SSL SSL2+ 2-In/4-Out USB-C Audio Interface Review

The SSL SSL2+ is a compact, high-quality USB-C audio interface aimed at music producers, podcasters, and content creators who need professional studio-grade audio conversion while maintaining portability. With 2 combo XLR/TRS inputs, 4 balanced TRS outputs, MIDI I/O, and legendary SSL conversion and preamps, the SSL2+ packs pro features into a small metal chassis perfect for taking on the road or using in a small home studio setup.

In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the features, sound quality, build, and usability of the SSL2+ 2×2 USB audio interface to see how it stacks up for music production, content creation, and portable recording needs.

Features and Specs

Here are the main features and specs of the SSL SSL2+:

• 2 x SSL SuperAnalogue mic preamps with up to 57dB of gain
• 2 x combo XLR/TRS inputs
• 4 x TRS balanced outputs
• 24-bit/192kHz conversion
• +48V phantom power
• 1x MIDI input, 1x MIDI output
• 1x Headphone output with independent level control
• Mix control for zero-latency monitoring
• Sturdy metal construction
• Bus-powered via USB-C
• Works with Windows, Mac, iOS devices

The SSL2+ incorporates SSL’s renowned SuperAnalogue mic preamps, which provide wide frequency response, low noise, and up to 57dB of clean gain for everything from subtle vocals to screaming electric guitars. The 2 combo inputs accept both XLR for mics and 1/4″ TRS for everything else, providing flexibility.

SSL SSL2+ 2-In/4-Out USB-C Audio Interface

• 2-In/4-Out USB Audio Interface
• 2 x SSL-designed microphone preamps with unrivalled noise performance and gain range for a USB-powered device
• Legacy 4K - analogue colour enhancement for any input source, inspired by classic SSL consoles
• 2 x Professional, high-current grade headphone outputs
• USB 2.0, bus-powered audio interface for Mac/PC - no power supply required

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4 balanced TRS outputs allow you to connect monitors, external effects, and more. 24-bit/192kHz conversion ensures studio-quality sound, while the independent headphone mix knob makes it easy to dial in your zero-latency monitoring blend.

Phantom power, MIDI I/O, and sturdy metal construction round out the feature set, making the SSL2+ a well-equipped portable interface despite its small size. Next, let’s see how it performs.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of the SSL2+ rests heavily on SSL’s SuperAnalogue design, which aims to deliver extremely low noise, low distortion, and superb frequency response perfect for professional audio applications. Their reputation is well deserved, as the mic preamps provide tremendous transparency and fidelity even at high gain settings.

Subtle details come through clearly, while drums, percussion, and guitars retain their punch and impact. The converters handle complex material without artifacts, and the headphone amp provides plenty of clean level even for hard-to-drive headphones.

Overall, the SSL2+ delivers professional studio-grade sound in a remarkably small form factor. The mic preamps in particular stand out in clarity and flexibility, making the SSL2+ a great choice for critical recording like vocals, acoustic instruments, drum overheads, and more. It’s equally adept at both pristine fidelity and rich saturation when pushed hard.

Build Quality

The SSL2+ sports an all-metal construction that feels sturdy and durable in actual use. The knobs have a smooth but firm feel, with no undesired wiggles. The buttons provide positive click feedback, and all the labeling is clearly visible.

The rubber feet help avoid slips on desks, and the overall compact footprint takes up minimal space in a studio or mobile rig. Despite its small size, the SSL2+ doesn’t feel fragile or prone to damage under normal use.

The weight and density provide a sense of quality, and the unit requires no plastic chassis removal to access the connections. Overall, the build quality is suitable for the needs of working musicians and content creators.

Ease of Use

Operation of the SSL2+ is simple and intuitive. Each input channel gets a gain knob, 48V phantom power button, and activity LED, making it easy to set levels and enable mics. The master output knob controls overall volume, while the independent headphone knob makes dialing in monitoring levels easy.

The mix knob smoothly blends between DAW playback and zero-latency direct monitoring, great for recording situations. The 4 output knobs give extra flexibility in routing mixes to external destinations. Finally, the MIDI I/O rounds out the interface for controllers and synthesizers.

