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Average Price: $2,100

High-end/Boutique

$200

$1001+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Meet the Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer, a compact yet powerful mixing solution for today's music professionals. This mixer is more than just a utility; it's a workhorse, utilizing SSL's renowned SuperAnalogue line amp and summing circuitry. This technology, found in premium Matrix, AWS, and Duality consoles, ensures top-tier sound quality that professionals appreciate. Despite its compact size, this mixer is packed with features, including 8 main line inputs, switchable alternate inputs, and inserts per channel. Its center section, though small, is highly functional, boasting two stereo returns and switchable loudspeaker/monitor outputs. The inclusion of a master stereo insert and an "iJack" for easy connection of devices adds to its versatility.

Key Features:

  • SuperAnalogue line amp and summing circuitry for excellent sound quality
  • 8 main line inputs with +/-20dB input trim and full-throw 100mm faders
  • Switchable alternate inputs and inserts per channel
  • Compact yet highly functional center section with two stereo returns and switchable loudspeaker/monitor outputs
  • Master stereo insert and an "iJack" for easy connection of devices
  • Equipped with a stereo cue bus and two mono auxiliary buses for headphone mixes, external effects, and additional outputs
  • Features including talkback and dim for added convenience and control.

Product specs

Type Analog Console
Channels 6
Faders 5 x 100mm
Inputs - Mic Preamps 2 x XLR (SuperAnalogue)
Phantom Power Yes
Inputs - Line 2 x 1/4" (line/Hi-Z), 4 x 1/4" TRS (2 x stereo line), 4 x 1/4" TRS (2 x stereo SuperAnalogue line)
Outputs - Main 2 x XLR (main out), 2 x 1/4" TRS (main monitor), 2 x 1/4" TRS (alt monitor)
Aux Sends 2 x Cue Sends
Send/Return I/O 2 x 1/4" TRS (send L/R), 2 x 1/4" TRS (send L/R), 2 x 1/4" TRS (Bus B out)
Busses/Groups 1 x Bus B
Inserts 2 x DB-25 In/Out (channel, main)
Headphones 1 x 1/4" TRS
Talkback 1 x XLR
EQ Bands 2-band EQ, Switchable Bell Curve
Effects Channel Compressor, G Series Bus Compressor
Power Source 5-pin 15V DC Power Supply (included)
Height 4.7"
Width 10.6" (including trim)
Depth 12.2"
Weight 7.7 lbs.

FAQs

What type of inputs does the Solid State Logic X-Desk mixer offer?

The SSL X-Desk provides 2 XLR mic preamps, 2 line/Hi-Z inputs, 4 stereo line inputs, and 4 stereo SuperAnalogue line inputs, making it versatile for various audio sources.

Does the Solid State Logic X-Desk have built-in compressors?

Yes, the X-Desk features a channel compressor and the renowned G Series Bus Compressor, allowing for dynamic control directly on the mixer.

Can the Solid State Logic X-Desk be used with phantom-powered microphones?

Yes, the X-Desk supports phantom power, enabling the use of condenser microphones that require it.

What are the main output options on the Solid State Logic X-Desk?

The mixer includes 2 XLR main outputs, 2 TRS main monitor outputs, and 2 TRS alt monitor outputs, providing flexibility in routing your audio.

Is the Solid State Logic X-Desk suitable for professional studio use?

With its SuperAnalogue technology, comprehensive routing options, and high-quality components, the X-Desk is well-suited for professional studio environments.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

SSL X-Desk and MADI Xtreme Overview - Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for SSL X-Desk and MADI Xtreme Overview - Sweetwater by Sweetwater

SSL X-Desk and MADI Xtreme Overview - Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Sweetwater at AES 2019 – SSL Origin Console by Sweetwater

Sweetwater at AES 2019 – SSL Origin Console

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for SSL X-Desk - Review LOOK INTO by RedStone Productions

SSL X-Desk - Review LOOK INTO

RedStone Productions

RedStone Productions

Video thumbnail for Hybrid Mixing Setup: An In-Depth look - PART 1 by True Sound Studios

Hybrid Mixing Setup: An In-Depth look - PART 1

True Sound Studios

True Sound Studios

Video thumbnail for SSL X-Desk Installed by Hopetown Sound

SSL X-Desk Installed

Hopetown Sound

Hopetown Sound

Video thumbnail for Solid State Logic X-DESK SuperAnalogue Mixer Testimonial | Full Compass by Full Compass

Solid State Logic X-DESK SuperAnalogue Mixer Testimonial | Full Compass

Full Compass

Full Compass

Video thumbnail for New SSL X Desk by Hopetown Sound

New SSL X Desk

Hopetown Sound

Hopetown Sound

Video thumbnail for Spec an Analog Mixing Console for $20k by Hopetown Sound

Spec an Analog Mixing Console for $20k

Hopetown Sound

Hopetown Sound

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer.

