Ssl Matrix 2 Delta 16-channel Mixing Console

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  • Source selectable between Mix bus, Record bus and Monitor (pre level control) signals
  • Connections: S/PDIF (TosLink optical) and AES-3 (male XLR). Signal available on both connectors at all times
  • Sample rate – locks to selected digital input up to a maximum sample rate of 192kHz. In the absence of a valid digital input defaults to
  • Dynamic range typically 116dB A-weighted, 111dB un-weighted. Worst case 109dB un-weighted
  • THD < 0.001%
  • 0dBFs switchable between +18dBu and +24dBu
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SKU: SSL-MATRIX2-DELTA Categories: ,

The SSL Matrix2 Delta is a hybrid analog console/DAW controller that can incorporate hardware outboard with DAW mixing while providing 40-channel SuperAnalogue summing, monitor management, talkback, and insert routing for recallable chains of analog processors

Whether you’re building a composer’s suite, hybrid mixing studio, or full-blown recording facility, the SSL Matrix2, while small in size, is mighty enough to give you everything you need for a world-class studio. Not only is the Matrix2’s layout and functionality intuitive enough for musicians to master and focus on their primary craft (composing), it also has the features and a configuration that will be instantly familiar to any engineer, and especially those who’ve worked on SSL desks. The SSL Matrix2 console/controller addresses all the needs of today’s professional hybrid analog/digital studio as only SSL can, starting with the foundation of ultra transparency and channel-to-channel symmetry of SuperAnalogue summing, the ability to integrate boutique outboard gear, moving-fader automation, and DAW control—plus a side order of SSL innovation.

Solid State Logic Matrix2 Delta unique features:

  • 16 dual-input SuperAnalogue channels and 40-input summing
  • 32 x 16 x 16 Insert Router for up to 16 external hardware processing devices
  • δelta control automates the console within your DAW like a plug-in
  • Multi-layer simultaneous control of up to four DAWs
  • Motorized fader automation from your DAW via MIDI

SSL Matrix2—Beneath the Surface

SSL Matrix2 Delta origin story

While the hybrid analog/digital studio is considered a best-of-both-worlds solution, combining the sonics of analog gear with the near-unlimited control capabilities of DAWs, the trick is tying it all together into the least complicated workflow as possible. Tracking and mixing each come with a set of procedures that encompass several moving targets, such as accessing preamps, EQs, and compressors; metering input levels; artist talkback; cue mixes, and the bane of digital recording, low- or zero-latency monitoring—and that’s just for tracking.

Once the industry shifted its focus to DAW-based recording and large-format consoles were expected to go the way of the dinosaur, audio professionals began to realize the functions of a console that made tracking and mixing easier were missing from DAWs. Manufacturers rushed to replace them with single purpose-built products, such as monitor controllers, summing mixers, control surfaces, and multi-channel preamps. But getting them to fit together, not just electronically but also in terms of their physical placement posed problems as well. The control surface emerged as the affordable alternative to analog desks, but despite their convenience navigating high track counts, there are certain things they can’t do, such as offer the ability to ride faders pre A-to-D during tracking to avoid using compression or changing the resolution of the sound itself. In short, manufacturers were rebuilding the large-format analog console and selling it one section at a time. Organizing all of these units into an ergonomically efficient physical system became your problem.

SSL created the Matrix as a solution in response to the input and experiences of professional DAW users, plus their complaints about the size and operating expense of large-format desks as real estate shrunk proportionally to rental increases, and utility bills did what they always did—got higher for no apparent reason.

Now, rather than having several disparate units strewn about workstation in search of a console and complicated patching schemes, the Matrix2 not only centralizes integration of all these independent units, it lets you deal with them like you would a DAW plug-in, patching them in your chosen sequence with the click of a mouse. Best of all, it does it in a compact chassis that doesn’t require a machine room or complicated power-up sequences.

All-in-one and one for all

The analog side of Matrix2 combines a 40-input SuperAnalogue* summing mixer, monitor switching with talkback, and a built-in Insert Router that enables individual or chains of analog outboard processors to be inserted quickly and easily. The 16 + 1 fader hardware control surface swaps with a single button push from control over the analog console signal path to functioning as a comprehensive multi-layer DAW control surface.

