SSL neglected to put analog inserts on the stereo channels. What's your view on that? If we had analog inserts on the stereo channels, we could put analog signal processors on them like Vari Mu, SSL Bus compressor, Massive Passive, etc. (if you are mixing analog, there is a very good chance you want to bring some analog outboard to the party). But there is no way to claw into the analog path and insert signal processors. The only way to get a stereo compressor on a stereo channel is to route the stereo channel to a cue mix. But then you are forced to consume a valuable cue mix, and you want those available for time effects like stereo reverbs. Regarding where to put the i/o jacks for the inserts, the giant "Big SiX" logo could be scrapped and inserts could be put there. There is also some limited space on the back to put a D-Sub jack. SSL did many nice things with this board. But lack of analog inserts on the stereo channels I believe is this mixer's "BiG MisS". I have no influence with SSL. But you do! Could you send them a request to put analog inserts on the stereo channels for version 2 of this mixer?
Hi, it's always great to hear feedback from people on what they like, don't like from a product so thank you very much for leaving this comment. SSL are trying to strike that balance between a full studio console and live/studio mixer. Although we play no part in creating these products, we will certainly keep note of any notes from our customers. - Do you use any other SSL equipment? Thanks for watching!
@@StudiosparesTV I use several of their plugins. The plugin bus compressor is excellent, but the x-logic hardware compressor is even better. It seems crazy to not include insert jacks on the stereo channels, because it gives people more reasons to by SSL analog outboard gear. People would easily be buying UltraViolet eqs and bus compressors to make their Big Six mixers become fire-breathing super beasts. But without the inserts, all we have on those channels is a rudimentary three band eq. Nice to have, but very limiting.
@@ytb917 This is an interesting point. "Maybe" SSL would argue that inserts would be for a different desk. Maybe we should look out for the SSL BIGGER SIX. ;-)
Excited for this one! I ordered one yesterday with a Jan 31st estimated mail date. This seems like the perfect console for someone with 4 mono sources and a stereo or two. 1 - vocal mic 2 - guitar cab 3 - bass guitar cab 4 - mono synth 5/6 - stereo synth 7/8 - MPC main outs 9/10 - external delay returns 11/12 - external reverb returns Bus B outputs could feed the MPC for sampling any source coming from ableton or from the analog channels. So awesome
Hey Jesse - I agree, this is a lot of console for the price and it has that SSL large console sound. I'm sure you'll love it when it arrives and I'm sure it will serve you Big Six serves you well. Are you UK or US based? Do you mind me asking where you bought your Big Six from?
Yes sir! I received it last week, wish it was made available way before! This is the first consolei own, I fooled my self for years that i can master just in the box which i can to a certain limitation with loudness, I totally hear the difference with hardware, and would be difficult to go back. Question? Do you think there is a need or a necessity to add more hardware inserts to BigSix , although I can assume it's a matter if taste. Cheers!
Thanks for a great video! I'm looking at ways to implement the SSL big six into my workflow. I'm mostly looking to front-end record to my DAW, and use my apollo interfaces for conversion and monitoring etc. I can use the insert send as direct out from the 4 preamps, but how would I go about sending out the other line tracks and possibly the talk back? So I basically need to figure out how to send out as much of these channels separately to my patchbay. Any good tips? And do you think it's stupid to use the Apollo x16 converters and monitoring section instead of the SSL big Six? thanks in advance!
So i use a Soundcraft Signature 22mtk for 22ch drums. I like SSL to create a *big enough Six* for serious things? I mean, drumming all miked-up is really great while recording 24ch:).
Hi Richard, it's great to hear this feedback about what people like and dislike about products like this, so thank you for watching and leaving the comment! Are you looking for an alternative to your Soundcraft?
@@StudiosparesTV I mean that SSL should have at least 16 micpre's and 4 stereo line inputs to get attention from drummers;). Oh, and midsweeps in the eq's...
