Based out of Tedra Studio in Detroit, Michigan, Kenny Larkin has been writing, producing and performing on the techno scene for over two decades. When it came time for Larkin to replace his broken down digital mixer, the studio owner and artist knew that he wanted to pick a new console that would supply the bombastic quality his music required.

"I had to look for something new and I had that analog itch again," Larkin says of his search for the perfect sound and console. "I wanted more warmth in my recordings without having to keep going through outboard gear."

After seeing an announcement for API Audio's The Box (a console which was digital-era ready, but utilized many classic analog traits), Larkin wanted to hear the desk in use. With his knowledge of API's reputation for warmth intact, it didn't take more than one visit to Vintage King to understand that The Box was the right console for Tedra and Larkin.

“I did a demo at Vintage King and I was sold.” states Larkin. “That’s when I first heard the classic API ‘punch’ everyone talks about. I loved the form factor, how it was small yet powerful. Not a toy, but not a monster to learn to use.”

Despite a busy schedule that sees him traveling all over the world, Larkin has continued to use his downtime at home to create new music at Tedra Studio. Claiming his workflow has been rejuvenated, he recently finished up two lingering projects and started work on more recordings. "The most important thing it did was get me excited about recording music again,” Larkin says. “It inspires me to make amazing recordings."

What is it about The Box that Larkin finds to be so inspiring?

"What I got after buying The Box was warmth and PUNCH. I call it my 'mojo box.' I've had a few analog consoles during my career, but nothing sonically on this level," the Detroit techno veteran says. "Everything about the board is amazing. Any pro user would be giddy knowing that each channel has inserts and effect sends. The compressor is also fantastic across the stereo buss. I also like that I can assign it to different input channels. With The Box, I find it's quicker and much easier to get things sounding fat."

To hear more from the man himself, check out Kenny Larkin talking about the impact The Box has made on his studio and music in the video below: