SSL Revival 4000

The SSL Revival 4000 Channel Strip is based on Solid State Logic's legendary 4000 series of mixing consoles. This all-analog channel combines authentic British console sound with the reliability of modern studio components.

The mic preamp uses the same Jensen JT-115K-E transformer used in the original 4K consoles. The dynamics section faithfully follows classic 4000-series circuitry, while the EQ and filter section brings together elements from two different SSL eras for versatile tone shaping. In addition, the routing module provides support for inserts, sidechains and more.

With the Revival 4000, you get SSL's studio standard right into your rack, ideal for both packing the punch of a classic '80s drum fill and shaping modern mixes.

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Dynamic processing from the legendary 4000 series
The Revival 4000 features the same discrete Class A VCA chip used in the SSL 4000 E consoles. Split into Compressor/Limiter and Expander/Gate, the module delivers the full dynamic range you would expect from a 4K channel strip. The Compressor/Limiter offers a choice between soft-knee attack with logarithmic release or hard-knee attack with linear release. Because attack and release are not coupled, you can set the compression precisely: from subtle and transparent to powerful and pronounced. The Expander/Gate can be controlled from the main input or via the sidechain. Ahead of the dynamics section is a handy De-Esser, modeled after the 4000 B console. This operates with a fixed ratio of 10:1 at 7 kHz and an adjustable threshold, making it easy to control sibilance in vocals.

Two iconic EQ circuits
A unique feature of the Revival 4000 is the choice between two classic SSL EQs: the Brown Knob (02) and the Black Knob (242). The Brown Knob, taken from the 4000 E, adds character and texture to drums, electric guitars and bass.
The Black Knob, developed in collaboration with producer George Martin, is known for its tighter and controlled sound and is particularly well suited for vocals and acoustic instruments, but also works extremely well on guitar or bass.
The Black Knob also has a slightly wider gain range (±18 dB versus ±15 dB with the Brown Knob). The filter curves also differ: Brown Knob uses 12 dB/octave for both high- and lowpass, while the Black Knob increases the HPF slope to 18 dB/octave for extra control in the low end. In addition, the external sidechain input can be applied to both EQ and Filters for even more routing options.

Flexible signal routing
As with many SSL devices, the Revival 4000 is rich in routing options. Well known is the '80s trick where engineers used the 4000's Talkback Mic for an iconic punchy drum compressor. The Revival 4000 continues this tradition, offering the ability to enable Dynamics and De-Esser after EQ. A balanced insert point makes it easy to include additional outboard in the chain. The external sidechain input lets you make precise room for kick or bass. Two Revival 4000 units let you activate sidechain linking to work in stereo - ideal for overheads or acoustic guitar with a wide and clear image. Finally, the Output Trim knob with ±20 dB control range ensures that your output level always fits perfectly within your mix.

SSL Revival 4000 features:

• full analog channel strip with circuitry from 2 iconic SSL 4000-series consoles
• microphone preamp with original Jensen JT-115K-E transformato
• 1-button De-Esser for suppressing sibilance
• discrete dynamics section with Class A VCA chip from the original E-series
• ompressor/limiter and expander/gate for full dynamics control
• EQ/filter section with choice of 2 circuits: "02" Brown Knob (±15 dB) and "242" Black Knob (±18 dB)
• balanced insert point for additional outboard equipment
• sidechain linking possible when using 2 Revival 4000 units in stereo
• 4000-REVIVL, Part No: 729747X1