Do you have any thoughts on the conversion quality? I know they say it uses their tech from their live desks. I'm wondering how it would compare to an antelope or UA converter? Thanks!
Hi Aaron, you're right. The BiG SiX has the same chips used in SSL’s premium live sound consoles, you'll certainly get the quality that you've come to expect from all things SSL. There a lot of factors that make the BiG SiX a really great bit of kit.
Another question! I recently bought an SSL Big Six and was wondering if there was a way to add plugins to my master bus channel via the insert. I am coming from an "in the box" world and always like to stack my master fader with a 'mastering' plugin chain. I was wondering if the insert on the main outs was capable of doing something like this with software and how you would recommend doing it? Thanks!
You can stack in your DAW and then route it through the master bus as the BiG SiX can act as an interface, but not stack plugs to the master fader as such. Here's some information we found: There is a handy switch of each of the channels that allows you to choose whether the audio running to the USB out is pre or post fader. This means you can either capture your audio to re-balance later, or you can go with the balance that you’ve already created on BiG SiX. USB outputs 13/14 come from Mix Bus B and 15/16 come from the main mix. This allows you to record your mixed output directly into your DAW, ideal for live recordings or summing / mixdown. There’s also a neat trick that allows you to send ST Cue 1 and ST Cue 2 to USB outputs 9/10 and 11/12 respectively - by pressing the buttons at the top of the Cue Master sections. This is great for creating virtual sends that run through software plugins. www.soundtech.co.uk/musicians-blog/our-guide-ssl-big-six-superanalogue-mixer-usb-interface
Hi Elias, we stock a flight case that should fit, but you would need an accompanying rack kit that we don't currently stock. If you would like to discuss options with us, drop us an email on sales@studiospares.com and we will be more than happy to assist you.
Question: I currently own the Six and I see that you can cascade the two mixers by taking the outputs of the Six and injecting them into the Big Six. However, let's say you were summing a mix from your DAW and wanted to use both mixers to have the extra channels for summing, how would you get the DAW to output signal into the Six as well? If you are using the Big Six as the interface, is there a way to get some of the channels from the DAW into the Six? I assume it would require a separate interface but the Big six has no optical in/outs to cascade with another interface. Is there a workaround for this or can you only use the Big Six by itself for summing mixes?
Hi Howard, apologies for the late reply, we were trying to find out as much as we could about this for you. You have two options for this. Option 1 - EXT 1 / 2 from USB outs (13+14/15+16) can be redirected to ST Cue Outs 1 & 2 in the ST Cue master section. Then you can connect the ST Cue outs to the channels on SiX for additional processing. The output on SiX can then plug straight into the cascade input of BiG SiX. Option 2 - Use a 2nd interface (as an aggregate to feed audio into SiX, then cascade into BiG SiX. You would need to follow this method if you need more than 4 channels. BiG SiX is really only designed to feed audio into itself, but the ext inputs to the st cues at least give you a way to get another 4 channels directly out. - We hope this is some help for you, but if you have any more questions then don't hesitate to get in touch.
I been mixing now...with Nebula N4 and upgraded mackie to a SoundCraft LX7 Which you should get...youd love it....! After mixing down busses with Nebula....and Acustica Audio I run that mix through my Analog Rack and Sound Craft with the (Sand 2 SSL Strip from Acustica Audio and JAM from Acustica Audio) And it basically BEAT THE QUALITY OF JUST THE "SSL SiX on a Mix" How do I know this???? Another Guy on here let everyone download HIS A AND B Mixes FROM THE SIX and without THE SIX My own Analog Gear, Nebulla N4 with Mixing along with Acustica Audio BEAT IT!!! YOU ARE NOT! AND I REPEAT BE WARNED, YOU ARE NOT! GETTING THE "SAME" CIRCUTS AND PRES IN THE "SiX and Big SiX" as you are the Odyssey and bigger Consoles all the way up to an Solid State Logic full analog E.......or even the SSL 500 series Gear....SiX BIG OR LITTLE IS A "HUGE RIP OFF" MY SOUNDCRAFT LX7II HAS FULL PARAMETRIC EQS ON EVERY CHANNEL AND WARM AND PUNCHY PRES...AND ADDS A "TASTE' OF RICH HARMONIC DISTORTION SOUNDCRAFT AND ALLENHEATH AND HIGHER END TASCAMS BLOW....THOSE SiXs AWAY!!! DAMMMM THAT FELT GOOD!!!
