Technology

Unleashing the Legends: Solid State Logic Introduces the New Revival 4000 Channel Strip

2025-08-31

Author: Daniel

Solid State Logic Resurrects a Classic

In a thrilling return to its roots, Solid State Logic (SSL) has unveiled the Revival 4000, an all-analog channel strip that breathes life into the iconic SSL sound. Hailing from Oxford, UK, this latest innovation brings forth the legendary tones that defined the music of the early 1980s, now packed into a single rack unit for modern producers. Priced at £1,249.00 ex. VAT or $1,999 + TAX, the Revival 4000 is designed to capture the essence of SSL’s renowned 4000 series that has dominated the airwaves for decades.

A Symphony of Components for Ultimate Control

The Revival 4000 is more than just a tribute; it’s a powerhouse for tracking and mixing that preserves the unique characteristics of SSL’s 4000 Series. At its core, it features a Jensen transformer-balanced mic preamp, renowned for delivering rich, crystal-clear audio. This preamp incorporates the very same iconic Jensen component found in the original E Series consoles, ensuring your recordings resonate with excellence.

Adding to its robust feature set, the B Series De-Esser, modeled after the original 4000 B compressor/limiter, boasts a 10:1 ratio and a 7 kHz sidechain filter, skillfully managing sibilance without losing the natural warmth. This combination guarantees a smooth, musical touch to every mix.

Authenticity Meets Modern Flexibility

The Compressor/Gate section echoes the authentic E Series design, utilizing a discrete Class A VCA to give your tracks the punch they deserve. Enhanced by adjustable options—like soft-knee defeat, fast attack mode, and selectable release curves—the Revival 4000 caters to contemporary production standards while retaining its vintage charm.

"With Revival 4000, we’re delivering the true SSL 4000 sound with complete authenticity," says Andy Jackson, Senior Studio Product Manager at SSL. He emphasizes not only the vintage components but also the innovative routing options that allow producers to navigate their creative workflows seamlessly.

Mastering Sound with Legendary EQ Designs

What sets the Revival 4000 apart are its two celebrated EQ designs, empowering users to shape their sound with precision. Easily switch between the gritty Brown Knob (02) circuit or the famed Black Knob (242) circuit, originally crafted with the legendary Sir George Martin for AIR Studios. Plus, enhanced routing options for the high and low-pass filters ensure that your sonic palette is as versatile as your imagination.

The SSL Advantage: Unmatched Workflow Innovation

True to its legacy, the Revival 4000 offers an exceptional workflow experience—a cornerstone of SSL consoles for decades. Features like a dedicated balanced insert point for outboard gear, an external sidechain input for advanced dynamics, and intuitive processing reordering provide musicians and engineers with the creative flexibility they’ve long desired. You can even link two units for stereo operation, paving the way for richer soundscapes.

A Modern Tool with a Rich History

The SSL 4000 series transformed music production forever, establishing an industry benchmark and fueling innumerable hits. It all began in 1976 with the SSL 4000B, the soul behind groundbreaking tracks like Peter Gabriel's "Intruder" and Phil Collins' iconic "In the Air Tonight." This set the stage for the legendary 4000E, which became the backbone of illustrious studios like Abbey Road and Electric Lady, enabling renowned engineers to sculpt the soundtracks of a generation.

The 4000E redefined record-making with its meticulously designed channel strip, delivering clarity and cohesion that remains unmatched. Its focused mid-range and punchy compression engineered approach helped artists realize their musical visions with greater ease, solidifying its place in music history.

Embrace the Legacy with the Revival 4000