The SSL Channel Strip plug-in is supplied with the Duende Mini other plug-ins are optional.Most relatively up-to-date computers can work with the Duende Mini, and the range of supported plug-in formats means that the majority of DAW users can use it. Optional plug-ins, other than the Bus Compressor, currently include the X-Comp, the X-EQ and the DrumStrip, all of which come on the install disc as time-limited demos. However, the initial hardware cost is around half that of the original Duende, so you get a lot of functionality for your money. The Mini comes with the original EQ/Dynamics Channel plug-in based on the company's C-Series digital console algorithms, although you don't get the Bus Compressor as standard, as you do with the bigger model it has to be bought separately (for around £230). It is also possible to run two Duende units on the same computer, to provide up to 64 channels. While the Duende Mini may look small and dinky, the hardware inside the box is essentially the same as in the original Duende, and by purchasing an unlock code (for around £230) you can boost the performance up to 32 channels.

The original Duende (which is now known as the Duende Classic) was reviewed in the August 2006 issue of Sound On Sound, and, given its similarities to the Duende Mini, that article is worth reading as a supplement to this review. A second Firewire connector is provided to facilitate linking. Connection is, again, via Firewire, which can also power the unit, though a mains power-adaptor port is included for situations where Firewire power is not available. Even so, not everyone could afford to splash out on one, so at the January NAMM show this year SSL announced that they were building a third-rack-width 'little brother' version that would provide the same channel-strip EQ and dynamics software as its big brother, but with a 16 mono-channel limit at sample rates up to 96kHz. SSL's original Duende was a great success for the company, which is not surprising given that it uses external DSP to provide the Mac or PC user with all the key EQ and dynamics components of an SSL console channel-strip in VST, Audio Units and RTAS plug-in form, all without overloading the host computer's CPU. The sound of an SSL console is now available in an even smaller package - and at a smaller price.

Ssl duende mac