The Windows and Mac application that powers SSL’s 360°-enabled software and hardware products has just been treated to a significant update that introduces an array of new features and enhancements. SSL 360 V2.0 provides UC1 users with enhanced integration with Avid’s Pro Tools, delivers some significant functionality updates for UF8 and UF1, and introduces monitoring enhancements for the company’s SSL 12 and SSL 18 interfaces.
Building on the success of the 360° Link and Link Bus Compressor plug-ins — which introduced third-party plug-in integration for the UC1 controller — the latest version of the application brings yet more features to both the U Series family and the SSL 12 and SSL 18. Standout features include a new Collapse & Pin feature that aims to streamline the management of multiple Channel Strip and Bus Compressor plug-ins within the SSL Plug-in Mixer, along with a new Hybrid Mode Pt.1 that offers enhanced integration between the SSL Plug-in Mixer with the users’ DAW. Additionally, both the SSL 12 and SSL 18 now support full customisation of monitor knob outputs.
Key Features
- Enhanced Pro Tools and UC1 Integration: Track order in Pro Tools is now automatically mirrored on the UC1 controller, eliminating manual re-ordering. Track colours are displayed directly on the UC1, while track selection across Pro Tools, UC1 and UF8 is fully synchronised.
- UF8 and 360 Plug-in Mixer Updates: The new Collapse & Pin features allow users to streamline the view and control of multiple 360-enabled channel strips on a single DAW track. Collapse tracks for a cleaner interface and pin preferred plug-in instances to remain visible during navigation. Easily switch between multiple SSL and third-party plug-ins hosted in 360 Link.
- Bus Comps Follow Track Selection: This feature offers optimised hands-on control of channel strips and compressors across tracks in any DAW supporting synchronised track selection. Selecting a track automatically changes both Channel Strip and Bus Compressor selections simultaneously on UC1, vastly improving efficiency for a fully integrated console-style workflow.
- Hybrid Mode Pt.1: This bridges traditional DAW control layers, with the Plug-in Mixer Layer on UF8 and UF1. Users can access automation soft keys and favourite DAW shortcuts directly from the Plug-in Mixer mode on UF8 and UF1, pulling through HUI/MCU or keyboard commands. FOCUS mode for the CHANNEL encoder is now enabled in Plug-in Mixer mode for UF8, allowing for quick, point-and-shoot parameter control of any plug-in. In addition, the Plug-in Mixer in SSL 360 itself now allows controls and faders to be adjusted with mouse scroll.
- SSL 12 and SSL 18 firmware enhancements: These allow full customisation of the blue monitor knob outputs. SSL 12 users can assign any combination of outputs 1–4 or disable monitor control entirely. SSL 18 users can configure the monitor control to any of the 10 analogue line outputs and/or the S/PDIF output—ideal for surround/immersive setups. Both interface low-latency Mixers now support Mouse Scroll functionality for faders and knobs, further improving tactile workflow when controlled with FOCUS mode.
“SSL 360 V2.0 reinforces our commitment to continuously enhance the U Series platform and integrate our audio interfaces even further with modern DAW workflows. From seamless track selection to hybrid control and improved monitoring options, these updates give artists, producers and engineers valuable new features and enhancements for their U Series controllers and SSL 12/18 interfaces.” - Andy Jackson, SSL Senior Product Manager, Studio, Solid State Logic
Availability
SSL 360 V2.0, and the latest SSL 12 and SSL 18 updates are available now.
