www.solidstatelogic.

com

FUSION
User Guide

Fusion. This is SSL.

 Visit SSL at:
www.solidstatelogic.com

© Solid State Logic

All rights reserved under International and Pan-American Copyright Conventions

SSL® and Solid State Logic® are ® registered trademarks of Solid State Logic.

Fusion™ is a trademark of Solid State Logic.

TBProAudio™ is a trade mark of TB-Software GbR.

All other product names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are hereby acknowledged.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, whether mechanical or electronic, without the written
permission of Solid State Logic, Oxford, OX5 1RU, England.

As research and development is a continual process, Solid State Logic reserves the right to change the features and
specifications described herein without notice or obligation.

Solid State Logic cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage arising directly or indirectly from any error or omission in this
manual.

PLEASE READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS, PAY SPECIAL HEED TO SAFETY WARNINGS.

E&OE

January 2021
The Path To Fusion
With the development of Fusion, SSL set out to create a new piece of analogue equipment that would enhance any engineer’s
studio setup and easily attach to a pair of inputs and outputs on an audio interface or an analogue desk/summing mixer. In true SSL
fashion, this piece of equipment would seek to enhance not only the sound of the mix but also the workflow of whatever situation it
would be thrust into - a new analogue ‘sidekick’, if you will.

The critical path in any mix leads to the master mix bus, where all the individual instruments are bound together. In today’s hybrid
studio, the prevalence and importance of mix bus processing is ever-present. The DAW’s mix bus inserts slots are often stacked
high with plug-ins seeking to inject various aspects of analogue mojo or magic. However, even after all insert slots are filled, that
authentic analogue edge is still lacking and can often prove difficult to achieve convincingly when mixing inside the box alone.
Engineers often look towards multiple pieces of real analogue outboard equipment instead and this was the seed from which Fusion
as an idea began to grow.

We started the journey through months of research - subjectively listening to and objectively measuring a vast array of analogue
equipment, to pinpoint all of the most desirable analogue characteristics and behaviours. This “hit list” of differing sonic flavours,
difficult to achieve with digital emulations alone, formed the base from which Fusion’s six analogue colour circuits would be
engineered.

“The Analogue Hit List”

➤ #1 - A rich analogue EQ with gentle shelving filters.
➤ #2 - Smooth top-end rounding, in the analogue domain.
➤ #3 - Powerful, full bandwidth dynamics 'crush' processing with balance for controlled parallel signal balance.
➤ #4 - Additional harmonics and gradual saturation that emerge from an analogue ‘sweet spot’.
➤ #5 - Wider stereo imaging with more depth via true Mid/Side processing.
➤ #6 - Transformer mojo.

The first circuit to emerge as a result of the work was the VIOLET EQ, a new SSL shelving EQ with a refined ±9dB gain range. Next
came the HF COMPRESSOR circuit as a tool to tame unwanted top-end brittleness and restore a natural analogue roll-off. Then
came the VINTAGE DRIVE circuit, our new non-linear saturation circuit that was tweaked over several months to hone its unique
character. The STEREO IMAGE circuit followed as a way of providing the often much-missed analogue mid-side processing. The
custom-designed TRANSFORMER circuit completed the final piece of the puzzle and again involved many rounds of fine-tuning to
settle on the design. But we didn’t just design Fusion in the isolation of SSL HQ; when the first prototypes were complete we sent
them off to a selection of trusted engineers and made further adjustments to the circuits based on their feedback.

During the development of FUSION there were many trials and experiments with the five analogue circuits. One variant of particular
interest was an alternative mode for the HF COMPRESSOR section, making it operate across the full audio spectrum and so
creating a STEREO LMC (Listen Mic Compressor). This work was done late in the development cycle and with little time to validate
before the public release of Fusion, hence it was held back from the launch and left as an 'easter egg' in the unit, with a plan to
announce if later validation went well and if the circuit variance was thought useful. As the design of the HF COMPRESSOR section
was based on the legendary SSL Listen Mic Compressor circuit, it came as no surprise that this alternative STEREO LMC mode
would definitely be a useful addition and hence we publicly announced (a little later than originally anticipated) how to access this
'new' processing feature and five tools became six.

Let The Fun Begin...

And with that, you have a brief insight into how Fusion came to be. Fusion provides an armoury of mix tools at your disposal and
will help you arrive at the sound you want with ruthless efficiency!

Give your mix the analogue edge it deserves.

Happy Mixing.
 Contents

Table of Contents
Introduction1
Features1
Unpacking2
Safety Notices 2
Rack Mounting, Heat & Ventilation 2
Hardware Overview 3
Front Panel 3
Rear Panel 3
Signal Flow Overview 4
Setup Examples 5
Connecting Fusion to an Audio Interface 5
Using Fusion as a Hardware Insert 5
Alternative Setup Option 5
Connecting Fusion to an Analogue Desk / Summing Mixer 6
Start Me Up! 7
Tutorial8
Input Trim 8
HPF (High-Pass Filter) 8
The 5 (+1!) Colour Circuits 9
Vintage Drive 9
Violet EQ 11
HF Compressor (High Frequency Compressor) 12
Stereo LMC (Listen Mic Compressor) 12
Stereo Image 12
Transformer13
Stereo Insert 14
Insert (Standard Mode) 14
Insert (M/S Mode) 14
Bypass Modes 14
Bypass (Standard Mode) 14
Bypass (Post I/P Trim) 14
Output Trim 14
Master Meter 15
FRONT PANEL SWITCHES 15
Settings Mode & Factory Reset 16
Entering Settings Mode 16
Brightness16
Relay Feedback 16
Exiting Settings Mode 16
Factory Reset 17
Simon Says Game 17

