Which vintage mode sounds best? - Focusrite vs Solid State Logic vs Universal Audio
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- Опубликовано: 3 авг 2024
- In this video I will play some audio samples and compare the differences of the modes designed to color the audio on the Focusrite 2i2 3rd Gen, Solid State Logic SSL 2 and Universal Audio Volt interfaces.
Amazon US | Focusrite 2i2 3rd Gen: amzn.to/3vcnh64 *
Amazon US | Solid State Logic SSL2: amzn.to/3iYXBVt *
Amazon US | UA Volt 2: amzn.to/3ECjJ03 *
Thomann EU | Focusrite 2i2 3rd Gen: www.thomann.de/intl/focusrite... *
Thomann EU | SSL 2: www.thomann.de/intl/ssl_2.htm... *
Thomann EU | UA Volt 276: www.thomann.de/intl/universal... *
Thomann EU | UA Volt 2: www.thomann.de/intl/universal... *
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00:00 Intro
00:58 Audio Samples
02:40 Comparison
04:38 Conclusion
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The video I was waiting!! I have the SSL 2 and Its great.
Thank you for taking the time to do these tests and present the data so well. I love the volt interface. The light eq and saturation boost followed by the analog compression circuit just work so well.
what a great comparison! thank you Julian !
this made create the perfect comparisson compared to another people on youtube. keep up the good work!
I have 2 SSL2+ and am very happy with them. Only use the 4K if I want that extra grit on my 416. On the 87, it's superb. Good review. Enjoy your channel.
Best review ever. To review the product based on its technical aspects is really what we musicians and sound engineers require.❤️
I'm an amateur home studio musician. Julian is my go-to. He's objective, to-the-point, technical, but also shares what he subjectively likes about the gear. I've learned so much from his vids
I recently had to master an album where all the tracks had been recorded through an SSL interface with the 4K mode engaged. It was almost impossible. I dare say that every individual track sounded a bit better on its own with it switched in, but the cumulative effect of using it on everything made the whole record harsh and almost unlistenable. If you have an interface with one of these modes (I have the UA to use as a spare/ iPad interface) please spare a thought for your poor mastering guy and be very selective about when you use it to print - save it for lead vocals and other stuff you want to foreground in the final mix!
Well thing is that it just adds saturation to the same frequencies across the board which defeats the purpose of wanting something to pop out the track. Like if it was guitars and vocals fine but every track is too much.
@@Byronic19134 agreed.
I only use it on lead vocal I have the ssl 2+ 4K mode and you’re right it’s not needed on much. It is a bit aggressive!
I use mine....4k on SSL on my Loop out export through my rack gear with Pipeline XT Stereo on Studio One on Mixdown Export Out and I can tell you with the right plugins....PA SSL Strips....good saturation and ssl comp vst......you will get 90% of an expinsive G or E Comp sound on your Hybrid Analog / Digital with plugins Master...working wonders for me in my $5000 studio! I'm lovin the SSL 2+
It may be because your summng instead of letting some good plugins do all the heavly lifting with a really good mix then loop your mix through your gear on the way out in studio one...add either API or SSL Board.VSTs .......imulation on main out. with comp and lim and saturaion..your gona love that mix....sounds like a $50,000 SSL G Console to me
scarlett air mode and de clarett+ air mode is not the same But, as you’ll discover in this piece, there’s a slight difference between the Air circuitry found in Clarett+ versus other Focusrite interfaces, which brings added clarity and more sonic options when recording.
The Clarett+ range of interfaces was designed around the ethos of ‘Clarity Redefined,’ and a large part of the range’s appeal can be found in the Air circuitry. Air emulates the classic ISA 110 mic preamp found in the Focusrite Studio Console, which has been behind millions of hit records. The benefits of tracking with Air on Clarett+ interfaces are enormous. Air switches the impedance to 2.2kΩ and adds two cumulative high shelves, totalling a 4dB boost in the high frequencies - a feature not found on Scarlett interfaces - and brings a new dimension and clarity to your sound.
