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An introduction to Solid State Logic SSL Native Vocalstrip 2, based on information from the maker and distributors: what it does, how to use it and who it may suit. It is not scored.
Vocalstrip 2 aims to bring power, character and clarity to vocal tracks from a single interface.
— Solid State Logic official site
What is SSL Native Vocalstrip 2?
SSL Native Vocalstrip 2 is a vocal-specific channel strip plugin from Solid State Logic (SSL), known for its consoles. It combines EQ and dynamics with vocal-specific processors in four modules on one screen, aiming to be a simple route to professional vocal recordings.
The four modules are a de-esser for sibilance, a de-ploser for plosives, a 3-band SSL EQ and a compander that combines compression and downward expansion. The maker says the de-esser and de-ploser work on comparative analysis and envelope detection.
The EQ has high-pass, asymmetric notch and air bands for shaping presence, weight and sparkle. It displays EQ curves with a real-time FFT overlay, gain-reduction history for the de-esser and de-ploser, and a visualization of the compander.
The processing order can be rearranged to suit different vocal performances. It runs natively on Apple silicon and has a 14-day free trial. SSL also offers its plugins through the Complete Access subscription.
De-esser and de-ploser
Two modules for sibilance and plosives, serving as initial clean-up. You may not need a separate plugin for pop noise.
3-band SSL EQ
High-pass, asymmetric notch and air bands, focused on common vocal tasks: clearing lows, notching a problem band and adjusting high-frequency air.
Compander
Compression and downward expansion share one interface. The maker lists smoothing a performance and bringing vocals forward in the mix, and an output gain is included.
Visual feedback
EQ curves, FFT overlay, gain-reduction history and a compander display let you check processing visually.
Reconfigurable order
The order of the four modules can be changed, useful when you want to try EQ before dynamics or the reverse depending on the performance.
14-day free trial
Launch the plugin in your DAW and press Try; after logging in to your iLok account the trial begins, so you can check it before purchase.
Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Formats | AU, VST2, VST3, AAX Native (macOS); VST2, VST3, AAX Native (Windows) |
| OS | macOS 11 Big Sur to 13 Ventura (64-bit, M1 supported), Windows 10 and 11 (64-bit) |
| System | CPU 2.4 GHz or higher, 4 GB RAM minimum (8 GB recommended) |
| Licensing | Free iLok account required |
| Trial | 14 days free |
| Official store price | $99 (tax excluded) |
What is included and system requirements
- SSL Native Vocalstrip 2 license
- Four modules: de-esser, de-ploser, 3-band EQ and compander
- User guide (PDF)
- Installation through the SSL Download Manager
How to use it
- Prepare a free iLok account.
- Download and install the plugin using the SSL Download Manager.
- Insert Vocalstrip 2 on a vocal track in your DAW and authorize with Try or your purchased license.
- Handle sibilance and plosives first with the de-esser and de-ploser.
- Adjust the high-pass, notch and air bands in the 3-band EQ.
- Even out level with the compander.
- Rearrange the processing order if needed.
- Watch the FFT and gain-reduction displays to check the processing.
Basic processing for sung vocals
It may suit situations where you want de-essing, EQ and dynamics handled in one plugin.
Plosives on rap or close-miked vocals
For close-miked vocals with noticeable plosives, you could try the de-ploser.
Narration and podcasts
It could be used as a channel strip for spoken voice where you want to shape presence.
Use on other instruments
Plugin Boutique's summary of customer reviews mentions use on instruments and sound design too.
Who it may suit
- People who want vocal processing in one plugin
- Users who want to treat plosives and sibilance together
- Those curious about SSL's EQ
- Those who want a 14-day trial first
Good to know before you buy
- A free iLok account is required for authorization.
- The listed OS support is macOS 11-13 and Windows 10/11; check the official page for newer OS versions.
- The official store's $99 is shown tax excluded.
- SSL plugins are also offered via the Complete Access subscription.
How it differs from similar products
We do not pick a winner; the official figures are placed side by side.
Weiss Deess
SSL Native Vocalstrip 2 has four modules (de-esser, de-ploser, 3-band EQ and compander), while Weiss Deess is a dedicated de-esser with two independent bands.
Price
Please check the official page for the price.
See SSL Native Vocalstrip 2 on the product page
Sources: store.solidstatelogic.com pluginboutique.com (checked 2026-10-27)
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