The API 2500 is a versatile stereo bus compressor that allows adjustment of sonic qualities that can alter the punch and tone of the stereo mix. The 19" rack-mountable unit features API's patented "thrust" circuit for a chest-hitting, punchy bottom end. With its dual-channel design, the API 2500 is set up for stereo compression, but can also be used as two separate units via a single compression setting. The 2500 boasts a range of parameters that make it incredibly musical.
API pushes the envelope of flexibility further with selectable "old" or "new" compression. The old-style uses the feedback type of compression found in the API 525, Universal Audio 1176, and the Fairchild 660/670. The new style uses a feed-forward type, similar to other popular compressors.
The output stage features API's auto-makeup gain button, permitting the user to vary the threshold or ratio while automatically maintaining a constant output level. Fidelity is ensured with an all-discrete, fully balanced design, and two front panel VU meters show input, output, and gain reduction levels.
FEATURES:
API 2520 Op-Amp
Variable threshold between -20 dBu and +10 dBu
Selectable ratio, attack and release times
Patented THRUST selectable high-pass filter before RMS detector
Variable link between left and right channels
Old "feedback" or new "feed forward" compression
Soft, medium or hard knee for easy to sharp compression
The Drum Bus magic box!!!!!!!!!! My drum tracks always lacked that punch, loudness, and vibe of professionally mixed songs. After I got this box on the reccomendation of my VK rep, things done changed! I've been using my UA plug ins for individual compression and EQ on the kick and snare and then mixing all the drums tracks out to a stereo bus/hardware insert, through the 2500 and back in. It's been a game changer for me.
Digital audio has made it infinitely easier for artists to record their own music. Years ago, the process of making a record involved hours of writing, rehearsing and pre-production before booking an expensive hourly studio. Today, we simply click an icon on our screen and start creating.
The process may have improved, but the results have suffered in some ways. Artists can record themselves at home more easily than ever with digital interfaces, but these tracks often pale in comparison to those recorded with analog gear. Continue reading →
Compressors and limiters are some of the most important and versatile tools that any audio engineer can use. Virtually every modern recording uses compression somewhere in the chain of tracking, mixing, and mastering. This ubiquity makes them valuable but also creates confusion when considering the many choices in the marketplace. To help straighten that out, we’ll discuss the main types of compressors and the terminology that explains their usage.The purpose of a compressor is to even out the audio signal in order to tame loud transients and bring up lower amplitude material. Compressors were born out of necessity to fill that very straightforward role, to protect radio transmitters from overly hot signals, and to keep recordings in a narrower dynamic range that was easier to reproduce on tape or record. Continue reading →
Compressors are one of the keys to dialing in a professional-sounding drum mix. Whether you’re going for an aggressive, punchy sound or a tight, controlled performance, compressors help you shape transients and control dynamics to achieve the perfect sound.Some compressors excel at certain tasks while others struggle, so it's important to select the right one for the job. When mixing drums, many engineers reach for fast-acting compressors with program-dependent release times and just a touch of saturation. While there are many quality options out there, here are six compressors for dialing in unforgettable drum mixes. Continue reading →
Last week, the API Audio crew were set to visit Vintage King for a day of talking all things pro audio at the historic company. We thought while we had them here, we'd ask Vintage King Instagram followers to submit their questions to ask API.
Continue on below to read our interview with API Audio Director of Sales Dan Zimbelman and Account Manager Mark Seman. The duo fields questions on new products, best-selling gear and the potential for a free rack full of golden 312 and 550A 500 Series modules. Continue reading →
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In almost 20 years in Pro audio buying, never did I receive a unit so well packed and exactly as described. Works flawlessly. The whole process has been so smooth. I will never hesitate to do business with you guys in the future and will recommend you to everyone I know.
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This was my first experience buying something from Vintage King (although I surf the "used" categories on the website frequently!), and, despite being on the other side of the world, I had absolutely no trouble and everything went very smoothly.
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