SSL has announced the 4000 B Dynamics (B-Dyn) 500 Series module, featuring Compressor/Limiter and Gate/Expander sections and dedicated De-Ess mode, all modelled on the circuit design found in the SL 4000 B console channel strip.
Released in 1976, the 4000 B was the first console manufactured by Solid State Logic and famously used in The Stone Room at Virgin’s Townhouse Studio (London), Le Studio (Montreal) and Record Plant (LA).
The dynamics Section in the SL 4000 B channel strip was unlike other SSL channel dynamics that followed, using the fader VCA as its gain element, rather than a dedicated VCA. It had a design similar to the topology of the SSL Bus Compressor. This VCA ‘feedback’ design has been inherited by the B-Dyn module, offering with its own sonic signature that is distinct from the later E and 9000 Series. These similarities are also evident in B-Dyn’s Auto release setting, which offers a programme-dependent release time as found on the Bus Compressor.
B-Dyn’s dynamics processing is divided into two sections, Compressor/Limiter and Gate/Expander. The compressor offers fixed compression ratios 2:1, 4:1, and limiting ratio 10:1. Release times are also fixed at .2, .4, .8, 1.6, and programme dependant Auto. Setting B-Dyn’s Compressor Ratio and Release controls to DS the module optimised for reducing sibilance or, De-Essing. The De-Ess ratio is 10:1 with filtered S/C input signal, delivering broadband compression triggered by sibilance typically in vocal sources. The DS release is automatically varied in response to the programme signal between release rates of 30ms and 50ms – faster than normally expected of an SSL Dynamics section. When the Out ratio is selected, the compressor is bypassed. Compressor Ratio & Release in DS mode work independently.
B-Dyn’s Gate/Expander section is activated when In is selected, acting as a 20:1 gate or as a 2:1 expander when Exp is selected. B-Dyn’s gate/expander can be used independently of its compressor/limiter.
The SSL B-Dyn 500 Series module is available now priced at £499, US$699 and €599 (excluding VAT).
More: www.solidstatelogic.com
