This end of the interface market is not exactly thin on options, and we’ve already mentioned just a few of the names who’ve produced good quality audio interfaces for decent entry-level sums of money.
Is it life-changing? Not really, but it’s nice to have (and to be able to say ‘I’ll just sprinkle a bit of SSL 4k on that for you’ to any passing muso). Here, you may be disappointed, especially if you’re expecting to be suddenly transported to some kind of Aerosmith or Springsteen recording session the 4k effect is something that people do argue about (just Google it - see what we mean?) and its effect is not exactly written in stone. So far, so great - let’s check the 4k ‘money button’. Recording-wise, it’s crystal clear again, and there was little or no noise apart from when we cranked up the input on a not-so-clean source. Detail and honesty shine through, as you’d expect. We’re happy to announce that the SSL’s monitoring sound is right up there with interfaces that cost twice as much - better,l in fact. There are several facets of a typical interface test, not least how the main outputs sound for direct monitoring, and we were fortunate to have a number of more expensive reference interfaces in for another test against which we could line the SSLs up. (Image credit: Future) Performance and verdict Explore the best SSL 2 and SSL 2+ deals.SSL 2 vs Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd gen: head-to-head.The design is quite old school, with a livery to reflect that SSL heritage, and everything does feel ‘pro’, with that solid build and smooth operation making you feel like these interfaces belong at a higher price point.
With the 2+’s extra headphone out, you also get another rotary to control its level on the front panel.īoth units feel very sturdy and well built. Outputs for both units are standard jack, although the 2+’s extra outputs are phono type connectors (the main outs being either type). Below these switch options are peak level meters, Gain dials and those 4k buttons that we’ll come to. A +48v option also allows the connection of both condenser and dynamic mics. Otherwise, the input configurations, build and specs are identical, with two combi mic/line inputs with Hi-Z (impedance) options for switching between guitar and bass signals or those from synths or drum machines.
We have both the 2 ($219/£189/€229) and 2+ ($289/£249/€299) models on test, the main difference being that the 2+ adds two outputs to the 2-in, 2-out configuration of the 2, MIDI In/Out plus an additional independent headphone out (with both being able to monitor different mixes). But first, let’s take a look at the overall specs.