Solid State Logic SSL 18 Audio Interface

The Solid State Logic SSL 18 is a 26-input, 28-output USB-C audio interface designed to deliver professional-grade analogue and digital audio performance in a streamlined rackmount format. Developed from SSL’s extensive experience in both analogue and digital console design, the SSL 18 provides a session-ready feature set with exceptional audio fidelity, making it the ideal centrepiece for modern recording, production, and mixing workflows.

At the heart of the SSL 18 are eight SSL-designed microphone preamps offering an ultra-low Equivalent Input Noise (EIN) of -130.5 dBu and a wide 67 dB gain range. These preamps are engineered with a two-stage design for extremely low distortion while preserving the natural character of the source material. Inputs 1 and 2 also include switchable high-impedance instrument inputs and configurable analogue insert points, ideal for tracking through external outboard gear. Each of the eight analogue inputs features SSL’s Legacy 4K analogue enhancement mode, inspired by the iconic 4000 series consoles, which adds harmonic saturation and a musical high-frequency boost for added presence and character.

The SSL 18’s next-generation 32-bit / 192 kHz converters deliver industry-leading dynamic range of 120 dB across all mic, line and instrument inputs, and an impressive 125 dB dynamic range on its monitor and line outputs. The ten balanced line outputs on the rear of the unit operate at a professional +24 dBu level, with outputs 1 and 2, and 3 and 4, configurable to +9 dBu to match monitors and legacy equipment. All line outputs are DC-coupled, enabling control voltage transmission for use with synthesizers and modular rigs.

Monitoring functionality is comprehensive. The monitor section offers speaker switching between main and alternative outputs, front-panel level and cut controls, and full customisation through SSL’s 360° software. Two high-performance headphone outputs provide individual control and offer three selectable modes: Standard, High Sensitivity, and High Impedance, allowing optimal performance with any headphone type. Both headphone outputs can be re-purposed as line-level outputs if required.

SSL 18 also includes a dedicated talkback input that supports microphone or line-level sources. In line mode, the talkback path can be creatively re-routed through the built-in Listen Mic Compressor, made famous on classic SSL consoles for its aggressive, punchy character – ideal for crushing drum tracks or parallel processing in a mix.

Digital connectivity includes 16 channels of ADAT input and output, plus 2 channels of coaxial or optical S/PDIF input and output. A dedicated Word Clock output allows the SSL 18 to provide master clocking to connected digital devices. MIDI input and output is available via 3.5 mm TRS connections.

All control, routing, and monitoring configurations are managed through SSL 360°, the software interface that accompanies the SSL 18. SSL 360° allows users to customise routing schemes, configure control room and cue mixes, save and recall templates, and operate the Mirror Routing system which enables direct routing from any input or aux master to any output.

Included with the SSL 18 is the SSL Production Pack, a suite of high-quality software tools, plug-ins, virtual instruments, and DAWs from key industry partners. This bundle includes six months of Complete Access, Auto-Tune Unlimited and Arcade by Output subscriptions, as well as perpetual licences for SSL Vocalstrip 2 and Drumstrip plug-ins, Ableton Live 11 Lite, Melodyne Essential, Native Instruments Hybrid Keys and Komplete Start, IK Multimedia Amplitube 5 SE, the AAS Session Bundle, and 1.5 GB of Loopcloud samples.

Whether you’re building a hybrid studio, capturing live instruments, producing electronic music, or mixing complex sessions, the Solid State Logic SSL 18 provides a high-performance solution with professional connectivity and the sonic excellence that has defined SSL consoles for decades.

Features

• Audio Interface Type: 26-in/28-out USB-C audio interface
• Mic Preamps: 8 SSL-designed mic/line inputs with ultra-low noise performance and 67 dB gain range
• Legacy 4K Mode: Analogue enhancement on each input based on SSL 4000 series consoles
• Instrument Inputs: Inputs 1 and 2 switchable to Hi-Z for direct guitar and synth inputs
• Insert Points: Configurable analogue inserts on inputs 1 and 2
• Line Input Mode: Preamp stage bypassed completely for true line-level integration
• Converters: Next-generation 32-bit / 192 kHz converters
• Dynamic Range (Inputs): 120 dB on mic, line, and instrument inputs
• Dynamic Range (Line Outputs): 125 dB
• Line Outputs: 10 balanced line outputs with +24 dBu operating level; outputs 1–4 switchable to +9 dBu
• DC-Coupled Outputs: All line outputs support control voltage for modular synth integration
• Headphone Outputs: 2 independent high-current headphone outputs with selectable impedance modes (Standard, High Sensitivity, High Impedance); can be re-purposed as line outputs
• Monitor Control: Main and Alt speaker outputs, cut and level control, configurable via SSL 360°
• Talkback Input: Supports mic or line sources; includes SSL Listen Mic Compressor
• ADAT I/O: 16 channels (8 in/out via 2 optical ports)
• S/PDIF I/O: 2 channels (coaxial or optical)
• Word Clock: Dedicated output for external digital sync
• MIDI I/O: Available on 3.5 mm TRS jacks
• SSL 360° Software: Complete control of routing, mix creation, monitor section, and template management
• SSL Production Pack: Includes SSL plug-ins, virtual instruments, samples, and DAW software
• System Compatibility: macOS 13 and later (class-compliant, plug-and-play); Windows 10/11 (ASIO/WDM driver)
• USB Connection: USB 2.0 via Type-C (includes USB-C to C and USB-C to A cables)