Actually, having 4 xlr instead of 2 has another benefit. Despite perhaps only using 2 at once, your other sources can be already plugged in and ready. When recording consecutive tracks, for example guitar then voice, this saves time and the hassle with unplugging etc. Have your sources pre-plugged and the recording experience is much smoother. Moreover, this idea is essential when performing live with the unit via a daw like ableton live, in using potentially all 4 inputs simultaneously
Another interesting and IMO important detail I read today is that the SSL 12's volume knob is a digital controller, while the knob of the SSL 2 and SSL 2+ are analog knobs. If true that's a definite plus for the SSL 12, because that means that the volume is always exactly the same on left and right while rotating the knob and it cannot crack audio, like analog knobs can.
I'm about to purchase the Logic SSL 2+ Audio Interface. I have a basic home studio that all I record are bass tracks for clients and this was recommended by people who know what they're talking about. All the Reviews I've read by different reviewers had 98% good things to say about this for pro audio work. I'm looking forward to getting this unit next week.
Previously I had purchased a SSL2 for the 4K preamps, and a ZOOM UAC-232 for the 32-bit A/D recording. I found a SSL12 for the same price as both ($400) so I returned them and I'm getting the SSL12. I need 32-bit float because I'm doing a lot of analog processing and analog summing, and need to be able to record it without having any headroom issues or doing any additional digital conversion unless it's necessary.
I’ve heard that and I’m sure it’s true. However, I’ve never really had an issue with clipping in my home studio. But it is nice to have that insurance. Thanks for you comment.
@@Jimjam4356 can you explaine how the 32 bits recording allow to turn down the mix without loosing detail (when mastering)? can you explaine please? i do not understand ;
@@frezajoe5836float actually makes 2 tracks of audio for each channel and “floats” between the two using an algorithm that chooses what is best based on dynamics. I can’t tell you precisely how all of it works to allow you to just hit record without worrying about the gain, but it does that. Hope that helps. There are plenty of videos on this out there.
Keyboard players need 2 channels to capture stereo features, such as Leslie speaker emulation in organs, and Vibraphone and stereo tremolo emulated from 60s, 70s electric pianos. The 4 outputs on the SSL 12 are for musicians who want to compare 2 different mixes to see which sounds better. The Alt feature requires a Mac or PC to run the SSL 360 app software. There’s no 360 app for iPad users (yet?).
I think it depends on what you use it for. I am looking at buying one because I want to use it for more live recordings, sometimes the board at a smaller venue or a bar can be bad, limited, or non existed. Having the four, and if you want to expand it, you have ht option,. ALWAYS better to have the extra than need them when you do not need have them
I'd been looking at this unit for a while and jupgraded just a few hours before watching this video. The upgrade was more for convenience as I have a lot of outboard gear, and the extra channels have solved a lot of re-plugging. The alt output is also great for A/Bing between studio monitors and hifi speakers. I'll be using 32 bit as I also release on vinyl. The 360 software is extremely powerful and worth every bit of cash you have left there, the loopback feature alone is great for recording into your DAW from any source. Thanks for the informative video. Subscribed (feel free to return the favour 👍🏼)...
Well, if you plug a guitar into the INST inputs on the front, you lose the channel 1 or 2 XLR on the back, so really you could do 4 at once if you have a guitar, bass, vocal, and amp or something.
I have enjoyed my SSL 2+, but I will say that I think the "buttons" that control the phantom power, line in, and Hi-z, are of low quality and subject to fail. I had to open my unit up and remove a button and permanently solder it in the "on" position, due to the fact that it was causing my mic to randomly cut out. And the button had not been used all that much at all. A big bummer. I suppose things like this happen, and maybe it was just a rare defect.
While you do mention a few good details about the units basically the SSL12 is worth it for someone who needs the extra inputs and isn't for someone who doesn't. The extra inputs and outputs are also useful to people who re-amp with external hardware, something you didn't mention so you might not do I guess but it is important to some. For podcasters who need more than two inputs and other features something like the Rode Rodecaster or the Mackie DLZ might make more sense as the SSL12 is really more aimed at music creators.
@storybabble As you mentioned many people need just one or two inputs but there are situations where four or more come into use like with a drumkit or say even two people singing and both playing an instrument as well as re-amping to external hardware. The ADAT input may not be useful to a large number of people who buy the SSL12 but it does open up the possibility of doing really full drum kit mic'ing or even a whole band to those who do that kind of stuff. Honestly you dont have to spend $700 to get those other eight inputs working for you as the Behringer ADA8200 (eight mic input ADAT expander) is only a little over $200 and is really quite decent sounding.
