SSL introduces Sigma and an updated Matrix 2

Solid State Logic has announced the introduction of the SSL Sigma. Described by the manufacturer as a remote controlled analogue mix engine, the Sigma is reportedly the result of consistent feedback from leading producers regarding the quality of analogue summing over the emulation provided by DAW plug-ins.

Drawing from SSL’s Duality and AWS consoles, the standout feature of the Sigma is its inclusion of the SSL SuperAnalogue mix bus. Whilst this was also included on SSL’s Duality and AWS consoles, it now comes in a 2U rack mounted format enabling its inclusion into smaller studios.

The Sigma has 16 stereo inputs - switchable to 32 mono outputs for mix downs. The inclusion of two stereo mix busses, individual stereo insert points to facilitate parallel compression and individual direct outputs for each input channel, provide ample connectively to the host DAW. Additional features include a front-panel metering LED covering all channels, independent main and alternate monitoring outputs, a front panel rotary selector, a talkback input with adjustable dim level, and the ability to inject mix bus B into mix bus A for the final mixdown. The Sigma can also be remote controlled using Midi via Ethernet, and is therefore compatible with all of the major DAWs.

As well as the introduction of the Sigma, SSL has upgraded its Matrix console, and is now shipping Matrix 2. The new version is described as drawing on customer feedback with a range of added features.

The integrated software controlled patching of analogue channel inserts has been upgraded in Matrix 2. Hardware device inserts can now be loaded directly from the console hardware controls with a new interface that facilitates loading individual processors, A/B comparison of different processors and building processor chains. The Matrix remote browser software has also been redesigned to provide a drag and drop style interface for loading processors and building chains.

A Fader Linking system has been added to the console, which allows two or more faders to be grouped, to facilitate stereo or 5.1 channel control or subgroup style mixing. The A-FADA (Analogue Fader Accesses DAW Automation) summing system used in Duality, AWS and the new SSL Sigma rack has been introduced to enable the analogue faders of Matrix 2 to be driven by automation data from a user’s DAW. A-FADA enables channel automation to be performed entirely in the analogue signal path but with the advantages of DAW automation data editing. The addition of A-FADA to Matrix 2 facilitates project portability between different SSL products. The previously optional 5.1 output card will now be included as standard, and pre-fitted in all units.

A collection of smaller new features have also been added including partial TR setup save and import, which allows selected parts of the console setup to be saved and imported as setup templates; new preset insert matrix scenes; preset insert naming tools; automatic dB readout for Pro Tools users, allowing the scribble strip to automatically display fader values upon touch; modifier key press and hold functionality for Cubase/Nuendo users and new DAW templates for PreSonus Studio One and Ableton Live.

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