SSL uf1: The Compact Control Surface That Packs a Punch
The SSL UF1 is a game-changing single fader controller designed to provide comprehensive control over digital audio workstations (DAWs). With Solid State Logic's renowned advanced workflow capabilities, the UF1 brings superior tactile control to in-the-box music productions. The controller features a 100-mm motorized fader, dual high-resolution displays, soft-feel durable rubber keys, and a weighted jog wheel, all housed in a robust metal chassis.
Musicians, producers, and engineers can benefit from the hands-on capabilities offered by the UF1. The advanced DAW controller boasts dedicated transport controls, rotary encoders, and a solid-feeling, high-quality motorized fader for precise and smooth volume adjustment and automation writing. This level of direct control allows users to work more efficiently and accurately, enhancing their overall workflow efficiency.
Moreover, the SSL UF1 is not only feature-laden, but it also offers extensive compatibility. It is priced at £499 ex.VAT, $699 or €599 and comes bundled with a perpetual license of the new SSL Meter Plug-in, as well as a six-month trial of SSL Complete to ensure users have all the necessary tools to streamline their audio processing tasks and create professional-quality music.
SSL UF1 Overview
Product Features
The SSL UF1 is an advanced DAW control surface designed to enhance your in-the-box production workflow. It offers a seamless integration with your favorite DAW, allowing for comprehensive control and SSL's renowned advanced workflow capabilities.
Some key features of the SSL UF1 include:
A premium 100 mm motorized fader for precise control
Dual high-resolution color displays for clear visual feedback and detail
Soft-feel, durable rubber keys for comfortable and reliable use
A weighted jog wheel for fast and accurate navigation
A robust metal chassis for durability and professional feel
System Requirements
To fully utilize the SSL UF1's features, you need a compatible DAW and the dedicated SSL 360° software, which allows for configuring keyboard shortcuts and custom macros. SSL supports various DAWs, including:
Avid Pro Tools
Apple Logic Pro
Steinberg Cubase/Nuendo
Ableton Live
Studio One
You'll also need a computer system that meets the minimum requirements of your chosen DAW and the SSL 360° software.
Pricing and Availability
The SSL UF1 is available for purchase from select retailers, such as Sweetwater. It is competitively priced considering its high-quality build and advanced feature set, offering exceptional value for those looking to streamline their in-the-box production workflow.
Integration with DAWs
DAW Compatibility
The SSL UF1 is a versatile DAW control surface that supports numerous popular Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), offering seamless workflow integration. It is compatible with DAWs like Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, Studio One, Ableton Live, LUNA, and Pyramix.
Deep Integration with DAWs
SSL UF1 provides a highly intuitive hands-on control experience with its dedicated transport controls and weighted jog/scrub wheel, making navigation across even the largest sessions efficient and quick. The controller also offers the ability to control up to 3 DAWs simultaneously, making it ideal for both professional and home studio environments.
SSL 360° Software
The SSL 360° software, included with the SSL UF1, offers a deep layer of integration and control possibilities. This powerful platform enables users to employ the SSL virtual console workflow and manage UF1's settings, enhancing their overall creative process. The software also offers clear and insightful visual feedback, providing an unparalleled level of control and flexibility within a wide range of DAWs.
UF1 Hardware and Design
The SSL UF1 is a sophisticated single-fader DAW controller that boasts an exceptional design and top-notch hardware components. This section will focus on the key elements of the UF1, including its motorized fader, weighted jog/scrub wheel, dual high-resolution displays, and robust metal chassis.
Motorized Fader
The centerpiece of the UF1 is its premium 100 mm motorized fader, which provides precise, tactile control for a wide range of tasks, such as adjusting track levels and automation. This high-quality fader ensures smooth operation during countless hours of use and enables users to execute their tasks with precision and ease.
Weighted Jog/Scrub Wheel
Another standout feature of the UF1 is the weighted jog/scrub wheel, which allows for easy navigation and quick editing within the DAW. The jog wheel exhibits a satisfying weight and smooth feel, promoting an efficient workflow while maintaining a comfortable experience for the user.
Dual High-Resolution Displays
The SSL UF1 is equipped with dual high-resolution displays that deliver all the relevant information about channel states, EQ curves, and other essential data. The combination of these detailed visuals and the intuitive touch controls allows for complete DAW control and expanded workflow capabilities.
Robust Metal Chassis
Lastly, the hardware of the UF1 is encased in a durable and robust metal chassis, ensuring that the controller remains reliable and resistant to wear and tear. With its solid construction and high-quality materials, the UF1 is a reliable choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike, offering long-lasting performance and stability.
SSL UF1 Controller Functionality
Channel Strip Parameters and Metering Tools
The SSL UF1 controller features an intuitive interface with extensive control over channel strip parameters. With its integration with the SSL Meter Plug-in and SSL 360° software, users can easily access and fine-tune EQ, dynamics, and other processing elements with precision. The UF1 also boasts a 4.3" IPS display, which provides clear and insightful visual feedback for metering and parameter adjustments.