These are great comparisons
SSL is my favorite here simply because it adds at least something to the signal that you couldn’t achieve with a simple eq plugin. It’s also the best interface out of the the three in terms of inputs, outputs and the overall ergonomics of the interface.
I have it and I love it. The only thing on it that I would change and that feels a bit cheap are the 48v/line/hi-z buttons - they really feel rather flimsy, and I do end up using them a lot (except for the hi-z; 48v for turning off a mic and Line as an improvised mute button). I have it set up right under my screen and the input signal diodes are wonderful for monitoring my loudness, with proper physical knobs all around (I put emphasis on this "physical" aspect after my suffering with the ID4 and its smart bigwheel of derpiness and its I-know-better-than-you autocorrection of loudness level... That thing made me scream in despair a few times).
...one thing I don't really end up using, though, are the 4k modes. It did work nicely on one muffled-sounding mid-forward microphone, but I'm currently on a brighter mic - with which I'd actually welcome the opposite of the 4k button: a mode that would let me dim the treble section a bit. I don't think I have heard of an interface with that kind of function...
I'm using the SSL 2+ and so far it provides me a complete mobile recording set-up on the interface. what do you think about the audient id4 mk2 since my friend is using it ?
@@Hugmir Hi, I have the SSL2+, as I understand it, mic is obviously for XLR mic, and "line" is for electric guitar, right? (or not?) , so what is "HI-Z" for? Thanks!
@@TheOnlineBusker line is line level,, which can be synth or other stuff. hi z is usually for guitar and bass
@@musicplaylistize Cool cheers 👍
FIRST: your review are so tech-friendly that everyone can understand. SECOND: I understand that Air, Vintage and 4K mode are in simple terms "EQ-preset" (with some add of harmonics). Tanx!
Thanks for this wonderfull comparison. Listenning with eyes closed then checking where after, found that after hearing the "Air" the SSL jumped out a lot, and the one after it was almost identical, if a little les clear. Now I see that the real effect was the bass "boost"s relative to the air.. very subjective.
this is dope i love this comparison
Watching and listening to the video through the Volt rn! :D
Thank you for this detailed test! I could notice the differences between all interfaces, but I wouldn't be able to choose my favourite.
However, I own the SSL 2 and I love what 4K does on my voice (streaming speech through a Lewitt LCT 440 condenser mike is my main usage), it adds punch and clarity. I also use it to track guitars, more frequently taking the direct signal of a preamp, other times the signal from an injection box coming from the amp's speaker output. I got some very nice sounds using 4K, but in other cases it was too much added emphasis (that you can't take out later) and I actually prefer the «modern» or regular mode for this purpose. In the guitar case I carried out an A/B test splitting the signal to both input channels, one with 4K activated.
I have the same Rig!
@@JonoTheVoiceofAustralia 🤩🤜🤛
Tnx Julian for the useful review and comparison👍 Wd also help if u can suggest which of these Audio interfaces wd be best based on the Type of Mics - Dynamic / Condenser
I can clearly hear a low mid saturation in the SSL 4k mode that give certainly power and grit to the source. The UA vintage mode has a similar sound but with less aggressiveness and infact as you show it, this is due to the fact that there is no actual cut in the low and low mid frequencies but there's a little saturation introduced by this mode.
Now that i hear it i can say that the SSL 4k mode can be really useful for many applications!
Nice review
SSL sounds very pleasant. I do use the SSL2+ and I do enjoy the unit very much.
Great video! No one else has done this test.
exactly what i needed
it's also worth noting on the volt that, while it doesn't always sound better engaged, the vintage mode AND comp sometimes work great together to make the sound closer to what I want.
I swapped out the Focusrite Scarlett for the SSL about a year ago. I use it for commercial voice over with a UA LA 610 tube preamp and after some practice I swapped out my Neumann TLM 103 for my old M900 Gefell mic. The SSL 2+ is easy to use, very stable and reliable. The 4K effect adds some brightness and an audible, slightly "granular crunchiness" that compliments the warmth of the tubes and plays well with the slightly edgy sound of the Gefell. I consulted with my rep at the audio company I usually buy gear from. I told him what I had, what work I was doing and he suggested the change to the SSL. A video like this can help you consider your choices and a good dealer can help you match new components with gear you already have . Thanks for a very helpful video!
