SSL 18 26-in/28-out USB-C Audio Interface

Introducing SSL 18, a new benchmark in rackmount production technology from Solid State Logic. Built on SSL’s decades of analogue and digital engineering expertise, the SSL 18 delivers outstanding audio quality, a comprehensive studio-ready feature set, and the unmistakable SSL sonic character trusted by audio professionals worldwide. From tracking and producing to mixing and monitoring, SSL 18 elevates every stage of your workflow and provides the ideal centrepiece for any modern studio.

Main Features

• 8 SSL-designed analogue microphone preamps
• Legacy 4K analogue enhancement
• Next-generation 32-bit/192 kHz converters
• 10 balanced line outputs
• Flexible studio monitoring section
• 2 high-current headphone outputs
• MIDI I/O and DC-coupled outputs for control voltage
• 16 channels of ADAT I/O and 2 channels of S/PDIF
• Listen Mic Compressor for creative processing
• SSL Production Pack included
• Compatible with Mac and Windows

Best-In-Class Audio Performance

SSL 18 delivers next-generation 32-bit/192 kHz conversion with exceptional transparency. With 120 dB dynamic range on microphone, line and instrument inputs, and 125 dB on monitor and line outputs, the interface ensures every source is captured with clarity and depth. The dual headphone outputs also deliver an impressive 120 dB dynamic range for detailed monitoring during recording, mixing and mastering.

Eight SSL-Designed Mic/Line Inputs

The eight premium SSL-designed mic preamps offer ultra-low noise performance and a vast dynamic range. Advanced two-stage circuitry delivers exceptionally low distortion while preserving natural tone. Switch to Legacy 4K Mode to introduce analogue saturation and the celebrated high-frequency lift inspired by SSL’s iconic 4000 series consoles.

Inputs 1 and 2 also provide Hi-Z instrument inputs for DI guitars, basses and classic synthesisers. In Line mode, the mic preamp stage is fully bypassed for pristine integration of external outboard equipment.

Ten Balanced Line Outputs

Ten rear-panel balanced outputs give you everything you need for monitoring, routing and integrating external hardware. Outputs 1&2 and 3&4 can be set to +9 dBu or +24 dBu to match a wide range of monitors and vintage equipment. All outputs are DC-coupled, making them ideal for driving control voltages in modular and analogue synthesiser setups.

Dual High-Performance Headphone Outputs

Configure two separate headphone mixes with selectable impedance modes for maximum performance with any pair of headphones. Both headphone outputs can also function as line outputs, expanding routing options when needed.

Advanced Monitor Controller with Talkback and LMC

SSL 18 features a comprehensive monitor controller with Alt speaker switching, output muting and customisable control functions. Use SSL 360° to assign any of the 10 analogue outputs to the monitor control for stereo, 5.1 or immersive setups.

A dedicated talkback channel includes SSL’s iconic Listen Mic Compressor, perfect for classic crushed drum effects, parallel vocal grit or creative sound design. The talkback input also offers a Line mode to re-process audio through the LMC.

Legacy 4K Analogue Enhancement

Legacy 4K Mode recreates the distinctive character of SSL’s legendary 4000 series. The circuit adds musical harmonic distortion and a subtle forward high-frequency EQ, instantly imparting analogue richness and presence to any source. Available on all eight analogue input channels.

Comprehensive Digital I/O

Expand your system effortlessly with 16 channels of ADAT I/O and 2 channels of S/PDIF. SSL 18 also includes a dedicated Word Clock output for reliable clocking of external digital devices.

SSL 18 Mixer Powered by SSL 360°

Manage all inputs, outputs and routing with the SSL 18 low-latency mixer inside SSL 360°. Create control room mixes, design up to four independent headphone or cue mixes, and use Mirror Routing to send any input or aux master directly to an output. Save and recall layouts for tracking, mixing or hybrid workflows.

SSL Production Pack Included

The SSL Production Pack gives you an unparalleled creative toolkit, featuring professional plug-ins, instruments and software from top industry partners.

Included Software

• 6 months free Complete Access subscription
• 3 months free Auto-Tune Unlimited subscription
• 3 months free Arcade by Output subscription
• Perpetual licences for SSL Vocalstrip 2 and Drumstrip
• IK Multimedia Amplitube 5 SE
• Celemony Melodyne Essential
• Native Instruments Hybrid Keys and Komplete Start
• Ableton Live 11 Lite
• AAS Session Bundle plug-ins
• 1.5 GB of Loopcloud samples

Full Features

• 26-in/28-out USB-C audio interface for Mac and Windows
• 8 mic/line inputs with 4K analogue enhancement, polarity invert, high-pass filters and 48 V phantom power
• Configurable analogue inserts on inputs 1 and 2
• Hi-Z instrument inputs on channels 1 and 2
• Line inputs bypass preamps for external preamp integration
• 10 balanced line outputs with +9 dBu/+24 dBu options
• DC-coupled outputs for modular and CV synthesis
• 2 independent headphone outputs with three impedance modes
• +24 dBu operating level for full outboard compatibility
• 16 channels of ADAT I/O at 44.1/48 kHz (8 channels at 96 kHz)
• 32-bit/192 kHz next-generation converters
• Ultra-low-noise preamps with –130.5 dBu EIN and 67 dB gain range
• 120 dB dynamic range inputs and headphone outputs
• 125 dB dynamic range monitor and line outputs
• SSL 18 low-latency mixer with four independent custom mixes
• Flexible Mirror Routing for personal monitoring and outboard FX
• User-assignable monitor control buttons
• Internal word clock or sync via ADAT/S/PDIF
• Dedicated talkback with Listen Mic Compressor
• S/PDIF coaxial or optical I/O
• MIDI I/O on 3.5 mm TRS
• Customisable monitor assignment for stereo or immersive setups
• Use multiple units as ADAT mic preamp expanders