SSL XLogic Alpha channel vs Art Digital MPA

[Chris Lago]

Hey guys,

I had a rush session today and had to get a decent pre for an artist, so I rented the SSL XLogic Alpha channel.

Here are some files of how it sounds with the AD via SPDIF. (Right Click, Save as)

sslartIntro
k2sslflat
k2sslflat2

With Eq on the channel strip:
k2ssleq1
k2ssleq2
http://www.chrislago.com/conclusionsslandeq3.wav

Art Digital MPA w.Telefunken:

k2artmpatele
k2artmpatele2

Enjoy guys,

-Chris-

[Heartfelt]

I actually appreciate this thread, Chris. I enjoyed listening to the singing.

What I hear is that the SSL is more focused and up front. That is my whole
beef with lower cost pres compared to those generally seen as high end.
And despite people's thought that you can EQ the qualities a high end pre
brings into a low end pre (I did), it just isn't true. There is no way the MPA
will sound like the SSL.

There is something in the midrange that I like a lot on the SSL. That chain
would definitely be an upgrade for you.

MH .02

Rob

[Chris Lago]

The midrange on the Art Digital MPA is killing me big time, because as soon as I hit a harder note, it comes through and hurts my ears when I listen to it in the playback.

Not only is the SSL better and more defined on bass, it has extremely defined mids and silky highs, I think this is the preamp I've been looking for all along, and it even comes with SPDIF in/out, go figure!

Last but not least, the EQ is to die for... Seriously, it's just out of this world. I think for a home studio owner like me, If I want to record better tracks for my clients, I should definitely invest in one of those, instead of booking studio time at another studio, or renting a piece of gear.

Oh and also, the 737, while being more expensive, seems a tad bit pricey when it comes to actual "sound".

ps: Not as good as the higher end SSL, but it's still competitive in this price range.

[Poorbutrich]

Hey, it's "daddy" again, eh?

But seriously, I like the SSL clips better also, but what do I know...

I was about to suggest you do exactly that, go ahead and settle on one of the pres you have experience with renting. It would definitely be an investment that will pay off in no time I'm sure. A couple sessions here, a couple there, and you're good. I think it's definitely a better business move at this point, as opposed to renting. I'm sure you may still find yourself renting mics for certain clients, but with a good pre on deck, you would have that base covered.

You seem to have decided that this is a better way to go, and I concur with the notion. So just buy it already huh?

[Chris Lago]

Originally Posted by Poorbutrich

Hey, it's "daddy" again, eh?

But seriously, I like the SSL clips better also, but what do I know...

I was about to suggest you do exactly that, go ahead and settle on one of the pres you have experience with renting. It would definitely be an investment that will pay off in no time I'm sure. A couple sessions here, a couple there, and you're good. I think it's definitely a better business move at this point, as opposed to renting. I'm sure you may still find yourself renting mics for certain clients, but with a good pre on deck, you would have that base covered.

You seem to have decided that this is a better way to go, and I concur with the notion. So just buy it already huh?

Hey, sorry for the harsh comment in my earlier post, but yeah you're right, I will have to invest in a decent pre sooner or later, I just need to finish up a couple of sessions and get paid, see if I have a little bit of money left after I buy the channel strip (I need to keep some for school, gf and that's it for now). It's only a matter of time really. I've tried the 737 in the past and I think this SSL channel sounds better, and gives a better bang for the buck. I like really clean pres, and this one gives me the AD as well via SPDIF, it's hard to beat. Any other contenders in the 1k range?

Renting is really cheap though, it was 22bucks for 2 days.

[MYAMS]

what do you guys think about grabbing the xlogic to track synths?

[Chris Lago]

Originally Posted by MYAMS

what do you guys think about grabbing the xlogic to track synths?

I can try it with my synth if you want, but you need to remember that it's only 1 channel, so if you have something to record in stereo, it won't happen. maybe the 4 channel SSL would be better.

[rty5150]

<breaks arm patting self on back.


glad you like it.

"i told you so!"

[EgyptionRing]

Is the VHD engaged in any of these clips?

And what mic were you using?

Thanks.

[MYAMS]

Originally Posted by chrislago

I can try it with my synth if you want, but you need to remember that it's only 1 channel, so if you have something to record in stereo, it won't happen. maybe the 4 channel SSL would be better.

yeah, 1500 for 4 pres isnt bad. Is this thing worth it?

[aclarson]

Have you compared the SSL to the Focusrite ISA One? I'm really curious about these two, I'm in the same boat as you Chris, looking for something with it's own conversion and S/PDIF to add to my current rig of 'acceptable' pres.

[Gordon]

Originally Posted by chrislago

Renting is really cheap though, it was 22bucks for 2 days.