Honestly I wish the SSL 2+ had ADAT. Then I’d be complete and wouldn’t need the ssl 12. 10 inputs is fine for me when tracking drums. The 8 adat inputs could run off my digimax d8 for the shells and room mics (I sample blend the kit all the time anyway) and the two ssl Pres would be my overheads. I travel with my ssl 2+ now so the smaller and more powerful the interface could be would be great.
Nice comparison concept. I probably don't need the inputs but the hardware toggle between outputs is worth a lot to me, as well as the assignable buttons. I do think the software is pretty big benefit as well, but my real question is how stable these run? Ever any glitches, cracks and pops?
32 bit is useful for *everyone* IMHO... paradoxically, especially those who are NOT pro-audio folk. With 32 bit, it's virtually impossible to clip (or, conversely, undercook) your signal... 'anywhere' in the middle of the level meter will give you a good enough signal without worrying about noise floor/clipping. Long term, especially with OB style recording, it's unlikely you'll ever get back 'home' to find you've not captured enough level to increase without adding lots of noise (usually because you were scared of clipping) or the reverse. This is especially true with recording live music, where you can't really hear the signal through the cans sufficiently to judge if it's distorted or not. FWIW, IMHO, YMMV, break-a-leg 😎
Looks like you're confusing 32 bit float with 32 bit integer. 32 bit float has the benefits you explained and is found in fieldrecorders like the Zoom F3. But the SSL uses 32 bit integer, which is the same as 24 bit, but only with more definition. You still need to make sure your audio doesn't get clipped. Just like with 24 bits or 16 bits.
I only need to record two condensers at same time. Or one electric guitar. And also power two external speakers. I'm thinking the SSL2 would suffice? I keep hearing RME Babyface is good but seems overkill?
Thanks. The “game-changing” feature. would be 32-Bit. I wrote the title after the video using VidIQ title generator but I guess I didn’t make that as clear as I could have. Sorry.
I got mine for $399 too. It wasn’t until I finished the video that I saw it was selling for $500. Thanks for letting me know that ADAT is not 32 bit. Good to know. Appreciate it.
Hi there! I´m currently using a Behringer u-phoria umc404hd and planning to switch into a SSL 12. Do you think it´s worth it regarding the SSL doubles the price? I mean, worth it in terms of preamps quality?
I tried a Behringer mixer several years ago and the preamps were noticeably horrible. But that was along time ago so I don’t really know. I do know that the preamps on the SSL are great.
SSL 360 has ‘loopback’, which means you can combine USB tracks (computer sound) with SSL12 tracks, and (importantly) monitor your ‘live to air’ mix ‘minus’ your own voice mic, to stop feedback. If that is your primary use-case, a Rode Procaster is probably a better choice, but if music is the priority, the SSL is the go… notwithstanding they’re both good for ‘everything’. I have the Ridecaster Pro, but (based on this review AND the fact I need/want/am used to having lots of monitor mixes for ‘talent’ when recording, so 360 is totally an asset to me), but if I was forced to chose one, it’d be the SSL12.
The SSL 2, 2+, and 12 interfaces are all USB Class compliant and are plug ‘n’ play on Macs and iPads. PC users will have to install a driver, which is usually where a lot of Windows users complaints come from-driver issues. That’s Microsoft’s fault, not the fault of third party hardware manufacturers.
I am a Mac guy so I haven’t had any problems. I do love the fact that I don’t have to plug it into power other than the USB-C cable thanks for your comments.
so there’s no difference besides you lose that knob and gain 2 inputs? does it make latency any better or anything ? like why is one so cheap? i want a quality interface, surely $150-200 isn’t gonna be that great?
I'm very curious what are those many many ways he liked the SSLO12 for, the rest his review is more a kind of unboxing video than a review, he doesn't say that much.
I hear you. I did get a new mic for that room my Sennheiser shotgun Mike was doing weird things on that room. But I also have a tendency to over compress my voice for clarity and because I hate the sound of my own voice. I do appreciate your criticism. Thank you for your honesty.
