Solid State Logic PURE DRIVE OCTO User Guide
This document provides a comprehensive guide to the Solid State Logic PURE DRIVE OCTO, an 8-channel SuperAnalogue microphone preamplifier with advanced digital connectivity.
Overview
The PURE DRIVE OCTO brings the highly acclaimed PureDrive™ microphone preamplifier from the SSL ORIGIN console to an 8-channel, 2U rackmount device, offering advanced technology and flexible digital connectivity.
Introduction
The PURE DRIVE OCTO features 8 channels of the PureDrive™ microphone preamplifier, housed in a 2U rackmount unit, enhanced with state-of-the-art technology and flexible digital connectivity.
3 Flavours, 1 Mic Pre
Each of the 8 preamplifiers offers three selectable modes: Clean, Classic Drive, and Asymmetric Drive. The Clean mode provides a linear, ultra-low noise preamplifier for pristine audio reproduction. Classic Drive adds pleasing harmonic distortion, primarily using odd-order harmonics, to enrich the input signal. Asymmetric Drive offers a new tonal characteristic with a more pronounced thickness, coloration, and softened transients, favoring even-order harmonics.
Analogue Obsession
Building on SSL's VHD™ (Variable Harmonic Drive)* technology, the PURE DRIVE OCTO continues SSL's commitment to advanced analogue circuit design. It is equipped with balanced analogue outputs/insert sends for external processing and high-headroom insert returns/ADC inputs at +24dBu A/D line-up level. By avoiding electromechanical components like potentiometers, mechanical switches, and relays in critical audio signal paths, the product's lifespan is extended, and perfect level matching is achieved across all channels. Digitally controlled analogue circuitry and the use of stepped pots and electronic switches further simplify recall and precision.
*VHD™ (Variable Harmonic Drive) was first featured in the large-format SuperAnalogue™ Duality II console in 2006. It incorporates an innovative FET-based circuit that provides a range of tonal options, from the 'warmth of valves' to the 'hardness of transistors'.
Extensive Connectivity
The PURE DRIVE OCTO offers extensive connectivity, broadening its possibilities. Whether tracking a band in a world-class recording studio, expanding a home studio setup, or taking it on tour, the PURE DRIVE OCTO provides ample options to suit your needs. It can also add analogue warmth to your stems by passing them through the line-level inputs. Furthermore, the built-in USB audio interface allows direct recording to your DAW with state-of-the-art 32-bit/192 kHz conversion. AES and ADAT outputs can also be used to connect to existing audio interfaces. These outputs are also available individually from the onboard USB audio interface (as outputs from your DAW). Digitally, auto-ranging Word Clock inputs and outputs provide robust digital clocking.
Features
- 8 high-performance PureDrive™ microphone preamplifiers
- 48V phantom power, polarity invert, and variable high-pass filter up to 300Hz
- Stepped gain control up to +65 dB
- Precise 31-step Trim control in 1dB increments
- Three modes per preamplifier: Clean, Classic Drive, Asymmetric Drive
- Mic/Line input switching – select Mic via XLR, Line via TRS jack or D-Sub connection
- 4 Hi-Z/DI instrument inputs on the front panel
- Four selectable mic pre-amp input impedance options: 12kΩ, 1.2kΩ, 600Ω, 400Ω
- Balanced analogue outputs/insert sends for external processing
- Insert returns/ADC inputs at +24dBu professional line level
- Analogue/digital connectivity via ADAT, AES, and USB
- Functionality to output digital audio from the USB audio interface (as DAW outputs) to ADAT and AES
- USB audio interface provides 8 inputs / 24 outputs at 44.1/48 kHz (8 analogue inputs / 8 AES + 16 ADAT outputs)
- High precision, stereo matching, and easy recall via stepped pots and digitally controlled analogue electronics
- Up to 192 kHz, 32-bit conversion with professional I/O levels (+24dBu = 0 dBFS)
- Selectable auto-sleep mode
- Auto-ranging Word Clock in/outputs
Installation
The PURE DRIVE OCTO is a 2U, 19-inch rackmount unit designed for placement in a rack, such as a producer's desk. It is recommended to allow ventilation space above and below the unit to allow heat generated by the PURE DRIVE OCTO to dissipate naturally. The chassis sides have cut-outs that should never be blocked or covered. Always ensure the unit is cool before handling.
Hardware Overview
This section provides an overview of the PURE DRIVE OCTO hardware. The tutorial section details each control.
Front Panel
The front panel features 8 channels, each with identical controls for Gain, Trim, ZΩ/Insert, and Drive. It also includes master controls for Standby, Insert Mode, Rate, and Clock Source, along with a 6-segment LED meter display.
