Solid State Logic SSL Bus Plus 2-channel Bus Compressor

SSL BUS Plus Ultimate Incarnation of the SSL Bus Compressor

The Solid State Logic Bus+ is a modern evolution of the classic SSL 4000 B console’s Bus Compressor, integrating five decades of analog power into a rackmount unit. It features an authentic SSL Bus compressor with multiple modes for sonic flexibility and a two-band analog dynamic equalizer, the D-EQ, for enhanced sound shaping. Fully analog with digitally controlled front-panel potentiometers, this two-channel processor offers four operational modes, external sidechain I/O, programmable processing order, and sleep modes, making it the most advanced SSL-style bus compressor available.

The de facto option for gluing a mix

The SSL bus compressor, first introduced in 1976 as part of the SSL 4000 B console, has become a vital tool in professional studios, sought after even by engineers using different systems. This led to the development of the FX G384 rackmount version in 1991, followed by modifications for XLogic processors and multichannel versions. In subsequent years, it was released as an X-Rack module and updated to the 500 Series. Numerous plug-in emulations exist, and the SSL Bus Plus offers the iconic buss glue sound along with additional features.

Versality

The most versatile SSL Bus Plus Introducing the Solid State Logic Bus Plus 2-channel Bus Compressor, the ultimate solution that sets a new benchmark for versatility and performance. Crafted by SSL, the industry leader in audio processing, the SSL Bus Plus is the pinnacle of bus compression technology. Elevate your sound to new heights with the unparalleled capabilities of the SSL Bus Plus. Comp — ever.
The Solid State Logic Bus Plus is packed with interesting features, but let’s face it: you’re here for the bus competition. And the Bus+ doesn’t disappoint. Within this eye-catching rackmount shell is an original SSL Bus Compressor circuit, complete with high-performance 2181 THAT VCAs.

Equalizer Component

Dynamic equalizers are mostly found as plug-ins, but the SSL Bus Plus introduces the D-EQ, a 2-band parallel dynamic EQ in analog form. It features low- and high-frequency bands with 16 customizable frequency points, Compress and Expand modes, and three-time constants: Nominal, Fast, and Auto. Each band has a 0.5dB-15dB adjustable range, with the high-frequency band offering a bell shape option. The G-Series mode enhances the low-frequency filter, while tri-color activity LEDs and bypassable bands provide additional functionality. The D-EQ is considered a vital addition to many mixes.

Key Features of the Solid State Logic SSL Bus Plus :

1. Classic SSL Compression:
   • Legendary Sound: The Bus+ is known for its signature SSL compression sound, which has been a staple in professional studios for decades. It provides the characteristic “glue” and cohesion to mixes that SSL hardware is renowned for.
2. Dual Compression Modes:
   • Classic and Bus+ Modes: The Bus+ offers two compression modes. The Classic mode emulates the classic SSL G-series bus compressor sound, while the Bus+ mode introduces enhancements such as increased headroom and enhanced tonal shaping.
3. Comprehensive Controls:
   • Attack, Release, and Ratio: The Bus+ includes all the essential controls for shaping your compression. It offers adjustable attack and release times, as well as a range of ratio settings to tailor the compression to your specific needs.
   • Make-Up Gain and Threshold: Controls for make-up gain and threshold allow for precise adjustment of the compressed signal, ensuring that you maintain the desired level and tonal balance.
4. Stereo Link:
   • Linked Operation: The compressor features stereo linking, which ensures that both channels are compressed equally and maintain a coherent stereo image. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of stereo mixes.
5. High-Quality Components:
   • Premium Build: The Bus+ is built with high-quality components to ensure durability and reliability. It incorporates SSL’s renowned engineering and design standards, contributing to its robust performance.

Solid State Logic Bus Plus 2-channel Bus Compressor Features:

• Packs 5 decades of SSL Bus Plus Comp tech into a convenient rackmount unit
• Excels as a drum buss compressor, parallel compressor, and master buss compressor
• Contains 100% analog circuitry, with stepped, digitally controlled front-panel ports
• 2 channels with 4 modes of operation: Classic Stereo, Σ S/C Stereo, Dual Mono, or Mid-Side
• Authentic SSL Bus Compressor circuit with high-performance 2181 THAT VCAs
• Multiple compression modes based on the XLogic, early 4K, and more supplies maximum sonic flexibility
• Negative compression ratios give rise to creative pumping effects
• Attack and Release time constant options, plus an Auto 2 setting, unlock added versatility
• 2 ranges of precision MDAC-controlled makeup gain
• Variable sidechain highpass filter makes tailoring the compressor’s behavior a piece of cake
• Mix control supplies dead-simple parallel compression
• Super-accurate moving-coil gain-reduction meters
• Includes an unlockable Transient Expander bonus mode
• 2-band, parallel dynamic D-EQ includes LF and HF bands
• 16 selectable frequency points per band give you plenty of sound-shaping options
• Includes both Compress and Expand modes
• 3 choices of time constants for each EQ band: Nominal, Fast, or Auto
• Each EQ band boasts a 0.5dB–15dB adjustable range
• HF band can be switched to a bell shape, with selectable frequencies covering high-midrange and high frequencies
• G-Series mode changes the LF filter to a second order with a degree of under and overshoot
• Tri-color activity LEDs and individually bypassable EQ bands
• External sidechain I/O allows you to trigger the compressor with an external signal
• Configurable processing order ensures maximum flexibility
• Sleep and auto-sleep modes

In The Box

•  1 x The SSL Bus Plus unit
• 1 x IEC power cord
• 1 x Safety Sheet
• 1 x Quickstart Guide