Infused with technology from SSL's flagship large-format analog console, the Solid State Logic VHD+ Pre is a single-channel 500 Series microphone preamplifier that offers a premium gain stage and customizable harmonics for musicians and engineers at any level. Given its sonic versatility and modular form factor, the VHD+ Pre is a stellar addition to home studio setups, mobile recording rigs, and racks in commercial facilities.

Between the +75 dB of gain available on the mic preamp and ±20 dB of gain via the trim knob, the VHD+ Pre delivers bountiful boost for low-output ribbon and dynamic mics or even the quietest of sources. Of course, switchable 48V phantom power is provided for condenser mics. Use the VHD control to add your choice of 2nd or 3rd order harmonics (or a blend of both) for characterful coloration. You can also keep the low-end power under control by activating the high-pass filter, which features a continuously variable frequency control from 15 to 500 Hz.

Technology from Duality Console    Mic, Line, and Instrument Inputs    Up to +75 dB of Preamp Gain    Adjustable 2nd/3rd Order Harmonics    High-Pass Filter with Variable Frequency    Switchable Input Impedance    Trim Knob with ±20 dB Range    Phantom Power and Polarity Switches    Tricolor LED Level Indication

The VHD+ Pre module for the popular 500 Series format modular rack platform makes the uniquely versatile VHD-based preamp technology from Duality, SSL's industry-leading large-format studio console, available for studios of all sizes. The VHD+ Pre module is an immensely versatile recording and processing device. It can deliver ultraclean SSL SuperAnalogue-grade recordings but also features a switchable VHD mode. SSL's patented Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD) system uses a 100% analog signal path to generate rich harmonic distortion.

Increase the VHD input gain and the Variable Harmonic Drive process introduces either 2nd or 3rd harmonic distortion or a blend of the two to your source material. At lower gain settings, it adds gentle valve-style warmth or a touch of transistor edge. As the gain is increased, the more extreme the distortion becomes. At high-gain settings, it delivers fierce trashy transistoresque grunge.

• SSL SuperAnalogue-grade preamp with up to +75 dB of preamp gain
• Trim knob with ±20 dB range
• 2nd order harmonics (valve warmth to extreme distortion)
• 3rd order harmonics (transistor edge to totally trashed)
• Absolute control via 2nd and 3rd order harmonic blend
• Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD) in/out switch
• Switchable high-pass filter with variable frequency selection from 15 to 500 Hz (18 dB/octave)
• +48V phantom power
• Polarity invert switch
• Pad switch (-20 dB)
• Front-panel 1/4" TRS balanced line input, also accepts unbalanced 1/4" TS Hi-Z input
• Hi-Z switch switches input impedance (1.2 or 10 kilohms for the mic input, 10 kilohms or 1 megohm for the front-panel jack)
• Tricolor LED signal level indicator

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. What inputs does this have and do I need an AD/DA converter?

A: Analog inputs on XLR and dB-25 connectors. This is an analog product. It accepts analog inputs and provides analog outputs. connections to a patchbay is recommended.

Q: 2. I'm setting up a new turntable and am having trouble with the preamp. From troubleshooting I think it is a problem with the power supply. The original power supply broke, so I replaced it but didn't realize the output amps were slightly higher (output at 2A). Has anyone experienced "sound clipping" because of an overly powerful power supply? Or does the "sound clipping" suggest a different problem?

A: The preamp may be damaged. Please only use the recommended and included power supply.

Q: 3. Can the headphone output be assigned as a 5th and 6th output?

A: No, the headphones are summed stereo returns mixed with inputs.

Q: 4. Regarding imput Impedance of 47k ohms / 100pF: What does the 100 pF mean, and is a lower pF number better or worse than a higher pF number such as 220 pF at 47 ohms?

A: The Art DeeJay Pre allows the selection of 2 preset additive capacitances, 100 and 220 pF at 47 ohms. The ability to quickly select the lower or higher capacitance allows for better matching with the moving magnet phono cartridge used in the playback system. The system in this case consists of the cartridge resistance, inductance; capacitance of the wires in the tonearm; the capacitance of the RCA cables from turntable to the phono preamp added with the ArtDeeJay pushbutton selection. There is an excellent explanation on the website VinylEngine search Cartridge Loading Explained which cover the inter-relationships of capacitance, induction and resistance above and their effects on cartridge sound output. The pushbutton selectable additive capacitance of the ArtDeeJay phono preamp makes achieving accurate sound very convenient. Good luck.

Q: 5. Can I use the TRS outputs and RCA outputs at the same time(4 speakers)

A: Yes you can use both at same time

Q: 6. From an Apple Mac Studio (M1 Max version), into this SSL2+, what cables do I need? I assume that on the Mac Studio, I'm using one of the USB-A outputs on the back.

A: When connecting to the Apple Mac Studio with M1 Max, the Solid State Logic SSL 2+ Desktop 2x4 USB Type-C Audio/MIDI Interface could use the computer's Thunderbolt or USB Type-A inputs for its host connection. The interface includes both types of cables with purchase.

Q: 7. I'm wondering if any PC owners have had a problem with the software/drivers for this audio interface crashing their computers?

A: We are not aware of any users having problems with their computers when using the software drivers for the Solid State Logic SSL 2+ Desktop 2x4 USB Type-C Audio/MIDI Interface.

Q: 8. My source audio will be L/R line level Stereo going in to the SSL 2... coming out I will want it to go via USB into to my laptop W10. Is this possible? I normally use my W10 Desktop with a high end sound card to accomplish this, but I have to go on location. Many thanks

A: Yes that will work.

Q: 9. When connected to a laptop Windows PC will it disable /take over the internal PC microphone input? In other words can it be used *only* for output DA conversion?

A: When connected to your computer for recording, you will need to go to computer's System Preferences for audio and select the SSL 2 as your input device during your setup and that will disable the computer's internal microphone. You should also select the SSL 2 as your audio output device in order to disable the built-in speakers and prevent issues with feedback from your mic picking up the sound of the internal speakers. You will be able to monitor the audio through headphones or speakers that are connected to the SSL 2. Here is a link to the user manual which will provide more details on setup and operation of the SSL 2: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/lit_files/594696.pdf

Q: 10. If a phantom button is pushed on, will it be memorized after the unit is turned off or disconnected?

A: Once the +48v botton is pressed, it will stay on to provide phantom power to the channel, even when the unit is turned off and back on again.