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API Audio 512v 500-Series Mic Preamp  From API

Classic API preamp sound, but with improved control via the Input/Output stage and Transformer option

API Audio

$995.00

"Experience the Difference"

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What We Think

When a preamp is already a “Classic”, how does one make it better without sacrificing what made it special to begin with? That’s what the folks at API had to decide when releasing the new version of the tried and true 512 500-series preamp. Luckily for the whole audio community, only one change was really needed to turn this Classic into a “Legend,” Output attenuation!

No more do engineers have to worry about clipping their converter inputs when driving the input’s 2520 op-amp to achieve as much of the glorious, punchy tone API is famous for. Previously, one would have to use a line attenuator to protect your incoming signals from the risk of unpleasant distortions on your converter inputs, especially when recording transient rich and very loud sources like drums - now, no such additional device is needed! This makes dialing in the pre’s “sweet spot” faster and easier than ever before.

API did add one additional neat feature into the new “V” version of the 512, the 3:1 output transformer “tap” selection. Engaging the 3:1 tap attenuates the signal right before it exits the pre, enabling you to push the “Out” knob and drive the second 2502 op-amp to achieve even MORE monstrous analog tone and saturation. 

In short, how did API make one of the most loved Preamps even better?

  1. No More Clipping Issues with the Independent Output Knob
  2. Access to Even More of the Classic API Tone with the 3:1 Transformer Tap and Output Knob

Give us a call today to demo one of these incredible preamps in your studio and experience why so many engineers will never be without the Legendary tone of API!

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API Audio 3124+ 4-Channel Microphone Preamp - Quick n’ Dirty

  The API 3124+ is a high quality, compact, 4-channel mic preamp. Top quality, military grade build and a distinct, aggressive sound that, when the situation calls for it, is nothing short of amazing. For hard rock or metal engineers, it’s pretty safe to say your preamp arsenal isn’t complete without at least 4 channels to cover your drums, guitars, and bass. This preamp is available for SoundPure’s Try-Before-You-Buy Program, so if you want to hear how it sounds in your studio with your gear, shoot us an email at ProAudio@SoundPure.com, or give us a call anytime at 919.682.5552. Thanks for watching!

Manufacturer's Description from API

The API 512v is a mic / line / instrument preamp, world famous for its ability to provide a low noise (-129 EIN) and unusually good sounding front end for all types of audio applications.

Sonically, it delivers the instantly recognizable API sound at an affordable price, and in the scalable API 500 Series format. Offering an impressive 65 dB of gain, the 512v includes front panel Variable Output control, switchable 3:1 output transformer selection, phantom power, switchable polarity, -20 dB pad, and Mic or Instrument/Line selector. The front panel Combo-style XLR and 1/4 inch connector combined with rear panel mic access allows for additional flexibility when installed into an API lunchbox®, API's 10 position 500V vertical rack, or into an API console.

The API 512v remains faithful to the circuit designs of API's founder Saul Walker. Artfully combining those circuits with API's proprietary transformers and the incomparable 2520 op-amp, the 512v is a highly musical and rich-sounding analog mic pre, equally at home in commercial recording spaces as it is in smaller home studios. Fully featured and still hand assembled, the 512v exhibits the reliability, long life, and uniformity which are characteristic of all API products.

API Audio

About Manufacturer

API (Automated Processes, Inc.) is world famous for its all-discrete audio products: studio and broadcast mixing consoles, and a full line of rack mount mic preamps, equalizers and processors. It all began with a dream. It was 1968. The company: Automated Processes Inc., formed by men with a vision. Best known for their now legendary "2520 amplifier", this unique amp has been and will continue to be the heart of all API discrete products. It continues to provide reliability and sonic purity unmatched by the competition. The resulting console met the needs of the music, commercial and broadcast industry. API became the leading audio broadcast console manufacturer for radio and television networks and high profile stations. In addition, recording studios, large and small, began using API.....and receiving rave reviews from engineers and producers. There are over 700 API consoles across the nation and around the world, including the three major networks. Over thirty years later, many of these consoles are still in daily use in some of the most prestigious recording and broadcast facilities in the world because, to date, there are few, if any consoles of equal sound quality at a cost-effective price.

Specifications

  • Mic Preamp with 65 dB of gain
  • Variable Output Level Control from 65 dB to -∞
  • 3:1 Output Transformer Tap selection
  • Front and Back Panel Mic Input Access
  • Line/Instrument Preamp with 45 dB of gain
  • Front Panel Combo-style XLR + 1/4 inch Line/Instrument Input
  • LED VU meter for Gain Level Indication
  • 20 dB pad switch, applies to mic/line/instrument
  • 48v Phantom switchable power
  • Traditional API circuit design

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