Fusion Owner’s Manual

 Contents

Troubleshooting & FAQ's 18

UID Display Mode 18
Unique ID (UID) 18
Hardware Revision 18
Soak Mode 19
Warranty 19
All returns 19
Appendix A - Physical Specification 20
Connectors20
Appendix B - Analogue Specification 21
Audio Performance 21
Appendix C - System Block Diagram 23
Appendix D - Safety Notices 24
General Safety 24
Installation Notes 24
Power Safety 24
CE Certification 25
FCC Certification 25
RoHS notice 25
Instructions for disposal of WEEE by users in the European Union 25
Electromagnetic Compatibility 26
Environmental26
Appendix E - Selecting Mains Voltage 27
Changing the fuse from 115V to 230V 27
Changing the fuse from 230V to 115V 28
Appendix F - Recall Sheet 29

Fusion Owner’s Manual

 Introduction

Introduction
Fusion is an all-analogue stereo outboard processor created for the hybrid studio. Fusion introduces five completely new analogue
colouration tools designed to bring the perfect combination of added tonal character, clarity and depth to your mix bus or stereo
stems with the detail, warmth and finesse that only real analogue circuits can provide.

Features
➤ Six new SSL analogue colour circuits:
➤ VINTAGE DRIVE - A unique non-linear saturation circuit designed to bring that cherished gradual analogue overload
sound you get from pushing vintage equipment into the sweet spot.
➤ VIOLET EQ - a 2-band, minimum phase-shift shelving EQ offering instant low-end weight and glorious high-end
sheen. 4 fixed frequency points for each band with ±9dB boost/cut.
➤ HF COMPRESSOR - A high-frequency compressor, optimised for smooth taming of unwanted brittle sounds or
build-up of top-end fizz.
➤ STEREO LMC - A full range stereo Listen Mic Compressor. A powerful 'crushing' dynamics processor, legendary
for drum sounds.
➤ STEREO IMAGE - A built-in M/S circuit allows for sumptuous sculpting of the side-signal to allow for wider mixes
with added depth.
➤ TRANSFORMER CIRCUIT - A custom SSL design that introduces subtle low-frequency harmonics for added weight,
alongside a touch of added transformer sparkle in the highs.
➤ Built-In Insert Point with two modes of operation:
➤ Stereo mode allows you to integrate additional outboard gear such as the SSL Bus Compressor. Switchable pre/
post the VIOLET EQ.
➤ Mid/Side mode allows you to insert two different mono outboard processors across the mid and side signals of the
mix. Switchable pre/post the STEREO IMAGE controls.
➤ 3rd order HPF (High-Pass Filter) to clean up unwanted low-end.
➤ SuperAnalogueTM ±12dB centre-indented INPUT and OUTPUT trim controls to help achieve the best possible gain-staging
into and out of Fusion.
➤ Individual bypass switches for each circuit to compare sounds with/without each circuit.
➤ Master BYPASS switch with two modes of operation:
➤ Red mode: complete bypass.
➤ White mode: bypass that includes the INPUT TRIM control.
➤ Master meter, with 3-second peak hold segments. Switches from output to input metering upon pressing the BYPASS
switch.
➤ Input clip O/L LEDs, triggered at +27dBu.
➤ Balanced XLR input and outputs throughout for easy and professional studio integration.
➤ Enhanced ‘dot-dash’ screening around controls to allow for easier and clearer recall.
➤ Adjustable front-panel meter and switch brightness to match the vibe of your studio environment.

Fusion User Guide 1

Introduction

Unpacking
The unit has been carefully packed and inside the box you will find the following items.

➤ Fusion
➤ IEC power cord for your country
➤ Safety Sheet
➤ Quickstart Guide
➤ Registration card

It is always a good idea to save the original box and packaging, just in case you ever need to send the unit in for service.

Safety Notices
Please read the safety notice information included on the Safety Sheet inside the box before using Fusion. This information is also
available in Appendix D of this User Guide.

ATTENTION: CHECK YOUR FUSE SETTINGS

Fusion can be switched between operating with a 230V or 115V power source. Please see Appendix E: Selecting
Mains Voltage for details on how to check your fuse settings and change if necessary.

Rack Mounting, Heat & Ventilation

Fusion is a 2U, 19” rackmount piece of equipment designed to sit in the racking of a producer’s desk or similar. Fusion’s no
compromise design is powered by a toroidal transformer and as such, the left-hand side of the unit can become warm to the touch.
It is recommended that ventilation space is left above and below the unit. If this is not possible, then it is recommended Fusion be
placed at the top of the rack, so any heat generated by Fusion rises away from surrounding equipment. The sides of the Fusion
chassis have cut-outs that should under no circumstances be blocked or covered. Always allow Fusion to cool down before handling.

2 Fusion User Guide

 Hardware Overview

Hardware Overview
This section will detail the hardware features found on Fusion.

Front Panel

High Frequency Compressor

Vintage Drive Custom Output
OR
Input Overload Harmonic Saturation Transformer Trim Master
Stereo Listen Mic Compresssor
LEDs Circuit Circuit ±12dB Meter

Input Trim Violet EQ Insert Point - Bypass

High-Pass Filter Stereo Image
±12dB 2-band Shelving Switchable Pre/ Switch
Circuit - Side Signal
Filter Processing Post EQ

Rear Panel

Balanced Insert Fuse Operating

Balanced Inputs Returns Voltage Selection

Balanced Outputs Balanced Insert IEC Power Inlet

Sends and Switch

Warning! Check the fuse orientation matches your supply voltage.

