PURE DRIVE OCTO User Guide

Overview

Introduction

The PURE DRIVE OCTO takes the highly regarded PureDrive™ mic preamps from the SSL ORIGIN console and delivers them in an 8-channel 2U rackmount device, supercharged with cutting-edge conversion and flexible digital connectivity.

3 Flavours, 1 Mic Pre

Each of the 8 preamps offers a choice of three modes: Clean, Classic Drive and Asymmetric Drive. Clean is a linear, ultra-low noise preamp capable of impeccably recreating the sound source with clarity and detail. Classic Drive introduces pleasing harmonic distortion to enrich the input signal, using predominantly odd harmonics; the same sound signature found on the ORIGIN console. Asymmetric Drive offers up a new colouration option, making the even harmonic content dominant and providing more pronounced thickness, colouration and softening of transients.

Analogue Obsession

PURE DRIVE OCTO continues SSL's obsession for progressive analogue circuit design with high-performance mic preamps, evolved from SSL's acclaimed VHD™ (Variable Harmonic Drive) technology. In addition, PURE DRIVE OCTO features balanced analogue outputs/insert sends for external processing, as well as high headroom insert returns/ADC inputs with +24 dBu A/D line-up level. No electro-mechanical components such as potentiometers, mechanical switches or relays are used in the critical audio signal path, which increases product longevity and results in impeccable level matching across all channels. The use of digitally controlled analogue circuits, along with stepped pots and electronic switches, further simplifies recall and precision of settings.

Extensive Connectivity

PURE DRIVE OCTO features extensive connectivity, opening up a world of possibilities. Whether you're tracking a band in a world-class recording studio, looking to expand your home studio setup, or even going out on tour, PURE DRIVE has you covered with an array of options to best suit your needs. It can also be used to add analogue warmth to stems by running DAW stems through it, using the line-level inputs. Furthermore, an integrated USB audio interface allows you to record directly into your DAW, via cutting-edge 32-bit/192 kHz conversion. Or, use the AES and ADAT outputs to connect to your existing audio interface. The AES and ADAT outputs can also be individually re-purposed to be fed from the on-board USB audio interface (as outputs from your DAW). To round out the digital side of things, there is an auto-ranging word clock input and output for robust digital clocking.

VHD™ (Variable Harmonic Drive) was introduced in the SuperAnalogue™ Duality large-format console in 2006, featuring an innovative FET-based circuit that provides a range of colouration options from 'valve warmth' to 'transistor grit'.

Features

• 8 high-performance PureDrive™ mic preamps.
• +48V phantom power, polarity invert and 3rd order hi-pass filter at 75 Hz.
• Stepped Gain control up to +65 dB Gain.
• 31-step Trim control, with precise 1 dB increments.
• 3 modes for each preamp – Clean, Classic Drive and Asymmetric Drive.
• Mic/Line Input Switching - Mic via XLR and Line via choice of TRS Jack or dedicated D-Sub connectivity.
• 4 front panel Hi-Z/DI Instrument inputs with automatic input detection.
• 4 mic preamp input impedance options - 12 kΩ, 1.2kΩ, 600Ω and 400Ω.
• Balanced analogue outputs/insert sends for external processing.
• +24 dBu professional line level insert returns/ADC inputs.
• Analogue to digital connectivity via ADAT, AES and USB.
• Ability to switch ADAT and AES connections to source audio from DAW outputs (USB) instead of the A/D converter.
• USB audio interface providing 8 in / 24 out @44.1/48 kHz (8 analogue inputs / 8 AES + 16 ADAT outputs).
• Stepped pots and digitally controlled analogue electronics for precision, stereo matching and ease of recall.
• Up to 192 kHz and 32-bit conversion, professional I/O levels (+24 dBu = 0 dBFS).
• Selectable Auto-Sleep mode.
• Auto-ranging Wordclock In and Out.

Installation

Unpacking

The unit has been carefully packed and inside the box you will find the following items:

• PURE DRIVE OCTO
• IEC power cord for your country
• Safety Sheet

It is always a good idea to save the original box and packaging, just in case you ever need to send the unit in for service.