*What is Superanalogue?

SuperAnalogue is defined by DC-coupled circuitry, which eliminates ICs, electrolytic capacitors, and transformers in the signal path. DC-coupling provides an extraordinarily transparent audio path with flat, ultra-wide frequency response, extremely low distortion, and an almost immeasurable noise floor. SSL’s SuperAnalogue’s bandwidth is greater than 192kHz recorders and has a dynamic range well beyond 24-bit ADA converters. SuperAnalogue circuits are designed to be the fastest-acting, most tonally accurate audio circuits possible.

PAD Tech Note: SSL avoids using electrolytic capacitors for de-coupling between analog stages. The performance of an electrolytic capacitor is rendered imprecise by virtue of its physical construction, which makes it vulnerable to electromagnetic interference. Even expensive, high-quality electrolytics are not up to the specifications required by SuperAnalogue standards. Doubtless, you’ve heard the word, “recapped” when it comes to console maintenance. Due to temperature variations over time, electrolytic capacitors degrade and become leaky, resulting in significant noise issues, altered tonal characteristics, and a shortened product life. This is one of the factors that enables SuperAnalogue channels to be flipped out of phase with nearly 100% cancellation— a tricky thing to do in analog circuitry.

Integrate analog outboard via Insert Router

Born of SSL’s X-Patch digitally controlled, analog patchbay technology, the Matrix lets you access your custom combinations of analog outboard equipment and apply them to your project without ever leaving the console.

The Matrix2 Insert Router lets you physically connect up to 16 hardware devices to the 16 insert points on the console (using rear panel standard D-Sub connections), but unlike a traditional console with a TT patchbay off to the side, you are able to select which of these devices are applied to console channels on the fly. The system even lets you build chains of processors so that you can immediately recall and insert a preferred combination of mic pre, EQ, and dynamics; instantly swap individual processors within the chain; or instantly change the process order of the chain right from the console.

With Matrix2 Devices and chains can either be created and inserted using hardware buttons on the console surface or a simple drag and drop software interface running on a computer. Matrix2 is the closest thing you will find to using hardware devices like software plug-ins within your DAW. The workflow of the Insert Router may feel like software but the signal path is 100% SSL SuperAnalogue hardware, which means no change in the sonics.

Insert Router features:

  • Integrated 32x16x16 Insert Router eliminates complicated external patch bays and wiring
  • Insert your analog outboard gear at the click of a mouse or the push of a button
  • Save FX chains and set-ups; fast configuration and recall of your outboard chains

Delta-Control (δ-Ctrl) automation system

SSL Delta-Control unites the very best of automation in the analog console domain with DAW-based workflow.

The δ-Ctrl Single Fader Plug-in is a native AAX/AU/VST/VST3 plug-in that allows automation of Matrix channel volume as if it were a DAW plug-in. Inserting 16 instances into the DAW session will allow control of volumes and cuts for all 16 Matrix channels. The automation system in the DAW is used to record and playback Matrix volume control data entered either directly from the console faders or from the fader in the plug-in GUI. The δ-Ctrl plug-in is inserted into a DAW mixer audio or aux channel. The plug-in then receives and sends volume data from Matrix via high-speed Ethernet network connection.

Audio on the DAW track passes through the plug-in slot unprocessed so the plug-in can be combined with other DAW plug-ins. Matrix’ Volume and Mute switch are represented as plug-in parameters in the δ-Ctrl plug-in GUI and their automation data is recorded to the automation lane of the selected DAW channel. In playback, the plug-in converts the stored automation data from the DAW into δ-Ctrl messages and routes these back to Matrix via the network connection.

16-Fader Matrix Plug-In

The SSL Matrix2 not only solves hardware problems, but it also solves DAW problems as well. The 16-fader Delta Control Matrix plug-in provides compatibility to Logic users, as well as offering an alternative workflow to the Single Fader plug-in. The 16-fader plug-in lets you write automation for Matrix’ 16 channel faders, mutes, and FX sends from one window, solving Logic’s inherent limitation of only being able to write data to one plug-in at a time. The plug-in is available in all formats including AAX/AU/VST3/VST.

