SSL BIG SIX
The SSL BiG SiX is a studio mixer that combines iconic SSL studio console production tools with modern hybrid workflow features. It is an evolution of the modern classic SiX, designed to meet the demands of artists, producers, and engineers. BiG SiX offers enhanced capacity with four SuperAnalogueTM mic preamps, four SuperAnalogueTM stereo inputs, 3-band E-Series EQ on every channel, and advanced monitoring and routing capabilities. The mixer is built on the SuperAnalogueTM foundation and integrates USB connectivity for a versatile and creative studio experience.
BiG SiX is designed to enhance production capabilities at any stage, offering flexibility, creative agility, and the engineering authority of large-format SSL consoles in a desktop mixer. Whether for content creation, post-production, multitrack recording, or stem mixing, BiG SiX provides an all-in-one solution for the modern studio.
Key Features
- G-Series Bus Compressor:
- BiG SiX features the legendary G Series Bus Compressor strapped across the mix bus. This compressor adds drive, energy, and a finished sound to productions. It utilizes the same circuit topology as the original design found on the SL 4000 G-Series console, with a fixed 4:1 ratio, 30 ms attack, and 100 ms release. The renowned 'Auto' release setting provides flexibility to the classic glue and punch maker.
- USB Interface:
- BiG SiX includes a class-compliant USB 96 kHz / 24-bit interface for seamless connectivity to a PC or MAC. The interface is paired with 16 high-quality A/D and D/A converters connected to the SuperAnalogueTM signal chain in BiG SiX. USB channels offer flexibility for multitrack recording or stem mixing, and the first 12 channels can be switched pre/post fader.
- SuperAnalogueTM Mic Preamps:
- BiG SiX is equipped with four SuperAnalogueTM mic preamps known for being fast, detailed, and punchy. These preamps handle a wide variety of microphones, including ribbon mics, with a super-wide gain range. They also feature a dedicated line input with Hi-Z, 48V, high-pass filter, and polarity switch.
- Channel Compressor:
- Classic SSL channel compression is available on BiG SiX. The program-dependent attack time (8ms – 30ms), release time around 300ms, and gentle 2:1 ratio allow for smooth compression across various content. It is one of the three compression flavors offered by BiG SiX.
- 3-Band SSL EQ:
- The channel EQ on BiG SiX is inspired by SSL’s classic E series, matching its EQ curves on the broadest setting. It is a broad-stroke three-band design with high and low shelving filters at 3.5 kHz and 60 Hz. The HF and LF bands can be independently switched between shelving and bell curves and are found on every channel.
- Stereo Inputs:
- BiG SiX features four stereo SuperAnalogueTM line level inputs that can be fed from 1/4 “ TRS balanced jack inputs on the rear or switched to the DA converters from relevant USB returns.
- Monitoring / Headphones:
- The monitoring section includes Main and Alt loudspeaker outputs with MON, DIM, and CUT controls. BiG SiX has two independent stereo headphone outputs following the MONITOR SOURCE selection, switchable to monitor Stereo Cue buses independently of the Monitor selection.
- Stereo Cue:
- Two stereo Cue sends on each channel with independent level control, fed from channel pre-fader post-insert. Cue sends can be routed with additional sources via the master section to provide FX sends and headphone mixes.
- Console Grade Faders:
- Channel level on BiG SiX is controlled by 100mm long-throw SSL faders with a large sweet spot around 0 dB for confident and subtle adjustments.
- Listen Mic Compressor (LMC):
- BiG SiX features the legendary Listen Mic Compressor at the top, originally found in the centre section of the SL 4000E, known for its '80s producers' secret weapon.
- Professional Metering:
- The metering on BiG SiX represents professional +24 dB and +18 dB standards, providing fast, accurate, and detailed information for both analogue and digital audio levels.
