Solid State Logic Revival 4000 Analog Channel Strip

Solid State Logic Revival 4000: An Overview The Revival 4000 is an all-analog channel strip that captures the sonic excellence and features of the legendary Solid-State Logic 4000 series consoles of the 1980s in a 1 RU form factor. It includes a Jensen transformer-balanced mic pre, a B series de-esser, a discrete VCA dynamics section, and the iconic 4-band parametric EQ. This channel strip’s flexible routing provides impressive versatility. Beginning with the mic pre section, the Jensen transformer of the mic preamp produces a rich sound with exquisite clarity. The de-esser section has a 10:1 ratio and helps to reduce harsh sibilance from a variety of sound sources. The Dynamics section, based on the E series consoles, provides smooth, Class-A VCA dynamics/gate capabilities, including soft-knee, quick attack, and linear release features, as well as standard threshold, release, ratio, and range controls and a 5-segment gain-reduction meter. The 4-band EQ section allows you to select between the old E-series brown knob and the black knob based on the 242 EQ. This part has parametric EQ control for low, low-mid, high-mid, and high frequencies, as well as an adjustable Q and the option to use a fixed-Q bell curve for the high and low bands. The Route section allows you to position the Dynamics and De-Esser sections after EQ, as well as engage external side-chain triggering or stereo side-chain connection to a second Revival 4000 series device. The master control portion offers ±20 dB output volume control, insert control, and the option to swap the source for the 5-segment master LED meter. Classic 4000 series dynamics processing. The Revival 4000’s dynamics module uses the same all-discrete architecture and Class A VCA chip found in SSL’s 4000 E series consoles. It’s divided into two sections: Compressor/Limiter and Expander/Gate, and it provides the same level of dynamic control as a traditional 4K desk. The compressor/limiter allows you to select between the default soft-knee attack with a logarithmic release and the hard-knee attack with a linear release. Because attack and release are independent, you may adjust compression to be smooth and transparent or bold and forceful. The Expander/Gate portion provides a versatile signal source, pulling from either the main input or the sidechain for external control. Furthermore, right before the dynamics stage, a one-knob de-esser patterned after the B series 4000 console applies a fixed 10:1 ratio at 7 kHz with a customizable threshold, allowing for easy control of harsh sibilance on voices. There are two famous EQ circuits to pick from. The Revival 4000’s notable feature is its ability to switch between two iconic SSL 4000 series EQ circuits: the grittier Brown Knob (02) and the cleaner Black Knob (242). The Brown Knob EQ, which comes directly from the 4000 E console, has a specific sound character that adds richness to percussion, electric guitar, and bass. In contrast, the Black Knob EQ, which was created in partnership with famed producer George Martin, is regarded for its tighter, more controlled response, making it perfect for voices and acoustic instruments while still excelling on electric guitar and bass. In addition to tonal variations, the “242” circuit has a somewhat wider gain range (±18 dB vs. ±15 dB for the “02”). The filters also differ: the Brown Knob uses a 12 dB/octave slope for both highpass and lowpass, but the Black Knob raises the HPF slope to 18 dB/octave for more low-end control. To complete the part, a separate external sidechain input may be applied to both the EQ and filters, increasing routing flexibility. Flexible signal routing potential SSL hardware is known for its flexible signal routing, which was adopted by engineers who fed audio through the 4000’s talkback mic to get the punchy compressor tone that typified numerous ’80s drum songs. The Revival 4000 maintains this legacy by allowing you to route the Dynamics and De-Esser modules after EQ, and a dedicated balanced insert point makes it simple to patch in extra outboard gear. A dedicated external sidechain input provides fine control when carving space for bass or kick drum, and sidechain linking allows you to use the two Revival 4000s as a stereo pair. Engineers feel that this configuration is particularly effective for thickening drum overheads and producing a sharp stereo picture on acoustic guitar. The portion concludes with an Output Trim knob, which allows for ±20 dB of adjustment to ensure the final signal level is optimally placed in the mix. The Solid State Logic Legacy Solid State Logic, founded in 1969 by Colin Sanders, has adhered to a design philosophy that prioritizes the demands of artists, engineers, and producers. The company’s solutions promote creativity by eliminating technological barriers and optimizing workflows. SSL is firmly established in the pantheon of pro audio greats, having helped define its history. It continues to evolve admirably, introducing a new generation of musicians and producers to its unrivaled quality and unique sounds. Sweetwater is pleased to offer SSL’s prestigious array of consoles, signal processors, and audio interfaces. Solid State Logic Revival 4000 Features:  The all-analog channel strip uses hardware from two legendary levels of SSL’s 4000 series consoles.  The mic preamp uses the same original Jensen JT-115K-E transformer as the 4000 series console.  1-knob A de-esser evens out harsh sibilance.  The discrete dynamics section uses the same Class A VCA chip as the original E series channel strip.  The compressor/limiter and expander/gate provide a comprehensive dynamics section to adjust levels and peaks.  The filter/EQ section has two circuitry settings: “02” Brown Knob (±15 dB range) and “242” Black Knob (±18 dB range).  Dedicated balanced insert point to accommodate extra outboard gear.  Enable sidechaining for stereo configurations with two Revival 4000s.