I ended up getting a SoundCraft LX7II in almost new Condition......man....Im Starting to thing the Medium Sized SoundCraft Consoles are the Best on a Low Budget, Unliess you can afford a full SSL, Trident or API.......I would put my SoundCraft LX7II against...the Little Six, Big Six, Mackie, Tascam 24 or Mix Wizard any day of week...this thing is taking my Masters up to a new level Ive got 24 Clean Pres, Mixing Bay in Middle of the Board, Aux Sends and Returns, 4 Band British EQ on Each Channel and InBoard Headphone Tracking....you wont beat this unless you can go all the way up to a "High End Console"
It's a seriously exciting bit of kit. If you have any questions, just drop us a message! We have payment plans available too through Klarna. Do you have anything similar at the moment, or any other SSL gear?
That’s good to know! I have the SSL small SiX in my modest bedroom setup. Running it into my 12-year-old Apogee duet that is still going! 🙌🏾 I tend to send stems out through that in aggregate mode with the MPCX to the small SiX for summing final mixes. This BiG SiX streamlines that workflow. Such a clever offer from SSL.
Hi Aaron, thanks for watching. It's always good to get a variety of opinions on products. There are some brilliant features with it to. Do you use another desk? We'd love to know what you like about it!
See...when I'm paying this much for something...I expect a little bit more control over the EQ and compression sections... Also no inserts? So this is basically a really expensive analog mixer...? SSL nailed the SSL2+...a simple yet full featured audio interface that knows what market it is aiming for. Also the Origin. Those have defined markets they are after. This controller/mixer/whatever just seems lost...who is it for? Someone who just REALLYYYYYYYYYY wants that SSL logo on their analog summing channel? Cause thats really the only the useful thing I can actually think of when looking at this...cause are you really going to be paying this much just for an analog mixer? Allen&Heath is much cheaper and already good enough for live shows... Maybe for people who want 500 series gear...but don't want to do research on individual units? Or have gear acquiring syndrome? Because save up just a little more...you can have 500 series gear...with a lot more control over your sound...
Hi Leon, it's designed for those who still prefer a more traditional analogue workflow. We all have different preferences for how we like to set up our studio.
Hi Paul, Thanks for the feedback! If you're after something similar but on a smaller budget you're welcome to contact us and we will see what we can do sales@studiospares.com
SSL neglected to put analog inserts on the stereo channels. What's your view on that?
If we had analog inserts on the stereo channels, we could put analog signal processors on them like Vari Mu, SSL Bus compressor, Massive Passive, etc. (if you are mixing analog, there is a very good chance you want to bring some analog outboard to the party). But there is no way to claw into the analog path and insert signal processors. The only way to get a stereo compressor on a stereo channel is to route the stereo channel to a cue mix. But then you are forced to consume a valuable cue mix, and you want those available for time effects like stereo reverbs. Regarding where to put the i/o jacks for the inserts, the giant "Big SiX" logo could be scrapped and inserts could be put there. There is also some limited space on the back to put a D-Sub jack. SSL did many nice things with this board. But lack of analog inserts on the stereo channels I believe is this mixer's "BiG MisS".
I have no influence with SSL. But you do! Could you send them a request to put analog inserts on the stereo channels for version 2 of this mixer?
Hi, it's always great to hear feedback from people on what they like, don't like from a product so thank you very much for leaving this comment. SSL are trying to strike that balance between a full studio console and live/studio mixer. Although we play no part in creating these products, we will certainly keep note of any notes from our customers. - Do you use any other SSL equipment? Thanks for watching!