Warning! The left-hand side of Fusion can become warm due to the
linear power supply. Take care when handling.

Fusion User Guide 3

Hardware Overview

Signal Flow Overview

A detailed Block Diagram is available in Appendix C. The diagram below gives you an overview of the signal path options Fusion
provides.

HF
VINTAGE VIOLET COMPRESSOR INSERT STEREO
HPF OR TRANSFORMER
DRIVE EQ POINT IMAGE
STEREO LMC
INSERT (Standard)

HF
VINTAGE INSERT VIOLET COMPRESSOR STEREO
HPF TRANSFORMER
DRIVE POINT EQ OR IMAGE
STEREO LMC
INSERT (Standard) + Pre EQ

HF
M/S
VINTAGE VIOLET COMPRESSOR STEREO
HPF INSERT TRANSFORMER
DRIVE EQ OR IMAGE
POINT
STEREO LMC
INSERT (M/S Mode)

HF
M/S
VINTAGE VIOLET COMPRESSOR STEREO
HPF INSERT TRANSFORMER
DRIVE EQ OR IMAGE
POINT
STEREO LMC
INSERT (M/S Mode) + Pre EQ

4 Fusion User Guide

 Setup Examples

Setup Examples
Connecting Fusion to an Audio Interface
The examples below show how to connect Fusion to an audio interface, with and without hardware insert functionality in your DAW.

Using Fusion as a Hardware Insert

1. Choose a pair of analogue inputs and outputs that are not being used on your audio interface - this example uses analogue
inputs and outputs 3 & 4, presuming 1 & 2 are being used for monitoring.
2. Connect analogue outputs 3 & 4 of your audio interface to the left and right inputs of Fusion.
3. Connect the left and right outputs of Fusion into line-level inputs 3 & 4 of your audio interface.
4. Insert Fusion across your DAW mix bus track / any stereo audio track as a hardware insert in your DAW.

Alternative Setup Option

If you do not use the hardware insert functionality in your DAW, you can use the following method to integrate Fusion into your setup:

1. Choose a pair of analogue inputs and outputs that are not being used on your audio interface e.g. outputs 3 & 4 and inputs
1 & 2.
2. On your main DAW mix bus / stereo output track, make the output analogue 3 & 4. This example presumes analogue outputs
1 & 2 are connected to your monitors.
3. Connect analogue outputs 3 & 4 to the left and right inputs of Fusion.
4. Connect the left and right outputs of Fusion into line-level analogue inputs 1 & 2 of your audio interface.
5. Create a Stereo Input track that is sourced from analogue inputs 1 & 2 in your DAW. Record enable/input monitor this track.
Set the output of this track to outputs 1 & 2 of your interface (your monitor output).
6. Print the Fusion mix back in by recording the track.

Fusion User Guide 5

Setup Examples

Connecting Fusion to an Analogue Desk / Summing Mixer

Fusion is the ideal analogue processor to complement your analogue summing system. The example below shows how to connect
Fusion and an SSL Bus Compressor to your analogue desk or summing mixer.

1. Connect the mix bus insert send outputs of your analogue desk / summing mixer to Fusion’s inputs.
2. Connect the outputs of Fusion to the mix bus insert returns of your analogue desk / summing mixer.
3. Connect the insert send outputs on Fusion to the G Series Compressor inputs.
4. Connect the outputs of the G Series Compressor to Fusion's insert returns.

6 Fusion User Guide

 Start Me Up!

Start Me Up!
The tutorial section that follows explores each colour circuit in detail but if you cannot wait to get started, the front panel settings
below provide a good starting point for immediately improving your mix with Fusion.

Remember, a number of Fusion’s circuits are level-dependent and this will affect the sound you get. Depending on
how loud or quiet your mix already is, you may need to start by adjusting the INPUT TRIM in order to achieve the
best possible gain-staging. As a guide, adjust the INPUT TRIM, or DRIVE control until the VINTAGE DRIVE tri-colour
LED consistently lights green, with occasional flickers of orange. Similarly, adjust the THRESHOLD control (in the
HF COMPRESSOR section) so that it only occasionally flickers green in response to sibilance and harshness. Use
the OUTPUT TRIM to compensate for any significant level increases and retain a sensible output level that does not
clip your audio interface converter inputs.

"Mix Bus Mojo"

"Expensive Vocals"

"Aggressive Bass"

Fusion User Guide 7

Tutorial

Tutorial
This section will go into detail about each front panel section.

O/L
Left and Right Overload LEDs light red if the signal at Fusion’s input exceeds +27dBu.

Input Trim
The INPUT TRIM provides ±12dB gain at the input stage of Fusion. This pot is indented at the 12 o’clock
position. You should use this control to achieve the best gain-staging through Fusion. Try starting with the
pot at the indented 0 dB position if you are at the beginning of a the mixing process. If you are strapping
Fusion across a ‘hot’ mix that is already approaching the kind of levels you would deliver to a mastering
engineer, try pulling back the INPUT TRIM by 2-4dB first. If you are using Fusion to add character to an
individual stem, try increasing the INPUT TRIM, which will in turn drive the following VINTAGE DRIVE
section even harder if engaged.

HPF (High-Pass Filter)

The High-Pass Filter allows you to reduce sub frequency content in your mix. The filter is a 3rd order/18dB
per octave slope. The pot is stepped and allows you to choose between four fixed settings - OFF, 30Hz, 40Hz
and 50Hz. OFF or 30Hz are often suited to whole mix material, whilst the 40Hz and 50Hz can help remove
unnecessary rumble when processing individual instrument stems. Removing this low-energy from stems can
give you back some headroom in the overall mix.

