Solid State Logic SiX Desktop Mixer
This is an impressive little mixer. With the legendary quality of SSL behind it, who wouldn’t be impressed. We will be reviewing this new release and discussing our initial thoughts about the latest from SSL.
There are lots of features that I like about this compact desktop mixer. As a home studio enthusiast, I can appreciate a high quality stripped-down bare-bones device like this. I do have some issues with this product but let’s highlight the pro’s first.
Tech Specs
- Type:Analog Console
- Channels:6
- Faders:5 x 100mm
- Inputs – Mic Preamps:2 x XLR (SuperAnalogue)
- Phantom Power:Yes
- Inputs – Line:2 x 1/4″ (line/Hi-Z), 4 x 1/4″ TRS (2 x stereo line), 4 x 1/4″ TRS (2 x stereo SuperAnalogue line)
- Outputs – Main:2 x XLR (main out), 2 x 1/4″ TRS (main monitor), 2 x 1/4″ TRS (alt monitor)
- Aux Sends:2 x Cue Sends
- Send/Return I/O:2 x 1/4″ TRS (send L/R), 2 x 1/4″ TRS (send L/R), 2 x 1/4″ TRS (Bus B out)
- Busses/Groups:1 x Bus B
- Inserts:2 x DB-25 In/Out (channel, main)
- Headphones:1 x 1/4″ TRS
- Talkback:1 x XLR
- EQ Bands:2-band EQ, Switchable Bell Curve
- Effects:Channel Compressor, G Series Bus Compressor
- Power Source:5-pin 15V DC Power Supply (included)
- Height:4.7″
- Width:10.6″ (including trim)
- Depth:12.2″
- Weight:7.7 lbs.
The thing that really impresses me is the build quality. Just look at those curves and attention to detail. The color markers of the knobs really make it easy to find the right control in a fast pace session. I love that faders are coming back. From learning on physical boards then moving to the digital “In-the-box” and now full circle, faders are a wonderful thing. The preamps are of great build quality, as you can expect from SSL. I really like the idea of a smaller mixer for tracking. Bringing this to remote sessions as a handy and portable go-to small format mixer is great for stripped-down sessions, demos or overdubs. A lot of what we do in the studio is built on the foundation that was already tracked. Sometimes this is tracked in a professional studio and just requiring a bass, guitar or vocal overdub to complete. This concept of an ultra-high-quality mixer in a smaller format is perfect for those situations.
With an impressive spec sheet, there are just a few questions I have. Why siX? Why not 2, or better yet 2+. I understand when product lines and manufactures label things as 21 IO, when really its closer to 16 IO. I get it, it’s a more impressive stat, and while true, it’s an understatement might be closer to the mark. I only count 2 XLR inputs on this six or 6 mixer with the full trimmings. I would love to see this unit available as an SSL EighT (or as they might call TeN).
All and all still a very impressive device. SSL continues to amaze me with their build quality and innovation. Excited to add this to the studio.