@@StudiosparesTV I use several of their plugins. The plugin bus compressor is excellent, but the x-logic hardware compressor is even better. It seems crazy to not include insert jacks on the stereo channels, because it gives people more reasons to by SSL analog outboard gear. People would easily be buying UltraViolet eqs and bus compressors to make their Big Six mixers become fire-breathing super beasts. But without the inserts, all we have on those channels is a rudimentary three band eq. Nice to have, but very limiting.
@@ytb917 This is an interesting point. "Maybe" SSL would argue that inserts would be for a different desk. Maybe we should look out for the SSL BIGGER SIX. ;-)
and just noticed that great 8024 ---- top shelf
Good spot!
Excited for this one! I ordered one yesterday with a Jan 31st estimated mail date. This seems like the perfect console for someone with 4 mono sources and a stereo or two.
1 - vocal mic
2 - guitar cab
3 - bass guitar cab
4 - mono synth
5/6 - stereo synth
7/8 - MPC main outs
9/10 - external delay returns
11/12 - external reverb returns
Bus B outputs could feed the MPC for sampling any source coming from ableton or from the analog channels.
So awesome
Hey Jesse - I agree, this is a lot of console for the price and it has that SSL large console sound. I'm sure you'll love it when it arrives and I'm sure it will serve you Big Six serves you well. Are you UK or US based? Do you mind me asking where you bought your Big Six from?
I’m in the US. I ended up getting it preordering one from a small shop on reverb.
not complaining bout BIG SIX , I enjoy broad band eqing since surgical eq i do in box with fab filter etc..Thanks for sharing
Thanks for watching! Have you got a BiG SiX?
Yes sir! I received it last week, wish it was made available way before! This is the first consolei own, I fooled my self for years that i can master just in the box which i can to a certain limitation with loudness, I totally hear the difference with hardware, and would be difficult to go back. Question? Do you think there is a need or a necessity to add more hardware inserts to BigSix , although I can assume it's a matter if taste.
Cheers!
Thanks for a great video! I'm looking at ways to implement the SSL big six into my workflow. I'm mostly looking to front-end record to my DAW, and use my apollo interfaces for conversion and monitoring etc. I can use the insert send as direct out from the 4 preamps, but how would I go about sending out the other line tracks and possibly the talk back? So I basically need to figure out how to send out as much of these channels separately to my patchbay. Any good tips?
And do you think it's stupid to use the Apollo x16 converters and monitoring section instead of the SSL big Six? thanks in advance!
Excellent review!!!!! I have mine on order... I bought the 6 earlier, I wish i would have waited..
Thanks for watching and enjoy you BiG SiX when it arrives. Let us know how you like it!
So i use a Soundcraft Signature 22mtk for 22ch drums. I like SSL to create a *big enough Six* for serious things? I mean, drumming all miked-up is really great while recording 24ch:).
Hi Richard, it's great to hear this feedback about what people like and dislike about products like this, so thank you for watching and leaving the comment! Are you looking for an alternative to your Soundcraft?
@@StudiosparesTV I mean that SSL should have at least 16 micpre's and 4 stereo line inputs to get attention from drummers;). Oh, and midsweeps in the eq's...
I need to have to want to get one.
It's a great bit of kit - Are you already an SSL user?
Do you have any thoughts on the conversion quality? I know they say it uses their tech from their live desks. I'm wondering how it would compare to an antelope or UA converter? Thanks!
Hi Aaron, you're right. The BiG SiX has the same chips used in SSL’s premium live sound consoles, you'll certainly get the quality that you've come to expect from all things SSL. There a lot of factors that make the BiG SiX a really great bit of kit.
Good video - well done - nice production values and content
Thank you for the feedback! Its much appreciated!