SSL DAW control

Matrix2 offers comprehensive control over your DAW environment, reinstating the console to its role as the creative hub of your studio. With HUI or MCU modes, its 16 motorized faders and channel controls provide complete hands-on access to your DAW mixer, allowing you to enjoy mixing on a tactile, fully-featured control surface. Additionally, Matrix2 gives you access to transport and navigation functions, plug-in and virtual instrument parameters, and essential DAW commands, allowing you to work quickly and easily using just the console surface.

For crucial track adjustment, SSL’s unique Focus Fader mode enables the Master Fader (and accompanying V-Pot) to control any channel within your DAW environment that’s not part of the currently selected DAW layer, perfect for time-saving in mixdown.

Matrix2 DAW control features:

  • Console control over DAW fader, pan, and send levels
  • Ethernet DAW connection eliminates multiple cables and additional interface boxes
  • Plug-in & virtual instrument control lets you map plug-in parameters to faders, V-pots etc., via MIDI
  • Work in Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase/Nuendo, Live, or Studio One
  • Programmable soft-keys for DAW shortcuts allow rapid access to essential DAW commands (up to 350 per DAW layer)
  • Full DAW transport control with “punch-friendly” controls and navigation wheel

Matrix2 mixing and monitoring

Along with its integration of analog and digital equipment, Matrix2 is a first-class mixer drawing on SSL’s decades of analog console design. The essential functions of recording and mixing, including routing, level measurement, and monitoring are organized and arranged to make everything available at your mix position to streamline the entire recording and mixing process.

Matrix2’s analog architecture provides 32 channel inputs (each of the 16 channel strips has main and alt inputs). Each of the 16 channels has a direct output designed to be used primarily as a DAW record output. There are two stereo mix busses and four stereo aux returns with full stereo mix-bus routing to bring the total available inputs to 40 at mixdown.

Powerful monitoring is a central feature of Matrix, with independent Main and Mini monitor outputs, Artist Monitor output with independent EQ and source selection, and three External Monitor inputs with source summing.

Mixing and monitoring features:

  • 16 SuperAnalogue channels, each with two inputs per channel, a dedicated channel output, stereo aux send, and four mono aux sends
  • Motorized fader automation from your DAW via MIDI
  • Dual stereo mix busses with summing inserts and reassign
  • 4 stereo returns with full stereo mix bus routing
  • DAW Monitor mode allows zero-latency monitoring/recording
  • Stereo or 5.1. monitoring with main and mini outputs
  • Artist monitor section with independent EQ
  • Three external monitor inputs with source summing
  • iJack monitor input; 1/8’ (3.5mm) stereo front-panel monitor input

SSL Matrix2 Delta full feature list:

  • Delta control automates your console within your DAW like a plug-in
  • 32 x 16 x 16 “Insert Router” for up to 16 external hardware processing devices
  • Hardware processors can be inserted via console controls or cross-platform drag-and-drop software browser
  • Stereo or 5.1 Ext monitoring outputs with independent Main and Mini monitor control
  • Hardware processors can be inserted individually or as “chains”
  • 40-input SuperAnalogue summing console
  • Stereo Aux Send and 4 x Mono Sends per channel
  • 4 Stereo Returns with full stereo mix bus routing
  • Dual Stereo Mix Busses with summing Inserts and reassign
  • In-line DAW monitoring with “SuperCue” headphone mode
  • Stereo or 5.1 External Monitor inputs
  • 5.1 Monitor card available as an upgrade for Matrix V1 owners
  • Stereo digital I/O (S/PDIF, AES/EBU) with SSL converter technology
  • iJack front-panel monitor input
  • Heavy-duty external PSU
  • 16 analog line channels with two inputs per channel
  • Artist Monitor output with independent EQ and monitor-source selection
  • Single button push flips control between the analog signal path and DAW software
  • Multilayer control of up to four DAWs simultaneously
  • Ergonomically advanced hybrid hardware control surface
  • Digital scribble strips for constant visual feedback
  • Fader-linking for analog channels
  • Additional motorized “Focus” fader for simultaneous DAW/Console control
  • 16 channel strips each with motorized fader and assignable rotary encoder
  • Total Recall for analog console controls
  • General-purpose MIDI controller mode
  • A-FADA or MIDI Fader automation
  • Ethernet MIDI connectivity
  • Simple drag-and-drop insert router page for configuring hardware device chains and loading inserts
  • Intuitive cross-platform remote browser for system configuration and project management
  • Cross-platform “Logictivity” remote browser interface:
  • Programmable hardware buttons for sending of standard USB keyboard commands

