Solid State Logic SSL 2 vs Universal Audio Apollo Twin Audio Interface

I'm replacing my Universal Audio Apollo Twin with the Solid State Logic SSL 2. Surprised? Let me explain...
What's your favourite audio interface for home recording? Would love to hear your experience in the comments.
If you're feeling social you can find me here:
instagram: / nancyruthmusic
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my website: www.nancyruth.com/
• Solid State Logic SSL ...

[@donraccoon6316]

I really like the way you talk, its so relaxing and soft😍😍😍

[@molianorasmadi4588]

Hi Nancy.. currently I'm using SSL2 too. Fantastic!! 👍👍👍

[@NancyRuthMusic]

Oh wow, that's cool, Moliano! Glad to hear you like it. So far I really do, too.

[@cesargonzalezbueno3359]

They way she said "Brillo" let's me know she is hispanic. I love the SSL sound

[@miltonmagik]

I changed my Focusrite ( not saying that is a bad interface) for an SSL 2 and I really loved it. The 4k features add a little more presence to whatever is being recorded. By the by, I know one of the guys who created AA, and I can confirm, they are some of the best mics, they are great! Happy recordings!

[@NancyRuthMusic]

Hey, that's cool you know one of the guys from Advanced Audio. My cousin at Frog Song Studio turned me on to them... had my CM12 for 8 years now, just love it.

[@bestchannelever7522]

beautiful review can u please make part 2, i'm impressed by your muscial sence ❤

[@SaleemAhmedVoice]

I am a user of ssl2 it is very good, And being a voice over artist gives me great result . I usually use 4K that makes my voice more crispy and colorful .

[@bohemianraaga]

Love the video and your vibe ❤️

[@wrenbudden8247]

I’ve had both the SSL2+ and the Apollo Twin... both are amazing!! But the SSL2+ is a whole lot easier to use and sounds fantastic. I only use the Apollo when I need (or want) to use some of its great DSP plugins. Cant go wrong with either one.

[@Majordanthemajorproducer]

Thanks

[@sbrave]

Hmmm, Apollo is $900+ can the SSL sound anywhere as good? Considering the SSL 12, but then there's the UA Volt 476P etc etc? So hard to choose!

[@NaidelPro]

Straight to the point great video, thanks alot🏁

[@trimembracion]

Hola Ruth, gracias por el video. ¿Finalmente qué te pareción la SSL 2? Yo estoy confundido si comprar la UA Volt 276p o esta SSL? me ayudaría mucho conociendo tu experiencia con la SSL. Saludos desde México.

[@NancyRuthMusic]

Después de un año con el SSL2 estoy muy contenta - no me ha dado ningún problema. Sin ruidos, sin fallos, sin complicaciones... ... Ese UA Volt 276p tiene muy buena pinta también, si vas a usar los plugins, puede ser una buena opción.

[@juanprivera]

@@NancyRuthMusic Volt no permite usar UAD2 plugins, solo la linea Apollo.

[@s.mortezanabavi708]

Thank you. Which one is the better option, audient id14 Mk2 or SSL2+ ?

[@duare4556]

I haven't used the Audient unit, although it looks very similar.

[@tinylittlefilms3043]

How so you like SSL 2 after 1 year with this interface? Have you ever considered the Sound Devices MixPre 3 II for music recordings?

[@NancyRuthMusic]

No issues with the SSL 2! Happy with the choice. I also solved one of the issues with the Apollo Twin - something wrong with Channel 2. As long as I mute it I avoid the wind noise. So, I use them both now, depending on the number of channels I need. Not familiar first hand with the other unit you mentioned.

[@daudet1]

Can you send the computer audio into the SSL 2 and use the large know as a volume knob that goes out to a monitor? I don't need the computer sound and mic sound to go into at once. I just need to be able to record a mic to the computer and then playback to the amp where the SSL 2 is serving as a sort of mixer / volume control.

[@NancyRuthMusic]

Yes, if I understand you correctly

[@dalviino0582]

Hey Nancy I have a MacBook Pro M1 chip .. do you think the Ssl2 will work fine with it ?

