lucky.
Excellent as usual. The ONLY reliable no bs review channel for this type of tech.
What I love is that my trusty Babyface Pro FS is still holding its own all these years later. Those RME engineers really nailed it.
i had this and the drivers were top notch but the converters going to speakers were misssing a lot of details and were not it at all not the same converters as the more expensive rme the babyface was supposed to be a travelling interface
Wow dude I think God suggested your video to me lol . Just last night I ordered the first gen of ssl+ but got 24hrs to cancel my order, so here I am with only 2hrs left to cancel and I saw your video ! So I did and ordered the ssl2+ Mkii ☝🏾, Thanks 🙏🏾
Just picked one up on a boxing day sale to get my recording career restarted. Dumped all my old gear when the band broke up 14 years ago! Thanks for your excellent contribution to the review community!
Listening to you on my SSL12 which is basically flawless. Great sound, preamps, software (SSL12 actually has software for routing/monitor or headphones mixes), drivers (Win11). Excellent review as usual !
I like how the HP output chart is getting greener every time. Finally the manufacturers seem to understand that besides good A/D, an excellent HP out is important as well.
Now we can do proper mixing / mastering using this portable devices.
I am completely in the market for a first time UI. So many choices out there ..and i was pleased to find such unit at a great price point. To see you so animated here ..and your in- depth comparison helped make my decision. Thanks K😊
Terrific video!! Thank you so much, Julian! I've been really excited for you to review these new units. Thanks for your time and work! 👍
This is one of your best (highly recommended) interfaces of all time... Nothing negative to report!
Most be all that! Thanks for the review!
was waiting for this one! let's see how it compares to the previous version
Perfect moment to review this new model, been thinking what to get and mk2 is going to my shopping basket
Hi Julian. Just to let you know that each time I hear about an audio interface worth to check, automatically I looked if you checked it. Your analyzes are in depth, detailed and clear. Keep it on.
By the way, the 32Bit are NOT floating point.
Yesterday I received the Ssl-2 mk2 on your advice, after 2 years my M-Audio 192-4 started to crackle on the headphone knob. Plug and play on the mac. Fantastic sound, The inputs are much better quality than the M-audio, The 4k and stereo mode are a very good addition. Headphone volume output is more than sufficient, it does not have to be opened further than a quarter. We will see how it stands the test of time. But so far a top device. Thank you for your good videos, very helpful
I would also like to buy this interface, but it has a bad "crosstalk" value relative to the Audient iD14.
How does it manifest itself?
@@endriu19 Hi,In practice I haven't noticed anything of this yet.
I don't have Audient here,so I can't compare it either.Greetings
Love it, just bought a 2+ after seeing such a great review!
I wonder if the SSL 12 would have similar measurements… 🤔
Still waiting on that review, by the way 😅
There’s no other channel with this level of in-depth review of Audio Interfaces, so I got to the point of thinking that all other reviews kinda suck 🤣
Anyway… suggestions, if I may: SSL 12, Zen Quadro, Apollo Twin X…
I’d love to see a review from you for some of the higher-end interfaces.
Above all, congratulations for being awesome Mr. @JulianKrause
..we love that volume is not controllable by software...great review, I have ssl2 going for mk2 for sure....its amazing!
Thank for the review. It would be nice to have a table for real time players (maybe guitarists) who choosing an audio interface for guitar playing real time. So here one of the most important things will be to see TOP audiointerface BY latency
Anyway, you are #1 audiointerface geek who I ever found on RUclips, thank you for your efforts ❤
Danke!
Rainer, I’m lost for words, thank you so much for the continuous support!!
Great review Julian. Seems like many of the new interfaces have made great strides.
What an incredible review format. Well done. I'm buying the SSL 2 Mkii. Cheers
I absolutely love my original SSL 2+ - the stability, sound quality and headphone amps are phenomenal. The only problem I had was that after about 2 years some of the pots get a bit scratchy - maybe digital infinite rotary knobs could be an improvement for future generations.
