SSL Fusion plug-ins: Fusion Vintage Drive and Fusion Stereo Image
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SSL has introduced the new Fusion plug-in series. The Fusion plug-ins are based on the analog hardware units of the same name. SSL plans to release a new emulation every month. This means that we could soon see plug-in versions of the Violet EQ, HF Compressor, Transformer and more. The series kicks off with the SSL Fusion Vintage Drive and Fusion Stereo Image.
SSL Fusion Vintage Drive
Just like the analog hardware, this plug-in adds harmonic saturation and soft compression to your audio tracks. SSL says that it’s also capable of “all-out authentic analogue distortion” and that it can help to hit the “analogue sweet spot” on your tracks, groups, mixes and masters.
The plug-in uses a non-linear saturation circuit. You can adjust the Density and Drive to introduce soft clipping and natural-sounding compression. There’s also a Mix knob for the popular parallel processing technique.
An auto gain feature automatically makes up for any changes in volume. The plug-in also offers input and output trim knobs, as well as “LED” meters for the input and output levels and a saturation meter.
SSL has also implemented an Eco mode, which reduces the CPU load to bring the latency down to zero, which is great for tracking.
SSL Fusion Vintage Drive · Source: SSL
SSL Fusion Stereo Image
This plug-in brings the mid-side circuit of the SSL Fusion to your DAW, allowing you to adjust the stereo image. It splits the audio signal into two channels. The sum channel (L+R) represents the center of the stereo image (mid), while the difference channel (L-R) carries the sounds on the left and right (side). This lets you narrow or widen the stereo image using the Width control.
Fusion Stereo Image also offers a Space circuit for frequency-dependent adjustments based on the concept of stereo shuffling. The Shuffle knob adjusts the frequency cutoff of the circuit. SSL says that this lets you add weight and presence or carve space in the stereo field.
The vector scope visualizes the stereo image and helps to keep an eye on any phase issues. The side signal can also be soloed for fine tuning.
SSL Fusion Stereo Image · Source: SSL
Prices and compatibility
Both of the new SSL Fusion series plug-ins are now available at introductory prices. Until October 25, 2021, the SSL Fusion Vintage Drive and Fusion Stereo Image cost USD 149 each, down from USD 199. SSL has also introduced a subscription model for these and all future plug-ins of the series, which is USD 14.99 per month.
The plug-ins run on macOS and Windows in VST, VST3, AU and AAX formats. An iLok account is required for activation.
More information about the SSL Fusion series plug-ins
Videos
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