Rear Panel
The rear panel houses all input and output connections, including:
- Mic/Line Analogue Inputs (Combo XLR / TRS)
- Line Inputs (D-Sub DB25)
- Insert Returns (D-Sub DB25)
- Analogue Outputs / Insert Sends (XLR)
- AES/EBU Outputs (XLR)
- ADAT Outputs (Optical TOSLINK)
- Wordclock Input and Output (BNC)
- USB 'C' Type Port
- IEC Mains Inlet
- Power ON/OFF Switch
Connections Overview
1 - Microphones connected to Mic/Line Inputs: Connect up to 8 microphones via XLR cables to the rear panel combo XLR sockets, selecting the optimal impedance from 8 options to match each microphone's load. Line-level sources can also be connected via the central jack.
2 & 3 - Connecting Audio Interface and External Processing to Outputs/Insert Sends: Record the PURE DRIVE's analogue outputs to the line-level inputs of an audio interface, or send them to external processing devices like outboard compressors.
4 - Connecting SSL 12 ADAT IN to ADAT OUT: Digitally connect the PURE DRIVE to an audio interface with ADAT inputs, such as the SSL 12, for recording using the onboard A/D converters.
5 - Connecting MAC/WINDOWS Computer via USB: Connect a USB cable to utilize the PURE DRIVE's built-in audio interface and record directly to your DAW using the onboard A/D converters.
6 - Connecting Master Clock Device to Wordclock In: Connect the PURE DRIVE as part of a digital clocking system using the BNC connector.
7 - Connecting AES/EBU Device to AES/EBU OUT: Useful for connecting to external equipment with AES/EBU inputs, such as distribution systems or external converters.
8 - Connecting External Processing to Insert Returns: Connect the outputs from external analogue processors.
9 - Connecting Line-Level Devices to Line Inputs: Connect the outputs from line-level devices.
Tutorial
Power On
Turn on the power by moving the rocker switch on the rear panel to the 'on' position. A startup sequence will execute, with the +48V button flashing for a few seconds before settling into its normal state.
Front Panel Controls
The PURE DRIVE OCTO features 8 channels of preamplifiers, each with identical controls:
- GAIN: An 11-position stepped control offering gain from +5 to +65 dB for mic sources (6 dB steps), 0 to +30 dB for line sources (3 dB steps), and +11 to +41 dB for Hi-Z modes (3 dB steps).
- TRIM: A 31-position stepped control allowing for ±15 dB of gain adjustment in 1 dB increments. This is a separate gain circuit from the main GAIN control. Tip: Use the GAIN control to overdrive the preamp or downstream analogue-to-digital converters, then use TRIM to bring the signal down to the appropriate level.
- HPF (High-Pass Filter) LED: A 75Hz, 18dB/oct high-pass filter can be toggled on/off by briefly pressing the TRIM control.
- POLARITY (Ø LED): A green indicator shows polarity inversion. Polarity can be inverted by pressing the GAIN control. This is useful for multi-miked instruments like drums where phase cancellation can occur. Inverting the polarity of a specific channel can resolve these cancellations. Tip: Inverting the top or bottom snare mic can yield a fatter sound.
- +48V PHANTOM POWER: A long press of the GAIN control engages +48V phantom power (indicated by a red 48V LED). This is required for certain condenser microphones and active ribbon microphones. Dynamic and passive ribbon microphones do not require phantom power and can sometimes be damaged by it. If in doubt, ensure +48V is disabled before connecting your microphone. Turning +48V on or off will cause the LED to flash for 4 seconds, indicating that the audio is temporarily muted.
- LINE INPUT LED: A long press of the TRIM control switches the input to line mode, accepting signals from the rear panel TRS jacks or dedicated D-Sub connector. These connectors are wired in parallel, so it is recommended to use only one at a time. In LINE mode, the +48V and ZΩ functions are disabled, and the input impedance is fixed at 22kΩ.
- ZΩ (Impedance): Adjusting the impedance allows for correct matching of vintage microphones or altering the tone of the input signal, providing further creative control during recording. Pressing the ZΩ button cycles through input impedance options. A long press of the ZΩ button cycles through the selection via the switch's LED color: Green (12kΩ), Dim White (1.2kΩ), Amber (600Ω), Red (400Ω). Generally, for condenser or active microphones, changing the impedance will not affect the sound, so it is recommended to leave the preamplifier at the factory default Green (12kΩ). For ribbon or dynamic microphones, impedance can be used as a powerful tone-shaping tool, similar to EQ, as it affects the microphone's individual tone. This is based on the principle that the microphone's output impedance is not constant across all frequencies. Higher input impedance results in less deviation from the microphone's natural response, yielding a more balanced and natural-sounding frequency response. A general rule of thumb is that the preamp's input impedance should be at least 10 times the microphone's output impedance. Lower input impedance emphasizes the microphone's response, bringing out its tonal characteristics. Frequencies where the microphone's output impedance is higher than average will be attenuated, while frequencies with lower impedance will be boosted. A slight drop in level will be observed when changing from higher to lower input impedance settings, which is normal and a result of the increased ratio between the microphone's output impedance and the preamp's input impedance.
