MacOS
SSL interfaces are class compliant and work directly with macOS Core Audio — there is no driver. Simply select the SSL as the sound device in System Preferences and you are ready to go. SSL interfaces are tested on macOS versions that are supported by Apple at the time of their release. Please refer to the System Requirements on the specific SSL product's page for more detailed information. Older versions of MacOS that are no longer maintained by Apple are not tested by SSL but may still work. SSL does not support Mac OS versions that are no longer maintained by Apple.
Mac Chipset Compatibility
SSL 12 has been tested on M1, M2, M3 and M4 machines. M5 machines have not yet been tested, so milage may vary. M5 is currently unsupported
iOS and Android
Linux
SSL 12 is not officially supported under Linux. However, many Linux Operating systems and audio drivers support class compliant devices. We have not tested nor can we recommend any Linux OS.
Windows
Windows ARM-based systems are not supported and therefore may not work.
SSL 12 requires our ASIO driver to be installed on Windows. The SSL 12 series ASIO drivers are multiclient (multi-client). This means multiple ASIO apps can use the interface simultaneously.
USB interface information
The connector on the back of the SSL 12 is USB-C.
SSL provides a USB-C and a USB-A adapter. The type of USB connector on your computer will determine if you use this adapter or not.
SSL 12 interfaces utilize USB 3.0 and it will make no difference the type of cable connector you use on your computer side.
Newer computers may have USB-C, whereas older computers have USB-A.
SSL 12 is compatible with USB 4.0 because USB 4.0 is backwards compatible.
How long can my USB cable be?
You are welcome to try cables as long as you want until they stop working, it will not harm the interface. Longer lengths result in voltage reduction and may not deliver the full 5V to the interface. USB 2.0 specifies an absolute maximum of 5 meters (16 feet). Beyond that length you must use a powered hub or powered extender.
SSL recommend USB cables up to 3 meters or 10 feet.
It is not the cable length per se that is the issue, but is that not all computers deliver full voltage and current.
If 5V does not reach the interface, the interface may have connection issues, but it is unlikely to damage the interface.
If you have problems with any 3rd party cable, please try the included cables.
Ensure that you are plugged directly into the computer for troubleshooting (not through a hub).
Some computers have USB ports that are not fully 5V powered, or not always-on, so try all USB ports.
If you need longer than 3 meters, you may need to add a powered USB hub, though hubs can sometimes introduce their own issues.
On Windows, as a test you may also wish to toggle the Power Management tab settings in the Device Manager USB controllers section.
SSL do not sell USB cables independent of the cables included with the product.
Troubleshooting USB & Power issues
Ensure that you are plugged directly into the DAW computer and not using a USB hub for testing. USB hubs could cause power issues, or you may need a powered USB hub.
Additionally, try all USB ports on the DAW computer as some manufacturers may have USB ports that are not fully powered.
USB hubs
Wherever possible, it is best to connect directly to USB on your computer.
If you must connect via a hub, choose one with sufficient current specifications that will provide reliable performance; not all USB hubs are created equally.
We recommend the use of a powered USB 3.0 hub; ie a hub that has an external DC power supply and USB 3.0 ports for your devices.
Please note that you will still need to use a USB cable of suitable length with a powered USB hub.
SSL do not make specific recommendations on USB hubs and cables, but anecdotally one user has had success with the VAVA USB-C hub.
USB 3.0 specifies a maximum length of 5 meters (16 feet). Beyond that length you must use a powered hub or powered extender.
Thunderbolt with SSL USB audio interfaces
Thunderbolt 3 and 4 use the USB-C connector type and are normally compatible with all USB devices directly.
Thunderbolt 2 uses a different connector and requires a Thunderbolt 2 to USB adapter.