SSL have announced that the audio interface expander they revealed at the NAMM Show 2025 is now available. Packing in eight channels of A-D and D-A conversion along with 18-in/18-out audio interface functionality, the Alpha 8 can be paired seamlessly with the recently released SSL 18, as well as offering a convenient way to expand any ADAT- or S/PDIF-equipped interface.
Employing 32-bit/192 kHz converters, The Alpha 8 promises to deliver SSL’s signature sound and premium quality. The company say it offers a huge dynamic range, stunningly low THD+N figures, unmeasurable crosstalk and an exceptionally low noise floor. All of its analogue I/O operates at line-level, making it a great choice for studios running analogue outboard gear, samplers, synths, drum machines and so on. Flexible routing options mean it can be configured in a variety of different ways, from a simple bidirectional analogue to ADAT/SPDIF converter to an aggregate 18-in/18-out USB audio interface, or a mixture of the two.
The operating level of each analogue input and output can be individually set to +9, +18, +20 or +24 dBu, ensuring the Alpha 8 can be integrated with a wide range of gear including outboard, vintage synthesisers, analogue mixers, 500-series modules or monitor controllers. As for digital connectivity, the unit features ADAT and S/PDIF I/O, along with Word Clock I/O, all three of which can be used as a clock source — the Alpha 8 also features its own internal clock.
The rear panel of the Alpha 8.
Key Features
- High-performance, next-generation 32-bit / 192 kHz conversion.
- Class-leading dynamic range, THD+N and crosstalk audio performance.
- Eight balanced line-level inputs and outputs
- 10 digital inputs and outputs (eight channels of ADAT, two channels of S/PDIF).
- Flexible conversion configurations.
- 18-in/18-out USB audio interface.
- High-current front panel headphone confidence check — audition any individual input or output (or stereo pair).
- Dedicated front-panel input and output meters.
- Word Clock I/O with input termination switch
- Clock internally or from incoming ADAT, S/PDIF or Word Clock.
SSL Production Pack and Complete Access
The Alpha 8 comes bundled with the acclaimed SSL Production Pack, providing users with a complete hardware and software ‘SSL studio’. The bundle features a selection of must-have virtual instruments, plug-ins, samples and DAWs — including Harrison Mixbus 10 — worth over $1100). Additionally, users receive an extended trial of Complete Access which includes every plug-in from SSL, Slate Digital and Harrison Audio.
“With our new Alpha 8 and the recently launched SSL 18 interface, SSL is demonstrating our ongoing commitment to delivering the production tools that the producer and engineers need in the modern studio environment. The Alpha 8 features a comprehensive selection of analogue and digital I/O, enabling our users to make the most of their existing setups, while delivering no-compromise SSL sound and quality.” - Andy Jackson, Senior Product Manager (Studio), SSL
SOS Review
We’ve already put the Alpha 8 to the test, and there’s an in-depth review in this month’s issue (April 2025). Click here to check it out.
Pricing & Availability
The Alpha 8 is available now, priced at $899£699 including VAT / €699.