HPF Plots - OFF, 30Hz, 40Hz, 50Hz.

8 Fusion User Guide

 Tutorial

The 6 Colour Circuits

The descriptions that follow cover each of Fusion’s 6 colouration circuits. Each circuit has an associated IN switch which allows
you to switch that particular circuit in or out. When a circuit is on it turns orange. When bypassed, the switch is backlit a soft yellow/
white colour.

Vintage Drive
VINTAGE DRIVE is a unique, non-linear saturation circuit that gives your mix added strength
and cohesion. This circuit has been designed to bring the kind of cherished ‘gradual analogue
overload’ sound that the best kind of vintage analogue outboard and consoles offer when you
drive level into the sweet spot.

Use the DRIVE pot to work the VINTAGE DRIVE section harder. You increase the drive by
moving the pot from left to right - front-panel marking 1 is least amount of drive, 11 is the most.
This control automatically compensates for the level increase at the output of the VINTAGE
DRIVE circuit. A tri-colour LED accompanies this section and provides feedback as to how hard
the circuit is being driven. If you are looking for a subtle effect that works across a whole mix,
keep the LED in the green zone (occasional flickers into orange are fine). If you want a more
aggressive colour, then drive the circuit until the LED starts showing orange more consistently.
When in the red zone you will notice quite obvious distortion which isn't desirable across a mix
bus but can work well on individual stems.

The DENSITY pot is used to fine tune the type of effect the circuit produces. Lower settings (generally below 3) produce additional
harmonics with an emphasis towards even-order harmonics. DENSITY settings between 2 and 3 can help add richness to a mix.
Medium to higher DENSITY settings from 3 onwards, result in a gradual lowering of the overall harmonic content but with the odd-
order harmonics eventually becoming more prominent than the even-order harmonics. The third harmonic is related to the saturation/
analogue clipping effect that this circuit imparts. This can be thought of as a kind of ‘soft-compression’ - peaks are rounded and the
RMS (average) level is brought up. This helps you gain some additional ‘loudness’. Settings between 3 and 7 work well for thickening
whole mixes.

Please note that some additional low-level 'hiss' (very similar to tape hiss) is introduced when the Vintage Drive circuit is engaged.
This is an integral part of the saturation effect this circuit provides and cannot be turned off. By design, the level of hiss decreases
as you increase the DRIVE and/or DENSITY controls. In certain mix situations or productions you may want to minimise the
amount of hiss to achieve a 'cleaner' sound (normally on quiet passages at the beginning or end of a song). In these situations the
recommended workaround is to increase the DRIVE control in the VINTAGE DRIVE section and decrease the front-end INPUT TRIM
control, to leave you with the same overall effect but with less hiss.

TIP 1: The DENSITY control does raise the overall level of the signal, as you move it from MIN to MAX. Be sure to
use the OUTPUT TRIM control to compensate.

TIP 2: A good starting point for the controls of this circuit is DRIVE at 5 and DENSITY at 5. However, the DRIVE
setting will be very much dependent on how loud/quiet your mix is already.

TIP 3: The lowest DENSITY setting marked MIN offers a dynamic ‘expansion’ effect when driven hard with the
preceding DRIVE control. It works well to accentuate individual stem sounds that are already dense - e.g. bringing
the pluck out of a distorted bass guitar. For full mixes, it is recommended to go no lower than 2 with the DENSITY
setting.

Fusion User Guide 9

Tutorial

Example of additional harmonics generated using a 1kHz tone. ('Low' Density)

Example of additional harmonics generated using a 1kHz tone. ('High' Density)

VINTAGE DRIVE bypassed. VINTAGE DRIVE engaged.

Example of the saturated compression effect introduced by medium to higher Density settings. Right-hand readout shows Fusion
decrease the RMS level, with same Maximum Peak.

10 Fusion User Guide

 Tutorial

Violet EQ
The VIOLET EQ draws on the SSL legacy of carefully selected frequencies
and response curves to create a musical and intuitive EQ, designed to let
you quickly dial in low-end weight and high-end sheen. The design is based
upon minimum-phase shift shelving filters. The frequency pots for each band
are stepped. The LOW band offers choices of 30Hz, 50Hz, 70Hz or 90Hz.
The HIGH band offers choices of 8kHz, 12kHz, 16kHz and 20kHz. The gain
pots are continuous, with indents at the 12 o’clock position (0dB) and allow
for ±9dB of gain. Full mixes tend to benefit from a modest amount of 30Hz,
50Hz or 70Hz to add weight, whilst 8kHz and 12kHz are good starting points
for adding tasteful amounts of high-end. One of the most-common practices
in production is to mix into an EQ that adds a little bit of top and bottom-end
and with the Violet EQ, you now have an SSL EQ designed specifically for
that purpose.

Maximum Gain plots of Violet EQ - 30 Hz, 50 Hz, 70 Hz and 90 Hz.

Maximum Gain plots of Violet EQ - 8 kHz, 12 kHz, 16 kHz and 20 kHz.

Fusion User Guide 11

Tutorial

HF Compressor (High Frequency Compressor)

This is a compressor circuit that only compresses high-frequencies. It helps to introduce a ‘tape-
like’ top-end roll-off by taming unwanted brittleness or harshness that can sometimes build up
in a mix or individual stem sound. The cause might be due to over-use of plug-ins with top-end
‘hype’. The front panel THRESHOLD determines at what point compression starts to occur,
whilst X-OVER determines the frequencies that are affected by the compression. Other typical
compressor parameters such as attack, release and ratio are all fixed in the design, having
been optimised for the best transparency.