- INSERT (Secondary function of the ZΩ button): The ZΩ button on each channel can be used to enable/disable the insert return. To do this, first press the INSERT button on the right side of the unit (just below the Standby button). The ZΩ button will begin to flash. Then, pressing ZΩ enables the insert return for the selected channel (Green = Insert Return Enabled). To return the ZΩ button to its normal operation (impedance switching), press the INSERT button on the right side of the unit again. The insert return point is just before the A/D converter, making it ideal for using external processing (EQ, compressors, etc.) in this signal path. It also allows bypassing the preamp stage and performing A/D conversion using the insert return. This is useful when using external preamps or when only analogue-to-digital conversion is needed.
- DRIVE [TYPE]: Switches between three distinct microphone preamplifier modes: Clean, Classic Drive, and Asymmetric Drive.
- Clean (Backlit): A linear, ultra-low noise, low-distortion preamplifier that amplifies the source with clarity and detail.
- Classic Drive (Amber): Adds primarily odd-order harmonic distortion to enrich the input signal. Harmonic distortion is level/gain dependent.
- Asymmetric Drive (Green): Features more even-order harmonics, resulting in increased thickness, softened transients, and greater harmonic distortion that is level/gain dependent. To engage Asymmetric Drive mode, long-press the DRIVE button for approximately one second.
- Blue harmonics are from the Classic Drive setting, and Red harmonics are from the Asymmetric Drive mode.
- Note the more prominent second-order harmonics in Asymmetric Drive mode.
Classic Drive vs Asymmetric Drive
The following graphs illustrate the harmonic differences between Classic Drive and Asymmetric Drive:
Test tone 200 Hz, 29 dB Gain, input level -14.35 dBu.
Hi-Z/DI - Instrument Inputs
Each input channel is equipped with a 1MΩ Hi-Z/DI unbalanced instrument input for connecting sources like guitars and keyboards. These inputs feature auto-detection: plugging a jack into the socket automatically selects the Hi-Z/DI input as the source, rather than Mic or Line. The +48V, LINE, and ZΩ buttons are disabled, but you can still color the signal using the DRIVE modes.
Power, Digital Clock Setup & Metering
The 6-segment LED meters display signal levels in dBu at the analogue-to-digital converter stage. Peak hold segments and release times are adjustable to your preference. Refer to the 'Settings' section of this user guide for more details.
- INSERT MODE: Engaging the INSERT MODE button allows the channel ZΩ buttons to enable/disable insert returns. While the INSERT MODE button is active, the button will flash bright white.
- STANDBY MODE (SLEEP): STANDBY MODE offers a convenient way to put the unit to sleep from the front panel. A one-second long press of the STANDBY MODE button will turn off all front panel buttons and LEDs, except for the STANDBY MODE button itself, which will pulse slowly. STANDBY MODE puts the unit in a low-power state and shuts down the audio circuitry until you wake it from sleep. Pressing the STANDBY MODE button again will wake the unit from sleep. STANDBY MODE can also be configured to engage automatically after a period of inactivity. Please refer to the Settings section of the user guide for more information.
- RATE: Pressing the RATE button allows you to change the sample rate of the internal analogue/digital converters. A long press of the RATE button cycles through the sample rate options in reverse order. The current sample rate is indicated by the illumination of 44.1 and 48 (kHz), and the x2 and x4 marks in the status area.
- CLOCK: Pressing the CLK button allows you to change the clock source – select between INT (Internal) and W/C (Word Clock). A long press of the CLK button cycles through the clock source options in reverse order. The current clock source is indicated by the illumination of the INT and W/C marks in the status area. If the Word Clock is not locked correctly, the front panel sample rate display will flash, indicating that no source is present or it is not a usable rate. USB (USB Display: Green): Illuminates green when the unit is successfully connected to a host computer via USB. When connected via USB, the front panel RATE and CLK buttons are disabled. Sample rate and clock source adjustments should be made on the host computer. For more information on the internal USB audio interface, please refer to the USB Audio Interface section of this user guide.
Rear Panel Connections
- Mic/Line Analogue Inputs: The combo XLR on the rear panel is used for analogue inputs (via XLR, or line-level inputs via TRS jack). When using the TRS jack for line input, switch via the front panel LINE switch (long press of the TRIM control). Line inputs are also available on the D-Sub (DB25) connector.
- Analogue Outputs / Insert Sends: Balanced analogue outputs can be accessed from the female XLR connectors on the rear panel, which also serve as insert sends for connecting to external processing devices (EQ, compressors, etc.).
- Line Inputs: Dedicated line-level inputs are available from the D-Sub connectors on the rear panel. Connecting line inputs via this connector is more convenient than plugging and unplugging the combo XLR. *Note: TRS and DB25 are wired in parallel. Use only one or the other, and avoid using both simultaneously.*
- Insert Returns: Insert returns can be accessed from the D-Sub connectors on the rear panel.
