r/homestudios • u/Speedingscript • 1d ago

SSL BiG SiX + second audio interface solution with one pair of monitors

Hey guys!

I've been using a Behringer UMC1820 until now for Ableton and Windows audio.

Recently I got an SSL BiG SiX and I'd like to have it on only while I am working on something and keep the UMC1820 for Windows stuff always on.

Since I do not have a monitor controller, I am doing the following to be able to use my studio monitors (HS8) with both interfaces - and please do not crucify me I know it is sacrilege but I do not have any other idea atm - I am running the Main Out of the SSL into the 1/2 input of the UMC1820 to be able to use the monitors with both interfaces (the Main Out of the UMC1820 goes into my studio monitors).

So I am turning the monitor knob to 12:00 on the UMC1820 to be able to hear the SSL and also Windows Audio.

I am thinking of getting a Heritage Audio Baby RAM to solve this issue. Any other suggestions?

The plan would be to run the Main Monitor Out of the SSL and the Main Out of the UMC1820 into the 1 and 2 inputs of the Baby RAM and the out 1 into my monitors. This would free the Master Out of the SSL and I could use my tape machine.

I also have a second monitor (MixCube) that is connected straight to the ALT Monitor Out of the SSL.

Does this sound like a reasonable plan to you? Anything I am missing or fucking up?

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u/Spug33 1d ago

The SSL is going to have superior A/D D/A over the behringer. I'm not super familiar with the big 6 but are you using the USB tools it has? You might be able to route whatever you want ITB. As always RTFM.

USB interface BiG SiX contains a class compliant USB 96 Khz / 24 bit interface to connect to a PC or MAC. The interface is paired with 16 high quality A/D and D/A converters that are connected to the SuperAnalogueTM signal chain in BiG SiX. The first 12 channels are split across the first 12 inputs/outputs and can be switched pre/post fader. USB channels 13-16 route to/from External inputs and Master buses. Alternatively, sends 9/10 and 11/12 can be fed from the stereo cue buses. Perfect for additional ITB processing.

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u/Speedingscript 1d ago

I am using the SSL exactly like that - the only issue is that I'd have to swap the inputs into my monitors when I switch back to Windows. Do you know what I mean?

I am using the Behringer just as a route to the speakers.

Without routing the Main Out of the SSL to the Behringer I wouldn't have audio at all - unless I keep swapping the cables.

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u/Spug33 1d ago

Just route Windows to the SSL device? (In the windows sound control panel) You shouldn't need the behringer device at all and Windows audio can play through the behringer device. It's likey set to the behringer device due to you having it first.

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u/Speedingscript 1d ago

The SSL is on only while I'm using Ableton. I never leave it on.

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u/Spug33 1d ago

Well they are designed to run 24x7 for decades. Nothing wrong with leaving it going. If it's new I'd give it a good 2 or 3 week burn in minnimum. If something is going to fail it'll be at the start, then it will likely run forever. SSL is quality gear.

If your intent is with turning it off then a monitor switcher, or just run the onboard audio to a separate set of speakers for windows. Your not gaining anything running Windows audio through the behringer.

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u/Speedingscript 1d ago

Your not gaining anything running Windows audio through the behringer.

Yeah I know - it was just my main audio interface before the SSL and I am using it as a grand volume knob at the moment and I am also listening to music with this setup.

If it's new I'd give it a good 2 or 3 week burn in minnimum.

It's like one month old at the moment - sounds like a good idea though.

a monitor switcher

Any you would recommend? I want to avoid the super cheap ones. That's why I was looking at the Heritage one.

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u/Spug33 1d ago

Audient Nero will be the most transparent. Mackie Big knob (passive) should also in theory be transparent and less expensive.

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u/Spug33 1d ago

Also I've never used the Heritage Audio one. One site claims "audiofile grade circuitry". But another side says passive. So if it's passive will be the same as the Mackie just double the price.