The Console That Changed Mixing Forever

US Solid State Logic's 4000 E-series 01/12/22

Sound on Sound have taken a deep look at Solid State Logic's 4000 E-series, courtesy of Echo Down studios in Dorset - with with former Solid State Logic System and Support Team Leader, Karen Down. This console integrated a computer to allow for some phenomenally powerful features, which made it one of the most sought after and prised mixing desks in the music industry. The desk brought together disparate elements like outboard gear. consoles, and tape machines - and brought in EQ dynamics and aux's for each channel too. Here's more:

Sound On Sound met up with former Solid State Logic System and Support Team Leader Karen Down at Echotown Studio for a deep dive into the automation and recall technology that brought about a revolution in mixing.

Integrating a computer and VCA automation into an inline mixing console, Solid State Logic's 4000 E-series was the first to combine total parameter recall, level automation, tape transport control and compehensive channel EQ and dynamics. The 4000 E launched in 1979 and allowed engineers to record, edit and overdub their fader moves to floppy disk, defining many of the automation modes we now take for granted. This console and its descendants dominated the music recording industry for the next 20 years, creating new working practices and changing the sound of popular music.

In this exclusive Sound On Sound feature video, Karen demonstrates some of the key features that set the SSL console apart from its contemporaries and gives a tutorial on how to use the integrated computer.

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About the author [midierror]: midierror makes nifty Max For Live devices, innovative music hardware, award winning sample packs and hosts a podcast speaking to people in the music world.