A good starting point for full mix material is THRESHOLD at +2dB and X-OVER around 15kHz.
The best approach is to move the controls until the accompanying HF Compressor tri-colour
LED just starts to flicker green occasionally. A sustained green, into orange will likely be too
heavy-handed for most mixes. It must be noted that there is no automatic makeup gain, as
commonly found on digital single-band compressors. This means you will not be fooled by a
flattering gain make-up. Another important thing to note is that if the mix is already well balanced and mixed, you may not need to
engage this circuit at all! However, when used subtly, it can smooth harshness off in a very pleasing way. On individual stems, like
bass guitars, you can be more aggressive with it.

TIP: A nice trick is to deliberately apply more high-end than you would normally in the preceding VIOLET EQ section
(apply more gain on your chosen HIGH frequency) and then use the HF COMPRESSOR to tame it back. This can
often help achieve a brighter top end, without the harshness.

Stereo LMC (Listen Mic Compressor)

The HF compressor circuit can be re-configured to become a full bandwidth, stereo Listen Mic Compressor. Pushing and holding
the HF Compressor IN button for five seconds switches to ‘full band LMC mode’. This mode is indicated by the IN button for the
section changing from a Yellow/White light (as with the other IN switches) to a Blue/White colour. When in LMC mode, the X-OVER
knob turns into a ‘WET/DRY’ control — providing significant full bandwidth stereo compression with parallel balance control between
clean and compressed signals.

The SSL LMC (Listen Mic Compressor) — whose origins derive from the famed SSL 4000 series consoles — was
a ‘secret weapon’ among producers and many say was the catalyst for that 80’s drum sound, which prominently
features on tracks of the era, including the classic ‘In The Air Tonight’ by Phil Collins. Originally designed to prevent
overloading the return feed from a studio communications mic, the LMC’s fixed attack and release curves were soon
discovered to be eminently suitable on drums, and equally interesting on guitars, vocals and many other instruments.

Stereo Image
The STEREO IMAGE circuit allows for true mid-side processing within Fusion. Mid-Side is a
technique commonly used in mastering that separates a stereo signal into 2 channels - one
for the sounds in the centre (mid) of a stereo image and the other for the sounds on the edges
of the stereo image (side). The WIDTH allows you to increase the level of the side signal only,
to generally widen or narrow the stereo image. The SPACE control allows you to experiment
with a broad boost or cut of bass frequencies in the side signal and this feature is based upon
the often overlooked but quite brilliant ‘Stereo Shuffling’ processing technique. Many people
think of wanting to remove bass from the side signals but this SPACE control may have you
re-thinking that approach as you can inject some really interesting depth effects into the mix.
SPACE settings beyond +4dB on whole mixes may be too extreme, so try between +2dB
and +4dB to start with.

12 Fusion User Guide

 Tutorial

Transformer
Fusion features a custom-designed SSL transformer circuit, which is engaged via the front panel transformer switch.
This circuit does a number of things: The 600Ω, 1:1 winding transformer and surrounding circuitry adds low-end
harmonic content and a favourable slight top-end phase-shift to the sound. Furthermore, the underdamping of the
transformer adds a subtle ‘weight’ to the sound. It is worth noting that the drive of the transformer circuit is self-
contained, so there is no advantage in driving the Input stage of Fusion to achieve more level through the transformer.
Also, as is inherent with transformer designs, extreme low-end frequencies begin to be rolled off, the more level is put through - so
bear this in mind. Typically, a level of +16dBu will see a 0.5dB roll off between 40Hz and 30Hz and this is quite often (but not always!)
welcome in keeping the bottom-end in check. Experiment with engaging the transformer at any point during the mixing process to
see if it makes the mix sound better (it often does).

Typical Low Frequency Rolloff of Transformer with +16dBu on input.

Fusion User Guide 13

Tutorial

Stereo Insert
Insert (Standard Mode)
Fusion features a stereo insert point, which provides the ability to introduce other outboard processors
such as the SSL G-Series Bus Compressor. The insert point is engaged via the front panel INSERT switch
and will light bright white when operating in standard stereo mode. The PRE EQ switch allows for the
insert point to be moved before the VIOLET EQ section in the signal path.

Insert (M/S Mode)

Pressing and holding the INSERT switch for two seconds will cause it to enter Mid-Side mode, indicated
by the front panel switch(es) turning blue. The Insert Send and Return Left connectors become the ‘Mid’
channel insert and the Insert Send and Return Right connectors become the ‘Side’ channel insert. This
provides the option of using one piece of mono outboard equipment to process the mid signal only and
another to process the side signal (a common mastering technique). Pressing the PRE EQ switch in this mode moves the insert to
be before the Stereo Image circuit. By default, it is post the Stereo Image circuit.

Bypass Modes
Bypass (Standard Mode)
The BYPASS switch allows you to bypass all of Fusion’s processing blocks. If the BYPASS switch is red, then you
are in standard BYPASS mode. Use this to compare the sound of the mix with/without Fusion in one easy action. It
dimly lights white if you are not in bypass.

Bypass (Post I/P Trim)

Pressing and holding the BYPASS switch for two seconds will cause it to enter POST INPUT TRIM bypass mode.
You will know because the front panel switch will turn bright white. In this mode, the INPUT TRIM pot still affects the
sound, even in bypass. This mode is a useful extra feature if you’ve had to make-up or take off significance amounts
of gain using the INPUT TRIM.

Output Trim
The OUTPUT TRIM provides ±12dB gain at the output stage of Fusion. This pot is indented at the 12
o’clock position. This control is important in order to compensate for any level increases caused by the
preceding sections.

