At the AES NY 2023 Show, Solid State Logic and Harrison Audio announced the new 32Classic mixing console.

Harrison’s first new product since being acquired by Solid State Logic in April 2023, the new 32Classic is a 32-channel in-line/split-recording console that combines Harrison’s legacy in analog console design with SSL’s flexible workflows and hybrid studio functionality. 

In this blog, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the new Harrison 32Classic console. But first, let’s take a quick look at Harrison Audio’s history, and how they revolutionized the recording industry.

Harrison Audio’s Legacy

Founded by Dave Harrison in 1975, Harrison consoles are an integral part of recording history. The company's first product, the 32-Series console, pioneered the concept of the in-line console, which combined features of recording and mixing consoles into a single channel strip. This design was adopted as a standard for every large format music console, and Dave was later inducted as a Fellow in the Audio Engineering Society for his contribution to the "in-line" design of audio consoles. 

Over the last 50 years, Harrison consoles have helped world-renowned artists create some of the most recognized and celebrated music in history. Most notably, legendary engineer and producer Bruce Swedien has used a 3232 console for most of his career, recording and mixing several Michael Jackson albums, including “Thriller”—the best-selling album with over 100 million units sold.

Now that you’ve got some background on Harrison Audio, let’s take a closer look at the new Harrison 32Classic mixing console. Here's Harrison Audio President Gary Thielman breaking down the brand's new console.

 

Harrison 32Classic Mixing Console

Designed and engineered by Harrison Audio, the 32Classic represents the culmination of decades of engineering advancement and research.

High-Performance Design

The 32Classic features a high-quality design, which includes double-sided PCBs. Manual PCB layout techniques are carefully applied, making sure that every trace is in just the right place. What's more, the ground plane design is robust, providing a stable foundation for your sound. 

The 32Classic also boasts gold-plated switches, which enhance the console's longevity. Plus, all of the summing buses are carried by PCBs, so there are no messy ribbon cables. All of these elements come together to deliver the highest level of performance possible in an analog console. 

Mono Mic/Line Channels

In the standard configuration, the 32Classic offers 32 mono mic/line channels, each equipped with a high-performance Harrison mic preamp. These preamps are integral to the signature Harrison sound, adding warmth and character to your recordings.

The 32Classic also features Harrison's acclaimed 32C four-band parametric EQ, perfect for subtle sonic sculpting or precise audio surgery. Variable high-pass and low-pass filters offer even more control over your sound.

DAW Compatible Frame

You'll be working long hours in front of your mixing console, so comfort is key. The 32Classic's frame is designed to make your life easier in the studio. It's rugged, meaning it can handle the hustle and bustle of your daily sessions. But it also takes care of some of the little but essential things.

First, the 32Classic includes a convenient two-tiered front bolster for storage. It's wide and deep enough to comfortably house your DAW keyboard, mouse, or trackball, and even your cell phone, laptop, tablet, and more. Plus, the spacious rear shelf is perfect for TFT monitors and small near-field speakers.

Harrison 32Classic Features

  • Available in 32 and 48-channel variants
  • Classic 32C 4 band EQ with HP and LP filters
  • Transformer balanced Mic preamplifiers
  • Transformer balanced Main Mix output
  • In-line or split recording/monitoring status
  • Balanced Line input, Balanced insert points, Balanced Direct Outputs
  • 100mm premium faders
  • 8 Multitrack Buses, 4 Aux Sends, Stereo Cue Send
  • 64 channels of premium AD/DA
  • Built-in DANTE AoIP interface (optional extra)
  • 12 Wide Atmos Monitoring (7.1.4)
  • DAW-compatible frame design
  • Instrument input fed from center section
  • Zero Fader Lock/bypass

Learn more about SSL's industry-leading consoles in our Buyer’s Guide.