The software that powers SSL’s range of control surfaces has just received a major update that delivers deeper DAW and plug-in integration, enhancements for Logic and Pro Tools users and support for the new Harrison 32Classic Channel Strip V2 plug-in.
Logic & Pro Tools
SSL 360° V2.1 delivers deeper integration between the UC1 and Logic Pro. Users now benefit from synchronised track selection along with support for Logic Pro track colours, and the update introduces direct communication with Logic Pro's track solo and mute functions, providing a more direct mixing experience. In addition, the UC1 can now control Logic Pro’s track volume and pan parameters directly, eliminating the need to switch between hardware and on-screen mixer views.
These Logic Pro integration enhancements also benefit UF8 and UF1 users when working in the SSL Plug-in Mixer layer, enabling synchronised track selection, track colour support, direct solo and mute control, volume and pan control, and control of up to eight sends per track (UF8 only).
For Pro Tools users, the UF8 and UF1 will now display longer eight-character track names and reflect Pro Tools track colours directly on their displays. Automation has also been streamlined, with users now able to place tracks into automation modes without first engaging Auto Selection Mode. Additionally, the UC1 now communicates directly with Pro Tools’ solo and mute functions.
Enhanced Plug-in Mixer
SSL 360° V2.1 also delivers some significant enhancements to the Plug-in Mixer environment. Building on the Hybrid Mode functionality introduced in SSL 360° V2.0, the update allows a wider range of UF8 and UF1 controls to remain available while working within the Plug-in Mixer layer, including Soft Keys, Cursor Keys, Quick Keys and UF1's Scrub mode. This provides users with instant access to DAW commands, shortcuts, and transport functions without needing to switch layers.
The Plug-in Mixer itself has gained eight new virtual Soft Keys, allowing HUI and MCU commands to be assigned and triggered directly from SSL 360°, even without the UF8 or UF1 hardware connected. In supported DAWs — including Logic Pro, Cubase, Nuendo, Studio One, LUNA, Bitwig and Reaper — users can also access automation mode controls directly from the Plug-in Mixer, offering a faster way to write and manage automation within a session.
Other Enhancements
V2.1 introduces a range of other improvements, too. UF8 and UF1 users can now customise the destination of the dedicated SSL 360° button, providing one-touch access to their preferred page, including controller configuration, Plug-in Mixer and SSL audio interface mixer views. New overview scaling options then offer greater flexibility when configuring the SSL 360° Plug-in Mixer across different screen sizes.
The update also expands the capabilities of Meter Pro with the introduction of exportable Loudness Data Logs for detailed analysis and reporting, and the ability to follow the currently selected DAW track within the SSL 360° Plug-in Mixer.
Harrison 32Classic Integration
Another significant addition in SSL 360° V2.1 is the introduction of native SSL 360° and UC1 integration for the new Harrison 32Classic Channel Strip V2. The updated plug-in can now be inserted directly into a DAW session and controlled from the UC1 without requiring SSL 360° Link, while also appearing natively in the SSL 360° Plug-in Mixer alongside SSL's own channel strip plug-ins.
"V2.1 brings some of the most significant quality-of-life updates to the U Series Controllers and SSL 360° to date, particularly for Logic Pro and Pro Tools users. This, coupled with the exciting new Harrison 32Classic plug-in integration, shows our ongoing commitment to enhancing the U Series platform". — Andy Jackson, Senior Product Manager, Studio, SSL
Availability
SSL 360 V2.1 is available now from the SSL website.