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Actually, having 4 xlr instead of 2 has another benefit. Despite perhaps only using 2 at once, your other sources can be already plugged in and ready. When recording consecutive tracks, for example guitar then voice, this saves time and the hassle with unplugging etc. Have your sources pre-plugged and the recording experience is much smoother. Moreover, this idea is essential when performing live with the unit via a daw like ableton live, in using potentially all 4 inputs simultaneously
Good point. Thanks for your insights.
Man I loved your style. The money attributed to each difference is a cool idea and then you made it funny! Thanks!
Awesome! Thank you! It means a lot.
Wonderful review. You are the only person who mentions the removing of the mixer knob. Cheers
Thanks. Good to hear.
Another interesting and IMO important detail I read today is that the SSL 12's volume knob is a digital controller, while the knob of the SSL 2 and SSL 2+ are analog knobs.
If true that's a definite plus for the SSL 12, because that means that the volume is always exactly the same on left and right while rotating the knob and it cannot crack audio, like analog knobs can.
Yeah, I didn’t know that. Cool. Thanks for sharing.
Your dollar comparison made it much clearer to me which one I should get. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for the kind words. It really means a lot.
I'm about to purchase the Logic SSL 2+ Audio Interface. I have a basic home studio that all I record are bass tracks for clients and this was recommended by people who know what they're talking about. All the Reviews I've read by different reviewers had 98% good things to say about this for pro audio work. I'm looking forward to getting this unit next week.
I’m sure you’ll love it. Hope my review is helpful.
@@storybabble yes.
Previously I had purchased a SSL2 for the 4K preamps, and a ZOOM UAC-232 for the 32-bit A/D recording. I found a SSL12 for the same price as both ($400) so I returned them and I'm getting the SSL12. I need 32-bit float because I'm doing a lot of analog processing and analog summing, and need to be able to record it without having any headroom issues or doing any additional digital conversion unless it's necessary.
Nice. I’m very happy either way mine as well. Cheers.
Recording in 32 bit gives you more headroom which helps you avoid clipping. Very helpful when mixing vocals.
I’ve heard that and I’m sure it’s true. However, I’ve never really had an issue with clipping in my home studio. But it is nice to have that insurance. Thanks for you comment.
@@Jimjam4356 can you explaine how the 32 bits recording allow to turn down the mix without loosing detail (when mastering)? can you explaine please? i do not understand ;
@@frezajoe5836float actually makes 2 tracks of audio for each channel and “floats” between the two using an algorithm that chooses what is best based on dynamics. I can’t tell you precisely how all of it works to allow you to just hit record without worrying about the gain, but it does that. Hope that helps. There are plenty of videos on this out there.
One other big plus of the SSL 12, is the ADAT port for expansion, including with other SSL studio tools, which use ADAT to essentially daisy-chain.
ADAT is cool but I’ve never used it.
I have a Fantom, a Moog, and a sm7b. 4 channels is exactly what the doctor ordered
I’m jealous. Sounds like a fantastic set up.
Keyboard players need 2 channels to capture stereo features, such as Leslie speaker emulation in organs, and Vibraphone and stereo tremolo emulated from 60s, 70s electric pianos. The 4 outputs on the SSL 12 are for musicians who want to compare 2 different mixes to see which sounds better. The Alt feature requires a Mac or PC to run the SSL 360 app software. There’s no 360 app for iPad users (yet?).
Good to know. Thanks.
Thanks for this video! It's crazy that today, 9 months later, the SSL 12 is now $499. Unreal
I know!! It was a better deal then. Thanks for watching.
@@storybabble Yeah... by definition the price hike was not caused by inflation, it's just literal price gouging. PEOPLE CAN NEVER GET AHEAD!!!!
I think it depends on what you use it for. I am looking at buying one because I want to use it for more live recordings, sometimes the board at a smaller venue or a bar can be bad, limited, or non existed. Having the four, and if you want to expand it, you have ht option,. ALWAYS better to have the extra than need them when you do not need have them
I agree. It’s better to have too much than not enough. Thanks for your comment.
I'd been looking at this unit for a while and jupgraded just a few hours before watching this video. The upgrade was more for convenience as I have a lot of outboard gear, and the extra channels have solved a lot of re-plugging. The alt output is also great for A/Bing between studio monitors and hifi speakers. I'll be using 32 bit as I also release on vinyl. The 360 software is extremely powerful and worth every bit of cash you have left there, the loopback feature alone is great for recording into your DAW from any source. Thanks for the informative video. Subscribed (feel free to return the favour 👍🏼)...
I’m sure you will love it. Thanks for the kind words and the encouragement. It means a lot.