My pots are fine but buttons are absolute garbage. You could sneeze on them and 48V would start blinking, or line switch would introduve crackle.
I'm from India I'm watching your every video because of your efforts behind videos.i have audient 14 mk 2. i love to watch your graph ❤
Been waiting for your review. Thank you Julian. Interesting that despite improvements in dynamic range, output level and headphone output the pre amp measurements were slightly below the original SSL 2. Personally I prefer that there is no software control of the gain. You didn't touch on the converters, loopback or 32bit functionality.
I had a guitar amp that went up to 12. Great reviews as always thank you.
was waiting for a video :D
just bought with your link from Thomann ... hope you get something back from them :)
I’ve already got it, and my first impression is: awesome!
I upgraded from the M-Audio Air 192 due to issues like recordings stopping after a few hours without me noticing. The audio quality with the SSL 2 MK II is noticeably better-at least for me-because the noise level is so much lower. I can even skip using noise suppression if I want to. The headphone output is also significantly cleaner, making this interface a joy to use.
I’m using it with an SM7B, and the SSL 2’s gain is much better and easier to set compared to the M-Audio Air, which was just a hassle to deal with.
Before buying, I didn’t think I’d use the 4K mode, but after testing it, I actually really like the sound it produces.
On a side note: I asked Thomann if my affiliate link for Julian worked, and they responded within a day-which is awesome! The link worked perfectly.
Hey Julian, I keep seeing these compared to the Audient iD4 and 14. Do you have a preference?
My favorite part of your videos is when you open them up and show us the guts.
I just got it yesterday and by golly, it's fantastic!
3:03 - “Subscribe” - even matched the font! LOL!
I noticed it too and came to check here if anyone else noticed it too lol.
@@cobrax80 I did the exact same thing! I mean, the font wasn’t exactly the same, but damn!
Came here to point this out as well. 😊
I got really confused why they would print "subscribe" on their device. lol
As perfect and concise review as usual. Thanks for the video
Excellent and transparent explanation
I bought one a few weeks ago and the difference in audio quality between it and my old interface is pretty big. Doubt anyone could go wrong with this interface. I've already recorded a client reading an audiobook with a ribbon mic, and I had to push the pre-amp a little, but not all that much. Results were excellent.
What was your previous interface?
@ Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD. I’ve had it for a few years, so maybe it just was wearing out a bit.
Very cool that they added stereo recording functionality!
I love the SSL interfaces. Started with SSL2 moved to 2+ and am very happy with my SSL12
I was looking forward to you reviewing these, thank you!
It's great to know how sound quality improved. Especially the headphone output, key for EQing or mixing with them.
From the usability perspective, the 2+ MKII brings the benefit of the additional monitoring outputs, that would be really great to have for my use case. The feature of individually managing A and B headphone outputs is also great.
I see a few cons compared to their MKI counterparts, though:
- They are much uglier 😛. The first generation had sober, classic albeit modern, overall beautiful design. This one loses colours on the knobs, and that black background isn't great.
- Connectors aren't mechanically attached to the frame, just to the PCB. This is a point of failure.
- LED meters would be more practical measuring 3 or 6 dB increments, this was some frequent criticism they didn't address.
- They have similarly-looking push buttons. It's unclear if they changed them under the hood, because in the MKI they're a source of trouble.
ey vielen Dank für deine interface reviews ich hab mir wegen dir das Topping 2x2 geholt
mit Sennheiser hd560s und es läuft bombe
Freut mich, viel Spaß damit!
Bro the "goes to 11" had me cracking up I've been looking at these for days and didnt even notice! Makes me want to buy it all the more
Terrific review! Thanks for letting us know that most of the controls are hardware-based. Just the way I like it!
Impeccable timing!