[@NancyRuthMusic]

Should work fine, yes

[@jeromewbrock]

Actually, and i'm 99% sure about this, the whooshing noise is the tube in your Advanced Audio Mic. I have the same mic, when mic warms up, it makes this whoosing noise, and when tubes are shot, this noise lasts a long time or indefinitely.

[@user-tk8ks1lj5o]

The UAD is for seasoned multi-track 'in the box producers' who know and somehow enjoy fiddling with the routing app. That's why you pay £250 per channel - great AD/DA converters. I've had both and, especially now UAD sell their plugins in native form, I use the SSL2+ nearly all the time unless I'm going out the box and need a second card to go back in. The SSL2 is an amazing plug and play device. Great sound and great pres/outs. It's no toy though - all the components are toppish of the range with super solid pots and invaluable Neutriks on the inputs. The 4k refers to the uber-famous 4000 SSL studio console. Half the records in the 80s were mixed upon these and their dismantled channel strips can be found in many a studio. A lot of producers are going back to the large format 32/64 track SSL consoles now they are so much cheaper new and do not need servicing every month. The 4k is SSLs secret sauce. Being 'harmonics' SSL desks give to music and makes it sound pro and expensive. Again, not a toy but a valuable tool. Of course there's no light pipe for expanding the I/O but since you can get the SiX for the same price as that fiddly Apollo or the SSL 12 for half one can't complain and SSL need to turn a profit so they can continue selling me that SSL feeling/experience I never thought I could sit on my desk twenty years ago. Nancy, if I was I would sell the UAD Apollo and get the SSL SiX for the same price. This is an excellent, mini SSL with its famous buss compressor amongst other things. I see you preform and record and this would shed a whole different light on both the recording (summing) and any live stuff. Just my 10 p's worth.

[@NancyRuthMusic]

Great commentary and info, thanks!

[@RachelBarrentineOfficial]

Any more thoughts on the SSL? I have an apollo quad and I can't get the noise floor down. It's so much digital noise. And I miss having button to turn down the monitors or headphones without having to select the right thing first. UGH. But the noise is the hardest issue. Do you love the SSL? Thanks! Great video! Love your vibe. So nice to see another gal in the music world kicking butt!

[@NancyRuthMusic]

Hi Rachel, after 2 years the SSL 2 hasn't let me down. It's the most reliable interface I've owned. It's fuss free and user friendly. The Apollo units are more potent but also more prone to issues (more variables...). I just recorded vocals for an album on the SSL and it was an easy process. I think the sound is comparable enough if you have a good mixing engineer.

[@RachelBarrentineOfficial]

@@NancyRuthMusic thank you so much for the response! Glad you’re loving it! So helpful. Thanks again!

[@DERAILENTERTAINMENT1]

Curious, did you deactivate plugins in Co sole app??

[@NancyRuthMusic]

I did. I think the issue is electrical within the unit.

[@marcelomandiola2530]

CUAL DE LAS DOS ES TU PREFERIDA ? Cual tiene más fuerza y mejor Sonido ? / Saludos

[@NancyRuthMusic]

Sinceramente, el Apollo tiene un mejor sonido, y más señal. Eso, cuando no me da problemas. El SSL 2 es más fiable, pero sí, que tengo que ajustar los niveles.

[@___David___Savian]

Nancy use the 4K on this SSL please. It gives it the authentic SSL sound that expensive studio SSLs have. Trust me. When your audio recordings (especially music with a range of frequencies) are played on large powerful speakers, that 4K feature gives music a professional sound. You may not notice that difference on your smaller speakers.

[@NancyRuthMusic]

I have been using it after playing around various reverbs and EQs on Logic Pro X - gives the sound more presence. Thanks for your message!

[@ashavari]

Do you have an updated review on this 😍 was thinking of switching as well!

[@NancyRuthMusic]

I haven't done an updated review yet, but after 2 years I'm still really happy with the SSL2 - no issues

[@pascalmerschaudio]

Are you Happy Nancy with it ? i love mine ssl2+ please do the review i will really here your opinion now

[@NancyRuthMusic]

I am happy with it, yes. It's fuss-free and reliable, low noise, and sounds good.

[@pascalmerschaudio]

@@NancyRuthMusic amazing, glad to Hear that from you.

[@nothought108]

Hi. I'm considering this unit to use with logic. Does it need drivers or is it plug and play?