- ADAT OUT: Optical ADAT outputs provide digital transmission: 8 channels at 44.1/48 kHz (output to both ports). 8 channels at 88.2/96 kHz (S/MUX) (using one port for channels 1-4 and the other for channels 5-8). Refer to the [1-4] and [5-8] markings in brackets on the unit. 4 channels at 176.4/192 kHz (S/MUX) (using one port for channels 1-2 (marked [1-4]) and the other for channels 3-4 (marked [5-8])). When using the PURE DRIVE as a USB audio interface, the ADAT outputs can be supplied as outputs from your DAW (via USB), allowing for a total of 16 channels of audio at 44.1/48 kHz using both ports. Refer to 'Repurposing the Digital Outputs as DAW Outputs' on page 18 for details.
- AES/EBU OUT: AES/EBU outputs are available in pairs of 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, and 7/8 via female XLR connectors. Please note that AES/EBU cables have a different construction than standard XLR/microphone cables to ensure specific impedance requirements; use AES/EBU specified cables.
- WORDCLOCK: Auto-ranging Word Clock input and output are provided via BNC connectors. The 75Ω TERM button is a switch to terminate the Word Clock input. Turn this button on if the Word Clock input is the last device in your clocking chain.
- IEC Mains Inlet: The PURE DRIVE features an auto-ranging power supply. Simply connect the IEC to your mains socket and switch the power on/off.
- USB: Access the built-in USB audio interface via the USB 'C' type connector. Connect to your host computer/DAW system.
USB Audio Interface
You can record the PURE DRIVE's outputs directly to your DAW via USB using the built-in USB audio interface. Please note that unless the mode is changed in the PURE DRIVE's Settings menu, the PURE DRIVE will appear as an audio interface with outputs 0.
Driver Installation
Mac OS: The PURE DRIVE is compatible with Mac Core Audio.
Windows: Install the SSL USB ASIO/WDM Audio Driver. Follow these steps:
- Download and install the SSL USB ASIO/WDM Audio Driver from the SSL website (Downloads page). Once the download is complete, open the SSL USB Control Panel application and select your PURE DRIVE device.
- With your device selected, navigate to the ASIO Device tab and link the PURE DRIVE OCTO to one of the four ASIO drivers.
- In your DAW, select the same ASIO driver as your audio interface. In this example, SSL ASIO Driver 1 is selected.
Aggregate Soundcard (Mac only)
The PURE DRIVE does not have a monitoring section for playback. Therefore, when using the PURE DRIVE in conjunction with an existing audio interface, consider using macOS's Aggregate Device feature. The example on the right shows using the SSL 2+ and PURE DRIVE OCTO together, but this can be done with any audio interface. Refer to your macOS documentation for details on creating and using aggregate devices.
USB Audio Interface/DAW Inputs
8 inputs are available to your DAW at all sample rates up to 192 kHz.
| SOURCE TYPE | SOURCE NAME | DAW Input (via USB) |
|---|---|---|
| ANALOGUE CHANNELS 1-8 | Mic/Line/Inst Analogue In 1 | 1 |
| Mic/Line/Inst Analogue In 2 | 2 | |
| Mic/Line/Inst Analogue In 3 | 3 | |
| Mic/Line/Inst Analogue In 4 | 4 | |
| Mic/Line Analogue In 5 | 5 | |
| Mic/Line Analogue In 6 | 6 | |
| Mic/Line Analogue In 7 | 7 | |
| Mic/Line Analogue In 8 | 8 |
Re-purposing the Digital Outputs as DAW Outputs
By default, the AES and ADAT digital outputs are supplied from the analogue-to-digital converters. This means analogue inputs are converted to ADAT and AES. However, it is possible to use the AES and ADAT outputs as outputs from your DAW via USB. Refer to the Settings section of this user guide for instructions on how to do this.
- DAW to Digital Output Signal Flow: A diagram illustrates the signal flow from the DAW to the digital outputs.
USB audio interface/DAW Outputs
The number of outputs available in your DAW varies depending on the sample rate used. Also, note that even if the AES/EBU outputs are configured to be supplied from the ADC (default setting), if the ADAT outputs are configured to be supplied from USB, the outputs will appear in the computer's device list when the unit is connected to the computer via USB. This is to maintain a consistent order in the output list.
