Top 5 Best Channel Strip Plugins For Pro-Level Audio Mixing

With only six SL 4000 Bs ever built, SSL used the original schematics as a reference to model the 4K B after the legendary early B series desk. Yet, they managed to hit all the details down to the component level. So, the plugin is ultra-realistic and even shares the same analog character, thanks to the dbx ‘202’ VCA fader (black can).

Meanwhile, a Jensen JE-115K-E transformer keeps the mic drive section full of non-linear, gain-compensated harmonic character. If you don’t mind pushing your CPU, you can go for the HQ oversampling to get more pristine audio. However, even without oversampling, the 4K B still adds amazing color and punch!

UAD’s API Vision features the typical 4-band parametric EQ (with HF, HMF, LMF, and LF knobs)—that’s the one used on the 550L. However, it also supports a 10-band graphic EQ module with sliders that you might know from the 560L hardware. Both sound like the analog API’s EQ unit, though.

Aside from the two EQ modules, API Vision has the precise 235L gate/expander, a 212L preamp, 215L cut filters, the punchy 225L compressor, and an output module. If you push the preamp enough, you’ll get an impressively thick crunch, which can add weight to drums and bass.

The N73 is the result of a collaboration between KIT and Blackbird Studio. While the N73 does have a powerful three-band EQ, the strip shines in console saturation. It’s particularly good for creating in-your-face bass. However, you need to turn on the mic mode to use the saturation.

That’s easy enough to do since you have the line/mic switch right next to the mic gain knob. Speaking of knobs, the plugin also lets you choose between three levels of authentic-sounding hum. However, you can switch it off if you don’t want to inject any analog hum into the mix.

The updated SSL Channel Strip 2 has an output section, fader, and advanced integration options. But, its EQ was always reliable and versatile. By default, the EQ curves are set to the G-series. For an aggressive bite, you’ll want to switch to the E-series. But aside from the EQ, the expander is still one of the best tools on the channel strip. It just sounds natural and has a smooth release response.

The standout feature of the SSL EV2 is its EQ modes. Yes, it has more than one. The EV2 has brown (02 EQ) and black (242 EQ) buttons to help you balance gentle and aggressive tones. Generally speaking, the black is cleaner and works best for scooping. That said, the 02 knob was actually the original EQ on the SSL 4000 E channel strip, and the 242 was added later in the 1980s.