SSL Vocal Strip 2 Review: Professional Vocal Processing Simplified

Ultimate Vocal Processing Solution

Struggling to achieve polished vocals in your recordings? SSL Vocal Strip 2 combines essential processing tools into a single intuitive interface. After analyzing real-world testing footage, I've concluded this plugin significantly accelerates vocal enhancement workflows for both music producers and podcast creators. Its compartmentalized design mirrors hardware channel strips while offering modern flexibility.

Core Processing Sections Demystified

Four dedicated modules form the plugin's backbone:

Compander: Dynamic control combining compression and expansion
De-esser: Sibilance reduction with adjustable frequency targeting
Deep Closer: Advanced plosive elimination technology
Three-band EQ: Surgical tonal shaping capabilities

What sets this apart is the fully rearrangeable signal chain. Unlike fixed hardware, you can position the de-esser before EQ or place the compander first—critical flexibility when dealing with problematic vocal sources. Each module features individual metering that illuminates during processing, providing immediate visual feedback as you adjust settings.

Professional Workflow Advantages

The A/B comparison function proves invaluable during critical mixing decisions. Set two different configurations (like varying EQ curves or compression thresholds) and toggle instantly. This eliminates guesswork when evaluating processing impact on vocal presence and intelligibility.

Gain staging becomes straightforward with dedicated input and output controls. The video demonstration revealed how proper gain matching ensures processing reacts consistently—especially important when applying the compander's dual expansion/compression behavior. Industry practice shows maintaining -18dBFS average input yields optimal results with SSL emulations.

Real-World Application: Rock Vocal Case Study

The test engineer selected a "Rock Male Vocal" preset as a starting point, demonstrating how:

Presets provide credible foundations needing only minor tweaks
Boosting 8kHz added necessary vocal air without harshness
Compander settings tightened dynamics while preserving transients

Notably, the SM7B microphone's natural plosive rejection minimized Deep Closer's workload. However, the de-esser subtly controlled sibilance without sacrificing high-frequency detail—validating SSL's transparent processing approach.

Limitations and Pro Recommendations

While excellent for foundational processing, professionals will likely supplement with additional tools. As observed in testing:

Multi-stage compression (like 1176 into LA-2A) further controls dynamic range
Specialized EQs offer finer control beyond the three-band limitation

Recommended complementary tools:

Waves CLA-76 ($29): For aggressive transient control
Softube Tube-Tech CL 1B ($199): Smooth leveling amplifier
iZotope RX De-plosive ($129): When Deep Closer needs reinforcement

Actionable Vocal Processing Checklist

Start with gain staging: Hit optimal input levels before engaging processors
Experiment with signal order: Try de-esser before compression when tackling harsh vocals
A/B test presets: Use the comparison function to evaluate starting points
Validate in context: Check processing against full mix at stage volume
Supplement strategically: Add specialized tools only where needed

Final Verdict on SSL Vocal Strip 2

SSL Vocal Strip 2 delivers professional-grade vocal processing in a streamlined package. Its modular design and flexible signal routing solve common workflow bottlenecks, while the A/B function facilitates confident decision-making. Though not an all-in-one solution, it provides 80% of essential vocal processing faster than most alternatives.

For podcasters needing clean dialogue or music producers seeking upfront vocals, this plugin justifies its value through workflow efficiency and SSL's trusted analog modeling.

Which vocal challenge would you tackle first with SSL Vocal Strip 2—plosives, sibilance, or dynamics control? Share your approach in the comments.