The following tables show the correspondence for each sample rate:
44.1/48 kHz
| DAW Output (via USB) | PURE DRIVE | CONNECTOR |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2 | AES EBU Out 1/2 | |
| 3/4 | AES EBU Out 3/4 | AES EBU XLR OUTPUTS |
| 5/6 | AES EBU Out 5/6 | |
| 7/8 | AES EBU Out 7/8 | |
| 9 | ADAT Out 1 | |
| 10 | ADAT Out 2 | |
| 11 | ADAT Out 3 | |
| 12 | ADAT Out 4 | ADAT OUT 1-8 [1-4] |
| 13 | ADAT Out 5 | |
| 14 | ADAT Out 6 | |
| 15 | ADAT Out 7 | |
| 16 | ADAT Out 8 | |
| 17 | ADAT Out 9 | |
| 18 | ADAT Out 10 | |
| 19 | ADAT Out 11 | |
| 20 | ADAT Out 12 | ADAT OUT 1-8 [5-8] |
| 21 | ADAT Out 13 | |
| 22 | ADAT Out 14 | |
| 23 | ADAT Out 15 | |
| 24 | ADAT Out 16 |
88.2/96 kHz
| DAW Output (via USB) | PURE DRIVE | CONNECTOR |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2 | AES EBU Out 1/2 | AES EBU XLR OUTPUTS |
| 3/4 | AES EBU Out 3/4 | |
| 5/6 | AES EBU Out 5/6 | |
| 7/8 | AES EBU Out 7/8 | |
| 9 | ADAT Out 1 | ADAT OUT 1-8 [1-4] |
| 10 | ADAT Out 2 | |
| 11 | ADAT Out 3 | |
| 12 | ADAT Out 4 | |
| 13 | ADAT Out 5 | ADAT OUT 1-8 [5-8] |
| 14 | ADAT Out 6 | |
| 15 | ADAT Out 7 | |
| 16 | ADAT Out 8 |
176.4/192 kHz
| DAW Output (via USB) | PURE DRIVE | CONNECTOR |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2 | AES EBU Out 1/2 | AES EBU XLR OUTPUTS |
| 3/4 | AES EBU Out 3/4 | |
| 5/6 | AES EBU Out 5/6 | |
| 7/8 | AES EBU Out 7/8 | |
| 9 | ADAT Out 1 | ADAT OUT 1-8 [1-4] |
| 10 | ADAT Out 2 | |
| 11 | ADAT Out 3 | ADAT OUT 1-8 [5-8] |
| 12 | ADAT Out 4 |
Firmware Updates
Occasionally, firmware updates may be available via the SSL USB Audio Firmware Updater application (Mac/Windows). Such updates will be posted on the SSL Support site. When performing firmware updates, it is recommended to avoid using USB hubs and connect the PURE DRIVE directly to your computer via USB.
Settings
The PURE DRIVE OCTO has several configurable parameters. To access these settings, press and hold the CLK button while powering on the unit. Read the information on the following pages to understand which switches affect which settings. Once you have adjusted the settings, long-press the STANDBY button to exit settings mode and return to normal operation.
Settings Layout - Overview Map
The following is a quick reference diagram showing which controls/buttons affect each setting.
Button Brightness
Button light brightness can be set across 8 levels. The factory default setting is level 5.
- Press and hold the CLK button while powering on to enter settings mode.
- Use the ZΩ and DRIVE buttons on Channel 1 to decrease or increase brightness.
- Save settings and exit settings mode by holding the STANDBY button. Alternatively, continue adjusting other settings before performing this step.
Meters Brightness
Meter brightness can be set across 8 levels. The factory default setting is level 8.
- Press and hold the CLK button while powering on to enter settings mode.
- Use the ZΩ and DRIVE buttons on Channel 2 to decrease or increase brightness.
- Save settings and exit settings mode by holding the STANDBY button. Alternatively, continue adjusting other settings before performing this step.
Relay Feedback
Relay feedback (the click sound when buttons are pressed) can be enabled or disabled. This affects the startup sequence and normal operation. To toggle between enabled/disabled:
- Press and hold the CLK button while powering on to enter settings mode.
- Press the GAIN control on Channel 2. If the [48V] LED is illuminated, relay feedback is enabled (default).
- Save settings and exit settings mode by holding the STANDBY button. Alternatively, continue adjusting other settings before performing this step.
Autopower On Enable
Autopower On defines whether the unit automatically powers up or remains in standby mode when power is applied. The default setting is enabled. To toggle between enabled/disabled:
- Press and hold the CLK button while powering on to enter settings mode.
- Press the GAIN control on Channel 4. If the [48V] LED is illuminated, Autopower On is enabled. If the [48V] LED is off, Autopower On is disabled.
- Save settings and exit settings mode by holding the STANDBY button. Alternatively, continue adjusting other settings before performing this step.
Auto Standby (Sleep) Mode Enable
In addition to manually putting the PURE DRIVE into standby (sleep) mode from the front panel, there is a mode where the unit automatically enters standby (sleep) mode after a period of inactivity. 'Inactivity' is defined as no pots or switches being operated, or no audio present above 0 dBu. By default, auto standby mode is disabled. To toggle between enabled and disabled:
- Press and hold the CLK button while powering on to enter settings mode.
- Press the GAIN control on Channel 8. If the [48V] LED is illuminated, auto standby mode is enabled. If the [48V] LED is off, auto standby mode is disabled (default).
- Save settings and exit settings mode by holding the STANDBY button. Alternatively, continue adjusting other settings before performing this step.
Auto Standby (Sleep) Timeout
When auto standby mode is enabled, the ZΩ and DRIVE buttons on Channel 8 can be used to increase or decrease the timeout period (the time before automatically entering standby mode). The default setting is 20 minutes.
- Press and hold the CLK button while powering on to enter settings mode.
- Ensure auto standby mode is enabled (refer to the previous setting's description).
- Use the ZΩ and DRIVE buttons on Channel 8 to increase or decrease the auto standby timeout.
- Save settings and exit settings mode by holding the STANDBY button. Alternatively, continue adjusting other settings before performing this step.