Another question! I recently bought an SSL Big Six and was wondering if there was a way to add plugins to my master bus channel via the insert. I am coming from an "in the box" world and always like to stack my master fader with a 'mastering' plugin chain. I was wondering if the insert on the main outs was capable of doing something like this with software and how you would recommend doing it? Thanks!
You can stack in your DAW and then route it through the master bus as the BiG SiX can act as an interface, but not stack plugs to the master fader as such.
Here's some information we found:
There is a handy switch of each of the channels that allows you to choose whether the audio running to the USB out is pre or post fader. This means you can either capture your audio to re-balance later, or you can go with the balance that you’ve already created on BiG SiX.
USB outputs 13/14 come from Mix Bus B and 15/16 come from the main mix. This allows you to record your mixed output directly into your DAW, ideal for live recordings or summing / mixdown.
There’s also a neat trick that allows you to send ST Cue 1 and ST Cue 2 to USB outputs 9/10 and 11/12 respectively - by pressing the buttons at the top of the Cue Master sections. This is great for creating virtual sends that run through software plugins.
www.soundtech.co.uk/musicians-blog/our-guide-ssl-big-six-superanalogue-mixer-usb-interface
Do you have a recommendation for a fitting flight case?
Hi Elias, we stock a flight case that should fit, but you would need an accompanying rack kit that we don't currently stock. If you would like to discuss options with us, drop us an email on sales@studiospares.com and we will be more than happy to assist you.
Question: I currently own the Six and I see that you can cascade the two mixers by taking the outputs of the Six and injecting them into the Big Six.
However, let's say you were summing a mix from your DAW and wanted to use both mixers to have the extra channels for summing, how would you get the DAW to output signal into the Six as well? If you are using the Big Six as the interface, is there a way to get some of the channels from the DAW into the Six? I assume it would require a separate interface but the Big six has no optical in/outs to cascade with another interface. Is there a workaround for this or can you only use the Big Six by itself for summing mixes?
Hi Howard, apologies for the late reply, we were trying to find out as much as we could about this for you.
You have two options for this.
Option 1 - EXT 1 / 2 from USB outs (13+14/15+16) can be redirected to ST Cue Outs 1 & 2 in the ST Cue master section. Then you can connect the ST Cue outs to the channels on SiX for additional processing. The output on SiX can then plug straight into the cascade input of BiG SiX.
Option 2 - Use a 2nd interface (as an aggregate to feed audio into SiX, then cascade into BiG SiX. You would need to follow this method if you need more than 4 channels.
BiG SiX is really only designed to feed audio into itself, but the ext inputs to the st cues at least give you a way to get another 4 channels directly out. - We hope this is some help for you, but if you have any more questions then don't hesitate to get in touch.
Super helpful! Thanks
I been mixing now...with Nebula N4 and upgraded mackie to a SoundCraft LX7 Which you should get...youd love it....!
After mixing down busses with Nebula....and Acustica Audio
I run that mix through my Analog Rack and Sound Craft with the (Sand 2 SSL Strip from Acustica Audio and JAM from Acustica Audio)
And it basically BEAT THE QUALITY OF JUST THE "SSL SiX on a Mix"
How do I know this???? Another Guy on here let everyone download HIS A AND B Mixes FROM THE SIX and without THE SIX
My own Analog Gear, Nebulla N4 with Mixing along with Acustica Audio BEAT IT!!!
YOU ARE NOT! AND I REPEAT BE WARNED, YOU ARE NOT! GETTING THE "SAME" CIRCUTS AND PRES IN THE "SiX and Big SiX" as you are the Odyssey and bigger Consoles all the way up to an Solid State Logic full analog E.......or even the SSL 500 series Gear....SiX
BIG OR LITTLE IS A "HUGE RIP OFF" MY SOUNDCRAFT
LX7II HAS FULL PARAMETRIC EQS ON EVERY CHANNEL AND WARM AND PUNCHY PRES...AND ADDS A "TASTE' OF RICH HARMONIC DISTORTION
SOUNDCRAFT AND ALLENHEATH AND HIGHER END TASCAMS BLOW....THOSE SiXs AWAY!!!