Anyone have any idea where I can rent on of these in the Nothern NJ/NYC area?

[Chris Lago]

Originally Posted by EgyptionRing

Is the VHD engaged in any of these clips?

And what mic were you using?

Thanks.

Yeah it was, it was at half way.. It doesn't change the tone drastically, but it definitely gives it a little spark.

The Rode K2.

Originally Posted by aclarson

Have you compared the SSL to the Focusrite ISA One? I'm really curious about these two, I'm in the same boat as you Chris, looking for something with it's own conversion and S/PDIF to add to my current rig of 'acceptable' pres.

Hey I haven't, and I don't know if I will because I'm seriously impressed with this Channel Strip. To be honest with you, the only reason I don't want to try out the ISA is because it's made in China haha.

[Groberts]

Cool comparisons! The ART MPA sounds forward and dry. It doesn't really sound bad, even in comparison. But it does seem to have less spatial aspects that the SSL clearly offers. Listening to the SSL clips, everything sounds cleaner, and more pristine, in a musical way. The value of good EQ on that channel strip brings plenty of value to the table as well. I am impressed. This whole shootout makes me wonder if I need to pony up for something like an SLL, Great River ME-1NV, Pacifica etc.

Actually, it is convincing me that better preamps elevate the level of sound quality exponentially over the low end, cost effective ART MPA Gold. (Which is still a very decent value for the $$) The SSL however sounds like it is in another league entirely.

The SSL is significantly pricier than the ART MPA Gold isn't it? Is the SSL a single channel Pre, or dual channel?

[Heartfelt]

Originally Posted by Groberts

Actually, it is convincing me that better preamps elevate the level of sound quality exponentially over the low end, cost effective ART MPA Gold. (Which is still a very decent value for the $$) The SSL however sounds like it is in another league entirely.

Bingo!

Chris, now you saw first hand what some of us have been saying for months. I was in the same boat with my pres. Getting the Daking was the same kind of scenario... from ok to HOLY $#@@.

[Vdub]

good looking out on this post bro.. i've been thinking about that ssl strip for about 6 months now. and now i have the money to get some ish so im glad to actually hear what it sounds like. I think i'm going to grab the 610 with the ssl, and get an apogee mini dac in a couple months or so and see what happens.

[rty5150]

Originally Posted by Groberts

Cool comparisons! The ART MPA sounds forward and dry. It doesn't really sound bad, even in comparison. But it does seem to have less spatial aspects that the SSL clearly offers. Listening to the SSL clips, everything sounds cleaner, and more pristine, in a musical way. The value of good EQ on that channel strip brings plenty of value to the table as well. I am impressed. This whole shootout makes me wonder if I need to pony up for something like an SLL, Great River ME-1NV, Pacifica etc.

Actually, it is convincing me that better preamps elevate the level of sound quality exponentially over the low end, cost effective ART MPA Gold. (Which is still a very decent value for the $$) The SSL however sounds like it is in another league entirely.

The SSL is significantly pricier than the ART MPA Gold isn't it? Is the SSL a single channel Pre, or dual channel?

single channel strip.

[rty5150]

Originally Posted by Heartfelt

Bingo!

Chris, now you saw first hand what some of us have been saying for months. I was in the same boat with my pres. Getting the Daking was the same kind of scenario... from ok to HOLY $#@@.

i don't know if chris can see your original post, rob, so allow me....


btw, i started feeling this way, too. chris was spending way too much time debating mics, a new pre would not only improve the quality of his front end, but give his present mics renewed life. because i own 6 types of preamps, that takes my mic locker and multiplies it by 6.

[Brian T-888]

Yes indeed the Alpha channel is a nice piece if you're a home studio "prosumer" type of guy. The VHD circuit adds a nice subtle bit of character to the sound, but i find you can only notice it if you have decent DAC. I bought it when i was still using an mbox2 for school projects and such. I upgraded to a Black Lion 003 and after that i could actually hear the differences. If you get your singer/guitarist/whatever to sustain one note and sweep the knob you can hear the different harmonics being boosted if you listen carefully.

As you said the EQ is musical sounding and if you know what you're doing its a good idea to EQ going in so you dont have to EQ ITB as much.

Lite limit is a cool little functionality as well

I really like this channel on vocals and LOVE it when combined with a Distresssor for snare drum sounds. Only thing is you cant use the A/D if you route it through a comp. Converters are dece on the BLA003 though so its ok.

[rty5150]

Originally Posted by Brian T-888

Yes indeed the Alpha channel is a nice piece if you're a home studio "prosumer" type of guy. The VHD circuit adds a nice subtle bit of character to the sound, but i find you can only notice it if you have decent DAC. I bought it when i was still using an mbox2 for school projects and such. I upgraded to a Black Lion 003 and after that i could actually hear the differences. If you get your singer/guitarist/whatever to sustain one note and sweep the knob you can hear the different harmonics being boosted if you listen carefully.

