Brainworx bx_console SSL 4000 G is a meticulously crafted digital emulation of the iconic Solid State Logic 4000 G-Series analog mixing console. This plugin aims to bring the warmth, character, and functionality of the renowned hardware into the digital domain. Developed in collaboration with SSL, the bx_console SSL 4000 G offers a faithful recreation of the original console’s channel strip, complete with its distinctive EQ, dynamics, and routing options. The plugin’s interface closely mirrors the layout of the physical console, providing users with a familiar and intuitive workflow. Each instance of the plugin represents a single channel of the SSL 4000 G, allowing users to build a virtual console within their digital audio workstation. The bx_console SSL 4000 G not only captures the sonic characteristics of the original hardware but also incorporates modern features to enhance its functionality in contemporary production environments.
Pros:
• Authentic emulation of the SSL 4000 G sound
• Intuitive interface mirroring the original hardware
• Comprehensive feature set including EQ, dynamics, and routing options
• TMT (Tolerance Modeling Technology) for analog-like variations between channels
• Scalable GUI for various screen sizes and resolutions
Cons:
• CPU-intensive, especially when using multiple instances
• Steep learning curve for users unfamiliar with SSL consoles
bx_console SSL 4000 G plugin boasts an impressive array of features that closely replicate the functionality of its hardware counterpart. The plugin’s channel strip includes a high-pass filter, a four-band parametric EQ, and a compressor/limiter section. The EQ section is particularly noteworthy, offering the characteristic SSL sound with its ability to shape and enhance audio with surgical precision. Users can switch between E and G-Series EQ types, providing additional tonal options.
The dynamics section includes both compression and expansion/gating, allowing for precise control over the dynamic range of the audio. The compressor features the classic SSL auto-release function, which adapts to the input signal for natural-sounding compression. The expander/gate is equally versatile, offering control over threshold, range, and release parameters.
bx_console SSL 4000 G uses Brainworx’s proprietary TMT (Tolerance Modeling Technology). This technology simulates the subtle variations in component tolerances found in analog hardware, resulting in slight differences between each instance of the plugin. This approach adds depth and dimension to mixes, closely mimicking the behavior of a real analog console.
SSL console plugin also includes a comprehensive routing section, allowing users to adjust the signal flow within the channel strip. This includes options for placing the EQ pre or post dynamics, as well as the ability to split the signal path for parallel processing. Additionally, the bx_console SSL 4000 G features a virtual mix bus compressor, emulating the famous SSL G-Series bus compressor, which can be enabled on a per-channel basis.
When comparing the bx_console SSL 4000 G to similar products, it stands out for its attention to detail and authenticity. While there are other SSL-style channel strip plugins on the market, such as Waves’ SSL E-Channel and SSL G-Channel, or Universal Audio’s SSL E and G Series Channel Strip plugins, the Brainworx offering distinguishes itself through its collaboration with SSL and the implementation of TMT. This results in a more nuanced and realistic emulation of the original hardware. The bx_console SSL 4000 G also offers more flexibility in terms of EQ types and routing options compared to some competitors. However, it’s worth noting that plugins like the Waves SSL 4000 Collection or the Universal Audio SSL 4000 E Series Channel Strip might be more CPU-efficient for users working on less powerful systems.
Who would benefit most from this product:
• Professional mix engineers seeking authentic SSL console sound
• Producers working across multiple genres, particularly in pop, rock, and electronic music
• Home studio owners looking to elevate their mixes with high-end console emulation
• Audio post-production professionals requiring precise control over audio shaping
• Educational institutions teaching audio engineering and mixing techniques
bx_console SSL 4000 G represents a significant achievement in the realm of analog emulation plugins. Its meticulous recreation of the SSL 4000 G-Series console provides users with a powerful tool for shaping and mixing audio with the coveted SSL sound. The plugin’s comprehensive feature set, including its authentic EQ, dynamics, and routing options, offers a level of control and flexibility that rivals its hardware counterpart. The implementation of TMT adds an extra layer of analog-like behavior, contributing to more natural and dimensional mixes. While the plugin’s CPU demands and learning curve may present challenges for some users, its benefits in terms of sound quality and mixing capabilities make it a valuable addition to any digital audio workstation. For those seeking the essence of a world-class analog console in plugin form, the bx_console SSL 4000 G delivers an experience that closely mirrors working on the original hardware, making it an excellent choice for professional mix engineers and discerning producers alike.