Rack Mounting, Heat and Ventilation

PURE DRIVE OCTO is a 2U, 19” rackmount piece of equipment designed to sit in the racking of a producer's desk or similar. It is recommended that ventilation space is left above and below the unit so any heat generated by PURE DRIVE OCTO can naturally disperse. The sides of the unit's chassis have cut-outs that should under no circumstances be blocked or covered. Always allow the unit to cool down before handling.

Safety Notices

Please read the safety notice information included on the Safety Sheet inside the box before using PURE DRIVE OCTO. This information is also available in Appendices section of this User Guide.

Hardware Overview

Front Panel

The front panel features controls for each of the 8 channels, plus metering and status indicators. Key controls include:

• 4 x Hi-Z/DI Instrument Inputs: For connecting guitars, bass, or keyboards directly.
• GAIN (COARSE): An 11-position stepped control providing up to +65 dB of gain.
• POLARITY & +48V INDICATORS: Indicate polarity invert status and +48V Phantom Power status.
• METERING AND STATUS: A 6-segment meter displaying signal level, Sample Rate, and Clocking status.
• TRIM (FINE): A 31-position stepped control with +/- 15 dB of gain in 1 dB increments.
• CONFIGURATION: Allows switching of impedance, Drive modes, and Insert in/out.
• HIGH-PASS FILTER & LINE INDICATORS: A 75 Hz, 3rd order hi-pass filter and Line input indicators.
• STANDBY, INSERT MODE and DIGITAL CLOCK SETUP: Controls for standby on/off, insert mode, and digital clocking rate and source.

Each channel strip includes GAIN, TRIM, DRIVE [TYPE], ZΩ (Impedance) & INSERT IN/OUT controls, along with associated LEDs for POLARITY FLIP, +48V PHANTOM POWER, HIGH PASS FILTER, and LINE INPUT.

Rear Panel

The rear panel provides all physical I/O connections:

• USB: A 'C' Type connector for the in-built USB audio interface.
• ADAT OUT: Optical ADAT outputs providing digital audio transmission for up to 8 channels (A/D mode) or 16 channels (USB DAW outputs mode).
• LINE INPUTS: Dedicated Line Inputs available on a D-Sub connector (DB25).
• INSERT RETURNS: Balanced analogue insert returns/ADC inputs (+24 dBu) on a D-Sub connector (DB25).
• AUTO-RANGING PSU & Rocker Switch: For power connection and on/off control.
• WORDCLOCK: Wordclock OUT and IN via BNC connectors, with a 75Ω termination button.
• AES/EBU OUT: Outputs for channels 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, and 7/8 via female XLR connectors.
• ANALOGUE OUTPUTS/INSERT SENDS: Balanced analogue outputs and insert sends on a D-Sub connector (DB25).
• ANALOGUE INPUTS: Mic-level connections via XLR sockets and Line-level via TRS jacks.

Connections Overview

The PURE DRIVE OCTO offers versatile connectivity for various studio setups:

• 1 - MICROPHONES CONNECTED TO MIC/LINE INPUTS: Connect up to eight microphones using XLR cables to the rear-panel Combo XLR sockets. Choose from four impedance options to best suit the loading of each microphone. Line-level sources can be connected via the TRS jacks in the centre of the sockets.
• 2 & 3 - AUDIO INTERFACE & EXTERNAL PROCESSING CONNECTED TO OUTPUTS/INSERT SENDS: Record the analogue outputs of PURE DRIVE into line-level inputs of your audio interface, or send them to external processing devices like compressors.
• 4 - SSL 12 ADAT IN CONNECTED TO ADAT OUT: Connect PURE DRIVE digitally to an audio interface with an ADAT input (e.g., SSL 12) to record using the on-board A/D converter.
• 5 - MAC/WINDOWS COMPUTER CONNECTED TO USB: Connect a USB cable to utilize PURE DRIVE's built-in audio interface for direct recording into your DAW.
• 6 - MASTER CLOCKING DEVICE CONNECTED TO WORDCLOCK IN: Use the BNC connectors to integrate PURE DRIVE into your digital clocking system.
• 7 - AES/EBU DEVICE CONNECTED AES/EBU OUT: Connect to external devices accepting AES/EBU inputs, such as distribution systems and external converters.
• 8 - EXTERNAL PROCESSING CONNECTED TO INSERTS RETURNS: Return the output from external analogue processors.
• 9 - LINE-LEVEL DEVICES CONNECTED TO LINE INPUTS: Connect the output of dedicated line-level devices.

