Comparing Waves SSL 400* and UAD SSL Plug-in Bundles: Which is Right for You?

The world of audio processing has seen significant advancements in recent years, with numerous plug-ins emerging to replicate classic analog hardware. Among these are the highly sought-after Waves SSL 4000 series bundle and Universal Audio's (UAD) own take on this legendary collection – the UAD SSL Bundle.

In this article, we'll delve into a head-to-head comparison of these two industry-leading options, examining their similarities and differences to help you decide which one is best suited for your mixing needs. We will also touch upon the recently announced discontinuation by SSL (Solid State Logic) of its X-Rack 4-input and 8-input master bus modules.

Waves SSL 4000 Bundle Overview

The Waves SSL 4000 bundle includes four meticulously crafted plug-ins that aim to recreate the warmth, character, and sonic excellence associated with SSL's iconic analog hardware. These include:

1. SSL E-Bus: A faithful recreation of the original SSL 4000 E Bus mastering bussing system.

2. SSL G-Equalizer: An emulation of the legendary SSL G-Series EQ units renowned for their smooth frequency response and subtle tonal coloration.

Universal Audio (UAD) SSL Bundle Overview

On the other hand, UAD's version includes a comprehensive collection of SSL-inspired plug-ins designed to capture the essence of classic SSL hardware:

1. 1073-DX Mic Compressor: A recreation of the legendary SSL 4076 compressor-limiter.

2. 430-DX Stereo Bus Compressor/Transient Shaper: Emulating the sound and function of the original SSL 500 series G-Series console bus compressors.

Comparison Points

To provide a comprehensive comparison, we'll focus on several key areas:

1. Authenticity:

- Both Waves and UAD have invested significant resources into accurately recreating the sonic characteristics of their respective hardware counterparts.

- However, some users may notice subtle differences in the overall character between the two bundles.

2. Features:

- The SSL 4000 bundle from Waves offers a more straightforward approach with fewer parameters to navigate compared to its UAD counterpart which includes additional features such as multiband processing and EQ options that can sometimes feel overwhelming for those new to these advanced functions.

3. Compatibility & Integration:

Both plug-ins are compatible across major DAWs (digital audio workstation) platforms including Pro Tools, Logic Pro X/7-9, Ableton Live 8-10, Cubase 5.1 and above as well as within the popular plugins host Reaper v4.x or higher.

Ultimately, the choice between Waves SSL 4000 Bundle and UDISSL bundle comes down to personal preference, workflow needs and budget constraints. Both options offer exceptional quality and faithful recreations of classic hardware sounds that will undoubtedly elevate any mix.

Waves ssl 4000 vs uad ssl