Not ready to take the plunge with a massive SSL AWS 900+ console? Why not build your studio up sixteen channels at a time with the Solid Stage Logic X-Logic X-Desk? Unveiled at last week's MusikMesse conference, the X-Desk is compact, but features the same "SuperAnalogue" summing and pristine sound that has made SSL a modern audio legend.

The X-Desk does away with all the frills to deliver the classic SSL sound at a manageable price (relatively speaking. . . more on that later). There's no EQ to speak of, save some high-pass filtering on each channel. There, however, extensive routing options, as this board was made to work in conjunction with the X-Logic X-Rack modular outboard effects. That means inserts on every channel, plus the main bus, plus two FX loops. Suitable for live and studio applications, the X-Desk sports flexible monitor controls with DIM and CUT buttons, as well as an integrated talk-back system.

Made to be scalable, up to eight X-Desks can be cascaded together via built-in D-Sub connection for up to 160 channels of audio.

A list of key features includes:

• Signature SSL SuperAnalogue summing
• 8x dual input Mono Line channels -- 16 channel mixdown
• 8x Insert Send/Returns on channels
• Stereo CUE and 2 Mono Auxiliary Sends
• Cascade with X-Rack and other X-Desks for bigger systems
• Talkback – for artist communication
• Dim & Cut buttons
• Independent Main and Alternate stereo monitor outputs
• SSL Stereo Mix Bus with External summing and Inserts
• 2x Stereo Returns with Level, Pan and Bus assignment
• iJack front panel input for portable playback devices
• High quality internal PSU
• D-Sub Channel I/O connection for studio integration
• 19" Rack mount ears included

SSL expects a May 2009 delivery date for the X-Desk. As for the price? As the old Chinese proverb goes: the longest journey starts with the investment of $2,899 (US MSRP).