Tutorial

Power On

Power on the unit by moving the rear panel rocker-switch into the 'on' position. The start-up sequence will run, concluding with the +48V LEDs blinking for a few seconds (if active) as the unit returns to its previous state.

Front Panel Controls

OCTO has 8 channels of preamps, with an identical set of controls for each one:

• POLARITY FLIP LED: Lights green to indicate polarity is flipped. Enable/disable by pushing the GAIN control.
• +48V PHANTOM POWER LED: Lights red when +48V phantom power is active. Engaged by a long press on the GAIN control.
• GAIN: An 11-position stepped control providing +5 to +65 dB of gain for microphone sources (in 6 dB steps) and 0 to +30 dB of gain for Line sources (in 3 dB steps). In Hi-Z mode, the gain range is +11 dB to +41 dB in 3 dB steps.
• TRIM: A 31-position stepped control providing ± 15 dB gain in 1 dB increments. This is a separate gain circuit, post the main GAIN. Top tip: Overdrive the signal with the GAIN control and then reduce to a suitable level using TRIM, so as not to overload equipment downstream of the preamp or the analogue-to-digital converter.
• HIGH PASS FILTER LED: A 3rd order / 18 dB per octave high-pass filter at 75 Hz can be engaged/disengaged by a short press on the TRIM control.
• ZΩ (IMPEDANCE) & INSERT IN/OUT: The ZΩ button cycles through input impedance options (Green = 12kΩ, Dim White = 1.2kΩ, Amber = 600Ω, Red = 400Ω). A long press on ZΩ goes backwards. The ZΩ button also functions as an Insert return enable/disable when the INSERT MODE button is engaged.
• DRIVE [TYPE]: Toggles between the 3 different microphone preamp modes: Clean (backlit), Classic Drive (amber), and Asymmetric Drive (green). Asymmetric Drive is engaged by pressing and holding the DRIVE button.
• LINE INPUT LED: Indicates when the input is set to line mode (long press on TRIM control).

Polarity (∅ LED): Lights green to indicate the polarity is flipped. To enable/disable polarity flip, push the GAIN control. This is useful for resolving phase cancellations when using multiple microphones.

+48V PHANTOM POWER: A long press on the GAIN control provides +48V phantom power, required for certain condenser and active ribbon microphones. Dynamic or Passive Ribbon microphones do not require phantom power. When engaging/disengaging +48V, the LED will blink for 4 seconds to signify the audio is being temporarily muted to avoid clicks/pops.

LINE INPUT: A long press on the TRIM control switches the input to line mode, sourcing the signal from either the rear panel TRS jack or the dedicated D-Sub connector. In LINE mode, +48V and ZΩ functions are disabled, and the impedance is fixed at 22kΩ.

ZΩ: Changing the impedance allows you to correctly load match vintage microphones or alter the input signal's tonality. Generally, for condenser and active microphones, the factory default Green (12kΩ) is recommended. For ribbon and dynamic microphones, impedance significantly affects tone.

INSERT (Secondary function of the ZΩ button): When the INSERT button (below Standby) is pressed, the ZΩ buttons pulse and can be used to enable/disable insert returns. Inserts are used for incorporating external processing (EQ, compressor) before the A/D converter, or for bypassing the preamp stage for clean conversion.

DRIVE [TYPE]

Toggles between the 3 different microphone preamp modes: Clean, Classic Drive, and Asymmetric Drive.

• Clean: Linear, ultra-low noise and distortion preamp for clarity and detail.
• Classic Drive: Introduces harmonic distortion (predominantly odd harmonics) for a rich sound signature.
• Asymmetric Drive: Emphasizes even harmonic content for more pronounced thickness and softening of transients.

Top Tip: The DRIVE button flashes red to indicate clipping of the main preamp or trim stage. Lower the GAIN or TRIM to correct.