Nicely done. Totally agree with your rating. A basic question has not been answered yet: do the new converters in the 12 sound better???
Thanks. I can’t tell a difference in sound but I’m an old man, so there’s that to consider.
Well, if you plug a guitar into the INST inputs on the front, you lose the channel 1 or 2 XLR on the back, so really you could do 4 at once if you have a guitar, bass, vocal, and amp or something.
Correct. The other 8 inputs are digital inputs which requires another type of interface. So, the 12 input claim is a stretch. Thanks for watching.
I use stereo for my guitar, one for voice and one for the room so I need 4.❤
It’s great to have for when you need it. Thanks for commenting.
an updated 2+ with Hi-Z ins input and headphones output ports on front panel would make the most sense.
That would be cool.
I have enjoyed my SSL 2+, but I will say that I think the "buttons" that control the phantom power, line in, and Hi-z, are of low quality and subject to fail. I had to open my unit up and remove a button and permanently solder it in the "on" position, due to the fact that it was causing my mic to randomly cut out. And the button had not been used all that much at all. A big bummer. I suppose things like this happen, and maybe it was just a rare defect.
Thanks for sharing that warning. That is a bummer. So far, so good for me, but you’re right, the buttons don’t inspire a lot of confidence.
I really really love how you did this review. Just gained a sub..
Awesome, thank you!
While you do mention a few good details about the units basically the SSL12 is worth it for someone who needs the extra inputs and isn't for someone who doesn't.
The extra inputs and outputs are also useful to people who re-amp with external hardware, something you didn't mention so you might not do I guess but it is important to some.
For podcasters who need more than two inputs and other features something like the Rode Rodecaster or the Mackie DLZ might make more sense as the SSL12 is really more aimed at music creators.
Great insights. I’ve never re-amped, but it’s on my bucket list. Thanks for expertise. Appreciate it.
@storybabble As you mentioned many people need just one or two inputs but there are situations where four or more come into use like with a drumkit or say even two people singing and both playing an instrument as well as re-amping to external hardware.
The ADAT input may not be useful to a large number of people who buy the SSL12 but it does open up the possibility of doing really full drum kit mic'ing or even a whole band to those who do that kind of stuff. Honestly you dont have to spend $700 to get those other eight inputs working for you as the Behringer ADA8200 (eight mic input ADAT expander) is only a little over $200 and is really quite decent sounding.
Good to know. Thx
Honestly I wish the SSL 2+ had ADAT. Then I’d be complete and wouldn’t need the ssl 12. 10 inputs is fine for me when tracking drums. The 8 adat inputs could run off my digimax d8 for the shells and room mics (I sample blend the kit all the time anyway) and the two ssl Pres would be my overheads. I travel with my ssl 2+ now so the smaller and more powerful the interface could be would be great.
I hear you. That would be great.
wow, the interfaces are upside down to you and to us....That s pretty amazing man. The 4K is actually awesome.
Thanks. I’ve tried the overhead camera both ways, and both look weird to me.
@@storybabble LoL. Take care mate ;)
Nice comparison concept. I probably don't need the inputs but the hardware toggle between outputs is worth a lot to me, as well as the assignable buttons. I do think the software is pretty big benefit as well, but my real question is how stable these run? Ever any glitches, cracks and pops?
I haven’t had any problem with this unit. But, I will admit that I don’t uses it everyday. Thanks for your comment.
@@storybabble Thanks.
32 bit is useful for *everyone* IMHO... paradoxically, especially those who are NOT pro-audio folk. With 32 bit, it's virtually impossible to clip (or, conversely, undercook) your signal... 'anywhere' in the middle of the level meter will give you a good enough signal without worrying about noise floor/clipping. Long term, especially with OB style recording, it's unlikely you'll ever get back 'home' to find you've not captured enough level to increase without adding lots of noise (usually because you were scared of clipping) or the reverse. This is especially true with recording live music, where you can't really hear the signal through the cans sufficiently to judge if it's distorted or not. FWIW, IMHO, YMMV, break-a-leg 😎
Well said. Thanks.
Looks like you're confusing 32 bit float with 32 bit integer. 32 bit float has the benefits you explained and is found in fieldrecorders like the Zoom F3. But the SSL uses 32 bit integer, which is the same as 24 bit, but only with more definition. You still need to make sure your audio doesn't get clipped. Just like with 24 bits or 16 bits.
