Solid State Logic VHD+ Pre 500 Series Microphone Preamp

The Solid State Logic VHD mic preamp brings the modular version of the preamp circuit from SSL’s flagship Duality console into a single 500 Series slot, built around SSL’s patented Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD) technology. With up to +75dB of preamp gain and a ±20dB output trim, the VHD Pre offers huge headroom and flexibility for everything from quiet ribbon mics to hot line-level sources. As a result, engineers get console-grade preamp quality and tone-shaping in a compact, affordable 500 Series format. In addition, the VHD system uses a 100% analog signal path to generate rich harmonic distortion, letting users sweep between 2nd and 3rd order harmonics — or a blend of both — for subtle warmth or pronounced character. Marshall Music South Africa stocks the Solid State Logic VHD mic preamp for studios across South Africa wanting Duality-console preamp tone in their 500 Series racks.

Why the Solid State Logic VHD Mic Preamp Adds Character to Any Source

Unlike a standard clean preamp, the VHD Pre’s Variable Harmonic Drive control lets engineers dial in exactly how much — and what type — of harmonic distortion is added to a signal, going from transparent to richly colored without ever leaving the analog domain. However, the VHD Pre is just as capable as a precision tool: a continuously variable high-pass filter sweeping from 15Hz to 500Hz allows for surgical low-end control, while front and rear inputs with four selectable impedance options give engineers fine control over how a microphone interacts with the preamp circuit. A Hi-Z switch and +48V phantom power round out the feature set, making the module equally suited to mics, line sources, and instruments. Whether you’re after the pristine clarity of the Duality preamp circuit or want to push signals into rich harmonic saturation, the Solid State Logic VHD mic preamp delivers both in one 500 Series module. Marshall Music South Africa can help South African studios add this versatile preamp to their 500 Series chassis.

Tech Specs

• Format: 500 Series microphone preamp module
• Heritage: Modular version of the preamp circuit from the SSL Duality console
• Gain: Up to +75dB preamp gain via +20/+75dB gain control
• Output Trim: ±20dB via trim control
• Harmonic Distortion: SSL Variable Harmonic Drive (VHD), sweepable between 2nd and 3rd order harmonics
• High-Pass Filter: Continuously variable, 15Hz-500Hz
• Inputs: Front and rear inputs with 4 selectable impedance options
• Additional Controls: Hi-Z switch, +48V phantom power

Solid State Logic

Founded in 1969 by Colin Sanders, Solid State Logic began life building switching systems for pipe organs before evolving into the world’s leading manufacturer of analog and digital audio consoles. SSL pioneered industry-defining technologies — including motorized fader automation and total recall of mixer settings — and its large-format consoles became the backbone of major recording, broadcast, film, and live sound facilities worldwide, shaping the sound of countless hit records.

In recent years SSL has brought that console DNA into the personal and project studio space, with a range of award-winning audio interfaces (SSL 2, SSL 2+, SSL 12, SSL 1), compact mixers, control surfaces, channel strips, and processing plug-ins. Renowned for high-bandwidth, low-distortion signal paths and the iconic “SSL sound,” the brand remains a benchmark name across professional and home studios alike.

Learn more about Solid State Logic

View more Solid State Logic at Marshall Music

Why Buy From Marshall Music

At Marshall Music, we’re all passionate and highly experienced musicians that love what we do. Family run and family owned for over 35 years, we stock a huge variety of the very best brands in the world of musical instruments, music technology, professional audio and accessories. At Marshall Music, you’ll get the right advice – exactly what you need to make the best possible purchasing decision. We’ll do all we can to make sure you get the right thing at the right p      rice as efficiently as possible – leaving you with a smile on your face!