As you said the EQ is musical sounding and if you know what you're doing its a good idea to EQ going in so you dont have to EQ ITB as much.

Lite limit is a cool little functionality as well

I really like this channel on vocals and LOVE it when combined with a Distresssor for snare drum sounds. Only thing is you cant use the A/D if you route it through a comp. Converters are dece on the BLA003 though so its ok.

just wondering what YOU refer to as prosumer. not pointing fingers, just trying to get your own PERSONAL view.

is it the price range or the quality? i don't feel it is either way. it is a great sounding pre, doesn't sound great on everything, but some stuff is awesome for. as far as price, it used to be $1600 a year ago. no idea for the price drop, but at the $1000 price now, i am half tempted to grab one up. although i have the alpha vhd. it was the 4 channel that made me want the alpha channel. since then, i figured that i could just get different flavors of pres, so i did.


i personally think that chris' art is definitely prosumer, the ssl...not at all.

you should REALLY try it with DI guitars for reamping/amp sims. really brings them out.

[MYAMS]

Originally Posted by rty5150

just wondering what YOU refer to as prosumer. not pointing fingers, just trying to get your own PERSONAL view.

is it the price range or the quality? i don't feel it is either way. it is a great sounding pre, doesn't sound great on everything, but some stuff is awesome for. as far as price, it used to be $1600 a year ago. no idea for the price drop, but at the $1000 price now, i am half tempted to grab one up. although i have the alpha vhd. it was the 4 channel that made me want the alpha channel. since then, i figured that i could just get different flavors of pres, so i did.


i personally think that chris' art is definitely prosumer, the ssl...not at all.

you should REALLY try it with DI guitars for reamping/amp sims. really brings them out.

I am interested in the vhd, how do you think it would fair for tracking analog synths

[Brian T-888]

Originally Posted by rty5150

just wondering what YOU refer to as prosumer. not pointing fingers, just trying to get your own PERSONAL view.

Oh you know that grey area somewhere between the pro with racks of neve/api/boutique compressors/EQs and the average joe with an mbox and an SM57.
I guess the term "Prosumer" could mean different things from person to person. It would depend on how deep their pockets are i would think...

I would say that the Alpha Channel IS in this "prosumer" category. Its the type of product that a guy with a small home studio could save up for. Its a good recording chain/converter all in one box! Definitely marketed towards the home project studio crowd who cannot afford to buy really high end Pres EQs and converters. Thats why i bought it.

I admit that if there was a "prosumer" spectrum this thing would be at the top along with some GreatRiver/Vintech/AU gear. Dont get me wrong. I have seen this channel strip in a pro space or two, but i definitely think that it is more marketed towards the home recording crowd. The XRACK stuff is marketed more towards "Pros"

And yes it IS good for D.I. guitar tracks. Im a guitar player myself and i use it for demos and to send ideas to my drummer/bassplayer. Its pretty wicked when 3/4 members have Protools and can bounce ideas off eachother without being in the same room together.

cheers

[MYAMS]

Originally Posted by Brian T-888

Oh you know that grey area somewhere between the pro with racks of neve/api/boutique compressors/EQs and the average joe with an mbox and an SM57.
I guess the term "Prosumer" could mean different things from person to person. It would depend on how deep their pockets are i would think...

I would say that the Alpha Channel IS in this "prosumer" category. Its the type of product that a guy with a small home studio could save up for. Its a good recording chain/converter all in one box! Definitely marketed towards the home project studio crowd who cannot afford to buy really high end Pres EQs and converters. Thats why i bought it.

I admit that if there was a "prosumer" spectrum this thing would be at the top along with some GreatRiver/Vintech/AU gear. Dont get me wrong. I have seen this channel strip in a pro space or two, but i definitely think that it is more marketed towards the home recording crowd. The XRACK stuff is marketed more towards "Pros"

And yes it IS good for D.I. guitar tracks. Im a guitar player myself and i use it for demos and to send ideas to my drummer/bassplayer. Its pretty wicked when 3/4 members have Protools and can bounce ideas off eachother without being in the same room together.

cheers

so I shouldn't get ssl vhd? I only want pro level stuff. What then would u categorize as pro level pre amps lol?

[Chris Lago]

Originally Posted by Brian T-888

Oh you know that grey area somewhere between the pro with racks of neve/api/boutique compressors/EQs and the average joe with an mbox and an SM57.
I guess the term "Prosumer" could mean different things from person to person. It would depend on how deep their pockets are i would think...

I would say that the Alpha Channel IS in this "prosumer" category. Its the type of product that a guy with a small home studio could save up for. Its a good recording chain/converter all in one box! Definitely marketed towards the home project studio crowd who cannot afford to buy really high end Pres EQs and converters. Thats why i bought it.

