SSL Native Channel Strip 2

The SSL Native Channel Strip 2 is a premium analog-modeled channel strip plugin that brings the legendary sound of SSL's renowned mixing consoles directly to your DAW. It recreates the complete signal path of SSL's iconic console channels, offering the warmth, punch, and musical character that has defined countless hit records since the 1980s.

Key features include a complete channel strip with high and low-pass filters, 4-band parametric EQ based on SSL's classic E-Series and G-Series consoles, and both VCA and vintage-modeled compressors. The plugin also features SSL's signature expander/gate, flexible routing options, and authentic analog saturation modeling. The interface faithfully recreates the look and feel of an actual SSL console channel, making it intuitive for engineers familiar with hardware mixing desks.

The sound quality is exceptional, delivering the transparent yet characterful tone SSL is famous for. The EQ provides surgical precision when needed but remains musical even with extreme settings. The compressor section offers everything from subtle glue to aggressive pumping, while the expander/gate helps clean up tracks without artifacts. The plugin excels at both individual track processing and mix bus duties, adding the cohesive SSL "glue" that ties mixes together.

Workflow benefits include comprehensive metering, A/B comparison functionality, and full automation support. The plugin integrates seamlessly with major DAWs and includes presets from top mixing engineers. CPU usage is reasonable even when using multiple instances across a large mix. The interface is resizable and includes detailed tooltips for newcomers to SSL-style mixing.

Who Is This For?

• Professional mixing engineers seeking authentic SSL console sound without the hardware cost
• Home studio producers who want to add professional polish and cohesion to their mixes
• Musicians transitioning from hardware who appreciate familiar SSL workflow and sound
• Engineers working in genres like rock, pop, and electronic music where SSL's punchy character shines
• Anyone mixing "in the box" who wants to add analog warmth and character to digital recordings

The SSL Native Channel Strip 2 represents excellent value for engineers serious about mixing quality. While not inexpensive for a plugin, it costs a fraction of actual SSL hardware while delivering remarkably authentic results. It's particularly worthwhile if you frequently mix full arrangements, as using it across multiple channels creates the cohesive SSL sound that made these consoles legendary. Consider it an investment in your mix quality that will pay dividends across every project.