14 Fusion User Guide

 Tutorial

Master Meter
A master meter, with three second peak hold allows you view the main output level of Fusion. The scale is
referenced in dBu, with +24dBu at the top. The aim of the game is not to max out this meter - typically full mix
material would be peaking between +9dBu and +15dBu, occasionally as high as +18dBu. Ensure that the output
level of Fusion does not exceed the operating input level of your A/D converter, otherwise it will clip.

TIP: When BYPASS is engaged, the master meter automatically becomes an input level meter,
so you can see your incoming level in more detail.

FRONT PANEL SWITCHES

The switches used in Fusion are solid state switches that trigger a single relay for audible feedback. The benefit of this approach is
that it allows for the front panel switches to be repurposed for additional functions, such as settings and secondary switch modes
(M/S mode on the Insert Switch for example). The relay provides acoustic feedback for a traditional 'analogue' feel. The relay
feedback can be switched off in the Settings Mode, specified on page 16.

Fusion User Guide 15

Settings Mode & Factory Reset

Settings Mode & Factory Reset

This section will detail how to enter Fusion's Settings Mode and the functionality that can be changed. It also details how to reset
Fusion back to a factory default state.

Entering Settings Mode

To enter the Settings Mode, switch the unit on then hold down the TRANSFORMER and BYPASS switches during the startup LED
sequence. In this mode it is possible to modify some parameters of the unit. These parameters will be recalled each time the unit
is rebooted.

+ +

Brightness
Whilst in Settings Mode, it is possible to select five levels of brightness for the meters and switches.

➤ To decrease the brightness, press the VINTAGE DRIVE IN switch.

➤ To increase the brightness, press the VIOLET EQ IN switch.

If the VINTAGE DRIVE IN switch is not lit, minimum brightness is reached. If the VIOLET EQ switch is not lit, maximum brightness
is reached. Factory setting: maximum brightness.

Note: The brightness setting does not affect the startup LED sequence, or signal indicator LEDs found in the
VINTAGE DRIVE and HF COMPRESSOR sections.

Relay Feedback
Whilst in Settings Mode, it is possible to enable or disable the relay feedback of the switches. This affects the startup sequence and
normal operation. To switch between enabled and disabled, press the INSERT IN switch.

➤ If INSERT is dimly lit white, relay feedback is disabled.

➤ If INSERT is lit blue, relay feedback is enabled (a quick relay transition is reproduced as confirmation of the setting).

Factory setting: relay feedback enabled.

Exiting Settings Mode

To exit Settings Mode, press and hold the BYPASS switch until the unit reboots.

16 Fusion User Guide

 Settings Mode & Factory Reset

Factory Reset
To reset Fusion to factory settings, switch the unit on then hold down the VINTAGE DRIVE IN and BYPASS switches during the
startup LED sequence.

+ +
VINTAGE DRIVE

Factory Reset allows reset of any stored settings (Brightness, Relay feedback, BYPASS and INSERT configurations) to the factory
default. Press and hold the combination of switches until all the switches start flashing. After releasing the switches, the unit will
automatically reboot and the factory settings will be restored.

Simon Says Game

To play the Simon Says game, switch the unit on and hold down all four IN switches during the startup LED sequence.

1 2 3 4

+ + + +
VINTAGE DRIVE VIOLET EQ HF COMPRESSOR STEREO WIDTH

The BYPASS switch will flash red. The highest score achieved on the unit is shown on the master meters; the right bar meter is points
x1, the left bar meter is points x10 (e.g. two LEDs lit on the left and six LEDs lit on the right means that the current highest score
is 26). If the maximum score is reached, the two top red LEDs are lit. Factory reset does not affect the highest score for the unit.

1. Press the flashing BYPASS switch to start a round.

2. A random switch between the first four switches will light up briefly (The relay will also click a number of times equal to the
position of the switch; switch 1 = 1 click, switch 2 lit = 2 clicks etc).
3. The aim of the game is to press the correct switch within four seconds. If the wrong switch is pressed or a timeout of four
seconds elapses, the game resets.
4. If you press the correct switch, you move to the next level and another switch is added to the sequence.

Note: Every three levels the difficulty increases by displaying the sequence faster.

To exit this mode, simply power­-cycle the unit.

Fusion User Guide 17

Troubleshooting & FAQ's

Troubleshooting & FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions can be found on the Solid State Logic Website at: http://www.solidstatelogic.com/support/fusion

If you require technical support for Fusion or other SSL Products, click on the Ask a
Question link on the support page to open a support ticket and an SSL Product Support
Engineer will be in contact.

UID Display Mode

UID Display Mode displays the UID number of the firmware currently in use and the hardware revision of both main card and front
panel card. To enter UID Display Mode, switch the unit on and hold down the PRE ­EQ and BYPASS switches during the startup
LED sequence.

+ +
Unique ID (UID)
The UID is a five digit number. Pressing any of the first five front panel switches allows the selection of any of the five digits of the
UID. The selected digit will be represented on the right main meter bar (see table below).

1 2 3 4 5
0 LEDs on current digit is 0
1 LED on current digit is 1
2 LEDs on current digit is 2
... ...
VINTAGE DRIVE VIOLET EQ HF COMPRESSOR STEREO WIDTH

Hardware Revision
To display the hardware revision of the boards, press the PRE­ EQ switch whilst in UID Display Mode (which will light up blue). On
the left meter, the mainboard revision number is displayed (see table below). On the right meter, the front panel revision number is
displayed (see table below).

0 LEDs on current digit is 0

1 LED on current digit is 1
2 LEDs on current digit is 2
... ...

Press & Hold of the BYPASS switch will force the unit to reboot.