Classic Drive vs Asymmetric Drive

The graph below illustrates the difference in harmonic content between Classic Drive (blue, predominantly odd harmonics) and Asymmetric Drive (red, prominent even harmonics) at 29 dB gain.

[Graph Description: An FFT Spectrum graph shows frequency (Hz) on the x-axis and Level (dBu) on the y-axis. Two spectral plots are shown: blue for Classic Drive and red for Asymmetric Drive. The red plot (Asymmetric Drive) shows a significantly higher peak at the second harmonic frequency compared to the blue plot. Both plots show peaks at higher harmonic frequencies, with the blue plot showing more prominent odd harmonics.]

Hi-Z/DI - Instrument Inputs

The first four input channels feature a 1MΩ Hi-Z/DI unbalanced Instrument input for connecting sources such as guitars and keyboards. These inputs have automatic detection, meaning plugging in a jack automatically selects the Hi-Z/DI Input. The +48V, LINE, and ZΩ buttons are disabled, but DRIVE modes can still be used for tonal coloration.

Power, Digital Clock Setup & Metering

STANDBY MODE: Puts the unit into a low-power sleep state. Press and hold the button for a second to enter sleep; press again to wake. Can be configured to activate automatically after inactivity.

RATE: Press to change the sample rate of the built-in A/D converter. Press and hold to cycle backwards. The current sample rate is indicated by the lighting of 44.1 and 48 (kHz), with x2 and x4 markings.

CLOCK: Press to change the clock source (INT internal or W/C wordclock). Press and hold to cycle backwards. The current clock source is indicated by the lighting of INT and W/C markings.

Metering: A 6-segment LED meter displays signal level in dBu at the A/D converter stage. Peak hold and release ballistics are adjustable in the Settings section.

INSERT MODE: Engages the channel ZΩ buttons to function as insert return enable/disables. The button pulses white while active.

USB

Illuminates solid green when the unit is successfully connected to the host computer via USB. When connected via USB, the front panel RATE and CLK buttons become inactive; adjustments must be made via the host computer.

Important information - Clocking to Wordclock whilst using USB on Mac

If PURE DRIVE is connected via USB and you want to clock to wordclock, you must first set the Internal Clock rate of PURE DRIVE to match the external clock rate, and then change the clock selection from internal to Wordclock In. Clock source switching must be done from AudioMIDI setup on your Mac, as the RATE and CLK front panel buttons are disabled. If the internal clock rate does not match the external clock rate, it will show 'No Valid Formats'. To recover, switch back to Internal clock. To change the external clock rate, first set PURE DRIVE back to Internal clock, change the external clock rate, then set PURE DRIVE to match the new rate, before switching back to Wordclock In.

Rear Panel Connections

Mic/Line Analogue Inputs

The rear panel Combo-XLRs provide access to analogue microphone-level inputs (via XLR) or line-level inputs (via TRS jack). The LINE switch (long press on TRIM) on the front panel toggles between these. Dedicated Line Inputs are also available on the D-Sub (DB25) connector.

Analogue Outputs / Insert Sends

The rear panel D-Sub provides access to balanced analogue outputs, which can also serve as insert sends for external processing devices.

Line Inputs

The rear panel D-Sub connector provides access to dedicated line-level inputs. This can be more convenient than using the Combo-XLRs, avoiding the need for unplugging/replugging. TRS and DB25 are hardwired in parallel; use either/or, not both simultaneously.

Insert Returns

The rear panel D-Sub connector provides access to the insert returns.

ADAT OUT

ADAT OUT provides digital transmission of:

• 8 channels at 44.1/48 kHz, duplicated on 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.
• 4 channels at 176.4/192 kHz (S/MUX), using one port for channels 1-2 and the other for channels 3-4.

When using PURE DRIVE as a USB audio interface, the ADAT Outputs can be fed from the DAW (over USB) providing a total of 16 channels of audio at 44.1/48 kHz using both ports.

AES/EBU OUT

AES/EBU outputs are available as 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, and 7/8 pairs via female XLR connectors. Use AES/EBU specified cabling due to differing construction requirements.