The current timeout setting is displayed in binary at the bottom of the meters. Refer to the table on the next page for details on the options.
Re-purposing the Digital Outputs as DAW Outputs
By default, AES and ADAT outputs are supplied from the AD converters. However, it is possible to use the AES and ADAT outputs as outputs from your DAW via USB.
- Press and hold the CLK button while powering on to enter settings mode.
- Use the ZΩ button on Channel 3 to switch AES outputs between ADC or USB.
- Use the DRIVE button on Channel 3 to switch ADAT outputs between ADC or USB.
- Save settings and exit settings mode by holding the STANDBY button. Alternatively, continue adjusting other settings before performing this step.
- AES Outputs: Color of the ZΩ button on Channel 3: Dim White = Internal ADC Source (Default), Red = DAW USB Source.
- ADAT Outputs: Color of the DRIVE button on Channel 3: Dim White = Internal ADC Source (Default), Green = DAW USB Source.
- Normal Mode: Signals are sent to AES and ADAT from the AD converters.
- DAW to Digital Output Signal Flow: A diagram illustrates the signal flow from the DAW to the digital outputs, shown for 44.1/48 kHz.
Safe Mode for Ø, +48 V , HPF and LINE Push Functions
The Ø (Polarity Invert), +48V, HPF, and LINE functions are toggled by short or long presses of the GAIN and TRIM controls. In critical environments, some engineers may wish to reduce the risk of accidental activation, as these functions can unintentionally disrupt or alter the audio. Therefore, in Safe Mode, the duration of the press required to toggle functions on/off is increased.
- Press and hold the CLK button while powering on to enter settings mode.
- Use the ZΩ button on Channel 4 to toggle Safe Mode on/off. Dim White = Normal Operation, Red = Safe Mode.
- Save settings and exit settings mode by holding the STANDBY button. Alternatively, continue adjusting other settings before performing this step.
Peak Hold
Peak hold meter segments can be adjusted to your preference.
- Press and hold the CLK button while powering on to enter settings mode.
- Use the ZΩ button on Channel 6 to select your preferred peak hold setting (refer to the list below).
- Save settings and exit settings mode by holding the STANDBY button. Alternatively, continue adjusting other settings before performing this step.
Toggle Peak Hold with Channel 6 ZΩ button:
- Dim white: OFF
- Green: 1 second
- Orange: 3 seconds (Default)
- Red: 10 seconds
Meter Release
Meter release times can be adjusted to your preference.
- Press and hold the CLK button while powering on to enter settings mode.
- Use the DRIVE button on Channel 6 to select your preferred meter release setting (refer to the list below).
- Save settings and exit settings mode by holding the STANDBY button. Alternatively, continue adjusting other settings before performing this step.
Toggle Meter Release with Channel 6 DRIVE button:
- Green: Slow
- Orange: Normal (Default)
- Red: Fast
Factory Reset
To return the unit to its factory default state, perform a factory reset using the following procedure:
- While powering on the unit, press and hold both the ZΩ button on Channel 1 and the DRIVE button on Channel 8 until all DRIVE buttons flash red.
- Release the held buttons, and the factory settings will be restored, and the unit will automatically reboot.
Settings affected by the factory reset include:
- Switch states
- Shaft switch states
- Button brightness (Default: 5 of 8 levels)
- Meter brightness (Default: 8 of 8 levels)
- Relay feedback (Default: Enabled)
- Autopower On (Default: Enabled)
- Auto standby mode (Default: Disabled)
- Auto standby mode timeout (Default: 20 minutes)
Troubleshooting
UID Display
The UID display mode shows the UID number of the currently used firmware and the hardware revision for both the main and front panel cards. To enter UID display mode, press and hold the RATE button while powering on. Digit breakdown:
- Firmware UID: 5-digit number
- Mainboard hardware revision: 1-digit number
- Front panel hardware revision: 1-digit number
The digits are displayed individually in binary on the meters. Each digit is displayed per row of meter LEDs:
From top:
- Rows 1 through 5: Firmware UID digits 1-5
- From bottom: Row 1 Mainboard revision digit, Row 2 Front panel revision digit.
If a digit is not illuminated, it means '0', and if it is illuminated, it means '1'. Refer to the table below:
| 1st LED | 2nd LED | 3rd LED | 4th LED | Digit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2 |
| 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 3 |
| 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 5 |
| 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 6 |
| 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 7 |
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 8 |
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 9 |
Exit UID display mode by holding the STANDBY button until the unit returns to normal operation. If you are unsure how to interpret the information, take a photo of the displayed numbers, and an SSL support engineer can assist you.
Soak and Potentiometer Test Mode
Soak mode is used to check if all lights and indicators on the front panel are functioning correctly. It cycles through the following phases. To enter Soak mode, press and hold the ZΩ and DRIVE buttons on Channel 1 while powering on.
- All switches illuminate white.
- All switches illuminate red.
- All switches illuminate green (or dim white if no function) + meter pattern.
- All indicators illuminate (green or red depending on function) + meter pattern.
- Same as 5, but meters illuminate fully.
