The XLogic E Signature Channel from SSL is a single channel microphone preamp/channel strip that brings the classic sound of the original early 1980s E Series console to a 19" 1U rack. The unit delivers the choice of selectable transformer driven or Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD) microphone preamps, coupled with the world renowned "Listen Mic" compressor.
The EQ section includes the original "Brown Knob" circuit that was standard on all early production E Series consoles. The two parametric mid-band sections feature SSL's classic logarithmically symmetric design that ensures that the +/-3dB up/down points retain the same musical interval from the centre frequency regardless of frequency and amplitude settings.
In 1983 a new '242' EQ circuit was developed, the "Black Knob" EQ that featured enhanced cut and boost ranges (+/-18dB instead of +/-15dB) together with a different control law and a steeper 18dB/octave high pass filter for tighter control of low frequencies. The design is enhanced in the XLogic E Signature Channel via a CT OUT option that provides additional tonal variations.
The Dynamics section of the unit comprises a compressor/limiter and an expander/gate, both of which use the same gain change element. The design returns faithfully to the circuit and key components which defined the sound of the original E Series channel strip. A true RMS converter is used in the side chain, while the gain element is an all discrete design Class A VCA.