Overall, the well-labeled controls and straightforward signal flow of the SSL2+ make it easy to achieve great results quickly. Novices and experienced users alike will appreciate the simple but versatile workflow. The compact layout actually improves usability by putting controls within easy reach.

Who It’s For

The compact SSL2+ hits a sweet spot between portability and professional-grade sound, making it appealing for:

• Music producers who need to record on the go
• Podcasters who value pristine audio
• Guitarists and vocalists seeking top-notch preamp tone
• Bedroom producers with limited space
• Content creators wanting better mobile audio
• Project studio owners needing clean mic pres

Its sturdy metal construction also makes the SSL2+ suitable for gigging musicians and frequent travelers. The flexibility of the 2 combo inputs allows for mics, instruments, synths, and more, covering a wide range of recording needs. Overall, it’s ideal for anyone who needs pro-level sound in a grab-and-go form factor.

Alternatives

The SSL2+ resides in a competitive space with lots of options. Here are some alternatives worth considering:

• Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 – More affordable, less premium preamps but still excellent sound quality.
• Universal Audio Volt 1 – Boutique quality at a higher price point.
• Audient Evo 4 – Similar quality and I/O to SSL2+ but with a bigger form factor.
• Presonus Studio 24c – Good value with more I/O but slightly lower build quality.
• RME Babyface Pro – Premium sound at a premium price.

The SSL2+ strikes a great balance of portability, quality, and flexibility compared to rivals. It boasts better preamp sound than more affordable options, while avoiding the higher cost of premium boutique brands.

Verdict

The SSL SSL2+ absolutely delivers on its promise of boutique SSL sound in a supremely portable form factor. The mic preamps and converters deliver exceptional studio-quality tone perfect for pro music production and pristine content creation.

Rugged metal construction and simple intuitive operation also make the SSL2+ ideal for taking on the road. Compared to other compact interfaces, it provides superior fidelity thanks to the pedigree of its SuperAnalogue design.

For those seeking professional-caliber recordings with maximum grab-and-go simplicity, the SSL SSL2+ gets a strong recommendation. Its balance of sound quality, flexibility, and durable construction is difficult to match in such a small footprint. For many producers and creators, the premium tone and portability will be well worth the investment.

FAQs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the SSL2+ interface:

Does the SSL2+ work with iPads/mobile devices?

Yes, with the proper camera connection kit, the SSL2+ can interface with iPads and mobile devices that support USB-C audio. This makes it easy to record on the go.

What sample rates does it support?

The SSL2+ supports sample rates up to 192kHz, including 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96kHz. This allows high-resolution audio recording and playback.

Does it require special drivers?

No, the SSL2+ is plug-and-play with Windows, Mac, iOS devices. No special drivers needed.

What impedance headphones does it support?

The SSL2+ headphone output can drive headphones from 16ohms to 600ohms, covering most common headphone impedances.

Can it provide power via USB bus?

Yes, the SSL2+ is completely bus-powered via USB-C. No external power supply required.

Does it come with recording software?

No, the SSL2+ is just the hardware interface. It works seamlessly with any audio recording software like Pro Tools, Ableton, Logic, etc.

Conclusion

The SSL SSL2+ packs an impressive amount of professional sound and features into one of the smallest premium audio interfaces on the market. For creators and producers needing top-tier tone in a highly portable unit with easy plug-and-play operation, the SSL2+ is an excellent choice.

While not the most affordable compact interface, its superb preamps and converters justify the higher cost for those who value premium pro-grade audio quality. For recording and mixing on the go, it’s hard to beat the SSL2+.

Overall, the SSL2+ delivers outstanding fidelity and flexibility in a compact, durable, and easy-to-use form factor. For certain users, that combination of sound and portability will be absolutely worth the investment.

SSL SSL2+ 2-In/4-Out USB-C Audio Interface

• 2-In/4-Out USB Audio Interface
• 2 x SSL-designed microphone preamps with unrivalled noise performance and gain range for a USB-powered device
• Legacy 4K - analogue colour enhancement for any input source, inspired by classic SSL consoles
• 2 x Professional, high-current grade headphone outputs
• USB 2.0, bus-powered audio interface for Mac/PC - no power supply required

Check Price on Amazon