- Same as 2, but meters illuminate fully.
- Same as 3, but meters illuminate fully.
This mode also allows testing the correct operation of the potentiometers. Changing the position of a potentiometer will cause a relay click as confirmation feedback. The GAIN control on Channel 1 controls the speed of the pattern cycling. Turning the knob fully counter-clockwise (fully left) will pause the pattern cycling. Turning the knob clockwise will increase the pattern speed. Exit Soak and Potentiometer Test Mode by holding the STANDBY button to return to normal operation.
Specifications
Default Test Conditions (unless otherwise stated):
- Measuring instrument source impedance: 40Ω
- Measuring instrument input impedance: 100kΩ
- Reference frequency: 1 kHz
- Reference level: 0 dBu
- Bandwidth from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, expressed in dBu
- Clipping (for headroom measurement) is defined as 1% THD
- Measurements are taken on balanced connections unless clearly defined otherwise
- A/D Converter Sample Rate: 48 kHz
- HPF disabled/set to minimum
- TRIM set to center position (0 dB)
- Gain set to minimum
- Z set to highest (Green)
- DRIVE disabled
Tolerances for all figures are ±0.5 dB or 5%, unless otherwise stated.
Unit General
Power
| Power Supply | Auto-Ranging 100-240 VAC |
|---|---|
| Operating Power | <45 Watts |
| Standby Mode | <6.9 Watts |
Physical
| Width | 482.6 mm / 19 inches |
|---|---|
| Height | 88.1 mm / 3.5 inches (2 RU) |
| Depth | 302.8 mm / 11.9 inches (chassis only) |
| 338.4 mm / 13.3 inches (including front panel controls and rear panel connections) | |
| Weight | 6.2 kg / 13.7 lbs |
| Boxed Dimensions | 550 mm × 470 mm × 210 mm (21.7″ × 18.5″ × 8.3″) |
Connectors
| Inputs | Combo XLR x8 |
|---|---|
| Outputs/Insert Sends | 25-way D-type Female (D-Sub) x1 |
| Insert Returns | 25-way D-type Female (D-Sub) x1 |
| Line Inputs | 25-way D-type Female (D-Sub) x1 |
| AES/EBU Outputs | Male XLR x4 |
| ADAT Outputs | Optical TOSLINK Port x2 |
| Wordclock Input and Output | BNC connector x 2 |
| USB | 'C' Type USB Port x1 |
Environmental
Temperature: Operating: +1°C to 30°C; Storage/Transport: -20°C to 50°C
Mic In to Insert Send
| Measurement | Value | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Input Impedance | 12kΩ | Green setting |
| 1.2kΩ | Dim White setting | |
| 600Ω | Orange setting | |
| 400Ω | Red setting | |
| Output Impedance | 70Ω | - |
| Gain Matching | ±0.1 dB | Any gain setting |
| Noise Floor (Unweighted) | <-95 dBu | 17 dB gain, unweighted, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 150R termination |
| EIN | -125.0 dBu nominal | 65 dB gain, A-weighted, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 150R termination |
| Frequency Response | ±0.2 dB | 20 to 20 kHz, any gain |
| THD+N Ratio | 0.0025 % | 17 dB gain, 20 dBu out, 1 kHz |
| Crosstalk | <-105 dB | Aggressor 15 dBu 1 kHz in, 5 dB gain, 20 dBu out; Adjacent channels 150R terminator, 35 dB gain |
| Maximum Input Level | >21.5 dBu | Minimum gain |
Line In to Insert Send
| Measurement | Value | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Input Impedance | 22kΩ | - |
| Gain Matching | ±0.1 dB | Any gain setting |
| Noise Floor (Unweighted) | -87 dBu | 0 dB gain, unweighted, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 150R termination |
| THD+N Ratio | 0.004 % typical | 0 dB gain, 0 dBu out, 1 kHz |
| Maximum Input Level | 26.5 dBu | Minimum gain |
Hi-Z to Insert Send
| Measurement | Value | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Input Impedance | 1 MΩ (unbalanced) | - |
Insert Return to ADC
| Measurement | Value | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Input Impedance | 10 kΩ | - |
| ADC Line-Up | 24.0 dBu | - |
| Frequency Response | ±0.1 dB | 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| THD+N Ratio | 0.0005 % typical | 20 dBu, 1 kHz |
| Dynamic Range | 117 dB | 20 Hz to 20 kHz, A-weighted |
Block Diagram
A block diagram illustrates the signal flow within the PURE DRIVE OCTO, showing the path of analogue and digital audio signals, as well as control signals.
Safety Notices
Please read this document before use and use this product correctly. Keep this document for future reference. This document explains what you must observe to prevent harm to yourself or others, and damage to property. Observe all warnings, cautions, and instructions and use this product correctly.
- WARNING: This section indicates potential for death, serious injury, minor injury, or property damage.
- PROHIBITED: This section indicates actions that must not be performed.
- INSTRUCTIONS: This section indicates actions that must be performed.
