Softube Solid State Logic XL 9000 K-Series for Console 1 is a meticulously crafted channel strip plugin designed to emulate the sound and functionality of SSL’s renowned XL 9000 K-Series analog console. Developed in close collaboration with SSL engineers, this plugin brings the clean, wide, and smooth characteristics of the original hardware to the digital domain. It’s an exclusive addition to Softube’s Console 1 ecosystem, offering users the ability to experience the sonic qualities of a high-end analog console within their digital audio workstation. The XL 9000 K-Series plugin features a capacitor-free design, resulting in minimal inherent noise and distortion, making it ideal for genres like R&B, Hip Hop, and Electronica, as well as audiophile Jazz and Classical recordings. The plugin’s extended bandwidth, minimal phase shift, and ultra-low distortion contribute to a mix’s overall width, depth, and hugeness, allowing for precise and transparent sound shaping.
Pros:
• Exceptionally clean and transparent sound with minimal coloration
• Wide frequency range for enhanced clarity and detail in mixes
• Versatile EQ and dynamics sections for precise sound sculpting
• Inclusion of SSL’s Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD) for creative saturation options
• Seamless integration with Softube’s Console 1 hardware for tactile control
Cons:
• Requires Softube’s Console 1 hardware for full functionality
• Higher learning curve compared to simpler channel strip plugins
• Premium pricing may be prohibitive for some users
Softube Solid State Logic XL 9000 K-Series for Console 1 boasts an impressive array of features that closely mirror its hardware counterpart. The plugin’s input section provides essential controls for gain adjustment, phase inversion, and high/low cut filtering. The shape section incorporates a fully controllable gate unit, where the Punch and Sustain knobs manipulate Range and Hold levels, offering more individual control compared to the SL 4000 E model.
The equalizer section is a standout feature, delivering the XL 9000 K’s signature clean and smooth EQ characteristics. It offers four fully parametric bands with adjustable frequency, gain, and Q factors, allowing for precise tonal shaping without introducing unwanted artifacts. The high and low bands can be switched between shelving and bell curves, providing additional flexibility.
The compressor section is equally impressive, offering both Peak and RMS modes for a wide range of dynamic control options. Users can fine-tune attack, release, ratio, and threshold settings to achieve anything from subtle compression to more aggressive dynamic shaping. The inclusion of a mix knob facilitates easy parallel compression techniques.
Modeling of SSL’s Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD) circuit is borrowed from SSL’s Duality series consoles and Alpha channel preamps, allows users to introduce controlled harmonic distortion. The Drive knob determines the amount of distortion, while the Character knob blends between 2nd order (tube-like) and 3rd order (transistor-like) harmonics, providing a spectrum of tonal options from subtle warmth to edgy aggression.
The output section includes a saturation control, pan adjustment, and volume fader. The saturation feature adds another layer of tonal shaping, allowing users to impart subtle analog-style warmth or more pronounced coloration to the signal. Throughout the plugin, the metering is comprehensive and informative, providing visual feedback on input and output levels, gain reduction, and EQ curves. This attention to detail in the user interface enhances the overall user experience and aids in making precise adjustments.
When compared to similar plugins, the Softube Solid State Logic XL 9000 K-Series for Console 1 stands out for its exceptional clarity and transparency. While many channel strip plugins aim to add character or color to the sound, the XL 9000 K-Series is designed to be as clean and neutral as possible, allowing the source material to shine through unaltered unless specifically shaped by the user. This approach sets it apart from plugins that emulate vintage or more colored consoles.
In comparison to Universal Audio’s SSL E-Series Channel Strip or Waves’ SSL E-Channel, the XL 9000 K-Series offers a more modern and pristine sound. It lacks the grit and aggression often associated with the E-Series, instead providing a wider frequency response and smoother overall character. The inclusion of the VHD feature gives the XL 9000 K-Series an edge in terms of versatility, allowing users to dial in harmonics when desired, rather than having them always present. When compared to Brainworx’s bx_console SSL 9000 J, the Softube offering provides a similar level of clarity but with the added benefit of hardware integration through the Console 1 system. This hardware/software synergy offers a more tactile and immediate workflow that many users find appealing.
This plugin is best for:
• Engineers and producers seeking a clean, transparent channel strip for modern productions
• R&B, Hip Hop, and Electronic music creators who require precise control over their mix elements
• Classical and Jazz recordists who prioritize fidelity and minimal coloration
• Users of Softube’s Console 1 system looking to expand their available console emulations
• Mix engineers working on projects that require extensive dynamic control and EQ precision
Solid State Logic XL 9000 K-Series for Console 1 is a premium channel strip plugin that excels in delivering clean, transparent, and highly detailed sound processing. Its faithful emulation of the SSL XL 9000 K console, combined with modern features like the VHD circuit, makes it a versatile tool for a wide range of mixing scenarios. The plugin’s integration with the Console 1 hardware provides a unique hybrid workflow that bridges the gap between analog and digital mixing paradigms. While its learning curve and price point may be challenging for some users, those who invest the time and resources will find a powerful tool capable of elevating their mixes to professional standards. The XL 9000 K-Series plugin’s ability to provide extreme clarity while still offering options for creative coloration through its VHD feature sets it apart in the crowded field of channel strip plugins. For engineers and producers seeking the utmost in sound quality and mix control, particularly those already invested in the Console 1 ecosystem, this plugin represents a significant and worthy addition to their digital toolbox.