Features and functionality

  • Owners highlight the X-Desk's ability to handle 16 channels into a stereo mix with substantial headroom, enhancing sound quality when driven hard.

    Source
  • The X-Desk allows routing of two mono FX sends and one stereo FX send, with stereo returns possible through channel 8 for dynamic control over feedback.

    Source
  • For effective FX management, connect D-Sub Centre out 5 and 6 for cue out L and R, and use Centre out 7 and 8 for FX sends.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • It’s noted that a minimum of 4x D-Sub cables are essential, potentially costing around $1K, though some users find cheaper alternatives.

    Source
  • Utilizing Meris reamp units is recommended for integrating sensitive guitar pedals or tape echoes to match impedance levels effectively.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users compare the X-Desk to digital mixers, emphasizing its clean analog summing and compact size, suitable for those with limited space.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The X-Desk is praised for its inline console design, effectively using 8 faders to manage 16 channels on mixdown by switching channel faders.

    Source
  • The X-Desk excels in real-time processing with hardware effects, providing a more organic feel for electronic music, particularly for dub undertones.

    Source

User experience

  • Many report the smoothness of the faders and the reliability of the clipping indicator, which activates before actual redlining, providing a buffer for safe operation.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the tactile, hands-on control of FX via knobs on the X-Desk, contrasting with in-the-box automation.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • While some argue the price is high for the features offered, others justify it by the quality of sound and compact design, with used models available for around $2500.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Using DAW plugin FX with the X-Desk can introduce latency, not ideal for beat-synced delays, but suitable for non-synced effects like reverbs.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
C

Analog Summing, Monitor Control, and Headphone amp

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Aphex Twin uses Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer

Aphex Twin

Music Producer

The Tuss

...
Verified via Photo

Also present on the official and extensive Syro gear list present on the album packaging is the SSL X Desk.

See how Tycho uses Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer

Tycho

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Tycho

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram photo of Tycho's studio setup, the mixer can be seen sitting to the left of the MiDi keyboard.

See how Bono uses Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer

Bono

Guitarist, Singer

U2

...
Verified via Mixonline

Used for the iNNOCENCE + eXPERIENCE Tour.

“Bono uses a standard Shure Beta 58A,” says his monitor engineer, Alastair McMillan. “Then I have an analog chain that goes directly into an SSL X desk to be summed with the SD7 outputs. It’s very clean in that classic SSL way and has loads of headroom, which was an important feature as his vocal is very dynamic. There’s something about his voice that hits the compressors and effects in a unique way. It’s impossible to replicate during setup! So I just have to start with a basic setting and dial it in once he starts singing.”

See how Stimming uses Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer

Stimming

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

MARTIN STIMMING gives Electronic Beats TV a tour of his audio gear in this Slices Tech Talk. His set-up is based around Cubase and various analogue processors and synthesisers

See how Sylvan Esso uses Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer

Sylvan Esso

Music Producer

...
Verified via MusicRadar

In this September 24, 2020 Music Radar article, Sylvan Esso can be seen with the Solid State Logic X-Desk SuperAnalogue Mixer

See how Acle Kahney uses Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer

Acle Kahney

Guitarist

TesseracT

...
Verified via MetalSucks

In an interview with MetalSucks, Acle Kahney of TesseracT discusses using the Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer for summing in his studio setup.

See how Alan Braxe uses Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer

Alan Braxe

Music Producer

Alan Braxe & Fred Falke

...
Verified via Attack Magazine

There is a ssl x desk in his studio.

See how Phil Wickham uses Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer

Phil Wickham

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Instagram

This video post to Instagram and taken by Phil Wickham shows his recording process and the then current state of his new album. He is mixing his music on the Solid State Logic X-Desk Mixer.

He adds this to the video:

philwickham

"Working on the record the next few days. So exhilarating to watch/hear all the songs take shape and become what they are going to be. I remember a year ago I was wondering/praying/asking about what I needed to say on this record with barely a song in sight. Now I'm nearing the end of this process and once again blown away by Gods faithfulness. Trying to learn and trust the promise "in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path" in deeper ways. This is my favorite record I've worked on to date. Can't wait to share it with you."

See how Surachai uses Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer

Surachai

Music Producer

...
Verified via Native Instruments Blog

the SSL X-Desk can be seen in the first and last image on this page

See how Rafael Anton Irisarri uses Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer

Rafael Anton Irisarri

Music Producer

...
Verified via Headphone Commute

" Lastly, the best piece of gear I’ve ever bought is my SSL summing mixer. I can’t really put to words all it does for my sound, but it’s a huge part of it. "

See how Guy Mentesh uses Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer

Guy Mentesh

Singer, Composer

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, Guy Mentesh shares a studio image featuring the Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer, highlighting its role in his mixing process.

Album Usage

The Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Solid State Logic X-Desk 16-channel Analogue Mixer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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