Watch The Time-Lapse Construction Of An SSL Origin Console

Recording consoles have evolved since the early days of the hand-built models of the 50s and 60s. As the desks became more sophisticated, so did the construction methods, and nowhere is this more evident than in the video below. It shows the streamlined creation of a new 32 channel SSL Origin console by only 2 people.

I used to work for the long-gone AMEK consoles back in the 80s and as a result, went to the factory in Manchester England on numerous occasions as well as the TAC factory in Devon. I watched both large and small consoles being built, and I can tell you that it was a much more time and labor-intensive operation back then than it is now.

Even though Origin does have its nuts and bolts built around analog, it’s a hybrid desk with lots of digital switching and metering. That and the lack of a built-in patchbay cuts down on the labor and price tag in a big way. We also don’t see the building of the console frame, which adds time into the construction that isn’t normally taken into account.

Still it’s impressive to see this desk built by just 2 people, and done in relative ease at that.

Audio consoles are no longer on the “absolutely needed” list for a studio (especially one at home), unless you’re doing a lot of tracking with multiple players or just need faders to push during mixing or post-production. Of course, most commercial studios still need a console as a sales tool, and the low-priced and versatile Origin, at around $50k for the one seen in the video, is a good way to go.

I’ve seen consoles made close-up, but I still marvel at their construction, especially thanks to videos like you’ll see below. Click here to find out more details about the SSL Origin if you’re interested.

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