Hmmmm...interesting,
I have the SSL 2+ and use it for professional VO and music.
Though I never engage the 4k for VO recordings as the studios usually want raw clean audio.
I use the tlm103 for VO and often use an SE Electronics for acoustic guitar and vox. (It's a bit warmer)
I have a nice UA clone (Alctron MP100) tube preamp that i haven't used with the SSL yet. I'd like to hook it up.
But I assumed that you can't use the 4k button if you are using an external preamp and not the preamps on the SSL?
Also, when using a preamp, do you have to set the Phantom switch to off on the SSL and the gain knob to far left?
Peace
@@NoLefTurnUnStoned. I have the mic go to the tube preamp first then to the SSL which connects to the computer. This is not a "plug and play" solution. I actually have to mix the two by setting the input and ouput gain of the tube preamp and mixing in the SSL gain as a sort of final stage. Some clients want "raw audio" (whatever that means) so they can mix the final with compression, eq, etc. Gear creates a 'practical effect' and when properly mixed into the record channel makes a better "raw" recording. The post production engineer can still shape the sound however they want. Try this: plug your mic into the Alctron. Use the phantom switch on it to power the mic. Use the output of the Alctron to either left or right input of your SSL. Monitor the signal off the SSL and experiment with levels. Start with the SSL channel gain turned to about 10 O'clock. Then start adjusting your input and "volume" controls. It takes some time to find the sweet spot but it should work nicely with your Neumann.
@@77Cardinal
Wow, thanks for your informative reply!
What I mean by “raw” audio is no pre and no post, just mic into interface and bounce in mono.
The more expensive the jobs (generally big name jobs) the more likely the agencies will expect that.
On “cheaper” jobs I tend to give them something with a little sauce so they have less to do.
I really don’t need the preamp for VO but I’m really keen to try it on vocals, acoustic guitar and bass.
I’ll try your technique!
Thanks again bro…
@@NoLefTurnUnStoned. "On “cheaper” jobs I tend to give them something with a little sauce so they have less to do." That's a great point. Sometimes I add a splash of that sauce - just to sound different from everybody else they hear with the same gear. They don't need to know the secret. Really nice hearing your thoughts G.C. thanks for reaching out.
@@77Cardinal
Thank you again John!
Great advice that I’ll take on board.
So far I really would like to see if with the correct curve the difference between interfaces would be unperceetable, all of them sounded good I would choose convenience and price over sound quality in this case. Thanks for your review really well done since with the edits you can really compare.
Hey Julian, could you one day please review the UMC1820? I'd love to know if it's a decent 8/8 card. Awesome video, as always! Happy new year!
It is. Scarlett 18i20 too.
Great content as ever. (But I would've made the red line of the graphs represent the Scarlett ;) )
Thank you so much for the hitchhikers reference
I have the SSL2 and I use the 4K very occasionally...given that I'm miking tube amps I don't need the artificial saturation. I tried in on my vocal but my voice is scratchy and essy enough without the additional high end of the 4K. It's a nice option to have but not frequently used.
Julian, der Universe-Witz war Gold haha
SSL sounded the best to me. Thanks Julian!
I think the SSL sounds more balanced and sophisticated compared to the others. The UA unit seemed to mush up the sound in comparison.
I personally find the SSL too clean, but I have that complaint about all interfaces these days.
I own the SSL myself and while I wouldn't say it's overrated or even expensive (it's actually very affordable, given the history of SSL's pricing trends) but for me, it just doesn't have the aggression I want.
Obviously audio interface manufacturers are assuming you'll be using plugins in post, but I really wish some of this extra onboard circuitry would be more obvious and aggressive. If I'm going to use it as an effect, it may as well be audible to the audience that is going to hear it, right?
Are we talking about sound it reproduces or records? If you use audio interface for listening music it's ok. But if you use it for making music, then it doesn't matter how does output sounds. It has to be real and uncolored. Only if you export your mix to external recorder (i. e. tape recorder)
I really liked the 'mush'!