WORDCLOCK

Auto-ranging wordclock input and outputs are provided on BNC connectors. The 75Ω TERM button terminates the wordclock input; engage if PURE DRIVE is the last device in the clocking chain.

IEC Mains Inlet

PURE DRIVE uses an auto-ranging power supply. Connect the IEC to a mains power socket and use the rocker switch to power the unit on/off.

USB

A USB 'C' type connector provides access to the built-in USB audio interface. Connect this to your host computer/DAW system.

USB Audio Interface

A built-in USB audio interface allows convenient recording of PURE DRIVE's outputs directly into your DAW. Note that PURE DRIVE presents itself as an audio interface with 0 outputs unless digital outputs are configured to be sourced from your DAW's outputs via the Settings menu.

Driver Installation

Mac OS: PURE DRIVE is class-compliant for Mac Core Audio; no driver installation is required.

Windows: Install the SSL USB ASIO/WDM Audio Driver. Download from the SSL website (Downloads page). Open the SSL USB Control Panel application and select your PURE DRIVE device. Then, go to the ASIO Device tab and link PURE DRIVE OCTO to an ASIO driver (e.g., SSL ASIO Driver 1). In your DAW, choose the same SSL ASIO Driver as your audio interface.

Aggregate Soundcard (Mac only)

PURE DRIVE does not feature a monitoring section for playback. For using PURE DRIVE alongside an existing audio interface, consider using the Mac OS Aggregate Device feature. This allows multiple audio devices to be combined.

USB Audio Interface/DAW Inputs

8 inputs are available to the DAW at all sample rates up to and including 192 kHz.

Re-purposing the Digital Outputs as DAW Outputs

Normally, AES and ADAT outputs are fed from the Analogue-to-Digital Converters (ADC). Optionally, you can re-purpose these outputs to be fed from the DAW (as outputs) via USB instead. This can be done independently for AES and ADAT outputs.

To configure:

1. Enter Settings mode by holding the [CLK] button whilst powering on.
2. Use Channel 3 [ZΩ] button to toggle between ADC or USB for the AES outputs. (Dim White = internal ADC source, Red = DAW USB source).
3. Use Channel 3 [DRIVE] button to toggle between ADC or USB for the ADAT outputs. (Dim White = internal ADC source, Green = DAW USB source).
4. Save settings and exit by holding the [STANDBY] button.

The number of outputs available to the DAW depends on the sample rate. Even if AES/EBU outputs are fed from the ADC (default), if ADAT is fed from USB, the AES/EBU outputs will still appear connected to the computer, maintaining output list consistency.

Firmware Updates

Firmware updates may be available via the SSL USB Audio Firmware Updater application (Mac/Windows). Such updates will be documented on the SSL Support site. It is recommended to use a direct USB connection between PURE DRIVE and your computer when performing firmware updates.

Settings

A number of configurable settings are available for PURE DRIVE OCTO. To access these, hold down the [CLK] button whilst the unit is powering on. Save settings and exit by holding the [STANDBY] button.

Settings Layout - Overview Map

This map identifies which controls/buttons affect each setting:

• BUTTON BRIGHTNESS: Controlled via Channel 1 [ZΩ] and [DRIVE] buttons.
• METERS BRIGHTNESS: Controlled via Channel 2 [ZΩ] and [DRIVE] buttons.
• RELAY FEEDBACK: Toggled via Channel 2 [GAIN] control.
• AUTOPOWER ON: Toggled via Channel 4 [GAIN] control.
• AUTO STANDBY (SLEEP) MODE ENABLE: Toggled via Channel 8 [GAIN] control.
• AUTO STANDBY (SLEEP) TIMEOUT: Adjusted via Channel 8 [ZΩ] and [DRIVE] buttons. The timeout is displayed in binary on the bottom meter LEDs.
• RE-PURPOSING THE DIGITAL OUTPUTS AS DAW OUTPUTS: Configured via Channel 3 [ZΩ] (AES) and [DRIVE] (ADAT) buttons.
• SAFE MODE FOR Ø, +48V, HPF AND LINE PUSH FUNCTIONS: Toggled via Channel 4 [ZΩ] button.
• PEAK HOLD: Adjusted via Channel 6 [ZΩ] button.
• METER RELEASE: Adjusted via Channel 6 [DRIVE] button.
• ENTER SETTINGS MODE: Hold [CLK] while powering on.
• SAVE AND EXIT SETTINGS MODE: Hold [STANDBY] while powering on.