I admit that if there was a "prosumer" spectrum this thing would be at the top along with some GreatRiver/Vintech/AU gear. Dont get me wrong. I have seen this channel strip in a pro space or two, but i definitely think that it is more marketed towards the home recording crowd. The XRACK stuff is marketed more towards "Pros"

And yes it IS good for D.I. guitar tracks. Im a guitar player myself and i use it for demos and to send ideas to my drummer/bassplayer. Its pretty wicked when 3/4 members have Protools and can bounce ideas off eachother without being in the same room together.

cheers

Hey, I would have to agree with your thoughts, and I'd say that the SSL Alpha channel, while not as good as the Consoles and higher end strips, is a major upgrade for any home studio. I wouldn't say it's prosumer, I think the Art is more prosumer and the SSL is more geared toward the start of the high end gear. You need to remember, this unit is a grand for 1 channel, that is a lot for prosumer. I do feel that the built quality and recording quality has a high end feel that any other low end preamps such as ART, Presonus etc aren't unable to achieve. I don't think they cut the quality on the SSL Alpha Channel at all. I mean, how good can these boxes get?!? You still need a decent mic and a decent source to capture, don't forget that.

Oh and last but not least, the Great River is not prosumer at all. The unit is a 1 channel pre for like 1500?!? No AD, no EQ.

[Brian T-888]

Chris I agree with you man. I think we can all agree that the SSL alpha Channel is a sick unit, and doesn't burn toooo big of a hole in the old wallet. VERY good value for the money.

Oh and since you're form Toronto. Happy Canada Day! lol

@MYAMS this thing sounds great, but if you're tracking synth you might want to get a dual channel unit that you can record in stereo with. or buy 2 of these...

[Chris Lago]

Originally Posted by Brian T-888

Chris I agree with you man. I think we can all agree that the SSL alpha Channel is a sick unit, and doesn't burn toooo big of a hole in the old wallet. VERY good value for the money.

Oh and since you're form Toronto. Happy Canada Day! lol

@MYAMS this thing sounds great, but if you're tracking synth you might want to get a dual channel unit that you can record in stereo with. or buy 2 of these...

I actually celebrated Canada Day finishing an 8 hour session recording, and it was a Canadian type song from a local artist, it was really great, I enjoyed it a lot. Made me realize how nice it is to live in Canada (other than the Winter, ew!).

[MYAMS]

Originally Posted by Brian T-888

Chris I agree with you man. I think we can all agree that the SSL alpha Channel is a sick unit, and doesn't burn toooo big of a hole in the old wallet. VERY good value for the money.

Oh and since you're form Toronto. Happy Canada Day! lol

@MYAMS this thing sounds great, but if you're tracking synth you might want to get a dual channel unit that you can record in stereo with. or buy 2 of these...

yeah thats why i said the vhd thats the 4 channel one without eq and dynamics, thanks for the advice!

[Heartfelt]

Originally Posted by Brian T-888

Oh you know that grey area somewhere between the pro with racks of neve/api/boutique compressors/EQs and the average joe with an mbox and an SM57.
I guess the term "Prosumer" could mean different things from person to person. It would depend on how deep their pockets are i would think...

I would say that the Alpha Channel IS in this "prosumer" category. Its the type of product that a guy with a small home studio could save up for. Its a good recording chain/converter all in one box! Definitely marketed towards the home project studio crowd who cannot afford to buy really high end Pres EQs and converters. Thats why i bought it.

I admit that if there was a "prosumer" spectrum this thing would be at the top along with some GreatRiver/Vintech/AU gear. Dont get me wrong. I have seen this channel strip in a pro space or two, but i definitely think that it is more marketed towards the home recording crowd. The XRACK stuff is marketed more towards "Pros"

And yes it IS good for D.I. guitar tracks. Im a guitar player myself and i use it for demos and to send ideas to my drummer/bassplayer. Its pretty wicked when 3/4 members have Protools and can bounce ideas off eachother without being in the same room together.

cheers

Just because something is accessible doesn't make it prosumer. SSL, GR, Daking, Grace are hardly prosumer. The ONLY difference is the channel count. tutt

[rty5150]

Originally Posted by Heartfelt

Just because something is accessible doesn't make it prosumer. SSL, GR, Daking, Grace are hardly prosumer. The ONLY difference is the channel count. tutt

[rty5150]

Originally Posted by MYAMS

yeah thats why i said the vhd thats the 4 channel one without eq and dynamics, thanks for the advice!

i bet it would sound great. i normally run my synths through my CL 7622's, but i bet the vhd would make them pop out in a mix if it were a synth dominated tune.