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Solid State Logic launches SSL 18 Rackmount Audio Interface at NAMM 2025

Solid State Logic has launched the SSL 18 rackmount USB audio interface at the 2025 NAMM Show, marking the start of a new era in rackmount production technology from the company.

Developed from SSL's expertise in analogue and digital design, the SSL 18 has been designed to offer exceptional audio performance with a studio-ready feature set.

Designed to be the ultimate studio centrepiece in a single 19” rack unit, SSL 18 enhances production workflows while reportedly elevating the performance of almost any recording, production or mixing space.

Whether it is powering a desktop set-up or at the heart of a professional studio, SSL 18’s conversion specifications, high-performance mic pre’s, flexible I/O, monitor control capabilities and its signature SSL sound, the brand aims to establish it as the new industry standard in rackmount audio interfaces.

Next-generation 32-bit/192 kHz converters provide the platform for SSL 18’s analogue design to shine, with dynamic range performance of 120 dB across all of its microphone, line-level and instrument inputs – enabling the faithful capture of sources.

With SSL 18's 125 dB dynamic range on the monitor and line outputs, users can experience music and audio with “uncompromised fidelity”. Meanwhile, its integrated high-current amplifier features dual headphone outputs offering 120 dB dynamic range.

Featuring eight high-performance SSL-designed mic preamplifiers with switchable Mic/Line configuration, SSL 18's inputs offer an ultra-low noise floor and a huge dynamic range allowing every detail of a performance to be captured with accuracy.

A two-stage circuit design ensures ultra-low distortion during recordings while maintaining the natural character of the source. Each input can also be flipped into Legacy 4K Analogue Enhancement Mode, which adds real analogue saturation and a musical high-frequency boost – allowing users to access the4000 series sonic character for vocals, drums and more.

Inputs 1 & 2 are located on the front panel and offer instrument/Hi-Z inputs to capture DI’d guitars and vintage synths/drum machines.

With the powerful SSL 360 software, SSL 18 delivers a world-class studio experience to any setup.

“SSL 18 embodies our commitment to crafting a 19-inch rack audio interface that delivers SSL quality. Our engineering team applied their analogue and digital design expertise to exceed expectations. With the powerful SSL 360 software, SSL 18 delivers a world-class studio experience to any setup. We’re eager for everyone to experience its sound and workflow,” said Andy Jackson, senior product manager, studio.

The SSL 18 comes equipped with 10 balanced line-level outputs located on the rear of the unit. Line outputs 1&2 and 3&4 can be configured to +9 or +24 dBu, ensuring compatibility with a broad array of studio monitors and vintage equipment. Outputs 3 to 10 operate at +24 dBu, making them suitable for integrating professional outboard equipment.

All outputs are DC-coupled and capable of sending Control Voltage (CV) to synthesisers and/or modular rigs. Additionally, SSL 18 features configurable analogue insert points for inputs 1 and 2, making it easy to track with analogue processing in the chain. 

The SSL 18 also features a full monitoring control section with talkback input. Line outputs 1&2 and 3&4 offer alternative speaker switching with Alt Speaker and Cut controls located directly on the front panel. The talkback input can be flipped into LINE mode for processing the audio through the classic SSL Listen Mic Compressor - perfect for crushing drums, parallel vocals, and more. Using the SSL 360 software, these features and many others can be customised to a user’s workflow.

With a host of possible audio connections and workflows, the SSL 18 is scalable to meet the needs of any user and is the perfect companion to SSL’s forthcoming ALPHA 8 (expected Feb/March 25). The mic or line level I/O count can be increased by 18 channels using its ADAT and S/PDIF connections. Also, SSL 18’s dedicated Word Clock output provides rock-solid clocking for integrating any external digital devices.

SSL 18 comes bundled with the SSL Production Pack, creating a complete hardware and software ‘SSL studio’ solution. The SSL Production Pack features a selection of virtual instruments, plugins, samples and DAWs, including Harrison Mixbus 10 (worth over $1100).

Additionally, users receive an extended 6-month trial of Complete Access which includes every plug-in from SSL, Slate Digital and Harrison Audio. 

Those attending the NAMM Show 2025 will be able to experience the new SSL 18 rackmount audio interface, as well as preview the forthcoming ALPHA 8 interface expander.

The SSL 18 is priced at $1199.00 ex TAX / £749.99 ex VAT / €899.00 ex TAX.