SSL Solid State Logic NUCLEUS2 16-Fader DAW Controller w/ Dante Interface

The Solid State Logic Nucleus2 is built on DAW control concepts originally developed for the SSL Matrix, delivering a fast, intuitive, and highly flexible control surface. It supports HUI and MCU protocols, ensuring compatibility with all major DAWs including Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, and Nuendo. Up to three DAWs can be connected simultaneously and switched instantly with a single button press, allowing seamless transitions between projects or systems.

Customization and User Control:

A comprehensive set of dedicated and assignable hardware controls provides hands-on access to DAW and plug-in parameters. Control layouts, key commands, and DAW mappings are fully user-customizable via the remote SSL Logictivity browser, with profiles stored and recalled from the onboard SD card. Digital scribble strips, assignable V-Pots, soft keys, and illuminated buttons deliver clear visual feedback and efficient operation.

Connectivity and Integration:

Nucleus2 connects via high-speed Ethernet for DAW control and Dante audio networking, alongside USB connectivity that appears to the computer as a standard keyboard for key command emulation. Dual Ethernet ports allow additional Dante devices to be integrated into the studio, while three rear-panel USB ports operate as a convenient USB hub. A footswitch input and comprehensive digital and analog I/O further enhance system flexibility.

Audio Performance and Monitoring:

At its core, Nucleus2 features SSL SuperAnalogue audio performance throughout, including console-grade mic preamps identical to those used in SSL Duality and AWS consoles. The integrated Dante audio interface supports 44.1 kHz to 96 kHz operation at 24-bit resolution, with zero-latency recording monitoring and wet/dry balance control. Monitoring includes dual stereo +4 dBu outputs, two headphone outputs, talkback, and an additional external SuperAnalogue monitor input.

Professional Studio Solution:

Designed as a compact, portable desktop controller, Nucleus2 is a complete DAW and studio control hub for music production and film/TV post-production. It combines advanced DAW control, premium monitoring, high-quality audio interfacing, and bundled SSL Native Essentials plug-ins into a single elegant solution. By streamlining workflow and reducing reliance on the mouse, Nucleus2 helps producers stay focused on creativity rather than the screen.

Product Specifications:

Channels: 2 x 2 (or 4 x 4 with SPDIF alongside analogue); expandable via Dante network

Sample Rates: 44.1 kHz to 96 kHz (analogue I/O); 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz (SPDIF I/O)

Bit Depth: 24-bit

Latency: Configurable to 4 ms (Dante Virtual Soundcard)

Clocking: Internal Dante clock master; sample-rate conversion on SPDIF inputs

Dynamic Range: >120 dB (A-weighted, implied from SuperAnalogue design)

THD+N: 0.002% @ +24 dBu (from console-grade preamps)

Gain Range: +12 dB to +75 dB (mic); +12 dB to +55 dB (talkback).

Input Impedance: High impedance on 1/4" jack (always); switchable HI-Z mode for XLR.

PAD: -20 dB attenuation per channel

Phantom Power: +48V per channel

High-Pass Filter: 80 Hz per channel

Phase Invert: Per channel (Ø switch)

Inputs: Combi XLR/1/4" jacks (PRE 1 IN, PRE 2 IN)

Outputs: Insert sends (balanced 1/4" jacks) for preamp outs or inserts

Monitor Outputs: 2 x balanced XLR (MAIN L/R, +4 dBu); 2 x balanced XLR (MINI L/R auxiliary)

Headphone Outputs: 2 x 1/4" stereo jacks (identical signals); HP LEVEL control

Monitor Level Control: Dedicated knob for main monitors

Blend Control: Rotary pot for zero-latency mix between dry inputs and DAW returns

Mono Switches: MONO L/R (treats inputs as mono, e.g., Channel 1 to both L/R)

Sum Switch (∑): Sums monitor sources or switches to external input

External Inputs: 2 x balanced XLR (EXTERNAL L/R); 1 x 3.5 mm stereo jack (iJACK for MP3 players)

Talkback: Balanced XLR input (TALKBACk IN) with +20 dB to +55 dB gain; 20 dB monitor dim (defeatable); routable to Dante

Channel 2

Metering: Dual meters (sources: Monitors after blend, Inputs after inserts, Mix Return); DAW level metering via LEDs

Headroom: Maximum input +27 dBu; maximum output +26 dBu

SPDIF: 1 x optical TOSLINK stereo in/out (44.1/48 kHz only; preamp outputs on channels 1-2; inputs to external monitor path)

Supported DAWs: Pro Tools (HUI), Logic, Cubase/Nuendo (MCU), Reason, Ableton Live, Samplitude, Studio One; all major DAWs

via MCU/HUI

Layers: Up to 3 DAWs simultaneously connected; single-button switching

Faders: 16 x 100 mm touch-sensitive motorized faders

V-Pots: 16 x assignable rotary encoders

Switches: CUT, SOLO, SEL per channel; V-SEL (press encoders); 16 x Mode switches (assignable)

Transport: Heavy-duty buttons; assignable master for multi-DAW sync

Jog Wheel: Multi-function (scroll, FF/RW, track navigation); Pro Tools Jog/Shuttle mode

Scribble Strips: 2-row LCD per channel (top: name; bottom: V-Pot function); automation display (HUI only: W/R/Off)

Soft Keys: 16 x Default, 16 x User 1/2, Transport/Utility; assignable for commands, shortcuts, menus

Modifiers: SHIFT, OPT, CTRL, ALT; ESC, ENTER; SAVE, UNDO; F1/F2 (user-assignable)

Footswitches: 2 x via 1/4" stereo jack (e.g., Play/Record)

Continuous Controller (CC) Mapping: Faders (CC 0-15), V-Pots (16-31), SEL (64-79), V-SEL (80-95); FLIP mode interchanges

faders/V-Pots

Profiles: 8 default (e.g., HUI Pro Tools, MCU Logic); editable; stored on SD card

KVM Hot Key: USB switching for multi-DAW setups

Power Consumption: <90 W

Power Supply: External 3-pin IEC320 (via adapter)

Product Weight: 16.5 lbs

Product Dimensions (L × W × H): 15.25" × 28.75" × 4.75"

Shipping Weight: 17.75 lbs

Shipping Dimensions (L × W × H): 18.25" × 31.5" × 8"