SSL launches Oracle: A fully analogue studio console with digital recall precision

Solid State Logic (SSL) has launched Oracle, which it is calling ‘A Future Analogue Console’. Delivering an analogue sound with instant, effortless, and complete recall and reset across the entire console, Oracle has been designed to fulfil the dreams of producers, engineers, and studio owners.

Since SSL launched the SL 4000E console with total recall in 1979, producers, engineers, and studio owners have dreamt of a console that could deliver the analogue sound quality of SSL, but without the disruption and uncertainty of manual recall between sessions; a mixing console that could instantly recall settings and adapt to on-the-fly creative shifts, while effortlessly switching between multiple sessions in a single day.

Now, that dream is a reality. Oracle is a fully analogue in-line mixing console offering large-format features in a compact, AWS-size footprint, with instant, effortless, and complete recall of all processing, routing, gain, and pan settings thanks to the company's new ActiveAnalogue technology.

With the ability to instantly switch between mixing or tracking set-ups, change the session’s workflow in less time than it takes the artist to switch tracks, the new ActiveAnalogue technology within Oracle significantly increases the potential throughput of any studio facility, while delivering the authentic analogue tone that artists and producers crave.

ActiveAnalogue combines the sound and power of SSL’s analogue processing and summing with ultra-precise adjustment and an active recallable control system.

Oracle is an analogue console designed with a large-format, yet compact in-line footprint, featuring up to 112 inputs available at mixdown. It boasts four stereo mix busses, 16 track busses, 10 aux busses, and 16 stereo 'Flex' groups. 

The Oracle is offered with options of 24 or 48 mono line-in channels, incorporating iconic SSL analogue circuitry enhanced by ActiveAnalogue technology. It includes next-gen PureDrive mic preamps with 'Drive' control and the renowned SSL 4-Band parametric EQ with switchable E/G Series curves.

Integrated features like THE BUS+ and dynamic EQ processors complement its flexible channel architecture, supporting track, overdub, and mix functionalities. The Oracle offers both small and large fader paths with assignable EQ and insert points. Its flexible monitoring system provides multiple stereo options and is optimised for immersive mixing experiences. Detailed VU or plasma-style metering, alongside dynamic 'Detail View', ensures insightful visual feedback during operation.

For seamless workflow integration, the Oracle includes advanced DAW control via SSL 360 integration and is SSL Dynamic Automation System ready. The O-Control app serves as an offline tool for session preparation and console configuration. All housed in 13U 19” racks, the Oracle's analogue circuitry can be conveniently located remotely, within the control room, or under the console for enhanced operational flexibility.

Oracle merges the harmonic drive technology of the latest SSL PureDrive mic preamps, the current-driven busses introduced in ORIGIN, and various flavours of harmonic saturation accessible throughout the console.

Additionally, it delivers what SSL is calling “unprecedented recall” and reset capabilities along with the sonic flexibility of SSL's latest analogue circuit design. It is capable of producing the precise sounds of SuperAnalogue audio, to a palette of driven analogue tones, and everything in between. From an SSL legacy perspective, Oracle embodies the DNA of the classic E, G, and J/K consoles, while taking SSL’s sonic signature into the future.

SSL will livestream launch events today from:

• Japan – Lush Hub studio/event space, Tokyo – 3:00 PM JST

• China, DMT demo Facility, Beijing – 3:00 PM CST

• UK, Real World Studio, Bath – 3:00 PM BST

• USA, Jungle City Studio, New York - 3:00 PM EDT

Log on to the SSL YouTube channel or homepage to watch the launch events live from each site.