Performance

  • Headroom: < +26dBu @ 1kHz (< 1% THD)

Line In to Direct Out

  • Frequency Response: ±0dB at 20Hz, +0/-0.1dB at 20kHz, -1dB at 80kHz
  • Noise: < -89dBu 20Hz – 22kHz
    THD: < 0.002% @ 1kHz (+24dBu, 22kHz filter)

Line to Aux Bus Out

  • Frequency Response: ±0dB at 20Hz, +0/-0.1dB at 20kHz
    Noise: < -93dBu (no channels routed); < -76dBu (all channels routed, faders at 0dB)
    THD: < 0.002% @ 1kHz (+24dBu, 22kHz filter)

Line To Mix/Rec Bus Out

  • Frequency Response: ±0dB at 20Hz, +0/-0.1dB at 20kHz
  • Noise: < -89dBu (no channels routed); < -77.5dBu (all channels routed, faders at 0dB, pan at center)
  • THD: < 0.002% @ 1kHz (+24dBu, 22kHz filter)

 

Digital IO Specifications (Test conditions (unless otherwise specified): Input test signal is a 1kHz sine wave; measurement bandwidth is 22Hz to 22kHz, signal level is -1dBFS)

Stereo ADC

  • Source selectable between Mix bus, Record bus and Monitor (pre level control) signals
  • Connections: S/PDIF (TosLink optical) and AES-3 (male XLR). Signal available on both connectors at all times
  • Sample rate – locks to selected digital input up to a maximum sample rate of 192kHz. In the absence of a valid digital input defaults to 48kHz
  • Dynamic range: Typically 113dB A-weighted, 111dB un-weighted. Worst case 108dB un-weighted
  • THD < 0.0015%
    0dBFS switchable between +18dBu and +24dBu

DAC

  • Connections: source selectable from Matrix front panel between S/PDIF (TosLink optical) and AES-3 (female XLR) inputs
  • Sample rate 32kHz to 192kHz
  • Dynamic range typically 116dB A-weighted, 111dB un-weighted. Worst case 109dB un-weighted
  • THD < 0.001%
  • 0dBFs switchable between +18dBu and +24dBu

Physical (approx.)

Console

  • Height: 8-15/16″ / 228 mm (including feet)
  • Width: 37-3/16″ / 946mm
  • Depth: 28-1/2″ / 724 mm (excluding connectors)
  • Weight: 55.1 lb. / 25kg
  • Heat Dissipation: 130W approximately
  • Noise: n/a (fanless)
  • Connector (DC power input) BICC 12-pin Male

Power Supply

  • Height: 8″ / 202 mm (including feet)
  • Width: 4-5/16″ /106 mm
  • Depth: 12″ / 306 mm (excluding lead and connectors)
  • Weight: 11 lb. / 5kg
  • Heat Dissipation: 45W (approximately)
  • Noise: n/a (fanless)
  • Voltage: 100 – 240V (±10%)
  • Current: 2.0 – 1.0A
  • Connector (mains input): IEC320 10A Male

The ProAudio has a team of music gear experts who provide you with helpful advice and unparalleled service completely free of charge. Talk with the ProAudio Consultant today and we will assist in choosing the suitable outboard gear needed for your audio requirements.

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Ssl Matrix 2 Delta 16-channel Mixing Console

Ssl Matrix 2 Delta 16-channel Mixing Console

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