@@mgmg116i know I’m a little late, but what interface would you recommend for a less polished sound? I 100% agree with your assessment of everything being too ‘clean’, and I gotta get a new interface soon. If you respond to this year old comment, thanks, I rly appreciate it haha
As a SSL owner, 4k mode is, in practice, something I engage when I want a track to pop out in the mix, and disengage when I want it to sit in the background. It doesn't work as a "vintage" sound, really
Also own the SSL2. I use it on pretty much everthing and I personally think it's much too subtle. If I'm going to engage a circuit that's designed to act as an audible effect, I want it to be aggressive and obvious that it's been used.
In my spectro EQ, there's barely a +2dB shelf with like 6 or 7 extra harmonics added on top.
It's like asking for extra pickles on your cheeseburger, and then opening it to find they've only given you one extra pickle.
Strawberry flavoring is not anywhere as good as real strawberry’s and like Vintage Audio emulators are not anywhere as good as original vintage audio preamps and there are a multitude of reasons for this, but the biggest reason is how the harmonics and distortion work together for the sound that’s pleasing to the ear in which an emulation can not do. Can the ear detect it? Yes, but unless you can describe the anomalies accurately it becomes a feeling feather than a frontal lobe outward expression. Remember that feeling are a communication and a reactive response as well as any other communication. The human senses in my honest opinion need to be explored more than what is being taught in modern society! How we feel and touch our music is important for our human experience and not just for dance. As always Julian thank you for an exquisite display of parameters and compassions to bring to light the obvious differences we sometimes just don’t pay attention to! Bravo! Great job!
Hi Bro Love your videos... Could you please review the SSL+ ? Thanks
The Focusrite almost sounds like an Ibanez Tube Screamer in how it cuts the bottom end.
The UA is the fattest sounding, I think.
My favorite is simply to not use any of those modes and if I need it then I do it in the box later after recording
SSL for me out of those 3. I like the more present low-mids and the saturation
Nice reference to the Hitchhikers Guide :) Keep up the good job!
Thank you!
Hi there, great videos! Which one has the lowest latency and the more uncolored natural sound (except the 4k mode)?
Great video! Would love to have heard the Clarett air mode too though. To me the SSL sounds louder, maybe more distortion? I think I prefer the sound of the Focusrite though, just seems more musical to me. The UA didn't seem to change much.
Julian, I have an idea for your channel. You are absolutely the best for interfaces. One aspect about the interfaces that is difficult to find out and compare is the software that comes with them. How good is it? What are feature comparisons? I am not so much talking about the bundles and intro offers that change, but instead the quality of the soft mixers or channel strip packages. A comparison would help someone interested in podcasting, versus voice overs, versus singers. I love what you do, and hope that this idea helps extend your reach.
Would be cool if you added the Steinberg RT-2 in this comparison or AXR4 would be better,
both has NEVE silk emulation!
VERY GOOD REVIEW ... EXCELLENT COMPARISON ... thanks! God bless you
I like vintage!! """
It would be cool to see a comparison between the volt 2 , and the umc202Hd
Hi Julian. Fantastic. Thanks a lot!!
Looks like for overall 276 come on top and Scarlett as the low budget choice.
Maybe the decision become harder between volt 2 and Scarlett.
I notice if I track with headphones with the "air' circuit engaged on my Clarett, I get ear fatigue after about 30 minutes. I realize this is a result of some hearing damage since my tastes have always leaned towards brighter circuits; I used to do this with sans amps, as well, on guitars, etc. with the presence control. That said, this sensitivity I think actually helps me make mix decisions that protect other listeners ears'.
