Gear Hunter
SSL Sigma
Description
Remote Controlled Analogue Mix Engine
Designed for the DAW user that seeks the legendary big sound of an SSL console while retaining the convenience of working in the box, Sigma is a unique DAW automated SuperAnalogue summing engine.
Sigma delivers the sonic benefits of SSL SuperAnalogue mixing with in-the-box automation. Using proprietary MDAC control technology first featured in our Duality and AWS studio consoles, Sigma's 100% analogue summing engine can be driven by automation data created within your DAW of choice. Sigma features 16 flexible input channels which can be individually switched between being mono or stereo for up to 32 channels at mixdown. There is accurate front panel LED metering for all channels. There are two stereo mix busses with dedicated outputs and individual stereo insert points to facilitate implementation of parallel compression or convenient printing of stems back to the DAW with processing applied. Each input channel also features an individual direct output. Mix Bus B can also be injected into Mix Bus A for final mixdown. Providing further flexibility, Mix Bus A & B inserts also include an 'insert sum' feature to sum the insert return to the mix bus.
An Artist and Studio monitoring section provides separate Monitor and Headphone circuits. The Main monitor output has Main and Alternative connections to accommodate 2 sets of monitors. A comprehensive switching matrix enables selection of monitor source and output. A large front panel level control uses a push-select mechanism to determine whether it adjusts Mix A, Mix B, Main Monitor or Headphone. There is also a Talkback input with adjustable Dim level.
Switching of a wide range of functions including, monitor level and source, inserts, talkback, sum B>A and mono check can all be achieved using any standard MIDI hardware control surface. A MIDI learn feature makes setup simple and easy. A pair of user assignable dual action push/hold buttons on the front panel or a foot-switch can be assigned to the same collection of switching functions. Sigma uses MIDI over Ethernet for control and to connect to a cross platform software interface which provides additional control and setup capability.
Key Features
- Advanced DAW automation driven SSL SuperAnalogue mix engine
- Works with all major DAW's including Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase/Nuendo, Ableton Live
- 16 flexible channels individually switchable between stereo or mono for up to 32 channels at mixdown
- 2 stereo mix busses with individual stereo insert points
- Independent Main and Alternate Monitor outputs
- Direct outputs on all channels
- Talkback facility with adjustable Dim level
- Intuitive cross platform set-up and configuration software interface
- High speed External MIDI control via single Ethernet cable
Sigma Hardware
The 2u sigma rack unit houses the analogue summing engine, provides connectivity, a set of bright status and level LED's, hardware controls, headphone socket and a handy ijack input (3.5mm stereo socket) which feeds into the monitoring section. The rear panel provides dedicated XLR connections for the Mix Bus A and the Main and Alt monitor outputs. The individual line inputs and direct outputs are connected via standard 25pin D-Sub. An additional pair of D-Sub connections handle Mix Bus inserts, Mix B output and line level Talkback input.
Sigma Software
The Sigma software interface makes setup, control and recall of saved settings simple and easy. It runs on Mac, PC or tablet device and connects to your workstation via Ethernet (or wirelessly from a tablet). The user interface provides a series of intuitive pages that make setting up Sigma's powerful feature set straightforward. Three main screens provide control and setup of the Master Section, Channel Detail and Global Settings parameters. Every parameter can be saved for future recall making swapping between projects simple and efficient.
