Solid State Logic: 2+ MKII Interface

Though there are many two-channel computer DAW interfaces on the market, I’m often a bit stymied when friends call and say they need a decent, affordable unit for themselves or for their kid just getting into recording. After using the Solid State Logic 2+ MKII, that question is much easier for me to answer. Whether editing, mixing, or tracking overdubs (alone or with another artist), the 2+ MKII’s feature set might be the best and most accessible option to date. At about the size of a hardback book, this interface is solidly built with a thoughtful one knob/button per feature design and includes nearly every function I might need.

Years of large format console design have given SSL the experience and insight to anticipate many different recording and mixing scenarios that can take place in a modern small production environment. Right up front are two hi-Z instrument inputs that make it easy to plug in two guitars or a stereo synth for tracking, and during use they automatically disable the rear panel Neutrik combo jack mic/line inputs, so plug in and play. Each input also has dedicated Gain knobs, plus high-pass filter and 48V phantom power buttons. The Legacy 4K switch on each input engages a subtle top end boost with some slight harmonic distortion inspired by the SSL 4000 series consoles.

The main Monitor volume is controlled via a nice big knob and feels like a serious console pot, which is fun. Two front panel headphone outputs offer their own volume controls, so it’s easier for two people working together with headphones. The monitoring section also includes a Mix knob for blending between the interface’s input and the DAW output. Turning the Mix knob fully counterclockwise allows for zero-latency monitoring.

Lastly, the 2+ MKII includes four line level DC coupled outputs, which I appreciate in a smaller interface. For mixing, one can set up an alternate pair of monitors (of course), but I appreciate these extra outputs because I use a lot of outboard/external hardware in my small home studio or Eurorack modular rig, in order to work on tracks away from our main control room – I can take my time experimenting with weird processing and treatment chains. Because the outputs are DC coupled, I can use them to send control voltage signals to analog synths from DAWs that enable CV output options. One last audio output note is that headphone output B can be sourced from outputs 3/4 or 1/2 so that a separate headphone mix can be set up for an artist – another well-thought-out practical touch on the 2+ MKII. And last but not least – five-pin MIDI DIN connectors! For electronic artists and producers, no extra MIDI interface is required – another welcomed practical touch that makes this a compact and complete solution for remote sessions. I should also note that the 2+ MKII is bus-powered via its USB-C (2.0) port, making it super versatile and widely compatible; USB-C cable, and USB-C to USB-A adapter included.

The 2+ MKII works extremely well for tracking purposes. The headphone outputs have a lot of gain, so even when tracking guitar amps or drums in the same room there’s a decent chance of hearing what you’re doing with closed-back headphones. I won’t get deep into the sound of this interface. Both Scott McChane and Daniel Morse have reviewed earlier versions [Tape Op #138, #155] and detailed the SSL preamps. I would agree with them both that the Legacy 4K button adds a nice element to the input sound of the 2+ MKII. I tested this feature with a variety of mics, including condensers, several vintage dynamics, and ribbons, plus some DI’d bass and guitar. In every case there was plenty of gain with no noise floor issues. According to SSL, the components and topology for the 2+ MKII and SSL’s other interfaces are the same as their current large format consoles. This unit also ships with SSL’s Production Pack bundle that includes software from a dozen different software companies, such as Antares, Celemony, IK Multimedia, and more. Harrison Mixbus and Ableton Live Lite (my DAW of choice!) DAWs are also thrown in. So, regardless of if you’re just getting into recording or already a super pro, there’s likely some useful software here. For those interested in a first interface or a second rig for editing, overdub, processing, and in the box mixing, the SSL 2+ MKII will fit the bill without setting you back too many bills.