Solid State Logic XL 9000 K-Series for Console 1 by Softube channel strip plugin interface

Solid State Logic XL 9000 K-Series for Console 1: Analog Channel Strip Plugin by Softube

Rated 4.7/5 on Plugin Boutique (33 ratings)

Solid State Logic XL 9000 K-Series for Console 1 is a channel strip plugin by Softube that models the SSL XL 9000 K console channel. It requires Softube Console 1 to run.

VST3VST2AUAAXRTASWindowsmacOS64-bit

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01Overview

Solid State Logic XL 9000 K-Series for Console 1 is an effects plugin that brings the XL 9000 K channel into Softube Console 1. The developer describes the XL 9000 K circuit as a very different approach from the SL 4000 E channel included with Console 1, with extended bandwidth, minimal phase shift and low distortion. The plugin adds a model of SSL's VHD (Variable Harmonic Drive) circuit for controlled coloration and a gate and compressor with extra control.

Best for

Hip-hop and R&B mixing
Wide, modern vocal chains
Acoustic and classical recording
Adding controlled drive
Gate and compression shaping

Developer: Softube
Category: Channel Strips
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Wide, large, smooth sound from the XL 9000 K circuit
VHD (Variable Harmonic Drive) model for added distortion
Drive and Character knobs for 2nd to 3rd order harmonics
Fully controllable gate with Punch and Sustain knobs
Compressor switchable between Peak and RMS modes
Requires Softube Console 1 to run

03In depth

Sound and Character of the XL 9000 K Channel

The XL 9000 K is a very clean console. Softube says its circuit offers extreme bandwidth, minimal phase shift and very low distortion, which the developer links to the solid, deep low end and extended highs that suit hip-hop and R&B productions aiming for a large, wide sound. The same qualities are cited for classical and acoustic recordings.

Because the channel is so clean, distortion has to be added on purpose. The VHD model supplies it. Softube's description says the Drive knob sets the amount of distortion, while the Character knob moves it from 2nd order, more tube-like, to 3rd order, more transistor-like, or any blend in between.

Gate and Compressor Workflow

The Shape section includes a fully controllable gate. According to the developer, the Punch and Sustain knobs control the Range and Hold levels, giving more individual control than the SL 4000 E model, which was built around a faster workflow.

The compressor can switch between Peak and RMS modes. Softube describes the equalizer as clean, smooth and natural.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

Developer	Softube
Type	Plugin
Category	Channel Strip
Formats	VST3, VST2, AU, AAX, RTAS
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What do I need to use Solid State Logic XL 9000 K-Series for Console 1?

This product requires Softube Console 1. You also need a compatible host, a Softube account and an iLok account, plus the latest iLok License Manager, which is downloaded separately.

Which formats and operating systems does it support?

It is available in VST3, VST2, AU, AAX and RTAS formats, and runs on Windows and macOS. Softube says VST3 is recommended, and TDM, VENUE and RTAS are no longer supported.

What is the VHD model used for?

The VHD model adds Solid State Logic's Variable Harmonic Drive distortion, which the XL 9000 K lacks on its own. The Drive knob sets the amount and the Character knob sets the harmonic order.