DAMMMM THAT FELT GOOD!!!
Great review, can't wait to get my hands on one!
Thanks for checking out the video - Have you got a BiG SiX on order? If you have any more questions, then just drop us a message.
Just curious, how is the latency when recording? Has anyone had any experience?
Hi Steve, no latency issues that we are aware of ourselves, after a few searches, we can't find anyone posting issues with it either :)
@@StudiosparesTV Thank you for your reply, much appreciated!
I ended up getting a SoundCraft LX7II in almost new Condition......man....Im Starting to thing the Medium Sized SoundCraft Consoles are the Best on a Low Budget, Unliess you can afford a full SSL, Trident or API.......I would put my SoundCraft LX7II against...the Little Six, Big Six, Mackie, Tascam 24 or Mix Wizard any day of week...this thing is taking my Masters up to a new level
Ive got 24 Clean Pres, Mixing Bay in Middle of the Board, Aux Sends and Returns, 4 Band British EQ on Each Channel and InBoard Headphone Tracking....you wont beat this unless you can go all the way up to a "High End Console"
We're glad to hear youre enjoying you SoundCraft LX7II! Maybe we'll do a deep dive video on this console!
I want one so bad 😭
It's a seriously exciting bit of kit. If you have any questions, just drop us a message! We have payment plans available too through Klarna. Do you have anything similar at the moment, or any other SSL gear?
That’s good to know! I have the SSL small SiX in my modest bedroom setup. Running it into my 12-year-old Apogee duet that is still going! 🙌🏾 I tend to send stems out through that in aggregate mode with the MPCX to the small SiX for summing final mixes. This BiG SiX streamlines that workflow. Such a clever offer from SSL.
Nice review thanks for sharing
Thank you very much! We hope you enjoy the rest of our channel. Have you been tempted by a BiG SiX?
What happened to “There’s always a song!?”
What's not to love? How about that limited eq, and no motorized faders/ daw control.
Hi Aaron, thanks for watching. It's always good to get a variety of opinions on products. There are some brilliant features with it to. Do you use another desk? We'd love to know what you like about it!
You ask, 'What is there not to loove?' The answer is, 'No motorised faders.'
Add $200-$300 per fader..
Thanks for watching and leaving your feedback. It's important to get a gauge of what requirements people have for their equipment.
See...when I'm paying this much for something...I expect a little bit more control over the EQ and compression sections...
Also no inserts? So this is basically a really expensive analog mixer...? SSL nailed the SSL2+...a simple yet full featured audio interface that knows what market it is aiming for. Also the Origin. Those have defined markets they are after. This controller/mixer/whatever just seems lost...who is it for? Someone who just REALLYYYYYYYYYY wants that SSL logo on their analog summing channel? Cause thats really the only the useful thing I can actually think of when looking at this...cause are you really going to be paying this much just for an analog mixer? Allen&Heath is much cheaper and already good enough for live shows...
Maybe for people who want 500 series gear...but don't want to do research on individual units? Or have gear acquiring syndrome? Because save up just a little more...you can have 500 series gear...with a lot more control over your sound...
Is this shit or what?! Are you all getting crazy buying this in the DAWs/Plugins times?
Hi Leon, it's designed for those who still prefer a more traditional analogue workflow. We all have different preferences for how we like to set up our studio.
@@StudiosparesTV I think you have to go with the times, especially in music production
@@leondego8445 let's hear how your music sounds before you tell people how to produce. Got any?
should cost not more than 1000
Hi Paul, Thanks for the feedback! If you're after something similar but on a smaller budget you're welcome to contact us and we will see what we can do sales@studiospares.com
I have to know wtf is on dudes face? Looks like a huge Nike logo/mole/could be microphone/wtf
We can confirm that it is.... a microphone!