Amber Technology Blog

Unlock Studio Potential|Introducing Solid State Logic’s SSL 18 and ALPHA 8

Written by Dana Marks | 28/04/25 03:21

 

Solid State Logic continues to set new standards in professional studio technology with the release of two powerful new tools: the SSL 18 Rackmount Audio Interface and the ALPHA 8 Audio Interface Expander. Designed to meet the demands of modern music production, these products bring SSL’s legendary sound quality, innovative design, and robust workflow features to a broader range of studios. Whether you're building a new setup or expanding an existing one, the SSL 18 and ALPHA 8 offer exceptional performance, flexibility, and reliability, making them essential additions for serious audio professionals.

Solid State Logic Launch SSL 18 Rackmount Audio Interface

Developed from Solid State Logic’s unmatched expertise in analogue and digital design, the new SSL 18 marks the beginning of a new era in rackmount USB interface technology. Designed as the ultimate 19” rack studio centrepiece, SSL 18 offers exceptional audio performance, a professional feature set, and the signature SSL sound trusted by engineers worldwide. Whether powering a desktop setup or integrated into a full production environment, SSL 18 enhances workflows with best-in-class conversion, high-performance mic preamps, flexible I/O, and comprehensive monitor control.

Built on next-generation 32-bit/192 kHz converters, SSL 18 delivers 120 dB dynamic range across all microphones one, line, and instrument inputs, and 125 dB on monitor and line outputs. Its eight SSL-designed mic preamps provide ultra-low noise, high headroom, and two-stage circuitry for ultra-low distortion, maintaining the natural character of any source. Users can also engage the Legacy 4K Analogue Enhancement Mode for the iconic 4000 series character. With convenient front-panel Hi-Z inputs, dual headphone outputs, and integration with powerful SSL 360° software, SSL 18 redefines the standard for professional rackmount audio interfaces.

Click for further information on SSL18 HERE


SSL 18

Solid State Logic Introduces ALPHA 8 — The Ultimate Audio Interface Expander 

Solid State Logic continues to push the boundaries of studio technology with the release of the ALPHA 8 — a high-performance 8-in/8-out AD/DA converter, engineered to deliver pristine SSL-grade audio fidelity and unparalleled flexibility. Building on the success of the acclaimed Alpha Link range, ALPHA 8 is designed to expand any studio’s capabilities, whether by adding analogue I/O via ADAT and S/PDIF or operating as a powerful 18-in/18-out USB audio interface.

At its core, ALPHA 8 features next-generation 32-bit/192kHz converters that deliver exceptional dynamic range, ultra-low distortion, minimal crosstalk, and an extremely low noise floor. This ensures that your analogue outboard gear, samplers, synths, and drum machines are captured and reproduced with stunning accuracy and musical detail. ALPHA 8 truly eliminates compromises — faithfully preserving every nuance of your sound with the clarity and character SSL is renowned for.

Offering true versatility, ALPHA 8 provides flexible routing options to suit a wide range of workflows. Whether you need a straightforward bi-directional analogue-to-ADAT/S/PDIF converter, an aggregate USB interface, or a hybrid setup combining both, ALPHA 8 adapts seamlessly. Each analogue input and output can be individually adjusted to +9, +18, +20, or +24 dBu operating levels, ensuring perfect integration with a broad range of professional studio gear — from analogue mixers and rack processors to 500-series modules and monitor controllers.

On the digital side, comprehensive clocking options including Word Clock in/out, ADAT, and S/PDIF ensure rock-solid, jitter-free operation in even the most demanding environments, making ALPHA 8 a natural fit for professional studios looking to expand or upgrade their setups without compromising quality.

When paired with the new SSL 18 rackmount audio interface, ALPHA 8 becomes an even more powerful solution. A single ALPHA 8 instantly adds 8 channels of I/O via ADAT, while two units can expand the system by 16 channels — providing effortless integration of additional outboard processing, analogue mixers, and more. Whether enhancing your existing setup or building a new, world-class rig, ALPHA 8 brings SSL’s legendary sound, reliability, and innovation straight into your studio.

Click for further information on SSL Alpha 8 HERE

SSL Alpha 8