For decades, the dream of many music producers, sound engineers, and studio owners has been a holy grail: a mixing console that combines the unmistakable sonic warmth and depth of analogue with the lightning-fast recall and flexibility of digital. Today, that dream becomes a reality. Solid State Logic (SSL) has just launched Oracle - A Future Analogue Console, and it's set to revolutionise professional music production.
The Analogue Dream, Digitally Perfected
Since the groundbreaking SSL SL 4000E console introduced Total Recall in 1979, the industry has craved an analogue console that could truly keep up with the demands of modern workflows. Imagine effortlessly switching between multiple sessions in a single day, instantly recalling every setting without the disruption and uncertainty of manual resets. Oracle delivers precisely that.
At the heart of this innovation is SSL's new ActiveAnalogue™ technology. This isn't a hybrid solution or a compromise; it's a fully analogue in-line mixing console that brings large-format features into a compact, AWS-size footprint. ActiveAnalogue™ seamlessly blends SSL's legendary analogue processing and summing with ultra-precise digital control, allowing for instant and complete recall of all processing, routing, gain, and pan settings. No trade-offs, no downtime, no disruption – just pure analogue power, instantly at your fingertips.
Unprecedented Workflow, Uncompromised Sound
The implications for studio throughput are massive. With Oracle, you can instantly switch between mixing and tracking setups or change your session’s workflow in less time than it takes an artist to switch tracks. This dramatically increases the potential output of any studio, all while delivering the authentic analogue tone that artists and producers crave.
Here's a glimpse at what the SSL Oracle brings to your studio:
- Large-format power, compact footprint: Up to 112 inputs at mixdown in an AWS-size console, available with 24 or 48 mono line-in channels.
- Comprehensive routing: 4x Stereo mix busses, 16 track busses, 10 aux busses, and 16 stereo 'Flex' groups.
- Iconic SSL sound: Features the renowned SSL analogue circuitry, now controlled with the revolutionary ActiveAnalogue™ technology.
- Next-gen mic pres: Experience the new PureDrive mic pre’s with 'Drive' control, offering a versatile range of tones.
- Legendary EQ: Access the classic SSL 4-Band parametric EQ with switchable E/G Series curves.
- Integrated dynamics: Includes the powerful THE BUS+ and dynamic EQ processors.
- Flexible channel architecture: Seamlessly track, overdub, and mix with Oracle's versatile small and large fader paths, complete with assignable EQ and insert points.
- Immersive monitoring: Flexible monitoring provides multiple stereo options and is immersive mix ready.
- Intuitive metering: Insightful VU or plasma ‘style’ metering with dynamic ‘Detail View’.
- Advanced DAW control: Deep integration with SSL 360 for advanced DAW control.
- Automation ready: Prepared for the SSL Dynamic Automation System.
- O-Control app: An offline tool for efficient session preparation and console configuration.
- Remote analogue circuitry: All analogue circuitry is housed in a 13U 19” rack(s) that can be located remotely, within the control room, or under the console, offering ultimate flexibility.
A New SSL Sonic Signature
Oracle doesn't just recall settings; it redefines the SSL sonic signature. It merges the harmonic drive technology of the latest SSL PureDrive mic preamps with the current-driven busses introduced in ORIGIN, and offers various flavors of harmonic saturation throughout the console. This allows for an unprecedented range of sonic possibilities, from the beautifully precise sounds of SuperAnalogue™ audio to a rich palette of driven analogue tones, and everything in between.
In essence, Oracle embodies the DNA of classic SSL E, G, and J/K consoles, while propelling SSL’s legendary sound into the future. It's an investment in unparalleled sonic quality, workflow efficiency, and creative freedom.
Ready to experience the future of analogue? The SSL Oracle is here!
