SSL UF8 8 Channel Control Surface Released
SSL have released their latest studio controller, following on from the Duality, Matrix and Nucleus controllers. The new UF8 is a modular desktop expandable 8-channel DAW controller, which has been designed for today’s DAW-based production workflows and ultrafast turn-around times. We have the details…
SSL UF8 Features
High-quality 100 mm touch-sensitive faders
High-resolution colour displays
All-metal enclosure finished with a brushed, anodised top plate
8 Endless Rotary Encoders
Custom Workflows with 43 assignable keys per UF8; 5 banks of 8 User Keys + 3 Quick Keys
Intelligent Multi-Purpose CHANNEL Encoder
Mouse Scroll Emulation; control of any plug-in parameter you hover the mouse over with absolute precision
Hi-Speed USB connectivity
The hi-resolution display shows track information including level, pan, routing and names.
The 8 Endless Rotary Encoders are designed to enable you to jump between parameters whist maintaining absolute control, use SSL V-POT technology and workflow as found in their AWS and Duality consoles.
The ‘Intelligent’ CHANNEL Encoder features mouse scroll emulation, control any plug-in parameter you hover the mouse over.
You can configure shortcuts and custom macros on the UF8 for total session control via the 43 assignable, backlit user keys.
Each UF8 includes a pair of adjustable stands allowing for six different angles of elevation for user-defined placement. There is also a 19” rack mount kit available.
The connection to the host computer is USB using Mackie Control of HUI MIDI-based protocols.
SSL 360 App
SSL 360° is designed to be the command center and brains behind UF8. It’s a cross-platform application for Mac and Windows. Once installed, the app allows you to configure your UF8(s) for your DAW, customize the User Keys and save/load profiles.
The SSL 360° also manages software and firmware updates for you.
SSL Native Plug-in Bundle
Full licences of Vocalstrip 2 and Drumstrip plug-ins are bundled with UF8.
SSL Open DAW Policy
UF8 has been designed to integrate with all major DAWs and includes workflow ready templates for Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, Studio One, Ableton Live, Cubase and Nuendo. SSL's Open DAW Policy enables you to control up to 3 different DAWs simultaneously.
System Requirements
SSL 360° software must be installed on your Mac or Windows computer in order to use SSL UF8.
SSL 360° software requires the following:
Mac - 10.13 (High Sierra) and above
Windows - Windows 8.1 (64-bit) or Windows 10 (64-bit)
Intel 3rd Gen Core i5 (or comparable AMD processor) CPU running at 2.4GHz or higher
8GB RAM or more is recommended
Internet-connection for software updates from SSL 360° application
Supported DAWs
The following DAWs are officially supported by UF8 and have dedicated profiles in SSL 360°. SSL explains that they only officially test with the most recent versions of each DAW software but also say that in most cases, previous versions will also work fine.
They also recommend that you should be working with the latest major version and maintenance release of your DAW supported by your operating system.
UF8 Physical Specification
Dimensions:
17” x 10.5” x 2.4” / 431 x 266 x 62.7 mm (Width x Depth X Height)
Weight:
Unboxed - 2.9 kg / 6.4 lbs
Price And Availability
You should be able to buy your SSL UF8 from selected SSL dealers now, priced at $1299 or £999. Find out more on the SSL Website.
Link Up To 4 Units
You can link up to four UF8's together to create a 16, 24, or 32 fader control surface for larger post-production or mixing sessions.
The SSL UF8 Back Panel
The rear panel of UF8 features a USB 'C' type port for connection to the host computer with USB C-C and USB C to A leads included with UF8, two jack sockets offering standard foot-switch connections and a socket for UF8's auto-ranging external PSU.
The USB 'A' port on UF8 can be used to daisy-chain USB communication between UF8s, or, it can be used to plug in any USB dongles you have.