For what it's worth, just listened to the full mix comparisons in this clip on an actual kitchen radio (which has an aux in) in order to get some idea how these modes translate to the real-world-majority of music listeners, and the Focusrite Air Mode produced the clearest and most balanced mix out of the three on my band-limited consumer playback system. In contrast, on full-range monitor speakers the Air Mode fell a bit thin compared to the other modes (but that can be compensated for with some edits to the actual low-end in the 30 Hz - 120 Hz range I suppose without affecting the "radio range" too much). Compared to the flat mode, all 3 colored modes helped the mix get closer to sounding like a finished product in the "radio scenario". I'm imagining that using any of these 3 modes on the most prominent parts of a song when tracking will make the mixing process much easier and quicker, since much fewer manual EQ moves will be required.
I'm using Audient iD14 but I really like SSL Audio Interface's sounding. SSL2 has the best sounding in this comparison
Wich interface do you prefer from ID14 and SSL2+?
@@EckertAndras I sell id4 for ssl2, go to sll brother
Thanks for the review, Julian! Is there a difference between the "AIR" on the Scarletts vs on the Claretts? Doesn't the impedence change when "AIR" is engaged? Thank you!
I have the same question. The air mode on ny Clarett interface sounds different than on my Scarlett 2i2. Almost like the Air on my Clarett have the opposite effect
Good point, I'll have closer look at the audible differences in my Clarett+ review.
@@JulianKrause Thank you and Happy New Year!
Great! but I'm waiting for a voice test. We are thousands and thousands of announcers who follow you and we are surely waiting for a voice test. This test is very important to us and it is not necessary for you to do it as an announcer (although you have a very good voice). We hope to be heard and cared for. Very good work.
I liked the UA but I liked that more bass bump in the bottom. That being said I feel like the AIR mode on my OG Clarett is more pronounced and sounds a bit different than what is displayed here. Didn't really like the SSL that much.
I think he’s using the Scarlett which has different circuits than clarett.
I so miss the Motu M2 or M4 in this comparison. Otherwise great video as usual.
If the RME baby face, Apollo, etc are too expensive to buy, measure, teardown and review then maybe we could all pitch in and buy said interface under the condition that you simply review and provide measurements? Maybe you can compare and contrast components and why certain interfaces Beyond brand recognition cost significantly more than competitors with similar or better measurements . I'd like to see if these more expensive interfaces hold up to their price points. These videos are much Def appreciated, just would like to see some 'top tier' interface reviews now
Do you plan to test out some of the more expensive interface brands like Apogee and RME? I see comments in online forums that these more expensive interfaces greatly outperform any "entry-level" interface. I'm curious if this is really the case or if you are just paying for the dsp features.
hello my friend thanks for this video .. what u think about waves digigrid iox .?
Before your analysis, the SSL for me, after the analysis I see why :)
I've always considered SSL to be the best sounding studio equipment of all time. I love the SSL sound, so I'll always vote for SSL in any comparison regardless, which also demonstrates my confirmation bias!
Hi Julian, did you test Steinberg UR-RT2 & RT4 ? Would you do a review for us ? Best Regards !
Guten Tag Julian, Frohes neues Jahr! Achso hab eine Frage, hast du eine mikro empfehlung für einen kleinen Raum wie im Keller ( echo Room ich weiss ). Mein Ziel ist wie dein Setup, ohne Mikro in frame als ich spreche in meinem Videos. BG ist nur 100 oder 150 max :( Danke im Voraus!!!
I like the low end on the ssl.
Personally I'm trying decide between the ssl2+, motu m4 and volt 276. From the examples in this video the 4k modes sounds good but shouldn't be used on everything. From these which is a better option for using the audio interface as a guitar rig, and some light recording? I'd like to record my own songs in the future possibly.
I have the SSL2+ and end up using the 4K feature quite a lot. At first I thought it was just a gimmick, but I do agree it adds something nice to the incoming signal.
Hey, Julian!
Thanks for video. Very informative.
I have a question: what ADC/DAC converters are in SSL2?
Hey, it's an AKM AK4621EF which does AD and DA conversion.
High end akm
@@JulianKrause Hi friend, which DAC is better between this AKM or Sabre in MOTU M2/M4?.
@@ferdearmas8732 x2, I am undecided to buy between the Motu M2 and the SSL2
The SSL though I was fully expecting to like the UA vintage mode going in.
