Solid State Logic (SSL) VHD 500 Series Mic Pre Module

A 500 series mic preamp that includes the award winning Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD) mic pre circuit found on Duality, SSL's flagship large format studio console.

The SSL VHD Pre 500 Series preamp module is an extremely versatile mic pre that gives can go from ultra-clean to slightly-warmed to heavily distorted while always delivering a rich analog sound. VHD Pre delivers the ultra clean SSL SuperAnalogue grade recordings but also features a switchable VHD mode to deliver heavily distorted, gritty recordings.

SSL’s patented VHD system uses a 100% analogue signal path to generate rich harmonic distortion. As you increase VHD input gain, 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 until at high gain settings it delivers fierce trashy transistoresque grunge. The VHD Pre gives the user ultimate versatility from a studio grade preamp. Whether it's ultra-clean traditional SSL, subtle warming or totally trashy transistor distortion, VHD will change your expectations of what a preamplifier should deliver.

The VHD section of the VHD Pre Module has three rotary controls: a Drive control selects 2nd harmonic or 3rd harmonic distortion or a continuously variable blend of the two. A +20/+75dB gain control sets input level. A -20/+20dB trim control adjusts the output level from the circuit to enable level matching with other devices, because by its nature the VHD circuit can significantly increase signal levels. The VHD Pre Module has a selection of other essential professional preamp features: a signal present LED, a switchable 15Hz to 500Hz LF Filter section, Hi-Z impedance switch for mic impedance matching, +48V phantom power, PAD to enable the VHD system to be used as a line level processing device and a Phase Invert Switch.

VHD Pre 500 Series Key Features:

• Uniquely versatile recording and processing
• Ultra clean SSL SuperAnalogue grade preamp
• Switchable VHD system adds controllable 2nd or 3rd harmonic distortion
• Switchable LF Filter (15Hz to 500Hz)
• Hi-Z switch for high impedance microphone use
• +48V Phantom Power with status LED
• PAD for use with line level source material
• Phase invert switch

The SSL VHD Pre module brings the award winning Variable Harmonic Drive mic pre circuit found on the Duality to any and all welcoming 500-series power racks. For more information, call or chat with an RSPE representative today.