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SKU
59984
$945.25
API 512v 500 Series Microphone Preamp
500 series mic/line/instrument preamp that expands upon the legendary sound of the original 512c preamp with some modern features
Punchy. Open. Musical. These are the words award-winning producers and engineers use to describe the sound of the API 512v 500 Series Microphone Preamp. For over 50 years artists have been using API preamps to bring their recordings to life. Add the classic API tone to your 500 series rack with the 512v Discrete Mic/Line Pre.
LEGENDARY SOUND
The API 512v is a 500 series mic/line/instrument preamp that expands upon the legendary sound of the original 512c preamp. In addition to the standard controls of the 512c, the 512v also includes three new features designed for the modern engineer.
First, the 512v introduces a variable gain control knob just below the input gain knob for faster level matching. Say goodbye to clip gain automation and attenuator plug-ins! Next, the new 3:1 transformer output button allows you to reduce the output level and drive the transformers even harder for more analog warmth, grit and saturated goodness. Last but not least, the 512v features an updated front-panel combo XLR + 1/4” line input jack to quickly capture ideas, add new instruments and overdub when inspiration strikes.
THE API LEGACY
With 500 series modules growing more and more popular by the day, it can be surprising for many to hear that Saul Walker of API invented the first modular signal processors in 1969. Shortly after the release of the their first console, API quickly became the leading console manufacturer for radio and television networks. It didn’t take long for recording studios to catch on, and soon API began receiving rave reviews from engineers and producers for the tonal quality of their preamps. To this day, over 700 API consoles are in use across the nation and around the world. Albums like Rumours by Fleetwood Mac, Wasting Light by Foo Fighters, and Van Halen’s eponymous debut are shining testaments of the quality and range of API preamps like the 512v.
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
The classic, transient-forward sound of API in 500-series form factor. What is not to love?
By Brandt G on January 2, 2022
The best preamp ...vintage king top seller
By GIANMARIO C on July 27, 2021
Clean yet punchy mic pre.
Api nailed it again!
By Yehonatan S on October 2, 2019
We own 512b and 512c pres; however, this one is great with the addition of the fader. Classic API tone - especially when cranking the input. Thanks and love to VK and API!
By Eric J on August 19, 2019
Works perfectly...
By Gustavo J on February 14, 2019
Instantly become my fave pre's. I bought a pair and yes as drum overheads they are perfect. I have been using them mainly on a synth project right now, and they bring out a lot of character as a DI. Highly recommended.
By Charles B on January 9, 2019
Very good and flexible preamp! Punchy but natural sounding lows, mids and highs as they should be. Many options with the output stage and the 3:1 switch. Everyone should try it out...at least one time ;-)
Thanks to Vintage King, shipment was super fast to Germany.
By Benny K on January 1, 2019
I had some 512C's, which have always been my favorite on drums, but you could never really drive them into distortion where they sound their best. The 512V solves that with an output knob! So I can now put the output down 5db or so and drive the pre for more punch without clipping my interface. Brilliant!
An empty rack space is a terrible thing to waste and throughout 2018, Vintage King customers filled them in with fervor. From classic gear to reproductions and new innovations, you brought it home and helped make this one of the biggest years in outboard gear ever.
So... What has everyone been buying? Well, we're here to talk about the top five best selling pieces of outboard gear from 2018. Read below to discover the mic pres, EQs, compressors and more that made it into the ranks, along with a few deserving honorable mentions from close to the top of the list. Continue reading →
A crucial link in the audio chain is the microphone preamplifier, aka the mic preamp or mic pre. The output level of a microphone is very low and requires amplification to bring it up to line level. That’s what a mic pre does. But a mic preamp can’t drive a pair of speakers; that’s the job of the main amplifier. A key part of the job for a mic pre is to keep input noise to a minimum and to amplify without distortion.
Being the first amplification stage of the microphone signal, the mic preamp is essential to getting a good sound. Choose a poor one and you’ll be working harder to overcome its limitations. Choose a good one and processing your sound will get a lot easier. But what are the differences between average preamps and better ones? Let’s look at some of them. Continue reading →
The 500 Series format consists of a whole slew of different signal processing modules in a compact rack unit. Mic preamps, equalizers, compressors, DI boxes, filters, effects... You name it, you can find it in a 500 Series version from a wide variety of manufacturers.Most of those manufacturers participate in the VPR Alliance, established to set standards for the format to ensure that the end user can rely on consistent specifications with regard to voltage, current draw, size, etc. along with proper compatibility with existing modules. The essence of this idea is to make it simple for the user to mix and match modules from different makers, thus allowing for the broadest range of implementation for their products. Continue reading →
One question we always get asked here at Vintage King Audio is, “How do I get huge sounding vocals that have warmth and color?” Over the years, we’ve shared our gear picks for how to do it on an unlimited budget and a somewhat stricter one. For today's blog, we want our social media fans to know that we've heard them loud and clear. You wanted us to do this with a smaller budget, and so here it is!
We understand that not everyone can afford Neumann U47s, Neve 1073s, or Fairchild 670s. With that being said, most people still want their recordings to sound like they have used these titans of the studio for tracking and mixing. Read our blog below to discover some microphone, preamp, and compressor options that will get you a big sounding vocal chain for right around $1,500. Continue reading →
When it comes to getting the best gear, your tastes are probably pretty particular. Vintage King can help answer any and every question to help you make the right decisions for your sound. Fill out the form below and we'll be in contact with you shortly.
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I would like to thank VK for the wonderful sales assistance, service and prices. This was my first purchase with you and it won't be my last. I only wish I'd discovered you years ago!
Matthew R.
I had two Grammy wins this year - Ray LaMontagne & Carolina Chocolate Drops. Both made with help from Vintage King!
Ryan F.
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.
Martin C.
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.
Phil T.
The speed of delivery exceeded my expectations! I was VERY pleased that my shipment arrived in time for a scheduled vocal tracking session. The packing insured that my order arrived safely. And the sales staff responded quickly to questions regarding the product.
James P.
Thank you so much! Vintage King has been so fair and easy to work with. I can't thank you enough. It feels good to trust such a hefty purchase to folks who are so helpful and knowledgeable. Vintage King is a sound designers dream store.
Noa L.
You guys have excellent customer service and I am excited about the next upgrade I complete on my fifth recording facility. I've been in the studio business for forty plus years. The salesman I worked with at Vintage King was the best of the best. You all rock!
Robby T.
I would recommend Vintage King to any one looking for top-class gear, unbeatable customer service and the best prices on the map!
Jake D.
My experience with Vintage King was excellent. The order was here fast considering it was out of stock. The sales person had SKB send it to me directly and I couldn't have been more pleased.
Michael D.
From the minute I placed my order I was kept well-informed through each step in your process. Even though I was buying a comparatively modest piece of gear, your attention to detail made me feel like I was purchasing a six-figure mixing desk.
Thomas W.
I am a new customer of yours. You guys provided me the absolute best deals in ordering all the equipment to power my brand new recording studio. Your customer service is amazing and i will always deal with you from here on out.
Rob M.
Thanks for your great service and getting this out today. You guys really are the Kings!
Alan B.
Better than expected! Truly impeccable service. Your team was professional, knowledgeable, provided speedy delivery above and beyond standard. Vintage King Audio is definitely my go to for all of my audio and information needs.
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