18 Fusion User Guide

 Troubleshooting & FAQ's

Soak Mode
In soak mode the unit will cycle through all possible colours and modes of LEDs, to allow verification of the unit. To enter Soak Mode,
switch the unit on and hold down the INSERT and BYPASS switches during the startup LED sequence.

+ +

The HPF rotary encoder allows you to stop the cycle on an arbitrary step if set to the “OFF” position. Setting the HPF rotary encoder
to any other position will cause the cycle to run again. The higher the position, the faster the pattern will cycle through.

Press & Hold of the BYPASS switch will force the unit to reboot.

Warranty
Warranty claims will only be accepted if the purchased product has been used for its intended purpose. Any purchased product used
for an unintended purpose will not be eligible for warranty protection. For all warranty inquiries or claims please address your claim to
the dealer that you purchased the product from – or to Solid State Logic if the purchase was directly from Solid State Logic – within
a period of two months from the date on which you detected its lack of conformity with the terms of the warranty. Please include your
original proof of purchase when initiating the claim.

➤ Within the EU: Pursuant to the Solid State Logic Terms and Conditions under European consumer law the purchaser has full
statutory warranty rights for two years from the date of purchase of the product. The warranty is valid only in those Member
States of the European Union (EU) who have adopted the applicable EU law into their national legislation. The applicable
national legislation governing the sale of consumer goods is not affected by this warranty.
➤ Outside of the EU: Outside of the European Union a 12 month warranty from date of purchase is applicable.

All returns
➤ No unit will be accepted for repair by Solid State Logic unless accompanied by a valid RMA (Return Material Authorisation)
number, obtainable from Solid State Logic prior to shipping.
➤ All units should be shipped to Solid State Logic in suitable rigid packaging – Solid State Logic cannot be held responsible for
any damage caused by shipping units in other packaging.

Fusion User Guide 19

Appendix A

Appendix A - Physical Specification

Depth 303mm / 11.9 inches (chassis only)
328mm / 12.9 inches (total including front panel controls)

Height 88.9mm / 3.5inches (2 RU)

Width 480mm / 19 inches

Power 50 Watts maximum, 40 Watts typical

Unboxed Weight 5.86kg / 12.9lbs

Boxed Size 550mm x 470mm x 225mm (21.7" x 18.5" x 8.9")

Boxed Weight 9.6kg / 21.2lbs

Note: All physical specification values are approximate.

Connectors

20 Fusion User Guide

 Appendix B

Appendix B - Analogue Specification

Audio Performance
Default test conditions (unless otherwise stated):
- Source impedance of Test Set: 50Ω
- Input impedance of Test Set: 100kΩ
- Reference frequency: 1kHz
- Reference level: 0dBu
- All unweighted measurements are specified as 22Hz to 22kHz band limited RMS and are expressed in units of dBu.
- The onset of clipping (for headroom measurements) should be taken as 1% THD.
- Measurements taken with Input and Output trim at center position.
- All levels are intended balanced.

Unless otherwise quoted all figures have a tolerance of ±0.5dB or 5%.

Measurement Conditions Value

Input Impedance 10kΩ
Output Impedance 75Ω
Max Input Level 1% THD 27.25 dBu
Max Output Level 1% THD 27.25 dBu
Frequency Response All circuits off
- 20Hz to 20kHz - ±0.05dB
- -3dB low rolloff - < 5Hz
- -3dB high rolloff - > 180kHz
THD+Noise All circuits off
- +20dBu, 1kHz (filter 22Hz to 22kHz) - < 0.005%, 0.0025% typical

Bypass
- +20dBu, 1kHz (filter 22Hz to 22kHz) - 0.0005% typical

Vintage Drive
- Indicator Off - < 0.2% typical
- Indicator Green - 0.2% to 0.5% typical
- Indicator Orange - 0.5% to 2% typical
- Indicator Red - > 2% typical
CMRR - 20Hz - > 78dB, 85dB typical
- 1kHz - > 78dB, 88dB typical
Noise Analyser filters/BW: 22Hz to 20kHz (AES17).

- All circuits off - < -86dBu, -91dBu typical

- Bypass - -94dBu typical
- Vintage Drive, mid Drive, mid Density - -75dBu typical

Fusion User Guide 21

Appendix B

Measurement Conditions Value

Crosstalk Analyser filters/BW: 22Hz to 20kHz (AES17). Generator
+24dBu into one channel, analyzer on the other channel
(generator connected but not active).

All circuits off / bypass

- 1 kHz - < -110dB, -115dB typical
- 20Hz - -110dB typical
Stereo Matching - All circuits off / Bypass - < 0.01dB
- Vintage Drive on - < 0.25dB typical

22 Fusion User Guide

 Appendix C

Appendix C - System Block Diagram

Fusion User Guide 23

Appendix D

Appendix D - Safety Notices

General Safety
- Read these instructions.
- Keep these instructions.
- Heed all warnings.
- Follow all instructions.
- Do not use this apparatus near water.
- Clean only with dry cloth.
- Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that
produce heat.
- Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than
the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided
for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
- Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where
they exit from the apparatus.
- Only use attachments/accessories recommended by the manufacturer.
- Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
- Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way,
such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus
has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
- Do NOT modify this unit, alterations may affect performance, safety and/or international compliance standards.
- SSL does not accept liability for damage caused by maintenance, repair or modification by unauthorised personnel.