[@NancyRuthMusic]

Logic will automatically recognize it - just go to Preferences > Audio and select the SSL for your audio and input devices. It should show up automatically from the dropdown menu if it's plugged in when you launch Logic.

[@nothought108]

@@NancyRuthMusic Thanks!

[@RoncaBaixo]

Hi Nancy! The 4k mode that you called as "just a fun thing" actually emulates the pre-amps from the legendary legacy SSL 4000 consoles. It does give some sort of enhancement to the high frequencies or more breathing/room to the sound in general when activated. Some people love it others won't notice the difference, regardless, SSL has lovely pre-amps, great choice!

[@NancyRuthMusic]

That's great info, thanks!

[@fredriksvard2603]

= an eq with a slight bump in the upper mids

[@KyleViewing]

@@fredriksvard2603 not really just an eq with a bump lol it actually has some saturation in which an eq cannot emulate at all... So simplifying it to just an eq with a bump is actually a low blow to the hardware.

[@fredriksvard2603]

@@KyleViewing aha ok. I just get lost when there are too many variables, i cant keep track of what actually contributes to a good end result.

[@krisjeneson5017]

Yes so as she said Ronca just a fun thing .

[@djrandalldean]

I have had the same issues and more. Mind numbing issues and endless back and forth with the staff... I'm so over it.

[@danzellisdeman1]

My ssl makes a hissing white noise when i turn up the gain on both channels what do i have to do to fix that. Please help me!

[@NancyRuthMusic]

What mic are you using?

[@SAMA-ct2li]

I am really confused between SSL2+ , Audient iD4 mk2 and UAD volt? help me out!

[@SAMA-ct2li]

@@thomsonhomson o wow, I didn't know Mr jhonny sins is interested in music production as well.

[@SAMA-ct2li]

@@thomsonhomson My profession is your hobby and your profession is mine. 😉

[@saleenaanas7500]

Ssl

[@moisesdiaz4353]

I have both and I can say Audient id14 mkii sounds much better than ssl2, that said my clarett+ sounds slightly better than the id mkii

[@freyafoxmusic]

subscribed

[@stanleyc7430]

UAD Apollo twin is nothing but touble indeed, I have to smack it to make the damn thing start working every single time....great way to start a day.

[@TheOnlineBusker]

This is cool that you bought this in Sept 2021! I'm thinking about it but don't want to pull the trigger as it's an "older" model now and I don't wanna buy it then they release a newer/better model in a month! :( Hmm, this or the UA Volt2 (all "tools" on the front, like my Scarlett, not sure how I'd get on with the mic pres being round the back?)

[@ceed3d396]

Yep. Came out beginning of 2020, but quality, and you have to get the SSL2+ for the few extra features that are worth the price bump for a lot of us music makers. I've been having mine for about a week now. If all else fails and you buy one and a newer version comes out that's worth upgrading to, sell the old one online to help pay for the new version.

[@TheOnlineBusker]

@@ceed3d396 In the end I got the SSL2+ and love it! I don’t care what they bring out, can’t see me changing this for a long time!

[@zorroinhell5549]

I have an Apollo Twin and it's been a god send. And all the plug-ins are brilliant!

[@NancyRuthMusic]

I agree it's a great interface. Unfortunately I just had problems with mine. When it was working, it sure did sound great.

[@armandorojas7173]

hey Nancy, by the way, your noise may be due to an electrical setup that needs to be checked. I can help you remotely to check that if you want some help. That way you can take advantage of the DSP processing of the Apollo.

[@NancyRuthMusic]

I suspect you're right - sure, if you have any advice on that let me know the best way to reach you

[@ivyriley2916]

Good vid" even doe I love her voice!

[@NancyRuthMusic]

What is your favourite audio interface for home studio recording?

[@pascalmerschaudio]

i bought it before 3 months and i´m so happy with this SSl unit, i mix over this interface, and now i hear the music 3 D not only 2 D for this price, best choice

[@fredriksvard2603]

Zen go > ssl2

[@vronskymorningstar7654]

These are way better than anything I’ve seen in this price range…the pre amps alone should convince anyone .. I got the SSL 2+ Which gives an extra set of outputs… I can re-amp and it just sounds good

[@ceed3d396]

I was a fan of Focusrite since 2015 until switching to the (SSL 2+) about a week ago. Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 and 8i6 are quality and affordable, but when it's time to step up on that quality, you just know.