Excellent review, as always
Great review thx x
looks like a solid choice, great video mate cheers
Since this SSL was released, I've been considering between the SSL2+ MKII and the Audient ID 24.
Did you decide on one. In the exact same boat, lol
Ive been going back and forth on these two interfaces and the SSL 12. looking to replace my apogee element 24.
I received my Audient ID24 today. Had a ID22 which i loved for 3 years before it crapped out like alot of them did. I went with the ID24 over the SSL II+ for one primary reason, it has a line in return that allows you to bypass the preamps. I have a Golden Age Pre 73 modded by Zen Pro with the Carnhills etc. I can use that with the Audient and bypass the Audient preamps, you can’t bypass the SSL preamps. That’s a great reason to get the Audient of you’ve a preamp like the Golden Age. Otherwise, I would likely have gotten the SSL. they are both great interfaces, probably the best in their price range of $300-$400 you cant go wrong with either.
@@WyattScott Audient is better in terms of converter quality.
Burr Brown uses AD/DA
@@WyattScott You can bypass the preamps using the Line button in the SSL 2 MKII series. It's in the manual.
Bin heute zum ersten Mal auf deinem Kanal. Dein Englisch ist so gut, dass man bereits im ersten Satz hört, dass du Deutscher bist 😅
Would love details about class compliance and (stretch goal) Linux support in these reviews. But regardless they are top notch and a service to the audio community as a whole. Thanks!
@@noblepayne I was thinking the same. I use my interface solely on Linux and really depend on it working.
Unfortunately by default there aren't Linux support for audio stuff.
I fell defeated everytime dual booting into Win10
SSL says that they tested it with several Linux systems, so it should work imo.
MK I works well in Linux.
@ Thanks 😊
...and a brilliant review as always.
Audient EVO have much better latency, I never would expect this when it comes to something from SSL. I got the Audient Evo because of your video by the way, best audio interface for the money in my opinion.
Hello, compliments for the video, both have the somes One converter?
I love my SSL2+ but I always kind of hated the headphone jacks being on the back since it made cable routing a bit more annoying, I won't upgrade now but it's nice to see they changed it :)
Haha, I love that they are on the back. My case is pretty rare, where device is sitting vertically, flat against the wall. So all connections are at the top.
Yes, I did notice the knob goes to 11 and I freekin love that! Doesn't matter if it's a running joke, every knob should go to 11.
Cheers 🍻
@@Finite-Tuning Cheers 🍻 😃
How does it compare to the RME Babyface Pro FS? The stats look like it exceeds even the RME except in latency and output! How is the difference in sound?
Are the Headphone amps good enough for mixing on my Neumann NDH30?
Finally led indicators to let you know whether some buttons are pressed.
You didn't mention 32 bit recording . Is it floating point? Does it use two converters? Does this introduce any more noise like Zoom recorders?
SSL has a page on their website under FAQ about the 32 bit conversion. It’s 32 bit integer, and basically, the newer chips and 32 bit integer converters allow them to improve a few performance numbers and do some things internally to the device with lower noise in the digital domain when digitally lowering levels. But there is no performance benefit to recording in 32 bit integer format. The 24 bit recording format can store everything the unit can capture.
To me, this is totally fine except that by advertising and plastering “32 bit” everywhere, I imagine some prospective buyers may be confused unless they find the explanation on SSL’s website. Those buyers may purchase it thinking it does the 32 bit float thing with dual ADCs and they can recover their clipped audio in post, be disappointed when that doesn’t work, and then write a poor review. That would be quite unfortunate because this is an excellent interface, just that 32 bit and the marketing around that can be unclear at times.
I appreciate the Subscribe on the back panel. 😉
Since I discovered your channel I never bought any new audio interface without consulting your videos. always excellent review. one thing I might have missed that is not present on the version 1 is if this version 2 already has playback function?
I bought the SSL2+ Mk2 for my son (Christmas present) not realizing that his headphones only work on just his computer (through USB)... What compatible headphones would you recommend for a teenager? (We live in Ontario, Canada).