Installation Notes
- When installing this apparatus either fix it into a standard 19” rack or place it on a secure level surface.
- If the unit is rack mounted, fit all rack screws. Rack shelves are recommended.
- When rack mounting allow a 1U gap above and below the unit for cooling.
- Ensure that no strain is placed on any cables connected to this apparatus. Ensure that all such cables are not placed where
they can be stepped on, pulled or tripped over.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
ATTENTION: Afin de réduire les risques de choc électrique, ne pas exposer cet appareil à l'humidité ou à la pluie.

Power Safety
- The unit is not supplied with a mains lead allowing you to use IEC distribution of mains cables of your choice. Any mains
cable used must fulfill the following:
- Refer to the rating label on rear of the unit and always use suitable mains cords.
- The unit should ALWAYS be earthed with the earth on both the IEC sockets (when both are used).
- Please use-compliant 60320 C13 TYPE SOCKET. When connecting to supply outlets ensure that appropriate sized
conductors and plugs are used to suit local electrical requirements.
- Maximum cord length should be 4.5m(15’).
- The cord should bear the approval mark of the country in which it is to be used.
- Connect only to an AC power source that contains a protective earthing (PE) conductor.
- Only connect units to single phase supplies with the neutral conductor at earth potential.

GB The apparatus shall be connected to mains socket outlets with a protective earthing connection.

24 Fusion User Guide

 Appendix D

DEN Apparatets stikprop skal tilsluttes en stikkontakt med jord, som giver forbindelse tilstikproppens jord.
FIN Laite on liitettävä suojamaadoituskoskettimilla varustettuun pistorasiaan.
NOR Apparatet må tilkoples jordet stikkontakt.
SWE Apparaten skall anslutas till jordat uttag.

ATTENTION! This unit has a selectable fuse for 115 Vac and 230 Vac operation, situated next to the mains inlet. When changing
the fuse always disconnect the unit from the mains outlet and only replace with the correct value of fuse. Refer to the
User Guide for further details.

WARNING! Un-earthed metal parts may be present inside the enclosure. No user-serviceable parts inside - to be
serviced only by qualified personnel. When servicing disconnect all power sources before removing any panels.

CE Certification
Fusion is CE compliant. Note that any cables supplied with SSL equipment may be fitted with ferrite rings at each end. This is to
comply with the current regulations and these ferrites should not be removed.

FCC Certification
- Do not modify this unit! This product, when installed as indicated in the instructions contained in the installation manual,
meets FCC requirements.
- Important: This product satisfies FCC regulations when high quality shielded cables are used to connect with other equipment.
Failure to use high quality shielded cables or to follow the installation instructions may cause magnetic interference with
appliances such as radios and televisions and will void your FCC authorisation to use this product in the USA.
- This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is
operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to
correct the interference at his own expense.

RoHS notice
Solid State Logic complies with and this product conforms to European Union’s Directive 2011/65/EU on Restrictions of Hazardous
Substances (RoHS) as well as the following sections of California law which refer to RoHS, namely sections 25214.10, 25214.10.2,
and 58012, Health and Safety Code; Section 42475.2, Public Resources Code.

Instructions for disposal of WEEE by users in the European Union

The symbol shown here, which is on the product or on its packaging, indicates that this product must not be disposed of with other
waste. Instead, it is the user’s responsibility to dispose of their waste equipment by handing it over to a designated
collection point for recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment. The separate collection and recycling of
your waste equipment at the time of disposal will help to conserve natural resources and ensure that it is recycled in
a manner that protects human health and the environment. For more information about where you can drop off
your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local city office, your household waste disposal service or
where you purchased the product.

WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

Evaluation of apparatus based on altitude not exceeding 2000m. There may be some potential safety hazard if the

Fusion User Guide 25

Appendix D

apparatus is operated at altitude exceeding 2000m.

Evaluation of apparatus based on temperate climate conditions only. There may be some potential safety hazard if the
apparatus is operated in tropical climate conditions.

Electromagnetic Compatibility
EN 55032:2015, Environment: Class A, EN 55103-2:2009, Environments: E2 - E4.

Audio input and output ports are screened cable ports and any connections to them should be made using braid-screened cable and
metal connector shells in order to provide a low impedance connection between the cable screen and the equipment.

WARNING: Operation of this equipment in a residential environment could cause radio interference.

Environmental
Temperature: Operating: +1 to 30 degrees Celsius. Storage: -20 to 50 degrees Celsius.

26 Fusion User Guide

 Appendix E

Appendix E - Mains Voltage

Fusion has a linear power supply. The AC mains fuse is located on the rear panel next to the AC
mains connector. The orientation of the mains fuse cartridge the 2 fuses used within the cartridge
will dictate the operational voltage; this can be either 220-240V or 110-120V AC power.

Fuse Information
Fuses must be fitted in pairs.

220-240V - 2 x Fuses - Time Delay, 500mA, 250V, 5mm x 20mm

110-120V - 2 x Fuses - Time Delay, 1A, 250V, 5mm x 20mm

Changing the Operational Voltage

1. Power the unit off and remove the IEC power cable from the IEC socket.

2. Remove the fuse holder catridge by leveraging a flat head screwdriver at the bottom.

3. Remove the 2 x fuses and replace with the 2 x fuses for the desired voltage (detailed above in the Fuse Information).

4. Re-orientate the fuse cartridge 180 degrees and insert so that the operational voltage arrow points up.

The fuse cartridge holder on some Fusion units may differ to what's described above. Always check the fuse
information on the rear of your physical unit to verify you are inserting the correct fuses when changing the operational
voltage.

Fusion User Guide 27

Appendix F

Appendix F - Recall Sheet

28 Fusion User Guide

 www.solidstatelogic.com

Fusion. This is SSL.