Solid State Logic has introduced the Revival 4000, an all-analogue channel strip designed to deliver the early-1980s signature SSL tone in a single rack unit.
At the input stage lies a Jensen transformer-balanced mic preamp, designed to deliver richness and pristine clarity to recordings. This circuit incorporates the same Jensen component found in the original E Series consoles. Following this is the B Series de-esser, derived from the original 4000 B compressor/limiter topology, offering a 10:1 ratio and 7 kHz sidechain filter for musical control of sibilance while preserving natural tone.
The compressor/gate section found on the Revival 4000 is a recreation of the E Series design, deploying a discrete Class A VCA. It’s now enhanced with added flexibility from various 4000 dynamics revisions, including soft-knee defeat, fast attack mode, and selectable logarithmic or linear release curves.
“With Revival 4000, we’re delivering the true SSL 4000 sound with complete authenticity. At its heart are the key components that defined an era: the Jensen transformer-coupled mic preamp, discrete Class A VCA dynamics, and the choice of both Brown and Black Knob EQs. We’ve included the B-Series de-esser in a creative new context, added flexible routing options for diverse processing flows, and introduced a balanced insert point for seamless integration of outboard gear. The result is a unit that captures the unmistakable 1980s SSL character, while equipping today’s producers with the versatility demanded by modern productions,” says Andy Jackson, Senior Studio Product Manager, Solid State Logic.
Users can witch between the classic Brown Knob (02) circuit, noted for its “grit”, or the Black Knob (242) circuit originally developed in collaboration with Sir George Martin for AIR Studios. Additionally, there are re-routable high and low-pass filters, which, alongside the EQ, can be placed into the dynamics sidechain for additional creative control.
The workflow includes a dedicated balanced insert point for integrating outboard gear, an external sidechain input for advanced dynamics control, and process re-ordering options to shape the signal path. For stereo operation, two units can be linked via the sidechain link feature.
It all began with the SSL 4000B console that was originally launched in 1976 and later installed in London’s Townhouse Studios. It was used in the creation of hits like “Intruder” by Peter Gabriel and the seminal gated-drum sensation “In the Air Tonight” by Phil Collins. This led to the SL 4000E console that launched in 1979, deployed at studios like Abbey Road, Electric Lady, and The Hit Factory and enabling engineers like Hugh Padgham (David Bowie, Paul McCartney, The Police), Chris and Tom Lord-Alge (James Brown, The Rolling Stones, Santana), and Andy Wallace (Prince, Bruce Springsteen, Nirvana) to craft the sonic signatures of generations.