Precautions for Installation / Use of this Product (including accessories such as power cables and power adapters)
- Do not use this product near water.
- Clean this product only with a dry cloth or products suitable for electrical equipment, and never when the power is on.
- Do not use near heat sources, sunlight, or open flames.
- Do not place heavy objects on this product.
- Unplug the power plug during thunderstorms or when not in use for extended periods.
- Repairs to this product may only be carried out by qualified personnel. Do not attempt to repair it yourself.
- Do not disassemble, repair, or modify this product. Modification may affect performance and safety.
- Do not expose this product to moisture, as it may not function correctly.
- Do not drop this product, as it may not function correctly.
- To avoid fire or electric shock, do not expose this unit to rain or moisture.
- Do not remove any seals attached to this product.
- Place this product on a level surface when installing.
- Do not install on carts, vibrating surfaces, or unstable locations.
- To ensure safe and correct use, avoid installing this product in the following locations:
- Locations with significant vibration.
- Locations filled with vaporized chemicals or where chemicals come into contact.
- Locations with magnetic fields or generating electromagnetic waves from electrical equipment, AV/OA equipment, etc.
- Locations generating high-frequency noise.
- Locations where temperatures drop significantly, such as ice makers, refrigerators, or freezers.
- Do not insert or drop foreign objects, such as metal or flammable materials, into the ventilation holes of this product. If any foreign object enters, stop using the product immediately and unplug the power cable. Do not attempt to remove it yourself; contact your retailer for repair.
- Do not use this product with medical equipment directly related to human life or systems requiring extremely high reliability (advanced broadcasting and communication equipment systems, trunk communication equipment, or computer systems), as this may cause significant social disruption.
- Do not operate or connect this product with wet hands, as this may cause electric shock.
- Do not install or use this product near electronic equipment that handles high-precision control or weak signals, or near pacemakers, as this may cause malfunction of the equipment.
- Do not use this product in medical electronic equipment or hospitals.
- Do not place vases, flower pots, cups, cosmetics, medicines, containers filled with water, or small metal objects near this product, as this may cause fire, electric shock, or malfunction.
- Do not install this unit in humid locations such as bathrooms or near humidifiers.
- Do not install in locations with drastic temperature changes (e.g., near air conditioners or heaters), as condensation may form inside the product, causing fire, electric shock, or malfunction.
- Do not install in locations such as near kitchen counters where oil splattering or steam may occur, or in dusty locations, as this may cause fire, electric shock, or malfunction.
- Do not block the ventilation holes of this product, as this may cause heat buildup inside and lead to fire. Do not use in the following ways:
- Pushing it into poorly ventilated spaces such as storage shelves, bookshelves, or boxes.
- Placing it on carpets or futons.
- Covering it with tablecloths or cloths.
- Do not stand on this product, especially in environments with small children, as it may break and cause injury.
- Some plastic parts of this product may appear scratched depending on the lighting conditions. This can occur during the manufacturing process of plastic products but does not pose a structural or functional issue.
- Ensure that cables connected to this unit are not strained. Also, be careful not to step on, pull, or trip over cables.
- INSTRUCTIONS:
- Keep the main unit free of dust and use it in a clean environment.
- Use only manufacturer-recommended attachments/accessories.
- If the unit does not operate normally, such as when the power does not turn on, or if there are abnormalities such as strange smells or smoke, unplug the power plug and request inspection/repair from your retailer.
- When installing in a 19-inch rack, ensure all screws are tightened securely. Also, leave a 1U gap above and below to ensure ventilation holes are not blocked.
Power Cable, Power Adapter Precautions
- WARNING:
- Ensure that the connected power cable is not strained. Also, be careful not to step on, pull, or trip over it.
- Do not damage the power cord by processing, bending, pulling forcefully, twisting, applying weight, heating, or pinching it.
- Do not plug or unplug the power plug with wet hands.
- Do not use octopus wiring (multiple plugs in one outlet).
- Do not use extension cords.
- When unplugging the power plug, hold the plug itself, not the cord.
- Do not pour water or liquids onto the power plug.
- Do not use with anything other than AC100V household power, as this may cause fire or electric shock.
- Do not place objects on or cover the power adapter with cloth.
- Do not install the power adapter in narrow spaces with poor ventilation.
- Do not install the power adapter so that it is suspended.
- Be aware that the main unit or power adapter may become hot during use, posing a risk of burns.
- Do not install the power cable or power adapter in humid locations such as bathrooms or near humidifiers.
- INSTRUCTIONS:
- Always use the supplied power cord or power adapter.
- Insert the power plug fully into the outlet.
- If dust or debris adheres to the power plug, wipe it off with a dry cloth.
- This product and its supplied power adapter are for Japan's 100V (50Hz/60Hz) power supply only. Always use a 100V AC outlet exclusively for this product. Using it with other power sources may cause fire, electric shock, or malfunction.
- Periodically remove dust from between the product's power plug and the outlet, as this may cause fire.
- When moving the product, unplug the power cable (or power adapter) from the outlet and confirm that all cables have been disconnected before moving.
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