Review: Waves SSL 4000

In an era where digital recording technology reigns supreme, there's something undeniably special about diving back into the warm sonic realm of analog consoles. For decades now, the legendary SSL 4000 series has been the gold standard for capturing and shaping high-end sound in studios around the world.

Waves' latest offering, the NLS Non-Linear Summer plugin, is an attempt to bottle up some of that classic magic within a software package accessible to producers on every budget. But can it truly replicate the iconic warmth and character associated with these much-loved boards?

The answer lies not just in how well Waves has emulated each console's specific sonic signature but also its ability to capture the subtle nuances and idiosyncrasies that only an actual hardware unit can provide.

Working alongside top producer/engineers Mark Spike Stent (Björk, Muse) and Mike Hedges (The Cure), who together own some of these legendary consoles themselves, has undoubtedly lent a level of authenticity to this project. Each plugin is meticulously crafted to accurately reproduce the unique characteristics associated with its real-life counterpart.

For instance, The Console in A-Mode plug-in faithfully replicates Stent's much-used SSL 4000 console used on classic recordings by Madonna and Björk among others. This particular unit was known for its warm, punchy sound which made it perfect for capturing drum kits and bass lines.

On the other hand, Mike Hedges' Console in B-Mode plug-in takes inspiration from his own beloved SSL 4000B console used to record The Cure's iconic album 'Disintegration'. Characterized by a slightly brighter more open tone than its A-mode sibling this plugin would be ideal for capturing lush sounding vocal and guitar tracks.

Finally, the third and most versatile option within Waves' NLS bundle is simply titled Console. As its name suggests this plug-in aims to capture all of the best elements from both Stent's and Hedges' respective units into one incredibly flexible package – perfect for producers who want complete creative control over their mix without being tied down by any specific sonic signature.

Overall, Waves has done an impressive job in recreating these iconic consoles within software form. While it may never fully replace the tactile feel of working on actual hardware gear there's no denying that NLS Non-Linear Summer comes incredibly close to delivering those magical SSL 4000 tones and textures into your DAW at a fraction of what you'd expect to pay if you were lucky enough to get hold of one (or three!) real units.

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