Love your videos man, I just wish that more people would start talking about using audio interfaces on Linux, because I want to move away from Windows and Mac. Support is currently very poor across the industry. I really hope it changes
if there are significant changes, can you please do an updated review of the Motu M4? I just purchased last month and would love to hear some tips from you
Fantastic review as always ! No power switch is a big no for my usage. Saddly I love the layout and form factor, maybe for the MKIII who knows.
why no internals? wanted know converters
Hey, very nice video well detailed i always wanted to get the okd ssl... But this one seems to be the one I'll get. Thanks for the video 🎉
Something I noticed; the Windows software panel looks identical to the one for the Behringer UMC1820. Do we know what chipset is being used for the USB communications? Do we know if this is an out-of-the-box solution that was developed by a third party? If anyone knows please share - asking because we at Ghost Note Audio might want to look into developing USB audio capabilities for some future products, and wondering if there's a good existing solution we could utilize. If it's good enough for SSL, it's probably good enough for us, hah! :)
Can't believe they destroyed the # 1 reason to buy the predecessor: having all output and input on the back for a clean desk. Now it’s just another interface, just like 99 percent of the others.
You can still have your inputs from the back, its just the headphones really which I prefer from the front
Thanks for Sharing!
SSL did a great job and so is Julian. thank you
Great review! Blackstar Amplification Polar 4 would be another interesting audio interface to visit. This one is interesting for guitarists! :-) LG, Roland
Great review, as always, Julian!
Please, can you make one for SSL 12 ? It's more like the first gen SSL2/2+, despite the 32bit/192 converters or more like second gen ? What converters does it use, Cirrus Logic, AKM etc ? Also, with 360 software, can it be controlled from software entirely (gain etc) or just in part ?
Thanks a lot for you great work !
julian, how would u compare the audio quality from to this to say the baby face pro fs from rme? from what i'm hearing this sounds cleaner and idk if i should believe my ears bc they're in such different price ranges lol. i think a lot of ppl try to sell rme on how dependable their drivers/software are, but if i'm not really interested in that, and i just want a clean signal, am i not just better off with the ssl 2+? my ears are telling me yes, but i would appreciate hearing ur perspective
babyface is only drivers i had it and comverters to speakers were awful on it
Wow, it was next level to change the SSL logo to Subscribe while talking about the midi I/O.
Great video! Great job!
Thanks. Great review 👍
Hi Julian, love your videos. Any chance you will be reviewing the Rode Roadcaster Pro II in the near future? Thanks.
loopback interface ? great video !!!
Hey Julian, thank you very much for your great review👌I have two questions about this interface. Does the headphone output have enough Power for 250 Ohms DT770? Is there a volume reset to 0 every new windows start? I ask because first the audient ID4 or ID14 was my favourit to buy, but there is exact this (for me this problem) you have to turn up the volume every start of PC
I have the EVO4 and I really don't like all the clicking I need to do to navigate it (but it isn't a deal-breaker for me). The SSL would be a quality of life upgrade, but is it an upgrade overall?
Can someone tell me the best way to hook up a digital keyboard, such as the Yamaha p-525. I purchased the SSL 2 Mkii, without the midi inputs. Mmmm, maybe I should have gotten the next model up. Any input would be helful. 1/4 input good enough for keyboard recording?
Given that the P-525 has individual Left and Right 1/4" Outputs, you can route individual 1/4" TRS cables from the keyboard into the SSL's instrument inputs, and record both channels to a single stereo track in your DAW.
Is upgrading from ssl 2 mk1 to ssl2 mk2 worth it?
Does the id44mk2 outperform all audio interfaces? Seen it is the only interface that uses Channel Summation on the ADC. Or do other interfaces use this technique as well? In your chart for the line input the id44mk2 should be @ 121 dba dnr.
Many thanks!