Button Brightness

8 levels of brightness are available. Use Channel 1 [ZΩ] and [DRIVE] buttons to decrease/increase brightness.

Meters Brightness

8 levels of brightness are available. Use Channel 2 [ZΩ] and [DRIVE] buttons to decrease/increase brightness.

Relay Feedback

Enable/disable audible click feedback for button presses. Toggle by pressing the Channel 2 [GAIN] control in Settings mode. If the [48V] LED is lit, relay feedback is enabled (default).

Autopower On Enable

Defines if the unit automatically boots when power is applied. Toggle by pressing the Channel 4 [GAIN] control in Settings mode. If the [48V] LED is lit, Autopower On is enabled (default).

Auto Standby (Sleep) Mode Enable

Allows the unit to enter Standby Mode automatically after a period of inactivity. Toggle by pressing the Channel 8 [GAIN] control in Settings mode. If the [48V] LED is lit, Auto Standby Mode is enabled (default is disabled).

Auto Standby (Sleep) Timeout

Adjusts the timeout duration before Auto Standby engages. Use Channel 8 [ZΩ] and [DRIVE] buttons. The default is 20 minutes. The timeout is displayed in binary on the bottom 4 meter LEDs; each segment represents 5 minutes.

Re-purposing the Digital Outputs as DAW Outputs

As described previously, this setting is configured via Channel 3 [ZΩ] and [DRIVE] buttons in Settings mode.

Safe Mode for Ø, +48V, HPF and LINE Push Functions

Increases the time a button must be pushed to toggle its function, reducing accidental activation. Toggle via Channel 4 [ZΩ] button in Settings mode. Dim white = normal operation; Red = Safe Mode on.

Peak Hold

Adjusts the peak hold meter segment. Use Channel 6 [ZΩ] button in Settings mode. Options: Dim white (OFF), Green (1 second), Orange (3 seconds - default), Red (10 seconds).

Meter Release

Adjusts the meter release time (ballistics). Use Channel 6 [DRIVE] button in Settings mode. Options: Green (Slow), Orange (Standard - default), Red (Fast).

Factory Reset

To return the unit to factory-shipped state:

1. During unit power up, press and hold both the Channel 1 [ZΩ] button and Channel 8 [DRIVE] buttons until all DRIVE buttons flash red.
2. Release the held buttons; the unit will reboot with factory settings restored.

Settings affected by Factory Reset:

• Switch states
• Shaft switch states
• Buttons Brightness (default: 5th level of 8)
• Meters Brightness (default: 8th level of 8)
• Relay feedback (default: ON)
• Autopower on (default: enabled)
• Auto Standby Mode (default: disabled)
• Auto Standby Mode timeout (default: 20 min)

Troubleshooting

UID Display

Displays firmware UID and hardware revision. To enter UID Display Mode, press and hold the [RATE] button during power-up. Digits are shown on meters in binary. Unlit = '0', lit = '1'. Exit by holding [STANDBY].

Take a photo and contact a Support engineer if unsure how to read the information.

Soak and Potentiometer Test Mode

Checks operation of lights and indicators. Enter by holding Channel 1 [ZΩ] and [DRIVE] buttons during power-up. The mode cycles through 8 phases of switch and meter patterns. Potentiometer operation can also be tested; a position change triggers a relay click. Channel 1 [GAIN] controls pattern speed. Full CCW pauses animation. Exit by holding [STANDBY].

Specifications

Default Test Conditions

• Source impedance of test set: 40Ω
• Input impedance of test set: 100 kΩ
• Reference frequency: 1 kHz
• Reference level: 0 dBu
• All unweighted measurements: 20 Hz to 20 kHz bandwidth limited, expressed in dBu.
• Onset of clipping (headroom): 1% THD.
• All levels are intended balanced, unless explicitly defined otherwise.
• ADC 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

Unless otherwise quoted, all figures have a tolerance of ±0.5dB or 5%.

