Channel Strip
Introduction
Duality’s Split Mode enables the channel processing to be easily applied to channel input
signals feeding the DAW record path or to the DAW returns. This provides the equivalent of in-
line operation but without the complexity of separate channel and monitor paths.
Users who are familiar with SSL’s range of in-line consoles will soon realise that the channel
strip faders can control virtual faders on the workstation as well as the channel signal path , in
many ways paralleling the large/small fader configuration of an in-line channel strip. This
provides an alternative to Split Mode working, with the DAW console handling the functions of
a monitor mixer.
The channel supports two input connections, the Monitor Input which is normally sourced
from the output of the DAW, and the Channel input which accepts variable level signals from
a microphone, DI box or other audio source. Three preamps are available for use with either
input: a unity gain line level buffer which is normally assigned to the DAW return, and a pair of
mic preamps sourced from the CHANNEL input XLR connector, one using SSL’s Super
Analogue direct coupled DC servo circuitry, and the other featuring SSL’s proprietary VHD™
(Variable Harmonic Drive) valve emulation gain stage. The channel output can route to 24
Track Busses, any one of three stereo Main Mix Busses (A, B and C) or all the Main Mix
Busses in 5.1 mode.
In addition to two Cue Stereo sends and four mono FX Sends, a dedicated Direct Output (CH
OP) is provided. Each channel has comprehensive routing for EQ and filter, dynamics, and
insert send/return points.
The channel strip can be divided into five distinct functional sections:
Channel input
Dynamics
EQ and filter
Cue Stereo and FX outputs
Channel output pan
Beneath the channel strips is a panel containing the ‘D-pot’ for DAW output or channel level
control. This area also houses cut and solo buttons for both fader and D-pot, and an electronic
scribble strip. Finally, below the ‘write-your-own’ scribble strip, each channel has a long-throw
(100mm) moving fader.
Above each bay of six channel strips, the TFT meter display provides a large range of useful
information on a per-channel basis, including audio and dynamics metering, processing order,
bus routing, automation bargraphs (optional) and Total Recall™ (optional).
5
4
3
2
1
.
1.