Transport Controls and V-Pots
For navigating and editing sessions, the UF1 incorporates dedicated transport controls and a weighted jog/scrub wheel. This enables users to quickly and efficiently move around even the largest projects. Additionally, the controller includes V-Pots for adjusting various parameters, such as volume and panning, providing a tactile and hands-on experience when working with a DAW.
The SSL UF1 is designed to control up to 3 DAWs simultaneously and comes with profiles for popular DAWs such as Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, Studio One, Ableton Live, LUNA, and Pyramix.
Soft Keys and Customization
One of the standout features of the SSL UF1 is its ability to customize 46 soft keys. This enables users to create their own key mappings and streamline their workflow. By tailoring the soft keys to individual preferences, producers and engineers can work more efficiently and focus more on the creative process.
In summary, the SSL UF1 controller offers a powerful and customizable solution for in-depth control over channel strip parameters, efficient transport navigation, and personalized key mappings. Its integration with SSL Meter Plug-in and SSL 360° software further enhances its functionality and makes it a valuable addition to any recording, mixing, or mastering setup.
Plug-In Control and Automation
Automation Modes
With SSL UF1, users can access different automation modes to enhance their workflow. The control surface has dedicated soft keys for easy access to these modes, allowing users to swiftly switch between them as needed. In each automation mode, the UF1 facilitates precise control over multiple parameters, streamlining the music production process.
Visual Feedback
The SSL UF1 offers clear and insightful visual feedback through its high-resolution displays, including a large 4.3" TFT LCD display. These displays provide valuable information such as DAW track names, parameters, time display, and the SSL Meter plug-in, making it easier for users to monitor and adjust their work in real-time.
Plug-In Control with UF1
The SSL UF1 provides robust plug-in control capabilities, making it easier than ever for users to manage and manipulate their plug-ins. With dedicated rotary encoders and soft-feel rubber keys, the UF1 offers a tactile experience when controlling plug-in parameters. This level of control, combined with the deep integration with the SSL Meter Plug-in and SSL 360° software, creates a powerful and efficient workflow for music producers working with the SSL UF1 controller.
SSL UF1 and UF8 Controller Collaboration
Workflow Benefits
The SSL UF1 and UF8 controllers are designed to enhance the workflow of music producers and artists. These devices allow for seamless integration with your DAW, enabling advanced control and flexibility throughout the production process. The UF1 is a compact single-fader unit, while the UF8 is a more comprehensive eight-channel fader setup.
Speed and efficiency: Combining the SSL UF1 and UF8 controllers streamlines your workflow, giving you direct access to essential DAW functions and minimizing the need for mouse-clicking while producing.
Repeatability: The precision offered by the SSL UF1 and UF8 faders allows you to easily replicate settings from one project to another, ensuring consistency across your productions.
Intuitive design: Both controllers feature ergonomic designs, with clearly labeled buttons and functions, as well as high-resolution displays, allowing you to quickly navigate and make informed decisions.
Combining SSL UF1 and UF8 Controllers
With the UF1 serving as an extension to the UF8, producers can enjoy an even more customizable and efficient monitoring system. By integrating the UF8 with the SSL UC1 for dedicated channel strip management, you can optimize your workflow and create a unique, hands-on experience that suits your specific needs.
Controller Faders High-Resolution Displays Key Features SSL UF1 1 2 Premium 100mm motorized fader, weighted jog wheel, and durable rubber keys SSL UF8 8 2 Eight-channel system with similar design and features as UF1
The collaboration between the SSL UF1, UF8, and UC1 controllers optimizes the creative processes for artists, producers, and engineers. The combination of these units delivers a powerful, yet user-friendly environment for in-the-box productions, making it easier to focus on the artistry rather than the technical aspects.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does UF1 compare to UC1?
The UF1 is a single fader controller aimed at comprehensive DAW control, while the UF8 is an eight-fader controller with similar functionalities. The UF1 features SSL's advanced workflow similar to the UF8, enabling streamlined control of your in-the-box productions.
What DAWs work with UF1?
The SSL UF1 controller is compatible with a variety of DAWs, including but not limited to Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Cubase, Nuendo, and Ableton Live. Consult the SSL UF1 support documentation for specific compatibility details and instructions.
How many channels in UF1?
As a single fader controller, the UF1 offers control over one channel at a time. In contrast, its eight-fader counterpart, the UF8, controls eight channels simultaneously, providing more hands-on control for larger DAW projects.
Is UF1 compatible with UAD?
UF1 compatibility with UAD is not explicitly mentioned in the available resources. However, as long as the UAD platform supports control surfaces and adheres to the control protocols used by SSL controllers, UF1 should theoretically be able to control UAD plugins. Check the UAD documentation for information regarding control surface compatibility.
UF1 setup process?
Setting up the SSL UF1 requires configuration within your preferred DAW and control surface software. Solid State Logic provides step-by-step tutorial videos for common DAW applications, guiding you through installation, setup, and usage.
SSL UF1 features?
The SSL UF1 controller boasts advanced workflow features designed to streamline the production process. The UF1 offers intuitive DAW control, single fader operation, and integration with the SSL 360° App allowing users to customize their control layout. With these capabilities, the UF1 is an excellent tool for in-the-box music production.
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