[@pascalmerschaudio]

@@ceed3d396 exactly

[@armandorojas7173]

I am soo uncertain on if to wait for the UA VOLT 276 or go for the SSL2 . Any input guys? I appreciate it!

[@pascalmerschaudio]

ssl2 without doubt mate

[@armandorojas7173]

@@pascalmerschaudio that's the one I got ! And I freaking love it! The sound on it!!! Massive

[@iamgreatness6649]

Yea I I have both and honestly I think I might go back to my ssl2 because the pre amp is much better and I think it’s even better than the volt w the compressor

[@phinestro]

I also thought about your issue It could be that you had a noise floor issue so a ferman power conditioner But again uad is hyped by its plugins And the simplicity of the recording is necessary AD DA clean 🧼 vocals or instrument And no driver needed! Comes down to ease of use No phantom power needed So SSL for the 🥇 win

[@NancyRuthMusic]

Yup!

[@different.9853]

Hello miss Ruth..... i have a ssl 2 as well but i would love to know if you could please sell me your apollo.......

[@NancyRuthMusic]

Where are you located? I'm currently in Spain.

[@KeepThingsChangingLLC.-gu7sc]

Probably a dumb question but I know most of you will say there are no dumb questions. Does the SSL take the CPU load away from your computer or in my case a MacBook Pro? I know the Apollo would. That’s mostly what is hanging me up when recording because I don’t want my MacBook to blow up 😂 merry Christmas 🎄🎁

[@lifepath7741]

Kiss your hand, Nancy! Today is 14 March 2024. What is your personal experience with SSL2 until now? Love.

[@NancyRuthMusic]

After 2 years I'm still really happy with the SSL2 - no issues

[@lifepath7741]

@@NancyRuthMusic After 2 months I received an answer :) Finally you have found the perfect interface. Watch out for Vocaster TWO [I buy it for 60 Euro, if you find it at this price, take it]

[@lamasteve6905]

Try a Blue mic !

[@juanprivera]

I recorded this guitar with my SSL2 and mixed it in the box. I might get the new SSL12 which has more dynamic range also. I have been considering the Apollo Twin, but since I have the amazing UAD Spark plugins, it might not be such a big difference in sound quality. Difficult decision to make. kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6Gpg2Nmbs-Lq68

[@LB13A]

Oh. Wooow. SSL+ is way better because I’ve opened just new box with interface 😂😂😂 an amazing comparison 😂😂😂

[@TheDoug2103]

one very critical problem, and they really could have built it i n for less than 25.00 retail per unit, is that there is no expansion options.

[@purpleheart69420]

whm expansion options?

[@kevinbrandman8893]

Hello Nancy. Would you sell me that Apollo please? Am in Kenya

[@NancyRuthMusic]

I will hang on to it for now - maybe I'll find the solution some day!

[@kevinbrandman8893]

Okay good luck. Am also passionate in music

[@TheDoug2103]

i tried to switch to apollo, came her darlin, total freakin nightmare,

[@spirospandis]

We love ssl2

[@fattohead]

Apollo is a bit higher level in terms of built quailty, converters, preamp and technology etc. SSL2 may compete with the new UA Volt series thou

[@NancyRuthMusic]

Agreed. When the Apollo Twin is working for me, I do prefer the sound quality.

[@ErandoBeatz]

that whooshing noise is a demo plugin

[@ELMASQUELAMONTA]

The wind noise sounds like you are using a plugin demo on a track

[@DeeNelsonDee_nels_on_duty]

Sounds like an ik multimedia product with demo expired

[@artg7909]

If you have a windows computer is not going to be stable.

[@fredriksvard2603]

Ssl is perfectly stable on windows

[@armandorojas7173]

She said she has a MAC

[@titua1288]

I will say it depends what case scenario, I have the X6 Thunderbolt & Arrow TB on Windows running excellent with no issues in my desktop & laptop but my previous Apollo Duo did gave me some small issues on Windows but then I had an old Mac Pro running bootcamp Windows 🤔