Solid State Logic Fusion Analog Stereo Outboard Processor

The Solid State Logic Fusion is an analog stereo outboard processor offering an array of circuits and controls optimized for sweetening stems or full mixes. Well suited for use in traditional or hybrid studios and occupying just 2 RU of rack space, the Fusion features five main analog processors—Vintage Drive (harmonic enhancement), Violet EQ (2-band shelving EQ), HF Compressor (high-frequency compression with a subtle high-frequency roll-off), Stereo Image (Mid-Side spatial adjustment), and Transformer (custom-designed transformer circuit with low-end harmonics and top-end phase shift).

Patch in additional outboard gear via the stereo XLR insert jacks, which can be configured for true stereo or Mid-Side, and switched to different points in the Fusion's signal flow. The main inputs and outputs are also presented on balanced XLR 3-pin connectors. Separate input and output trims allow up to 12 dB of boost or attenuation for easy management of levels. A dedicated LED indicates input overloading, while the 15-segment stereo master meter can display input or output levels. Quickly tame problematic bass frequencies via the adjustable high-pass filter at 30, 40, or 50 Hz.

Vintage Drive
The Vintage Drive is a non-linear harmonic enhancement circuit designed to bring cohesion and strength to your mix. Drive and Density controls interact to produce harmonic saturation and soft compression derived from overloading an analog circuit. It can be used lightly for subtle thickening saturation or driven hard for more extreme distortion.

Violet EQ
The Violet EQ is a minimum phase-shift, two-band shelving EQ. It draws on the SSL legacy of carefully selected frequencies and response curves to create a musical and intuitive EQ designed to quickly dial in low-end weight and high-end sheen. High- and low-frequency circuits each offer four switched frequency points and ±9 dB gain.

HF Compressor
The High-Frequency Compressor delivers the distinctive sound of high-frequency rounding in the analog domain and also affects high frequencies only, optimized for smooth and transparent harshness reduction and a tape-like attenuation of high frequencies.

Stereo Image
The Stereo Image enhancer provides a true analog Mid-Side circuit that manipulates the Side signal, allowing for widening and spatial manipulation of the stereo field.

Transformer
A switched, custom-designed SSL Transformer circuit introduces subtle low-frequency saturation, alongside a high-frequency phase-shift. The result is a simultaneous thickening of the bass frequencies and an added sparkle to the highs.

Utility Functions
Workflow-enhancing features include ±12 dB input/output trim controls, an input overload LED, large peak-hold meters, a 3rd order high-pass filter with three selectable cut-off frequencies, and tri-color status indicators for the Vintage Drive and HF Compressor sections.

Balanced I/O
The main stereo inputs and outputs are accessible via rear-panel XLR 3-pin connectors. A set of XLR insert connections can be used either as a Stereo Insert for stereo mix bus processing or switched to function as a Mid-Side circuit enabling separate compressors or EQ to be applied to the middle (center) and sides of a stereo signal. In Stereo Insert mode, the insert point can be positioned before the EQ. In Mid-Side mode, the insert can be switched to occur before the Stereo Image controls.