Awsome review! Can you make a video for SSL12?
How does the MK2s compare in audio quality vs the SSL 12? I know the 12 was their first 32bit, do they use the same converters or have the similar charts/quality?
Very good questions! I have the same curiosity but SSL12 did not appear in any chart. More in general, I was surprised this review did not even mention the 32-bit conversion. I also would be curious to understand how the physical control of the preamplifiers works in conjunction with 32-bit converters. Thanks for any comments in this area!
Same Question here, Wanna know about SSL12
Great review! And humor off the {0.0..10.00101101} scale!
love your videos, details are amazing. Julian between Motu m2,id14 mk2 , ssl2 mk2 which one would you get mostly for recording vocals and music production at home
Did you get an answer?
(I'm also looking for lowest latency for vocals and deciding between the MOTU m4 & the SSL2+ mk2)
@@big-baby-buddha i got the id14 mk2 , mainly bcuz of preamps and the fact that they are newer than motu, i love the m2 m4s but they are older and i think we will see new version of them very soon. and ssl is fine too they released mk2 version but don't like the preamps and feel, audient has better compatibility and support overall
Julian, thank you for all that you do. Hoping you can help me decide. I have an original Komplete Audio 6 from 2011, 98 db output. Have it going out to a Yamaha HS8 2.1 speaker config. Sound treated room. It sounds great, but I'm wondering if it would sound better with a newer interface, like this SSL 2+ MKII, or even an Audient ID24. Is db jump from 98 to 120, or 125 perceptible in audio quality?
Reading up on forums has been a nightmare, everyone has opposing opinions and it can't get a conclusive answer...
Can you do a review of the Mackie Onyx series?
I don't think you done review of those yet.
How do these compaere with the SSL 12?
I think this man test should be the standard for any and every audio interface. Great job 👏… question how important is crosstalk ?
@@Nighthawkclips Well, if crosstalk is really bad, then it can be an issue in terms of stereo image. For the most part it is totally fine today and the are no audible issues.
@ so a bad crosstalk would effect panning and width of stereo images ?
Do you know if the SSL12 is similar performance to these or should we expect, they may release an MK2 for that one also?
My AKG perception 150 SD is giving very low ticking sounds at about 3.6 seconds. Changing the buffer size and reconnecting, different XLR and USB cables is not fixing it. My synco D2 shotgun mic has no such problem on the same setup nor does my rode procaster. Is a regular ticking sound possible by a faulty circuit in the mic ? If its regular can RG be the cause or is there any chance of a faulty circuit ? The regularity of the ticks bothers be. Its about -40db at normal recording. I am asking because I do not want to open up the microphone to take a look inside.
I'm mainly a guitarist and want to upgrade from my just-do-some-testing-if-this-is-fun Behringer UMC202HD and those two are on my shortlist.
But I have a really hard time figuring out if I should go with a more "guitar oriented" interface instead. Something like the AXE I/O series could be an option instead. These would give me a very nice integration with the Amplitube CS MAX that I use all the time and offer integration of for example wah pedals.
I don't do much mic based recording. So the big question is, whether this changes my criteria substantially (which you can't answer of course). I'm pretty sure that the AXE interfaces are lower quality than the SSL2+, but will the guitar specific features outweigh this?
I really like your style, where you present pros and cons of various options instead of telling me what to do. And I thought that comparing the AXE to SSL2+, maybe also the ID24 (for example) might be an interesting challenge for you. Especially if you add really guitar specific challenges like how we control interactive stuff while recording - the wah pedal is a very good example, because this is something that guitarists will always want to do with the feet while playing, never do post-recording.
So glad to see the HP output being taken seriously. I do wonder if these new HP stages are identical to the one on the SSL 12, or are they in fact better since they are more newly revised?
Can someone explain how is that a better option than just getting SSL 12? It's almost the same price, but this one has less inputs/outputs, less control and no ADAT.