Solid State Logic SSL 2 Teardown

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Use the device before taking it apart

SSL 2 is a very straightforward audio interface that is easy to use and intuitive. Each function has its own analog control. Its a pleasure to use.
The audio quality as ADC is excellent. The preamplifier is very low-noise and the gain is sufficient even for dynamic microphones that are difficult to drive.
DAC is also very good, but not high end (compared to NAD D1050). I notice the difference especially in the bass response.
The headphone amplifier lacks a little power at high volumes (adds some distortion), but is sufficient for most applications.
Use a headphone with a long cord — the headphone jack is located at the back of the device along with other I/O.
Tip: If you are listening to the recorded sound, it is good to hear only the sound from the computer, not the microphone. With my old interface, I used to turn the monitor crossfade control back and forth for this purpose. With SSL 2 there is a very nice way to mute the microphone quickly: Just switch the microphone input to LINE.

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