@@MrDjTilo - my 'confusion' was thinking the SSL was 32 bit floating point... so thanks, well caught, mea culpa :-)
Great video!
Glad you enjoyed it thanks.
I only need to record two condensers at same time. Or one electric guitar. And also power two external speakers.
I'm thinking the SSL2 would suffice? I keep hearing RME Babyface is good but seems overkill?
I’m sure the SSL2 will be great. Enjoy!
Great review! New sub.
Thanks for the sub!Welcome.
Hi. Nice Video. What are the ''Game Changing' features you hinted at in the title?
Thanks. The “game-changing” feature. would be 32-Bit. I wrote the title after the video using VidIQ title generator but I guess I didn’t make that as clear as I could have. Sorry.
For a mix engineer those 3 programmable buttons are worth additional 200USD
I hear you. They are nice.
awesome review
Thanks! That makes my day.
I got this on sale for 399 and got a used alesis ai3 for the adat only downside cant do 32bit on adat on 24bit
I got mine for $399 too. It wasn’t until I finished the video that I saw it was selling for $500. Thanks for letting me know that ADAT is not 32 bit. Good to know. Appreciate it.
Hi there! I´m currently using a Behringer u-phoria umc404hd and planning to switch into a SSL 12. Do you think it´s worth it regarding the SSL doubles the price? I mean, worth it in terms of preamps quality?
I tried a Behringer mixer several years ago and the preamps were noticeably horrible. But that was along time ago so I don’t really know. I do know that the preamps on the SSL are great.
@@storybabble Thank you! That was an enlightening reply!
This is great comparison, a bit offtopic - is there an SSL that can get audio from laptop and send it out to my mixer? so 2 way for zoom calls.
Great question. All SSL units have stereo out from the computer that can go into a mixer, so I don’t see any problem with your idea. Good luck.
SSL 360 has ‘loopback’, which means you can combine USB tracks (computer sound) with SSL12 tracks, and (importantly) monitor your ‘live to air’ mix ‘minus’ your own voice mic, to stop feedback. If that is your primary use-case, a Rode Procaster is probably a better choice, but if music is the priority, the SSL is the go… notwithstanding they’re both good for ‘everything’. I have the Ridecaster Pro, but (based on this review AND the fact I need/want/am used to having lots of monitor mixes for ‘talent’ when recording, so 360 is totally an asset to me), but if I was forced to chose one, it’d be the SSL12.
My ssl makes a hissing white noise when i turn up the gain on both channels what do i have to do to fix that. Please help me!
Sorry to hear that. I would call ssl for support.
'does thoughtful review meticulously comparing audio interfaces and then quesitons whether you need one at all'😂
What can I say. I’m complex.
The SSL 2, 2+, and 12 interfaces are all USB Class compliant and are plug ‘n’ play on Macs and iPads. PC users will have to install a driver, which is usually where a lot of Windows users complaints come from-driver issues. That’s Microsoft’s fault, not the fault of third party hardware manufacturers.
I am a Mac guy so I haven’t had any problems. I do love the fact that I don’t have to plug it into power other than the USB-C cable thanks for your comments.
I would give them a break on the silk screening it should take you precisely one hour to memorize every function on that
Of course you’re right. Thanks.
nice video
So nice. Thanks.
so there’s no difference besides you lose that knob and gain 2 inputs? does it make latency any better or anything ? like why is one so cheap? i want a quality interface, surely $150-200 isn’t gonna be that great?
The 12 can record in 32-bit while the 2+ is only 24-bit. I think that's the big spec increase. Hope that helps.
Now get the ssl 6 and the big 6
Too much money for me. But they are cool.
I'm very curious what are those many many ways he liked the SSLO12 for, the rest his review is more a kind of unboxing video than a review, he doesn't say that much.
Thanks fair.
The diference between 12 and 2 is 10 LOL Berhinger ada8200 is 200-300 and sound ok
lol. I tried a berhinger over 20 years ago and I hated it. I’m sure they’ve gotten better by now, but I am prejudiced by my bad experience.
You Drive me Crazy with all those one dollars Bills!!!
Please buy/use a better microphone for speaking! Really grating.
I hear you. I did get a new mic for that room my Sennheiser shotgun Mike was doing weird things on that room. But I also have a tendency to over compress my voice for clarity and because I hate the sound of my own voice. I do appreciate your criticism. Thank you for your honesty.
good stuff
Thanks. I appreciate that.