Unit General

Physical

Connectors

Mic In to Insert Send

Line In to Insert Send

Hi-Z to Insert Send

Insert Return to ADC

Trim & High-Pass Filter (HPF)

Block Diagram

[Block Diagram Description: The diagram illustrates the audio signal path. Analogue inputs (MIC/LINE via XLR/TRS, INSERT RETURNS via DB25) pass through various stages including PAD, GAIN, DRIVE, TRIM, HPF, and impedance selection (ZΩ). These signals are then converted by the ADC. The AUDIO PROCESSOR handles digital processing, clocking, and routing. Digital outputs include AES/EBU and ADAT, which can be sourced from the ADC or from the DAW via USB. Analogue outputs are available on DB25. The diagram shows control paths and digital audio paths separately from analogue paths.]

Safety Notices

General Safety

• Read and keep this document; adhere to all warnings and instructions.
• Do not expose to dust, water, or other liquids.
• Clean only with a dry cloth or compatible products; never when powered.
• Do not operate near heat sources, direct sunlight, or naked flames.
• Do not place heavy objects on the unit.
• Use only manufacturer-recommended attachments/accessories.
• Unplug during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
• Do NOT modify the unit; alterations may affect performance, safety, and compliance.
• Servicing by qualified personnel only. Seek immediate service if exposed to water or if the unit ceases to operate normally.
• SSL is not liable for damage caused by unauthorized maintenance, repair, or modification.
• Fix into a standard 19" rack or place on a secure level surface.
• If rack mounted, fit all rack screws. Rack shelves are recommended.
• Do not block ventilation openings; install according to manufacturer instructions.
• Ensure free airflow around the unit for cooling.
• Ensure no strain on cables; route them to avoid being stepped on, pulled, or tripped over.

Power Safety

• Use the supplied mains lead or a suitable replacement cord.
• The unit must ALWAYS be earthed.
• Use a compliant 60320 C13 TYPE SOCKET. Ensure appropriate conductors and plugs for local requirements.
• Maximum cord length: 4.5m (15').
• The cord must bear the approval mark of the country of use.
• The appliance coupler is the disconnect device; ensure it connects to an unobstructed wall outlet.
• Connect only to an AC power source with a protective earthing (PE) conductor.
• Connect only to single-phase supplies with the neutral conductor at earth potential.

ATTENTION! This product must always be earthed.

CAUTION! No user-serviceable parts inside. Contact Solid State Logic for damage. Service or repair by qualified personnel only.

Appendices

Compliance

United Kingdom Legislation: Complies with UK Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016, UK Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016, Eco-design requirements (ErP) 2009/125/EC, and RoHS2 Regulations 2012.

European Union Harmonisation Legislation: Complies with EU Low Voltage directive (LVD) 2014/35/EU, EU Electromagnetic Compatibility directive (EMC) 2014/30/EU, Eco-design requirements (ErP) 2009/125/EC, and RoHS2 Directive 2011/65/EU.

Instructions for disposal of WEEE by users in the European Union

The WEEE symbol indicates this product must not be disposed of with other waste. Users must take waste equipment to a designated collection point for recycling electrical and electronic equipment. This helps conserve natural resources and protect human health and the environment. Contact your local city office, household waste disposal service, or retailer for recycling information.

FCC Certification

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) it may not cause harmful interference, and (2) it must accept any interference received, including that which may cause undesired operation. Do not modify this unit. Use high-quality shielded cables to prevent electromagnetic interference with appliances like radios and televisions. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with Class A digital device limits for commercial environments, designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference.

Industry Canada Compliance

This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Electromagnetic Compatibility

BS EN 55032:2015, Class A. BS EN 55035:2017. Use braid-screened cables and metal connector shells for audio input/output ports to ensure a low impedance connection.

Electrical Safety

Complies with IEC 62368-1:2018, BS EN IEC 62368-1:2020+A11:2020, CSA CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 62368-1 3rd Ed., and UL 62368-1 3rd Ed.

WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

Environmental

Temperature: Operating: +1 to 30 degrees Celsius. Storage: -20 to 50 degrees Celsius.

Further information

For additional information, product downloads, knowledge base, and technical support, visit www.solidstatelogic.com.