Dr. Dre’s Iconic SSL 4000 G+ Console Was Auctioned For $165,000
A Chapter of Music History Went Under the Hammer
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Dr. Dre's Iconic SSL 4000 G+ Console Was Auctioned For $165,000 · Source: therealest.com
The SSL 4000 G console is undoubtedly one of the most legendary studio tools in music history. It is known not only for its warm, characteristic sound but also for becoming the heart of countless genre-defining productions. So when an original part of this console from Dr. Dre’s studio suddenly appeared at auction, it piqued the interest of collectors and fueled fascination for the stories this device has witnessed. Behind every fader and switch are moments associated with global chart hits, creative excellence, and cultural milestones. It’s exciting when such a relic finds its way into a museum and back into the public eye.
A Piece of Music History: Dr. Dre’s SSL 4000 G+ Console is up For Auction
Sales stories from the music world always attract attention when they involve technology and real legends. This is exactly the case with the recently auctioned SSL 4000 G+ console – or more precisely, a 16-channel section of it. This piece of studio history was used for many years in Room B of the legendary Record One Studios in Los Angeles. Dr. Dre produced many of his legendary hits there, and a significant part of modern hip-hop DNA was created. The console went to a new owner with a final bid of $165,000. There is hope that it will soon be part of the Hip Hop Museum in New York.
The buyer’s interest came as no surprise, as this console was used by Dr. Dre and other greats, including Eminem, Snoop Dogg, 50 Cent, Kendrick Lamar, Mary J. Blige, Anderson Paak, and Gwen Stefani. These artists have made significant contributions to music history. Albums such as The Chronic, 2001, and Doggystyle were shaped by the sound of this SSL 4000 G+ console. It is only fitting that this piece of technology should now end up as an exhibit. While it now has museum value, it was the creative backbone of West Coast production for many years.
How a Mixing Console Became a Legend
In a post on X, Ryan Zurrer, the buyer of the console, emphasized how honored he feels to preserve this piece of music history. While that statement may sound dramatic, the console’s emotional value cannot be underestimated. It was more than just studio equipment – it was a tool, a source of inspiration, and a standard of quality all rolled into one. Interestingly, neither the SSL 4000 G+’s central control panel nor the complete original console was part of the auction. Nevertheless, the auctioned 16-channel element, complete with power supply and rack, is an iconic symbol of an era when analog sound and creative visions could converge.
The console’s provenance also underscores its special significance. After being used at Record One Studios, it became the property of Che Pope, Dr. Dre’s longtime collaborator and former Aftermath Entertainment CEO. The fact that the console has not been used in recent years speaks to its nostalgic status. Yet, for many, it remains a testament to the powerful influence of technology and the right space on music, especially when an SSL 4000 G is involved.
You can get the software version of the console here.
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