I have a Focusrite 18x20 and like the AIR on voice, dont use it for anything else. I'm adding a ssl 12 to my setup (mostly for mobility) and I think I'll keep the mics running through the Focusrite going into the ssl through ADAT, and keeping those Hi Z inputs free to use with instrument signals that can probably benefit from the 4k button. Thanks for this comparison!
wish you had Steinberg UR-RT2 (or 4) there and compared it's Rupert Neve Transformer mode to those three
Thanks Julian! From what I just heared I don't think it matters that much. Unless it's numbers that matter to you.
I have SSL and I never use 4K. Nylon string guitar loses it's naturalness and sounds somehow harsh with 4K. Distortion is not desirable and increased hi freq is not needed either since some equalization in Daw is needed anyway.
That said, I believe bass would benefit from the distortion to some extent but there are better ways to get that.
Honestly if you want vintage tone invest in external preamps or channel strips. When it comes to the Lower end interfaces all 3 are very acceptable coming from 3 really great companies that know audio.
i’ve had both SSL & Focusrite interfaces, now using an Apollo X4 & still love how 4k mode works with the SSL2. not a big fan of the UAD vintage mode tho
Would have been good to see the steinberg rt4 with Rupert neve transformer in this comparison. But thank you
If you had to choose one for recording bass tracks direct, what would you use?
According to your measurements, it seems only the UA behaves like a 'real analog' circuit. Couse if you push an analog circuit hard, it saturates better and that's what we desire and want from an analog circuit right? So it seems UA achieved this OK for this budget interface. I also liked it's sound samples when compared with other ones, it has that 'oomphh!' sound . For me 1)UA 2) SSL 3)Focusrite..
But all three are utilizing an analog circuit to accomplish their effect. And it's not so much the circuit that saturated better at hotter levels, that's more an event that occurs on tape. Analog circuitry is remarkably clean, as back in the old days, we chased transparency and signal accuracy rather than saturation. Of course, the goals have changed and now we want saturation lol
Im definately getting a VOLT
Julian I would love to get your breakdown for the new(ish) Presonus ioSTATION 24c
I just wish audio equipment manufacturers were less _intentionally_ misleading about the irreplacability of their products. As you demonstrated, all of this can be reproduced with an EQ and a saturation plugin. And I, for my part, barely heard any difference anyway. And on top of that, names like "4K" suggest completely bullshit qualities that the operating mode does not even _try_ to achieve. I am so sick of false advertising.
Thank you for a great analysis.
Which one would you prefer for Shure SM7B with a Cloudlifter, SSL2 or ID4 and why?
I already have a Cloudlifter.
It seems having a built in compressor, stereo, loop, direct monitoring would be nice. Is there anything else? It still leaves the motu m4, motu mk5, and UA.....still up in the air.
UA sounds most pleasing to me.
What program are you using to view the waveforms?
I would have like to see the test done with the 76 engaged ---- curios why that wasn't done?
I'm not a professional and I don't even have homestudio equipment. I'm here to see reviews and choose the best equipment within my budget. I really don't know why, but considering the guitar and bass sound, I prefer the Volt 276's compressor and vintage improvements.
Hey, Julian. Do you have or may be just in plans to make a video about babyface pro?
Currently testing it ;)
Julian, thank you for the video. I have 300 USD to invest in a new interface. What would be your choice for a guitarrist nowadays?
I just bought a Volt, sounds good, but frankly I think the differences are pretty negligible.
UA sounds more naturally saturated with less roll-off. SSL seemed to lose mojo and dull some mid high at low levels. The Focusrite was decent but bland. The difference in freq curve sounded amplitude dependent to my ear. Idk if I would use any of this but I do like the UA best, and really dislike the SSL mode. I prefer my outboard gear in any case.
Ahahahah..i loved the beginning's statement...."there's a theory that..."
Hi Julian, these days alot people are making hip hop music, 808 bass heavy, eq'd vocals to remove deeper hz, clean synth tones. I'd love to get a freq test and everyone's view on which interface is ideal when recording hip hop. The guitars in this review was too grungey, harsh and could hardly notice much change. Focusrite did seem thinner whereas SSL and the UAD seemed a bit more balanced. UAD did sound muddy too me however I don't listen to music like this so it was hard to determine.
