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Studio & Recording > Preamps > Multi-Channel Preamps > Solid State Logic Alpha VHD

Solid State Logic Alpha VHD

Item ID: AlphaVHD

4-channel Preamp with Variable Harmonic Drive controls, 20dB Pad, hi-Z switches

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We've confirmed with Solid State Logic that more of this item should arrive within a few weeks. Place your pre-order now to reserve yours, and your order will ship in the order it was received.

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From Our Research Team:

A Versatile SSL Preamp!

The SSL Xlogic Alpha VHD preamp gives you the flexibility to track transparent, clear audio, or add sonic character ranging from warm to raging. Four premium SSL preamps (with up to 75dB of gain) are on board the Alpha VHD, combined with a Variable Harmonic Drive circuit that will make this unit an incredibly versatile part of your signal chain. You already know SSL's products feature quality and reliablity that's second to none; now get some of that great SSL sound for yourself with the Alpha VHD preamp!

SSL Xlogic Alpha VHD 4-channel Preamp at a glance:
  • SSL quality and innovation
  • Variable Harmonic Drive
  • An array of controls

SSL quality and innovation
Based on the VHD circuit from SSL's Duality console, the VHD Pre adds four SSL mic preamps to any line level DAW audio interface, transforming it into a professional quality, multi-channel analogue recording system. These preamps provide up to 75dB of gain, so everything from robust line-level instruments to delicate ribbon mics will benefit.

Variable Harmonic Drive
The preamps are combined with independent Variable Harmonic Drive circuits that use 100% analog signal paths to generate rich harmonic distortion - adding SSL analogue attitude to your digital recordings. As you increase the input gain, the Variable Harmonic Drive circuit introduces a blendable mix of 2nd or 3rd harmonic distortion to your source material, taking it from gentle tube-style warmth to transistorized clipping. It's a new world of overdriven possibilities.

Control
You get an array of controls, including illuminated 20dB pad switches, hi-Z switches, individual input, output, and Variable Harmonic Drive controls for each channel. You can really take control of your signal and add character with this preamp.

SSL Xlogic Alpha VHD 4-channel Preamp Features:
  • Ultra-clean SSL preamp with 75dB of gain
  • 48V phantom power
  • 20dB pad switches that illuminate to indicate overload
  • hi-Z switches to accommodate mic, line and instrument level signals
  • Four independent Variable Harmonic Drive systems
  • Front panel 1/4" jack instrument/line level inputs with passive DI type impedance detection and level matching
  • Individual input, output and VHD controls for each section
  • Rear panel XLR mic/line inputs and XLR output


The SSL Xlogic Alpha VHD preamp lets you add as much color to your sound as you want!
Specification Detail
Preamp Type Solid State
Number of Channels 4
Phantom Power Yes
EQ No
Compression No
Analog Inputs 4 x XLR (Mic), 4 x 1/4" (Hi-Z)
Analog Outputs 4 x XLR
Digital Inputs No Digital Inputs
Digital Outputs No Digital Outputs
Other I/O No Other I/O
Computer Connectivity No Computer Connectivity
Rackmount Spaces 1U
Height 1.75"
Depth 9"
Width 19"
Weight 6 lbs.
Manufacturer Part Number 729998X2

Alpha VHD Image Gallery

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Reviews

based on 4 reviews

It's SSL, it deliver's!

by JohnBoy from Fredericksburg, Va
May 9, 2013
Music Background: Multi-instrumentalist, recording and mix engineer, studio owner
I learned all my foundational skills on a SSL G console, so it was priority I got some ssl preamps for my own studio. What can I say, if you want their sound-you get it. I love mine on clean and overd... read more [+]riven guitars, they are perfect for a cutting rock tom-tom drum sound. The price is pretty great at 400$ and change a preamp. I recommend them highly for a dependable intro into the SSL sound. close [-]

Great Addition

by Ron Zabrocki from Torrington, CT
February 24, 2009
Music Background: Pro Musician,Producer, Song Writer
I own and use Universal Audio and Vintech, Avalon, DBX, and Presonus pre's...the SSL Alpha is a whole other beast. Very strong in character, big iron sound, the VHD knob is insane...just a great addit... read more [+]ion to an already strong arsenal. Thanks Mark Magdich and Sweetwater for continuing to make my musical life better!
Ron Zabrocki close [-]

Solid State Logic Does It Again Even If They're Brittish...

by Julian Taylor from SF Bay Area, CA USA
December 26, 2007
Music Background: Mix Engineer, Keyboard Player, Sound Designer
I originally intended to purchase a Focusrite ISA428. I was convinced by Luke to get the SSL. When I plugged in my Roland Fantom to the DI amp I was blown away. The 3rd harmonic distortion adds a soni... read more [+]c character to your signal that is indescribable. I've used SSL 9000 J series boards before & the DI on the Alpha almost sounds better than the 9000 J DI to my ear. Thanks Luke, SSL, & sweetwater. close [-]

4 Channel Magician !!!

by Mike from Texas
November 26, 2007
Music Background: Musician, Recording Engineer
The only reason i did not give this 5 stars is cause I only have about 4yrs experience in audio recording, and have not tried half of everything out there (just yet).
I call this my 4 Channel M... read more [+]agician cause i can make this thing sound clean and straight, or fat and warm. I also own an LA-610, and i can get that same grit sound from this unit as i can the LA-610. But the thing that impressed me the most is the fact that i can make an "OK" mic sound like a well defined solid-state, or a warm tube.
I will never regret purchasing this unit. At $424 a channel, you got to be crazy not to consider this unit.
***Thanks also to the Sweetwater staff*** close [-]

Sweetwater Advice

Austin Moss
I LOVE the SSL Alpha VHD pre. More than the pre I love the DI. I recommend this to every hardware synth user. It out-tubes a lot of valve gear I've used and the 3rd order can really get nasty. Use the output knob to compensate for the abuse on the input so your converters don't have to suffer! Back off the input and it cleans up real nice. It's a fast, clean pre sans VHD that's ideal for drums, acoustic guitar or anything with a lot of transient material. Did you do the math on cost per channel?!
Read more reviews

I am very happy with the product and service I received. I have yet to experience such personalized service from audio/music companies in my hometown. I will certainly make more purchases from Sweetwater again. If you have the product I need, I will purchase it from Sweetwater. The service is exceptional. I have never been treated with such thorough, knowledgeable, and friendly service from any of the music companies located in Saint Louis, MO.


Marcy, Saint Louis, MO

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See Also: Solid State Logic , Solid State Logic Multi-Channel Preamps

Solid State Logic Alpha VHD

Today's Payment: $553.00
Includes $10 processing fee
Payment 2: $543.00
In approx. 30 days
Payment 3: $543.00
In approx. 60 days

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