SSL Solid State Logic Revival 4000 - Channel strip

• classic SSL 4000E microphone preamplifier with original Jensen transformer
• channel strip with strong character, inspired by the SSL 4000 B and E consoles
• musical One-Knob De-Esser for quick control of S-sounds
• discrete Class A VCA compressor with variable characteristics from subtle to aggressive
• Gate/expander for precise control and clean signal routing
• Switchable 4-band equalizer with Brown Knob and Black Knob characteristics
• Integrated high-pass and low-pass filters for targeted frequency processing
• flexible routing options with freely selectable sequence of processing stages
• Balanced insert point for external effects devices
• sidechain functions including external key inputs and filter/EQ-to-dynamics options
• Stereo link for operating two devices in pairs
• Switchable metering and output trim for precise level control
• Authentic SSL sound in a compact 19" format

The SSL Revival 4000 brings the unmistakable character of the famous SSL 4000 consoles to a 19-inch rack unit. Based on the circuits of the legendary B and E series, the channel strip combines the typical SSL sound that has shaped countless world hits. With a transformer-based microphone preamp, versatile sound tools and flexible routing options, the Revival 4000 is a modern reinterpretation of an icon.

At its heart is the classic SSL 4000E preamp with the original Jensen JT-115K-E transformer. This discrete transistor circuit provides a clear, detailed signal with impressive dynamics and minimal inherent noise. Functions such as switchable phantom power, polarity invert and a switchable -20dB PAD extend the range of applications and make the Preamp the perfect basis for any recording.

The integrated dynamics section is based on the proven Class A VCA design of the E series. The compressor offers ratio settings ranging from subtle compression to limiter operation, supplemented by selectable soft or hard knee, variable release curves and fast attack times. This is complemented by a gate/expander module that ensures clean and controlled signals. With sidechain options and the possibility of integrating filters or EQ into the control loop, this opens up enormous flexibility for creative sound design.

A particular highlight is the "one-knob" de-esser, which reliably reduces problematic S-sounds or harsh overtones with its 10:1 ratio and cleverly filtered sidechain design. This is joined by a fully-fledged 4-band equalizer, which can be operated in either "Brown Knob" or "Black Knob" mode. While the Brown Knob EQ impresses with its gentle, musical characteristics, the Black Knob EQ delivers tighter contours, extended boost and cut ranges and a steeper high-pass filter.

The Revival 4000 has balanced insert points, external sidechain inputs and a stereo link function for operating two devices in pairs. This is complemented by a balanced XLR microphone input, a combined XLR/TRS line input and a balanced XLR output for lossless signal transmission. The order of filters, dynamics, EQ and de-esser can be variably adjusted, which opens up new possibilities, especially for mastering or complex signal paths. Switchable input and output metering and an additional output trim ensure precise level control.

General

• Design: 19" / 1 U
• Dimensions: 482.6 mm x 43.18 mm x 276.86 mm
• Weight: 3.74 kg, packed 4.88 kg
• Power supply: Auto-ranging 100-240 V AC, ' 20 W power consumption

Inputs and outputs

• Microphone input: XLR female, transformer-balanced (Jensen JT-115K-E)
• Line input: Combo XLR/TRS, balanced
• Insert send/return: TRS balanced
• External sidechain input: Combo XLR/TRS
• Sidechain link: TRS/TS for stereo operation
• Output: XLR male, balanced

Microphone preamplifier

• Gain range: +20 dB to +70 dB
• Pad: -20 dB switchable
• Input impedance: 1.3 kΩ
• Max. Input level: ' 23.2 dBu (with pad)
• Phantom power: +48 V switchable
• ON (A-weighted): ' -130.6 dBu
• THD+N: 0.00067 % @ 1 kHz

Line input

• Gain range: -20 dB to +20 dB
• Input impedance: 10 kΩ
• Max. Input level: ' 27.6 dBu
• THD+N: 0.00033 % @ 1 kHz

Output impedance

• Output impedance: 70 Ω
• Output headroom: ' 27.4 dBu
• Gain trim: -20 dB to +20 dB

Equalizer

• 4-band EQ, switchable between Brown Knob and Black Knob
• Frequency ranges:
  • HF: 1.5 - 16 kHz
  • HMF: 600 Hz - 7 kHz
  • LMF: 200 Hz - 2.5 kHz
  • LF: 30 - 450 Hz
• Gain: ±15 dB (Brown) / ±18 dB (Black)
• High-pass filter: 20 - 500 Hz (12 dB/oct., Brown / 18 dB/oct., Black)
• Low-pass filter: 3 - 16 kHz (12 dB/oct.)

Dynamics section

• Compressor/Limiter:
  • Ratio: 1:1 to ∞:1
  • Threshold: +4 dB to -26 dB
  • Attack: 30 ms / 3 ms (Fast)
  • Release: 0.1 - 4 s (logarithmic or linear)
  • Soft or hard knee selectable
• Gate/Expander:
  • Mode: ∞:1 Gate or 2:1 expander
  • Range: 0 - 40 dB
  • Threshold: -30 dB to +10 dB
  • Attack: 1.5 ms or 100 µs (Fast)
  • Release: 0.1 - 4 s
• De-esser
  • Ratio: 10:1
  • Sidechain: 7 kHz filter
  • Threshold: +10 to -20 dB
  • Attack: 2 ms
  • Release: 30-50 ms (depending on signal)