Product details

The Solid State Logic SSL ALPHA 8 is a professional-grade audio interface and analogue-to-digital/digital-to-analogue converter designed for expanding studio connectivity and integrating analogue hardware with digital production systems. Featuring eight balanced analogue inputs, eight balanced analogue outputs, ADAT and S/PDIF digital connectivity, and next-generation 32-bit/192 kHz conversion, it delivers transparent audio performance for professional recording and mixing environments. Its flexible routing architecture allows it to function as an 8-channel analogue expander or an independent 18-in/18-out USB audio interface, making it ideal for external preamps, analogue processors, synthesizers, samplers, and modular systems.

Key Features

8-Channel Analogue I/O: Eight balanced line inputs and eight balanced line outputs for professional studio equipment.
18-In/18-Out USB Interface: Access analogue and digital I/O simultaneously through USB-C.
32-Bit / 192 kHz Conversion: High-resolution AD/DA conversion for accurate audio capture and reproduction.
High Dynamic Range: Up to 120 dB input dynamic range and 123 dB output dynamic range, A-weighted.
Flexible Operating Levels: Individually selectable +9, +18, +20, or +24 dBu operating levels for each analogue input and output.
ADAT Digital Connectivity: Supports up to eight channels of ADAT at standard sample rates, with S/MUX operation at higher rates.
S/PDIF Connectivity: Supports two-channel digital audio over coaxial RCA or configurable optical connections.
DC-Coupled Outputs: Enables control-voltage transmission to compatible modular synthesizers and other CV-controlled equipment.
Flexible Signal Routing: Configure analogue, ADAT, S/PDIF, and USB audio paths to suit different studio workflows.
Word Clock Synchronisation: BNC word clock input and output support integration with external digital equipment.
High-Current Headphone Output: Front-panel headphone monitoring with selectable modes for different headphone types.
Dedicated Level Metering: Front-panel LED bargraphs provide quick visual monitoring of input and output signals.
Compact Rack Design: Professional 1U enclosure for studio racks and equipment installations.

Technical Specifications

Product Type: Audio Interface / AD/DA Converter / Studio Expander
Form Factor: 1U rack-mount
USB Audio I/O: 18 inputs / 18 outputs
Analogue Inputs: 8 × balanced ¼-inch TRS line inputs
Analogue Outputs: 8 × balanced ¼-inch TRS line outputs
Digital I/O: 2 × optical ports supporting ADAT or configurable S/PDIF, plus coaxial stereo S/PDIF input/output
Word Clock: BNC input and output
Headphone Output: 1 × ¼-inch stereo
Maximum Sample Rate: 192 kHz
Converter Resolution: 32-bit
Input Dynamic Range: 120 dB, A-weighted
Output Dynamic Range: 123 dB, A-weighted
Input THD+N: −110 dB
Output THD+N: −108 dB
Maximum Analogue Input Level: +24 dBu
Maximum Analogue Output Level: +24 dBu
Selectable Operating Levels: +9, +18, +20, or +24 dBu
USB Connectivity: USB-C using USB 2.0 protocol
Power Consumption: Less than 30 W
Dimensions: Approximately 482.6 × 43.6 × 294 mm
Weight: Approximately 3.6 kg

Included Software

SSL Production Pack
SSL Vocalstrip 2 and Drumstrip plug-ins
Ableton Live Lite
IK Multimedia AmpliTube 5 SE
Celemony Melodyne Essential
Native Instruments Hybrid Keys and Komplete Start
Additional virtual instruments, samples, and software subscriptions, subject to current bundle terms