The graphs did prove what I was hearing though when AIR,4K, Vintage is initiated.
Could you happen to run the UAD Apollo vs the Scarlett vs SSL on basic recording with a hip hop track. Would love the findings and sure it will help hundreds of us choose the most appropriate product for our vocals.
Appreciate the channel and unbiased review.
🤠 Don't get an interface. Get the SP-404 mkII & do all your producing on that. When you have to perform, take the SP 404 & your mic with you.
What if it was the focusrite clarett instead? Especially because it's got world class converters in it @julian
Hi Julian, thank you for your very informative reviews. I wonder if you could help with some advice please? After deciding to migrate from PC/Cubase to Mac/Logic I'm on the the market for a new audio interface. I'm looking at the Focusrite Clarett+ 4pre (~£530) vs UA Apollo X4 Quad Heritage (~£1,540). I know the Apollo comes with the built-in DSP & plugins platform however these days you can run the same plugins on UA Sparks natively if you have a decent CPU (which the M1 Pro does). What's your view on these two?
I chose these models as they both offer dual headphones outputs, great when I'm collaborating with a singer. My work includes recording acoustic/electric guitars/bass, some vocals, and music production in general.
Thanks in advance. Ben
Kind of in the same boat as you. Recently got an M1 and need an audio interface upgrade. Im undecided between SSL+2 and the Audient ID14. UAD is overpriced for what it gives you IMO. Brainworkx makes alot of the UAD plugins and you can get most direct from them at a fraction of the price and with M1 you can run them native easily. I think most of these interfaces give you similar results at this point. Might aswell spend the extra on a nice vintage mic pre hardware.
@@Skylabz604 good call. I might invest in a good quality microphone too
Please tell what do You think is the better
SSL Sounds well balanced.
Tough call betweeen Volt and SSL but for vocals i feel the Volt276 is the winner, nicely rounded, warm and fat! That FET 1176 style comp is crack for your ears.
friend, I have this 2i2, and I work as a voice over voiceover, between ssl or volt to improve my audio, which one would you recommend me or do you have another one? I use mic nt1 from rode. Could you help me please, I'm from Brazil. As you are aware, I want something with the cleanest sound possible, my room is already treated, thank you
I slightly prefer the SSL - the UA sounded a little muddy, and the Focusrite sounded a little thin. I thought they all sounded inferior to the original audio.
Muddy is the correct word;)
I can't easily tell the difference between the SSL and the UA. They both sound good to me. I suppose the UA sounds marginally clearer or better in some way. The "air" mode is dumb. I have a 2i2 and I never use it, unless I accidentally hit the button, which happens from time to time. I have no idea where in the circuit these modes exist, but to the extent that they are software based, as the "air" mode likely is, they're relatively pointless, at least for recording, given the number and flexibility of EQ and saturation plugins.
I might use this information to decide between interfaces at the same price, like the Focusrite and the Volt, in which case I'd choose the Volt, but I tend to steer clear of "vintage" modes, which seldom make anything sound vintage, and I'll press any button that makes a track sound better.
Of the three presented here, I would go for the SSL 2. I had an ISA ONE ten years ago. But I can tell you the Focusrite doesn't sound anything like it with the AIR mode engaged. The ISA ONE was like the gates of heaven opened up the moment you heard the first few notes through it. The Focusrite is just a treble boost. Personally, I'm still waiting for a Neve audio interface😒 but heard that it was very difficult to implement under the current 'usb' fad. Any insider knowledge of this?
Heritage audio got one on preorder lmk what you find
Which one has the best included software and round trip lag response.
Hi Julian. I'm looking for a more compact alternative to my Yamaha MG10XU, with midi in/out. I make music and do podcasting. What would you recommend?
Please do review of the RME Babyface pro
My friend has one. I set it up. The only complaint is that it tends to be a little finicky in the total mix control. The preamps sound super clean and the multiple in’s and outs are crazy. It will cost but it’s a great interface.