VHD+ Pre

The Solid State Logic VHD+ Pre 500 Series module delivers the pristine sound of an SSL Duality console preamp with the added creative power of SSL's patented Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD) circuit. This versatile module is far more than just a clean microphone preamp; it's a powerful tone-shaping tool capable of producing a vast spectrum of analog characters, from ultra-clean transparency to heavily saturated, gritty distortion. It's the perfect front-end for any studio, providing both immaculate recordings and rich analog color in a single 500 Series slot.

At its core, the VHD+ Pre is a high-quality SSL SuperAnalogue preamp, providing clean, detailed gain for any microphone or line-level source. The real magic, however, lies in the VHD circuit. By engaging the VHD switch and increasing the input drive, you can blend in a variable mix of second or third-order harmonic distortion. A dedicated control allows you to sweep continuously between 2nd order (tube-like warmth) and 3rd order (transistor-like edge) harmonics, or any blend in between. This allows you to dial in the perfect amount of analog character for any source—from subtle warmth on a vocal to aggressive fuzz on a bass guitar.

The module is packed with professional features, including a four-band 'Listen Mic' EQ section that can be inserted into the signal path. This was originally designed for talkback, but engineers discovered it was a powerful tool for creative distortion and filtering. The VHD+ Pre also includes a sweepable high-pass filter (HPF) to eliminate low-frequency rumble, a polarity switch, and a pad for handling very hot signals. A front-panel Hi-Z instrument input automatically switches when a jack is inserted, making it easy to record guitars and basses directly. For ultimate versatility and sonic flexibility, the VHD+ Pre is a creative powerhouse in the 500 Series format.

Features

• SSL SuperAnalogue microphone preamp for pristine, transparent gain.
• Patented Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD) circuit for adding analog color.
• Continuously variable control to blend between 2nd and 3rd order harmonics.
• Switchable 4-band Listen Mic EQ for creative filtering and distortion.
• Sweepable High-Pass Filter (15Hz to 500Hz).
• Front-panel Hi-Z instrument input for direct recording of guitar and bass.
• Switchable 48V phantom power, Pad, and Polarity Invert.
• LF Sum switch to preserve low-end when using the HPF on bass-heavy sources.
• A versatile tool for both clean recording and creative tone-shaping.