SSL VHD+ Preamp (500-Series) – SuperAnalogue Preamp with Variable Harmonic Drive

The Solid State Logic VHD+ Pre is a premium 500-series microphone preamp derived from the flagship SSL Duality console. Combining pristine SuperAnalogue clarity with the powerful Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD) circuitry, it offers everything from ultraclean transparency to rich 2nd/3rd-order harmonic coloration. With up to +75 dB of gain, a flexible trim stage, and an adjustable high-pass filter, the VHD+ Pre delivers studio-grade performance for any microphone or source.

Key Features

• SuperAnalogue mic preamp: Up to +75 dB of clean gain plus ±20 dB trim for precise level matching.
• VHD harmonic shaping: Add 2nd-order tube-like warmth, 3rd-order transistor edge, or a custom blend.
• Continuously variable HPF: Adjustable from 15–500 Hz for controlling low-end rumble.
• 48V phantom power: Supports condenser microphones with a professional switching circuit.
• 500-series format: Ideal for modular studio setups and hybrid workflows.

Customer Benefits

The VHD+ Pre gives engineers the freedom to choose between pristine, modern clarity or colorful analog character. Its wide gain range excels with low-output ribbon mics, vocals, drums, guitars, and synths, while the VHD circuit unlocks creative distortion possibilities—from subtle warmth to aggressive saturation.

Quick Specs

• Gain: Up to +75 dB (+20 dB trim)
• Harmonics: Selectable 2nd, 3rd, or blended distortion
• HPF: 15–500 Hz variable
• Format: 500-series single-slot
• Circuitry: 100% analog VHD + SuperAnalogue preamp

What’s in the Box

• SSL VHD+ Preamp module
• User documentation

Use Cases / Ideal For

Vocals, drums, guitars, bass, room mics, synths, ribbons, re-amping, creative saturation, modular hybrid studios, mobile recording rigs, and professional control rooms.

Compatibility

Fits any standard 500-series rack from SSL, API, or third-party manufacturers.

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

• Extremely wide gain range for any mic or source
• Clean or characterful tones from a single module
• Powerful and flexible high-pass filter
• SSL Duality-grade technology in compact 500-series form

⚠️ Cons:

• No built-in compressor or EQ (preamp only)
• VHD coloration requires time to master

The SSL VHD+ Preamp brings Duality-grade analog performance and creative harmonic shaping to any 500-series setup.